Disrupted iron metabolism in peritoneal fluid may induce oxidative stress in the peritoneal cavity of women with endometriosis

Abstract

Peritoneal fluid of women with endometriosis is characterized by disrupted iron metabolism. This is most likely related to an increased number of erythrocytes in the peritoneal cavity of endometriotic women, which leads to a higher concentration of haemoglobin in this environment. Impaired iron homeostasis may have a significant influence on the pathophysiology of peritoneal endometriosis by the direct impact of haemoglobin derivatives and/or formation of the pro-inflammatory and pro-oxidative environment. Peritoneal cavity oxidative stress occurs predominantly in women in advanced stages of the disease.