After decades of underfunding, there’s been a surge of new endometriosis research. Endometriosis affects between 10% and 15% of women(1) worldwide, causing pain and often leading to reduced fertility or infertility. With a growing awareness of the disease, numerous studies have been launched and are showing some promising results. Let’s discuss some of the encouraging endometriosis breakthroughs and what you need to know.
Sydney Researchers Conduct a Ground-breaking Study
In a world first, Australian researchers have grown tissue from every known type of endometriosis. From these samples, they were able to compare how different forms of endometriosis respond to various treatments based on cell changes. The evidence garnered from this study has given researchers the information they need to tailor treatments based on the type of endometriosis the patient has. This breakthrough has been likened to the strides made in breast cancer research three decades ago, as each form of endometriosis can now be targeted and treated more effectively.
The 99mTc-maraciclatide Imaging Agent
An innovative molecular imaging agent, 99mTc-maraciclatide has successfully been used to detect breast cancer. Today, preliminary data has shown that 99mTc-maraciclatide can accurately detect and visualise the earliest stages of endometriosis, known as superficial peritoneal endometriosis. This agent has detected approximately 80% of such cases and has the potential to image deep endometriosis and endometrioma. This powerful, safe, and non-invasive imaging agent could reduce the need for surgical diagnostics like laparoscopies.
Fusobacterium Infection
Researchers in Japan have identified a particular kind of bacteria in women with endometriosis by examining the microbes inhabiting the endometrium. Of 155 patients with endometriosis, 64% had a Fusobacterium infection. Only 7% of patients without endometriosis carried the bacteria. Further research showed that by introducing the infection to mice to replicate the disease, the infection can be treated with cheap and widely available antibiotics. With evidence that Fusobacterium may contribute to the growth of endometriosis, further research will be conducted in humans on the potential of antibiotics as a treatment.
Pelvic Floor Therapy
Physiotherapy has long been used as an effective therapy for the rehabilitation of the pelvic floor in instances of bowel and bladder issues, as well as childbirth recovery. In 2021, a study showed that pelvic floor therapy has the potential to reduce endometriosis-related pain. In this study, 17 women with deeply infiltrative endometriosis (DIE) practised pelvic floor therapy to help manage chronic pelvic pain and painful sex. More recent studies have confirmed these results using kinesiotherapy, physical therapy, and balneology to target the pelvic area. Incorporating pelvic floor therapy into one’s routine has been proven effective in relieving the sharp stabbing pains associated with endometriosis.
While more work needs to be conducted on many of these areas of research, it’s encouraging for those struggling with the symptoms of endometriosis to know that progress is being made. For decades, women have had to endure a range of endometriosis-related symptoms in the hope of a diagnosis and an effective treatment. Now, with growing awareness of the condition, significant progress has been made in the last five to ten years in understanding and treating endometriosis. If you or someone you know is struggling with the symptoms of endometriosis, don’t hesitate to get in touch with specialists today.
