Parietal endometriosis: An uncommon cause of c-section scar pain - A case report

Int J Surg Case Rep. 2024 Mar:116:109410. doi: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2024.109410. Epub 2024 Feb 20.

Abstract

Introduction: Parietal endometriosis is the most common form of extra-pelvic endometriosis. It develops on the surgical scar of c-section or hysterectomy. It is one of the causes of scar pain.

Case presentation: A 26 years old patient presents with recurring pain and swelling of a Pfannenstiel scar 6 years after a caesarean section. Physical examination revealed a firm tender subcutaneous nodule that appeared at MRI as a heterogenous parietal mass infiltrating the rectus abdominis muscles. The patient underwent a wide excision of the nodule.

Discussion: Parietal endometriosis can be the cause of debilitating scar pain even in patients with no history of deep endometriosis. It presents as firm parietal nodule that can become large and infiltrative if left untreated. Diagnosis is purely histological. Surgery remains the treatment of choice and requires a wide excision.

Conclusion: Parietal endometriosis, potentially more common due to rising number of caesarean sections, should be considered with persistent scar pain. Surgery is the preferred treatment, offering a conclusive diagnosis.

Keywords: Caesarean section scar; Catamenial pain; Nodule; Parietal endometriosis; Wide excision.

Publication types

  • Case Reports