Can imaging confirm endometriosis?

No. Imaging can strongly suggest disease but cannot detect every lesion, especially superficial or microscopic ones.

Why might both ultrasound and MRI be recommended?

They provide different types of information. Ultrasound is ideal for ovarian cysts and some deep lesions, while MRI maps the entire pelvis in greater detail.

Why is imaging sometimes normal even when symptoms are severe?

Many forms of disease are too small or too subtle to appear on imaging, yet still cause significant pain.

When is imaging most helpful?

Before planning treatment, when symptoms overlap with GI or bladder disorders, and when evaluating suspected deep infiltrating disease.

Can imaging distinguish endometriosis from conditions like IBS or bladder pain?

Imaging contributes valuable clues, but diagnosis relies on a combination of scan findings, exam results, and symptom patterns.

Diagnostics & Imaging Posts

Posts / Diagnostics & Imaging / Page 2

Biomarkers Differential Diagnosis MRI Ultrasound

Abstract Venn-style composition with textured shapes for endometriosis and IBD, overlapping to show shared symptoms, with subtle icons for laparoscopy, colonoscopy, and lab testing on a calm, minimalist background.

Endometriosis or Inflammatory Bowel Disease? The Key Differences

How endometriosis and inflammatory bowel disease differ and overlap. Symptoms, diagnostic challenges, epidemiology, treatment risks, and research gaps.

5 minute read

Diagram of diaphragmatic endometriosis showing a dark lesion on the diaphragm above the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries, with arrows highlighting affected areas relevant to symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

Diaphragmatic Endometriosis: Symptoms and Treatment Options

Learn what diaphragmatic endometriosis is, how it affects the diaphragm, key symptoms, causes, diagnosis options, treatments, and potential complications.

4 minute read

Side-by-side medical illustration labeled Endometriosis and Adenomyosis comparing uteri, with scattered lesions outside the uterus versus diffuse lesions within the uterine wall, plus pelvic cross-sections.

Endometriosis and Adenomyosis: How They Drive Pelvic Pain

Compare endometriosis and adenomyosis: similarities, differences in location and prevalence, diagnosis methods, and treatment options for pelvic pain.

4 minute read

Have a question?

Dr. Steven Vasilev, an internationally recognized endometriosis specialist near me in Southern and Central Coast California: Dr. Vasilev can guide you towards the right path for you. We understand that healthcare can be complex and overwhelming, and we are committed to making the process as easy and stress-free as possible.

Call Us

(424) 255-1340

Santa Monica, CA

2121 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90404

Operating Hours

8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Monday - Friday

Arroyo Grande, CA

154 Traffic Way, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420