What is Asherman's syndrome?

Asherman's syndrome is characterized by the presence of endometrial adhesions, which are scar tissues that form within the uterine cavity. This condition often arises as a result of trauma to the endometrium, most commonly after surgical procedures like dilatation and curettage (D&C) or cesarean sections. The adhesions can hinder normal uterine function and may lead to complications such as infertility, recurrent miscarriages, or abnormal menstrual cycles.

The significance of endometrial adhesions in Asherman’s syndrome lies in their impact on the endometrial lining, which is crucial for proper implantation of embryos and the menstrual cycle. The presence of these adhesions can disrupt the normal physiology of the uterus, leading to the aforementioned complications.

In contrast, endometrial polyps, uterine fibroids, and ovarian cysts do not pertain to the synoptic classification of Asherman’s syndrome, as they represent different types of abnormalities or conditions affecting the reproductive system without the specific formation of adhesions within the uterine cavity. Thus, understanding that endometrial adhesions are the hallmark of Asherman’s syndrome is key to recognizing and diagnosing this condition in clinical practice.