Combining Ultrasound and Biomarkers to Diagnose Superficial Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a common condition where tissue similar to the womb lining grows outside the womb, causing pain and sometimes making it hard to get pregnant. This study focuses on a type called superficial endometriosis (SE), which is hard to spot with usual scans. Researchers are trying a new ultrasound technique called SonoPODography (SPG) to see if it can reliably find SE. This method uses fluid to help see small areas of endometriosis during an ultrasound. They will also examine this fluid for specific chemicals, called biomarkers, which might act as early warning signs for the condition. The aim is to find accurate ways to diagnose SE quickly and without needing surgery, which is currently the main way to confirm it. This could mean faster diagnosis and better treatment plans for those affected.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Endometriosis is a common condition that affects many people assigned female at birth. It happens when tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows elsewhere in the body. This can lead to pain, inflammation and sometimes difficulty getting pregnant.
There are different types of endometriosis. While some types, like deep endometriosis and ovarian endometriosis, are becoming easier to spot with modern ultrasound scans, a very common type called superficial endometriosis (SE) is still tricky to diagnose without surgery. SE often lies in a part of the body called the pouch of Douglas (POD), and it's usually very tiny, making it hard to see.
This study is investigating a new approach called SonoPODography (SPG). SPG is a special type of ultrasound that uses a small amount of fluid to help doctors get a clearer view of the pouch of Douglas. By gently filling this area with fluid, it's hoped that the tiny patches of superficial endometriosis might become easier to spot on the scan. The study will also be looking at chemicals, called biomarkers, found in this fluid. The idea is that these biomarkers might give clues about whether endometriosis is present, helping to diagnose it even earlier. The goal is to develop a quick and reliable way to diagnose superficial endometriosis without needing invasive surgery.
Key takeaways
- This study aims to find non-surgical ways to diagnose superficial endometriosis.
- It uses a special ultrasound called SonoPODography to enhance visibility.
- Researchers are also looking for disease markers in fluid samples.
- The goal is a quicker, less invasive diagnosis than current methods.
- It could help us understand superficial endometriosis better.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adult women, aged 18 or older, who have either been diagnosed with or are suspected of having superficial endometriosis.
However, there are certain reasons why someone might not be able to join. For example, if you haven't started your periods yet, have gone through menopause, or if you've never had vaginal penetration or intercourse, you wouldn't be suitable for this study. Also, if there are concerns about cancer or a history of cancer, or if you have a known bleeding disorder, you wouldn't be able to take part. Finally, if you've already been diagnosed with deep or ovarian endometriosis, this study isn't for you, as it's specifically focused on superficial endometriosis.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Were you assigned female at birth?
- Do you have or suspect you have superficial endometriosis?
- Do you not have deep or ovarian endometriosis?
- Are you not pre-menopausal or post-menopausal?
- Have you had vaginal penetration/intercourse before?
What does participation involve?
The study is a diagnostic accuracy pilot study, meaning it's testing how well a new diagnostic method works. You would undergo the SonoPODography (SPG) procedure, which involves having some fluid instilled into the pouch of Douglas, followed by an ultrasound scan. This fluid will then be sampled to look for biomarkers. The total duration of your participation would be limited to the time required for this procedure and any necessary follow-up checks related to it. While the exact number of visits isn't specified, it's likely to involve one main visit for the SPG procedure and potentially one or two follow-up appointments.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- McMaster UniversityVerified postcodeHamilton, Canada
Common questions
What is superficial endometriosis?
It's a common type of endometriosis where small patches of tissue, similar to the womb lining, grow on the outside surfaces of organs in the pelvis, often causing pain.
What is SonoPODography?
It's a new type of ultrasound scan where a small amount of fluid is used to help doctors see tiny areas of endometriosis more clearly, especially in a specific part of the pelvis called the pouch of Douglas.
What are biomarkers?
Biomarkers are specific chemicals or substances found in the body, like in fluid, that can give clues about a disease or condition.
Will this study cure my endometriosis?
No, this study is focused on finding better ways to *diagnose* superficial endometriosis, not to treat or cure it. The aim is to help people get a diagnosis more easily and quickly.
Is the SonoPODography procedure painful?
While some discomfort might be felt, the procedure usually lasts a short time. Your comfort will be prioritised by the medical team during the process.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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