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Early endometriosis invades the extracellular matrix
M D Spuijbroek1, G A Dunselman, P P Menheere
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Academisch Ziekenhuis Maastricht, The Netherlands.
Fertility and Sterility
|November 1, 1992
Summary
Levels of aminoterminal propeptide of type III procollagen were higher in early endometriosis patients, indicating active disease. This suggests microscopic endometriosis may be present in women with unexplained infertility.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Gynecology
- Reproductive Medicine
Background:
- Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus.
- Early lesions of endometriosis may represent an active stage of the disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if aminoterminal propeptides of type III procollagen are elevated in early endometriosis.
- To confirm that subtle endometriosis lesions are active.
Main Methods:
- Serum and peritoneal fluid (PF) were collected from 100 patients undergoing laparoscopy.
- Aminoterminal propeptide of type III procollagen levels were measured in serum and PF.
Main Results:
- PF levels of aminoterminal propeptide of type III procollagen were significantly higher in women with early endometriosis compared to controls.
- No significant difference was observed in PF levels between early endometriosis patients and those with unexplained infertility.
Conclusions:
- Early endometriosis lesions are active and invade the extracellular matrix.
- Microscopic endometriosis may be present in women experiencing unexplained infertility.