What is endometriosis?

Abstract 

Endometriosis is a complex condition whose aetiology remains to be clarified. Whilst the findings of endometrial stroma and glands within the peritoneal cavity is essential, it is not pathgnomonic. There is genetic basis for the disease, which manifests itself through changes in apoptosis of endometrial cells. Through the influence of local and systemic hormones, alteration of matrix metallo-proteinases, changes in local immune response and the impact of vascular endothelial growth factor, these transferred endometrial cells proliferate in the peritoneal cavity. The phenomenon of retrograde menstruation is almost certainly evident in all women but only those with these genetic aberrations will develop the disease. Endometrial cells may implant as a normal phenomenon and then be removed without causing any symptoms. In those women who develop disease, similar lesions can cause severe symptoms. It remains uncertain how long it takes to establish symptomatic disease but the time is probably many years.

Keywords:  endometriosis , apoptosis , oestradiol , matrix metallo-proteinase , natural killer cells , vascular endothelial growth factor

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