Gynecology and Mammology >>>> Can adenomyosis be cured?

Can adenomyosis be cured?

Adenomyosis is one of the common diseases of the endometrium, which manifests itself in the increased division of endometrial cells and the germination of the latter's tissue into the underlying layers of the uterus. Under normal conditions, connective tissue and myometrium prevent the proliferation of the endometrium into the deeper (muscle) layers of the uterus, but various types of tissue damage (intrauterine devices, abortions, scrapings and other surgical interventions) provoke the penetration of endometrial cells into adjacent tissues and organs. Reduced immune responses and frequent infections, chronic inflammation, heredity, hormonal therapy and the use of hormonal contraceptives play an important role in the progression of the disease.

Adenomyosis can exist in various forms: focal (endometrial cells are located in the underlying tissues as foci), nodular (endometrial cells are located in nodules resembling fibroids), diffuse (endometrial cells are located in tissues without clear boundaries), mixed (combines a nodal and diffuse form).

Adenomyosis signs:

Discharge before the onset of the menstrual cycle,
Prolonged menstrual bleeding,
Painful periods,
Uterine bleeding during the intermenstrual period,
Pain symptoms on the eve and after menstruation (may radiate to the perineum),
Against the background of heavy bleeding, iron deficiency anemia develops , pallor of the skin, general weakness, drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness,
The initial stages of adenomyosis can be asymptomatic and are detected only with the help of high-precision equipment during a gynecological examination (transvaginal ultrasound).

When diagnosing adenomyosis, hysteroscopy, blood tests, urine tests, and hormone levels are performed.

Adenomyosis can be treated with conservative methods, surgery, or combined treatments. Depending on the prevalence of the disease, the patient's state of health, the doctor chooses approaches to the treatment of adenomyosis. Conservative treatment is based on taking anti-inflammatory drugs, immunomodulators, hormone-correcting therapy, and iron-containing drugs.

Surgical intervention is carried out with the aim of excising areas of hyperplasia (proliferation) of endometrial tissue or endocoagulation of overgrown tissue areas. In case of malignancy of the process (or the threat of malignancy), a panhysterectomy is performed (excision of the uterus and appendages). The operation is performed on patients over forty years old, if conservative methods of treatment and organ-preserving procedures do not help.

Patients are advised to start planning pregnancy no earlier than six months after the course of therapy. Adenomyosis disease is prone to relapse.

Adenomyosis begins to fade away with the onset of menopause, for this reason the premenopausal and climacteric periods are favorable for recovery.