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Endometriosis Diagnosis Breakthrough: Hormone 'Fingerprint' Found
7 Jul
Summary
- New study identifies distinct hormone pattern in endometriosis patients.
- Findings could lead to simple, non-invasive diagnostic blood tests.
- Researchers hope this discovery will accelerate treatment for the condition.
Researchers have identified a unique hormone pattern in individuals with endometriosis, a discovery that could transform how the condition is diagnosed and treated.
The study, led by the University of Edinburgh, found differences in a group of androgens, often referred to as "male" hormones, in women with endometriosis.
These distinct hormone "fingerprints," including elevated levels of 11-ketotestosterone, were used to correctly identify over 95% of patients in the study. This offers hope for a simple, non-invasive diagnostic blood test.
Currently, diagnosing endometriosis involves surgery and can take an average of nine years in the UK, impacting many of the estimated one in 10 women of reproductive age affected.
Scientists are now seeking industry partners to develop this diagnostic tool, believing it could significantly reduce diagnosis times to just a few months.
The insights into androgen roles may also lead to the development of novel treatments for endometriosis, addressing a significant unmet need in women's health.
