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Article
Thoracic endometriosis presenting as recurrent pleural effusions
Radiology Case Reports
  • Taylor Giordano, Advocate Aurora Health
  • William MacDonald, Advocate Aurora Health
Publication Date
2-1-2021
Abstract

In rare instances, endometrial glandular tissue can implant in the thorax of women suffering from endometriosis. The presentation is variable depending on site of implant and can be a rare cause of hemothorax in women. A 28-year-old woman presented with shortness of breath and was found to have a significant right sided hemothorax. The hemothorax was drained but subsequently recurred, with shortness of breath increasing around the time of her menses. Considerable workup was performed and ultimately surgery was required to diagnose her with thoracic endometriosis. This case describes how thoracic endometriosis is a challenging diagnosis and may be under reported in the literature. However, there are key elements of the disease that can prevent delay in diagnosis to reduce pain and suffering.

Document Type
Case Report
PubMed ID
33304436
Citation Information

Giordano T, MacDonald W. Thoracic endometriosis presenting as recurrent pleural effusions. Radiol Case Rep. 2021;16(2):250-253. doi: 10.1016/j.radcr.2020.11.025