Adenomyosis is defined as which of the following?

• A. The presence of endometrial glands and stroma within the uterine myometrium
• B. Benign tumors arising from smooth muscle layer of the uterus, the myometrium
• C. Endometrial polyps
• D. Inflammation of the glans penis

Answer: (A)

The main idea being tested is where endometrial tissue ends up in disease. Adenomyosis is defined by endometrial glands and stroma located within the myometrium, the muscular wall of the uterus. This inside-wall placement means the tissue can respond to hormonal cycles just like normal endometrium, leading to a thickened, sometimes nodular uterus and symptoms such as heavier periods and painful cramps.

This contrasts with fibroids, which are benign tumors made of smooth muscle from the myometrium, not endometrial tissue. Endometrial polyps are overgrowths of the lining inside the uterine cavity, not within the muscular wall. Inflammation of the glans penis is unrelated to uterine pathology.