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Endometriosis in monozygotic twins
R M Hadfield1, H J Mardon, D H Barlow
1Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, United Kingdom.
Fertility and Sterility
|December 9, 1997
Summary
Endometriosis, a condition affecting women, shows a strong genetic link. This study found that identical twins often share this condition, suggesting a genetic basis for endometriosis.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Genetics
- Gynecology
Background:
- Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological condition.
- The etiology of endometriosis is not fully understood.
- Genetic factors are suspected to play a role in endometriosis development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the occurrence of endometriosis in monozygotic (identical) twins.
- To explore the concordance rate of endometriosis in identical twins.
Main Methods:
- A postal questionnaire was used to collect data from twins.
- Disease status was confirmed to ensure accuracy.
- Twins were recruited through patient organizations and gynecologists in the UK and USA.
Main Results:
- Fourteen out of sixteen twin pairs were concordant for endometriosis.
- Two twin pairs were discordant for the condition.
- Nine twin pairs presented with moderate to severe endometriosis.
Conclusions:
- The high concordance rate in identical twins supports a significant genetic contribution to endometriosis.
- These findings reinforce the hypothesis that endometriosis has a genetic basis.
- Further research into the genetic factors of endometriosis is warranted.