Endometriosis and Adenomyosis: From Pathogenesis to Follow-Up
Francesco Giuseppe Martire, Eugenia Costantini, Claudia d’Abate, Giorgia Schettini, Giuseppe Sorrenti, Gabriele Centini, Errico Zupi, Lucia Lazzeri
Abstract
Endometriosis and adenomyosis are chronic, hormone-dependent disorders. Estrogens, in particular, play a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of these conditions. Understanding the disease mechanisms, including local hyperestrogenism and reduced progesterone sensitivity, is crucial for effective management. Early diagnosis is essential for appropriate therapeutic intervention, with medical hormonal treatment being the first-line approach. It is important to monitor patients over time and tailor hormone therapy to individual needs in order to optimize treatment adherence. Medical therapy not only enhances patients' quality of life but also appears to slow disease progression in terms of both extent and severity. This narrative review aims to explore all aspects of endometriosis and adenomyosis, from pathogenesis to clinical symptoms, with particular emphasis on the role of hormones and the use of medical therapies.