Oxford University researchers have developed a groundbreaking imaging tool that could slash the average nine-year wait for an endometriosis diagnosis and spare patients from invasive procedures. The new method uses a molecular tracer called maraciclatide, injected into the patient, which binds to a specific protein and highlights areas of inflammation or new blood vessel growth on a SPECT-CT scan.
Current Diagnosis Challenges
Endometriosis affects around 1 in 10 women of reproductive age, but diagnosis in the UK typically takes nine years and four months. Symptoms such as painful periods, fatigue, and discomfort during sex are often mistaken for conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Traditional diagnosis involves vaginal examinations, ultrasounds, MRI scans, and often a laparoscopy—an invasive surgical procedure.
The Detect Trial
Led by Serac Healthcare and the Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health at the University of Oxford, the Detect trial recruited 20 women. Nineteen completed the study, and the new imaging technique correctly identified the presence or absence of endometriosis in 16 women (84% accuracy). It also provided clear images of the condition in 14 of 17 patients confirmed via surgery, including two cases of rare thoracic endometriosis.
Expert Reactions
Professor Christian Becker, co-director of the Endometriosis CaRe Centre in Oxford and co-lead of the study, said: “Novel, non-invasive diagnostic tests for endometriosis are a global research priority. The diagnostic challenge is exacerbated by an absence of clinically validated biomarkers and limitations of current imaging.” He added that maraciclatide could be “an extremely valuable tool” to reduce delays and aid treatment development.
Dr Tatjana Gibbons, of the Nuffield Department of Women’s and Reproductive Health, called the findings “exciting”, noting that maraciclatide “offers a highly promising diagnostic and monitoring tool, particularly for superficial peritoneal endometriosis, which is the most common yet hardest type to identify.”
Professor Krina Zondervan, co-director of the Endometriosis CaRe Centre, said: “If confirmed in larger phase three studies, imaging with maraciclatide could transform clinical research and practice, potentially empowering the development of treatments for women across the globe.”
The results are published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Women’s Health.
