Chronic Pelvic Pain Secondary to Endometriosis
Examining Pain, Psychosocial, and Sensory Factors in Adolescents and Young Women with Endometriosis
We are interested in how youth and their parents and young adults with chronic pelvic pain (CPP) secondary to endometriosis function in regard to their condition and their pain. We are also examining the underlying biology (e.g., sensory experiences) of these patients in order to determine if we can better help these patients during the monitoring of clinical progress of CPP. We propose to collect additional psychosocial data and conduct a brief sensory protocol to assess mechanical allodynia and pressure pain sensitivity. Additionally, psychosocial and sensitivity data on a control group are being collected in order to analyze pain and sensitivity. Detection of central sensitization can identify women who may potentially benefit from centrally mediated pharmacotherapies that can be coupled with cognitive behavioral approaches to pain management. Additionally, eligible participants who elect to participate in the sensory tests will also be asked if they would like to undergo fMRI prior and post-surgery for their endometriosis. The fMRI will identify brain regions of interest to further elucidate sensory processes associated with pain.
Current Status: Enrollment is active
Funding: Boston Center for Endometriosis; Marriott Foundation Investigator Award; IMI-2 European Commission
