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Review
. 2023 Jun;68(6):2482-2492.
doi: 10.1007/s10620-022-07674-7. Epub 2023 Jan 18.

Gastroenterologist Primer: Endometriosis for Gastroenterologists

Vanessa Yu  1 , Nicole McHenry  2 , Samantha Proctor  2 , Jacqueline Wolf #  2 , Judy Nee #  2
Affiliations
Review

Gastroenterologist Primer: Endometriosis for Gastroenterologists

Vanessa Yu et al. Dig Dis Sci. 2023 Jun.

Abstract

Background and aim: A comprehensive understanding of endometriosis and its common gastrointestinal presentations are critical for gastroenterologists to ensure appropriate and timely screening and diagnosis. Endometriosis is a common inflammatory disease that frequently presents with gastrointestinal symptoms overlapping with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other gastrointestinal disorders. Many endometriosis patients first present to a gastroenterologist or generalist, which may prolong the time to diagnosis and appropriate care.

Method and results: This review describes the current literature on endometriosis presentation, overlap with gastrointestinal conditions, and standard diagnostic and treatment options for gastroenterologists to consider. For appropriate and swift treatment, gastroenterologists must consider an endometriosis diagnosis in females of menstruating age presenting with pain, bloating, altered stools, and non-gastrointestinal symptoms and refer patients for further evaluation.

Keywords: Abdominal pain; Endometriosis; Gastrointestinal symptoms; Irritable bowel syndrome; Misdiagnosis.

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References

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