Pathogenesis and Pathophysiology of Endometriosis
Endometriosis is an inflammatory, estrogen-dependent condition associated with pelvic pain and infertility. This work reviews the disease process from theories regarding origin to the molecular basis for disease sequelae.
Authors
Richard O. Burney, M.D., M.Sc. and Linda C. Giudice, M.D., Ph.D.
Vol 98, Issue 3, Pages 511-519
Abstract
The exact factor or factors that orchestrate the survival and subsequent implantation of the displaced endometrium remain unknown. Innate or acquired properties of the endometrium and defective immune clearance are systems of interest in elucidating the establishment of endometriotic implants. Disease heterogeneity, particularly in lesional phenotype, requires adherence to histopathologic confirmation of implants in clinical and molecular research. The underpinnings for the observed hallmarks of inflammation, estrogen dependence, and progesterone resistance in the pathophysiology of endometriosis associated pain and infertility are areas of active research. With further advances in our understanding of endometriosis, preventive strategies, novel non-surgical diagnostic modalities and targeted therapeutics hold great promise of becoming realities.
Read the full text at: http://www.fertstert.org/article/S0015-0282(12)00682-6/fulltext
