Etiology of endometriosis.
The likelihood of developing endometriosis can thus be viewed as a quantitative phenomenon--that is, the probability of having large amounts of endometrium delivered to the peritoneal cavity and the inherent ability of the pelvic tissues to support transplantation, or a combination of the two. What part immunologic, genetic, and menstrual factors contribute to an individual woman's susceptibility to develop the disease has yet to be explored in detail. A substantial amount of research will be required to evaluate these areas to devise methods of preventing the development of endometriosis.
Metzger
D A
DA
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina.
Haney
A F
AF
D004715:Endometriosis / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans