Cell proliferation is increased in the endometrium of women with endometriosis.
OBJECTIVE
To compare the proliferation of endothelial, epithelial, and stromal cells in the endometrium of women with endometriosis and normal controls.


METHODS
Proliferating cells were identified using the monoclonal antibody antiproliferating cell nuclear antigen. A second antibody (CD34) was used to identify endothelial cells (ECs).


METHODS
University Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology.


METHODS
Women with laparoscopically proven endometriosis, n = 30. Controls were women with a normal pelvis at laparoscopy performed for tubal sterilization or for infertility due to a male factor, n = 27.


METHODS
Endothelial cells: proliferative index. Epithelial and stromal cells: semi-quantitative immunostaining score.


RESULTS
The mean EC proliferative index was significantly greater in those with endometriosis compared with controls. This difference was most marked during the proliferative phase of the menstrual cycle. Proliferative phase epithelial and stromal cells demonstrated significantly higher immunostaining scores in endometriosis patients than in controls.


CONCLUSIONS
We have demonstrated increased numbers of proliferating ECs as well as epithelial and stromal cells in proliferative phase endometrium of women with endometriosis. This suggests that the endometrium of these women might have an enhanced ability to implant and survive in ectopic locations.
Wingfield
M
M
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
Macpherson
A
A
Healy
D L
DL
Rogers
P A
PA
D015703:Antigens, CD / Q000032:analysis; D018952:Antigens, CD34; D002455:Cell Division; D004715:Endometriosis / Q000473:pathology*; D004717:Endometrium / Q000473:pathology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D018809:Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen / Q000032:analysis
D015703:Antigens, CD; D018952:Antigens, CD34; D018809:Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen