The aim of the present study was to evaluate the role of laparoscopy not only in the diagnosis but also in the therapy of pelvic endometriosis. Ninety-four patients underwent laparoscopy between May 1991 and May 1993. The patients were divided into 2 groups, according to the indication for laparoscopy: group I (benign ovarian cysts n = 47); group II (chronic pelvic pain, n = 47). All laparoscopies were performed by 2 surgeons only. When present, endometriosis was scored according to the American Fertility Society revised classification 1985 (AFS 1985). Endometriosis was present in 37 (39.4%) of the 94 patients included in the study: 19 out of 47 (40.4%) in group I, 18 out of 47 (38.3%) in group II. In 29 patients with endometriosis (78.3%), the score was reduced surgically during the diagnostic procedure. In 24 cases (82.8%) by laparoscopy and in 5 cases (17.2%) only, by laparotomy. Therefore, the careful selection of cases, the use of appropriate instruments and the experience in endoscopic surgery, combined with a good knowledge of pelvic anatomy, may allow the treatment of endometriosis immediately after diagnosis by laparoscopy, resulting in shorter hospitalization, less physical trauma, and a lower number of post-operative adhesions.