[ENDOMETRIOSIS: A NEW APPROACH TO ETIOLOGY AND PATHOGENESIS (REVIEW)]

Area of Science:

• Gynecology
• Reproductive Medicine
• Oncology

Background:

• Endometriosis is a prevalent, multifactorial disease characterized by endometrial tissue outside the uterus.
• Current understanding of endometriosis etiology and pathogenesis lacks a unified theory.
• Genetic and epigenetic factors are implicated in endometriosis development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current concepts regarding the etiology and pathogenesis of endometriosis.
• To discuss the role of genetic and epigenetic factors in endometriosis.
• To explore the association between endometriosis and malignant tumors.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on endometriosis.
• Analysis of genetic and epigenetic mechanisms involved in endometriosis.
• Discussion of proposed pathways linking endometriosis to cancer.

Main Results:

• Genetic and epigenetic factors alter the expression of key molecules like aromatase, steroidogenic factor 1, and estrogen receptors.
• These alterations promote inflammation, nerve growth factor synthesis, and pain.
• Progesterone resistance, increased prostaglandin activity, and hypoxia contribute to disease progression and potential malignancy.

Conclusions:

• Endometriosis involves complex hormonal, immune, and genetic interactions.
• Altered gene expression and hormonal resistance are central to endometriosis pathogenesis and symptoms.
• Emerging evidence suggests a link between endometriosis and increased cancer risk, warranting further investigation.