Endometriosis is best described as which?

• A. Growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus
• B. Growth of fibroids in the uterus
• C. Inflammation of the endometrium
• D. Ovarian cysts

Answer: (A)

Endometriosis is defined by endometrial-like tissue that is located outside the uterus. This tissue behaves like normal endometrium under hormonal cycles, so it can bleed and cause irritation, inflammation, scar tissue, and pelvic pain, often during menses. That external placement is what sets endometriosis apart from other reproductive conditions, making growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus the best description. The other options describe different conditions: fibroids are benign tumors within the uterus, endometritis is inflammation of the uterine lining usually from infection, and ovarian cysts are sacs on the ovary not ectopic endometrial tissue.