Ressonância magnética no diagnóstico da endometriose: uma revisão integrativa

Abstract

The diagnosis of endometriosis requires a comprehensive approach, combining clinical history, invasive and non-invasive examinations. Laparoscopy, the gold standard for definitive diagnosis, is invasive, expensive and involves risks. In this sense, imaging diagnosis has gained prominence, especially transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS), the first choice in investigation, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Despite being the secondary imaging examination, MRI plays an essential role in determining the extent of the disease, aiding in surgical and multidisciplinary planning. Its high sensitivity allows the identification of deep lesions and provides a precise anatomical view, and is therefore especially useful in the evaluation of deep pelvic endometriosis. In addition, MRI allows the differentiation of endometriosis from other gynecological pathologies and the evaluation of adhesions and complications, being an indispensable tool for more effective therapeutic planning.