In this expert insights session from ISUOG 2024, Prof. Mathew Leonardi explores the growing importance of endometriosis ultrasound in adolescents. He emphasizes that endometriosis often begins in adolescence, with many patients recalling severe menstrual pain from their first period. Early detection during this stage is critical to improving long-term outcomes.
Prof. Leonardi discusses the investigative approach for adolescents presenting with pelvic pain, underscoring the importance of considering endometriosis in the differential diagnosis. He addresses the controversy around performing transvaginal ultrasound in adolescents, noting that while transabdominal ultrasound is less invasive, it has limited diagnostic value for detecting deep lesions and is mainly useful for ruling out large pathology.
Alternative approaches, such as transrectal ultrasound, are presented as equally effective in diagnostic accuracy. Prof. Leonardi highlights the miniER7 ultrasound probe, a slim transvaginal probe, which can make the examination more comfortable for adolescents while allowing closer proximity to pathology for clearer visualization.
The presentation emphasizes tailoring imaging strategies to the patient’s comfort and clinical needs, optimizing probe choice, and using high-quality imaging protocols for better detection of early endometriotic lesions. Prof. Leonardi also advocates for informed consent discussions with patients and guardians to ensure comfort and understanding during the diagnostic process.
