Medical therapy does not cure the nodule; recurrence is nearly universal once treatment stops. 6.2 Surgical Treatment (Curative) Indication: All symptomatic patients or those desiring definitive diagnosis.
[Your Name/Institution] Journal: [Obstetrics & Gynecology / International Journal of Women's Dermatology] Date: April 2026 Abstract Background: Umbilical endometriosis is a rare form of extragenital endometriosis, accounting for approximately 0.5–1.0% of all cases of endometriosis. It is classified as either primary (spontaneous) or secondary (iatrogenic, following pelvic surgery). Objective: To review the etiopathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges, and optimal management strategies for umbilical endometriosis. Methods: A narrative review of literature from PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane databases (2000–2026). Results: The classic triad is cyclic pain, a umbilical nodule, and bleeding from the umbilicus during menstruation. Primary disease is often explained by the metaplasia theory or vascular/lymphatic spread. Secondary disease is linked to laparoscopic port sites or open surgery. Ultrasound and MRI aid diagnosis, but histopathology remains the gold standard. Surgical excision (umbilectomy with clear margins) is curative. Medical therapy offers temporary relief but high recurrence rates. Conclusion: Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for umbilical endometriosis in reproductive-aged women presenting with a painful umbilical nodule. Complete surgical excision is the treatment of choice. umbilical endometriosis
None declared.