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Review
. 2022 Jun;29(6):1667-1673.
doi: 10.1007/s43032-021-00668-2. Epub 2021 Jun 22.

The Search for Biomarkers in Endometriosis: a Long and Windy Road

Milena Králíčková  1   2   3 , Vaclav Vetvicka  4 , Luděk Fiala  5 , Antonio Simone Laganà  6 , Simone Garzon  7   8
Affiliations
Review

The Search for Biomarkers in Endometriosis: a Long and Windy Road

Milena Králíčková et al. Reprod Sci. 2022 Jun.

Abstract

Endometriosis is a complex and chronic estrogen-dependent disease, affecting a significant proportion of women of reproductive age. Despite the long interest and extensive research, the pathogenesis of the disease is still debated. Although available non-invasive diagnostic methods have adequate accuracy, an invasive approach by laparoscopy is often necessary to obtain histological confirmation. In this scenario, the search for an accurate, reliable, cost-effective, clinically applicable non-invasive biomarker plays a crucial role in a potentially early diagnosis and, in this way, shape the future management of the disease. Considering these elements, the current review aims to summarize the most significant and novel results about biomarkers for the diagnosis and follow-up of women affected by endometriosis.

Keywords: Biomarker; CA-125; Endometriosis; Human epididymis protein 4; Immunology; MicroRNA; Stem cells.

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