Uterine adenomyosis is confirmed histologically when endometrial glands and stroma are found at what minimum depth from the endometrial-myometrial junction (EMJ)?

• A 1 mm below the EMJ
• B One-third of the myometrial thickness below the EMJ ✓
• C 2.5 mm below the EMJ (or one low-power field below the EMJ)
• D 5 mm below the EMJ

Explanation

The histological diagnosis of adenomyosis requires endometrial glands and stroma to penetrate at least one-third of the myometrial thickness below the endomyometrial junction (EMJ), or in classical criteria ≥2.5 mm (one low-power field) below the EMJ. The currently accepted histological threshold in most literature and textbooks is ≥2.5 mm or one-third of myometrial thickness. Endometrial cells at the EMJ are normally present ('subendometrial endometriosis' or junctional zone thickening on MRI ≥12 mm suggests adenomyosis); true adenomyosis requires deeper penetration.

Reference: Shaw's Textbook of Gynaecology, 17th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.