Endometriosis: Etiology, pathobiology, and therapeutic prospects

Endometriosis is a common condition associated with infertility that causes chronic pain in many, but not all, women. It is defined by the presence of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus. Although the cause and natural history of the disorder remain uncertain, hormonal, neurological, and immunological factors are all implicated in the mechanisms contributing to development of symptoms. Because definitive diagnosis requires surgery, there is often a long diagnostic delay after onset of symptoms. Current interventions for endometriosis have limited efficacy and unacceptable side effects/risks and are associated with high rates of symptomrecurrence. Here, we review recent advances in our understanding of the etiology of endometriosis, discuss current diagnostic and treatment strategies, highlight current clinical trials, and consider how recent results offer new avenues for the identification of endometriosis biomarkers and the development of effective non-surgical therapies that are fertility-sparing.

Automated summary

Endometriosis is a common condition associated with infertility that causes chronic pain in women. The exact cause and natural history are still uncertain, but hormonal, neurological, and immunological factors are believed to play a role in the development of symptoms. Current interventions have limited efficacy with high rates of symptom recurrence.