Potential biomarkers for early detection of endometriosis: current state of art (what we know so far)

Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological condition characterized by the presence of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterine cavity. Its diagnosis remains a significant clinical challenge, often delayed by 7 to 12 years, leading to considerable socio-economic burden and a substantial decline in patients' quality of life, including potential infertility. Consequently, there is an urgent need to identify reliable biomarkers that would allow for earlier and more accurate detection. This review provides a comprehensive and up-to-date analysis of potential biomarkers for the diagnosis of endometriosis, including hormonal, inflammatory, genetic, epigenetic, immunological, metabolic, and imaging-based markers. Their diagnostic value and limitations are critically assessed, with particular emphasis on the advantages of multimarker and integrated diagnostic approaches to enhance early detection. The findings of this review offer valuable insights for clinicians, researchers, and healthcare professionals working to develop better diagnostic methods and improve patient outcomes. Moreover, the integration of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, offers promising opportunities to revolutionize endometriosis diagnostics through personalized and precise medical care.