Extraperitoneal Endometriosis With Catamenial Pneumothoraces: A Review of the Literature

OBJECTIVE: To present a case of recurrent catamenial pneumothorax and diaphragmatic endometriosis that was managed thoracoscopically. A review of the literature is also presented. METHODS: A-28-year-old woman presented with bloody stools, chronic constipation, and chest pain. A review of systems was positive for monthly chest pain associated with her menses. A preoperative chest x-ray revealed a right pneumothorax. Colonoscopy revealed biopsy proven endometriosis of the sigmoid colon. A pelvic computed tomography scan revealed bilateral complex, cystic and solid adenexal lesions. RESULTS: A right thoracoscopy was performed. A lesion on the right hemidiaphragm was excised and confirmed to be endometriosis. A wedge section of lung tissue containing a bleb was resected and also contained endometriosis. Three months later, the patient underwent laparoscopic excision of her pelvic endometriosis, including a low anterior rectal resection. Five months later, she presented again with right-sided chest pain. A thoracoscopic right total pleurectomy was performed for recurrent pneumothorax. CONCLUSION: Pulmonary endometriosis may present as chest pain, shortness of breath, or hemoptysis associated with menstrual cycles. This case emphasizes the importance of a careful review of systems in patients with known endometriosis. Management now includes an endoscopic alternative and all of its known benefits.