A case of endometriosis causing acute large bowel obstruction

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Endometriosis is a gynaecological condition which produce symptoms such as pelvic pain, abnormal menstruation and infertility. Intestinal endometriosis can occur however endometriosis causing acute large bowel obstruction is extremely rare. PRESENTATION OF CASE: We present a 37-year-old lady with acute large bowel obstruction caused by endometriosis. Despite initial endoscopic decompression being unsuccessful due to severe mucosal stenosis, she underwent emergency laparoscopic wedge resection and decompression successfully. DISCUSSION: Diagnosing intestinal endometriosis is difficult. While different modalities of investigation help, definitive diagnosis is achieved via laparoscopy. Treatment of obstruction is decompression followed by surgical resection. CONCLUSION: Diagnosing intestinal endometriosis with or without obstruction is challenging. Correct diagnosis is needed for definitive management.