True regarding adenomyosis is :
**Core Concept**
Adenomyosis is a gynecological condition characterized by the ectopic growth of endometrial tissue within the myometrium, leading to abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic pain, and dysmenorrhea. This condition involves the invasion of endometrial glands and stroma into the myometrial smooth muscle, causing uterine hypertrophy and fibrosis.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is related to the histological features of adenomyosis. Adenomyosis is distinguished from endometriosis by the presence of endometrial tissue within the myometrium, which is not the case in endometriosis where endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus. The ectopic growth of endometrial tissue in adenomyosis leads to the formation of islands or nodules of endometrial tissue within the myometrium, causing disruption of the normal uterine architecture.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because adenomyosis is not characterized by the presence of endometriomas (ovarian cysts filled with endometrial tissue). Endometriomas are a feature of endometriosis, not adenomyosis.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because adenomyosis is not caused by a genetic mutation. While there may be a familial predisposition to adenomyosis, the exact cause remains unknown.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because adenomyosis is not typically treated with hormonal therapy alone. While hormonal therapy may be used to manage symptoms, surgical intervention is often necessary to treat adenomyosis.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Adenomyosis often presents with symptoms similar to those of endometriosis, including pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, and abnormal uterine bleeding. However, the presence of endometrial tissue within the myometrium on histological examination is diagnostic of adenomyosis.
**Correct Answer:** C. Adenomyosis is characterized by the ectopic growth of endometrial tissue within the myometrium, leading to abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic pain, and dysmenorrhea.