Endometrial ossification successfully treated by hysteroscopic resection

Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol. 1996 May;66(1):75-7. doi: 10.1016/0301-2115(95)02376-3.

Abstract

Background: Endometrial ossification is a rare condition. The common feature in most reported cases is a previous history of abortion and retention of fetal bones. Few cases of endometrial ossification can be explained by osseous metaplasia. Clinical presentation may include abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge, dysmenorrhoea, pelvic pain, and secondary infertility. Hysterectomy or dilation and curettage have been the usual therapeutic methods used. Recently, some cases have been treated by means of hysteroscopic resection.

Case: We report a case of endometrial ossification in a woman who presented with dysmenorrhoea, dyspareunia and pelvic pain. The patient had a pregnancy voluntarily terminated at 16 weeks. Five subsequent routine annual gynaecological exams, including ultrasonographies, were normal. A new gestation was also voluntarily terminated at 6 weeks. One month later the patient started with clinical manifestations. Ultrasonograms performed 4 months after the second abortion revealed a strong uterine echogenic band. Bone tissue was successfully removed by hysteroscopic resection.

Conclusion: This case adds further evidence favouring new bone formation in the uterus as a pathogenic mechanism for endometrial ossification and illustrates the feasibility of hysteroscopic treatment for this condition.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abortion, Induced / adverse effects
  • Adult
  • Endometrium / pathology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hysteroscopy
  • Ossification, Heterotopic / etiology
  • Ossification, Heterotopic / surgery*
  • Pregnancy