A prospective surgical evaluation of the coexistence of endometriosis and interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome.

BACKGROUND

Endometriosis and interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) frequently coexist; however, diagnostic delays and non-standardized criteria limit accurate identification of these conditions.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the feasibility, safety, and clinical characterization of coexisting endometriosis and IC/BPS using a standardized surgical evaluation approach.

METHODS

In this prospective single-center study, approximately 100 women with presumed endometriosis and bladder symptoms undergoing laparoscopy for staging and/or treatment will simultaneously undergo diagnostic cystoscopy for IC/BPS. Optical confirmation and phenotype characterization of IC/BPS will be assessed. In cases with cystoscopic signs of IC/BPS, a standardized therapeutic protocol will be initiated to address bladder-centric symptoms alongside endometriosis treatment.

RESULTS

The study will evaluate whether systematic surgical assessment enables reliable detection of coexisting endometriosis and IC/BPS and facilitates the identification of bladder-centric and non-bladder-centric IC/BPS phenotypes. Early recognition of IC/BPS in women with endometriosis may reduce unnecessary interventions and inform individualized management strategies.

DISCUSSION: The combination of standardized laparoscopy and cystoscopy may improve diagnostic precision in patients with suspected coexisting endometriosis and IC/BPS. The study is expected to provide insights that support phenotype-driven, multidisciplinary care and inform future research and the development of integrated diagnostic algorithms.