Non-Invasive Tests for Faster Endometriosis Diagnosis
Individuals suspecting they have endometriosis, a painful condition impacting one in ten women, will soon be able to request two non-invasive tests from their general practitioners for quicker identification. Experts anticipate that these tests could significantly reduce the current nine-year or longer wait times for a diagnosis.
One of the tests involves a saliva sample to detect genetic markers, while the other measures electrical signals in the gut using sensor pads on the abdomen. These tests are part of new draft guidance for the NHS in England and Wales, which also recommends regular check-ups to identify cells similar to the womb lining growing elsewhere in the body.
Patient Experiences Highlight Diagnostic Delays
Ami Robertson, 23, began experiencing symptoms of endometriosis at 16 but faced years of misdiagnosis, often being told she had irritable bowel syndrome. She eventually paid for private testing that confirmed her condition, which led to surgery.
Similarly, Sharan Uppal from Huddersfield struggled to get a diagnosis for her 15-year-old daughter, Simran, despite numerous GP visits and emergency room trips. The gut test they took privately returned a positive result, empowering them to seek a referral and necessary treatment.
Introduction of Endosure and Endotest
The saliva-based Endotest is currently in a pilot study within the NHS, while the Endosure gut test is part of clinical research at Worcestershire Acute NHS Hospital Trust. These tests are expected to be available to some patients, although not all general practitioners will have immediate access. Healthcare professionals with expertise in endometriosis will oversee their use.
While these tests are not standalone diagnostics, they are expected to facilitate faster treatment and diagnosis, compared to the current standard, a surgical laparoscopy.
Emma Cox, CEO of Endometriosis UK, supports the introduction of these tests, emphasizing the need for healthcare education to ensure timely access and recognition of symptoms.
Source: Original Article