If you experience chest pain, breathlessness, or a collapsed lung that occurs cyclically — around the time of your period — you may have thoracic endometriosis. An underdiagnosed condition investigated thoroughly and treated in close collaboration with specialist gynaecologists. Diagnostic delay of over 5 years is common. Cyclical chest symptoms page →
Last reviewed: April 2026 · Dr Lawrence Okiror FRCS(CTh) FRCSEd(CTh) · GMC 6150382
Thoracic endometriosis — endometrial tissue present in the chest cavity, most often on the diaphragm or pleura. Symptoms occur cyclically with the menstrual cycle: chest pain, breathlessness, or collapsed lung
Catamenial pneumothorax — a collapsed lung recurring around menstruation. Frequently misdiagnosed as ordinary spontaneous pneumothorax. Should be suspected in any woman with recurrent PTX
Keyhole surgical removal of endometrial deposits combined with gynaecological hormonal suppression. Diaphragmatic defect repair and pleurodesis where indicated. Thoracic and gynaecological specialist collaboration
Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows in other parts of the body. When this occurs in or around the chest — including on the diaphragm, the pleura (lung lining), or within the lung itself — it is known as thoracic endometriosis.
Because the endometrial tissue responds to the same hormonal changes as the womb lining, symptoms typically occur in a cyclical pattern — appearing around the time of menstruation and improving between periods. This cyclical pattern is one of the most important diagnostic clues, and is often overlooked for many years. A BJOG 2024 study found diagnostic delay of over 5 years is common. Cyclical chest symptoms page →
Thoracic endometriosis is rare but likely underdiagnosed. Dr Okiror works closely with specialist gynaecologists at GSTT to ensure both the thoracic and gynaecological aspects of the condition are comprehensively managed.
Book a Consultation →Thoracic endometriosis requires both a thoracic surgical and a gynaecological perspective. Dr Okiror works alongside specialist gynaecologists at GSTT to ensure a comprehensive assessment and treatment plan — addressing both the chest manifestations and the underlying endometriosis together. This joined-up approach leads to better outcomes and reduces the risk of recurrence.
Investigation includes a detailed history, CT and MRI imaging, and in some cases bronchoscopy or thoracoscopy. Timing symptoms carefully in relation to the menstrual cycle is essential. Diaphragmatic endometriosis →
Questions from patients investigating cyclical chest symptoms. See also the cyclical chest symptoms page → and pneumothorax page →
Book a Consultation →Or call Jo Mitchelson:
020 7952 2882
Appointments within 2–3 days. Self-referrals welcome. Surgery at London Bridge Hospital and Lister Hospital Chelsea.
Jo Mitchelson, Private PA · 020 7952 2882 · pa@lungsurgeon.co.uk
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