Modern concepts of endometriosis. Classification and its consequences for therapy.

OBJECTIVE

To review the development of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) classification forms for endometriosis and assess efforts to validate their clinical utility.

STUDY DESIGN

The relevant medical literature was reviewed.

RESULTS

ASRM has established classification forms for endometriosis in women with infertility and pelvic pain. The utility of these new forms has not been assessed. Studies using earlier versions of the ASRM classification reported that the stage of disease correlates better with pain symptoms than fertility outcome.

CONCLUSION

The ASRM classification form for infertility and the form to assist in the management of pelvic pain in women with endometriosis permit clear documentation of the extent and morphologic type of disease. Further studies are needed to refine the classification and enhance its predictive ability.