A new saliva test for endometriosis is in trials. What this and other new endo tests mean for you
It can take years for someone to be diagnosed with endometriosis. This can mean ongoing pain, repeated appointments, uncertainty and delayed treatment.
Two new noninvasive tests for diagnosing endometriosis are currently being trialed in the United Kingdom. One test analyzes saliva for specific markers called microRNAs, while the other measures electrical activity in the gut via sensor pads on the abdomen. These tests aim to diagnose endometriosis sooner and more accurately than current methods, which can take years and involve multiple appointments and potential surgery.
However, there is currently not enough evidence to support widespread use of these tests. EndoTest, a blood test available in the United States, has shown high specificity but lower sensitivity, meaning it may miss some cases of endometriosis. PromarkerEndo, a blood test available in Australia, has promising results but requires further validation.
Other noninvasive tests, such as EndoSure and DotEndo, are also being developed. While these tests could potentially shorten the diagnostic process, they should not be used to dismiss persistent symptoms without further investigation.
Written by urgent.news from Medical Xpress's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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