Role of immunologic and inflammatory factors in the development of endometriosis: indications for treatment strategies

Abstract

This article presents an overview of immunologic/inflammatory factors related to endometriosis with special attention to their potential relevance to future treatment strategies. The development of endometriosis appears to involve several immunologic and inflammatory factors. Increased inflammatory, proteolytic and angiogenic activity of the peritoneum and the peritoneal fluid, and poor immune surveillance and clearance of endometrial cells from the pelvic cavity all appear to contribute to the development of endometriosis. The presently available pharmacotherapeutic treatments are characterized by high recurrence rates, severe side effects and limited duration of application. These and the consequences of endometriosis on the quality of life of affected women, their environment and the society, clearly indicate the need for the development of new drugs, abolishing endometriosis and its symptoms, without interfering with the hormonal homeostasis. Substances potentially capable of modulating immunologic/in...