The role of a reference center in the multidisclipinary and interdisciplinary treatment of pelvic endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic hormone-dependent disease affecting approximately 25-30% of women in the third and fourth decade. Despite its frequency, it is often detected late. The aim of this article was to present a standardized treatment algorithm for an interdisciplinary endometriosis consultation considering medical and surgical approaches. Despite the frequency of endometriosis and a high number of publications dealing with the disease there is a lack of evidence in literature for standardized treatment algorithms allowing a rational diagnostic, medical, multiprofessional and therapeutic approach. The diagnosis includes a structured medical history with the identification of endometriosis-typical symptoms and a gynecological rectovaginal examina- tion, if necessary additional examinations. The treatment algorithm is essentially divided into the phase of diagnosis and the phase of therapy as well as the prevention of recurrence or long-term treatment. A multi-professional team of gynaecology, visceral surgery, vascular surgery ,urology, nutritional medicine, physiatry, gastroenterology, physiotherapy, psychology and psychiatry can be consulted for support. The treatment of endometriosis should be multiprofessional, standardized and reproducible during specialized consultations at certified centers.

Keywords: endometriosis; referral center; endometriosis unit; interdisciplinary approach.