Endometriosis: An “Unexplored”, “Neglected” or “Forgotten” Condition in Africa?

Abstract

Endometriosis is a condition that is commonly encountered in gynaecological practice. Endometriosis has varied, non-specific clinical presentations and its diagnosis sometimes poses a challenge to the clinician. We have encountered various women with clinical presentation highly suggestive of endometriosis. Further diagnosis using imaging and biopsy confirmed endometriosis. This paper presents our experience of endometriosis in our care of African women and a review of the literature on endometriosis. We want to highlight the various clinical presentations of endometriosis, appraise the various methods for diagnosis, discuss the treatment modalities available and evaluate the impact of this condition on women. We want to emphasize the fact that African women also suffer from this condition, and impress upon clinicians, the necessity for closer look for the condition, stimulate discussion and research into endometriosis in Africa as it seems this condition is “neglected or forgotten” in Africa.