Chapter 111 Endometrial Hyperplasia: Simple and Complex
INTRODUCTION
Description: Endometrial hyperplasia is caused by abnormal proliferation of both the glandular and stromal elements of the endometrium with characteristic alteration in the histologic architecture of the tissues. It is this architectural change that differentiates hyperplasia from normal endometrial proliferation. Simple hyperplasia represents the least significant form of alteration. Complex hyperplasia represents the most significant form of alteration.
DIAGNOSTIC APPROACH
Workup and Evaluation
Imaging: Ultrasonography may detect thickening of the endometrial stripe. (No standard has emerged for a threshold of endometrial thickness that carries ideal positive and negative predictive values. It does not take the place of histologic evaluation.) Magnetic resonance imaging may also diagnose endometrial thickening, but cost and low specificity argue against its use as a diagnostic tool.
