Abstract
Endometriosis is a disease that still presents many puzzles to clinicians and basic research scientists. Until recently, it has been regarded as a condition that arises when normal endometrium adheres to the peritoneal surface and then grows into an ‘inflammatory’ lesion, which adversely influences local reproductive tract function and causes pain. It is now becoming clear that the endometrium within the uterus in these women differs significantly in function from ‘normal’, and that these anomalies probably precede the development of classical ectopic endometriotic lesions. However, the etiology and mechanisms by which endometriosis arises are still far from certain. This review attempts to address the extensive, but fragmented, evidence that demonstrates widespread molecular disturbances in endometrial function and microstructure underlying this complex condition. The review also addresses some of the novel concepts that are being raised by these exciting new discoveries.
Financial & competing interests disclosure
The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.
No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.