Rapid Endometriosis Tests Introduced on NHS
Two innovative tests designed to significantly accelerate the diagnosis of endometriosis are set to become available on the NHS in England and Wales. This development has been described as a “gamechanger” for millions of women who often face prolonged waits for diagnosis.
Endometriosis affects approximately one in ten women of reproductive age. The condition occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside the uterus, commonly on the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Symptoms include painful menstrual periods, painful bowel movements, pain during urination, and pain during or after sexual intercourse.
Current diagnostic methods include ultrasound scans, MRI, or laparoscopy, which involves inserting a camera through a small incision in the abdomen. Despite the significant impact endometriosis can have on both physical and mental health, diagnosis can take several years.
Women in England and Wales typically endure waits of up to a decade before receiving a diagnosis. Those diagnosed have reported that such delays contribute to increased suffering, prolonged ill health, and disease progression that becomes more difficult to treat.
New Tests Approved by NICE
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has approved two tests, EndoSure and Endotest, aimed at reducing the time it takes to diagnose endometriosis. One of these tests can provide results in just 45 minutes.
“A diagnosis of endometriosis can for some women take the best part of a decade, with the UK average standing at nine years and four months, and rising to 11 years for those from ethnically diverse communities,” said Dr Anastasia Chalkidou, NICE’s healthtech programme director.
“Delays meant chronic pain, affecting daily life, relationships and work. These technologies have the potential to change that by giving primary care professionals better non-invasive tools to identify endometriosis earlier, allowing earlier and better treatment.
Our draft guidance reflects our commitment to getting promising innovations to patients quickly, while making sure the evidence to support their wider use is built in a rigorous way.”
How the Tests Work
Endotest requires women to provide a saliva sample, which is sent to a laboratory to detect microRNAs—tiny biological markers indicating the presence of endometriosis. The laboratory results are then returned to the general practitioner or healthcare professional to guide subsequent diagnostic and treatment decisions.
EndoSure detects endometriosis by measuring electrical signals in the gut through sensor pads placed on the abdomen. Women fast for six to eight hours before the test and, during the 45-minute procedure, drink water until full to help the device accurately record gut activity. Results are available immediately after the test concludes.
Implementation and Further Research
The draft recommendation, published on Tuesday, approves the use of these tests for three years. During this period, additional evidence will be gathered regarding their effectiveness. NICE will then determine whether to grant permanent approval for their use on the NHS.
A third test, DotEndo, was not approved at this time due to insufficient research and requires further study before it can be considered for approval.
NICE emphasized that these tests are not intended to be standalone diagnostic tools but are designed to expedite diagnosis. They are recommended for women in whom endometriosis is still suspected after a normal clinical examination and either negative or inconclusive imaging results, or where imaging has not been performed.
Expert and Advocacy Group Reactions
Dr Gail Busby, consultant gynaecologist at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, stated: “These tests are a gamechanger because they give us answers much earlier, without the need for invasive surgery, and that means we can start the right treatment sooner.
An earlier diagnosis doesn’t just change one person’s life, it frees up appointments and surgical slots for everyone waiting for care.”
Emma Cox, from Endometriosis UK, also welcomed the introduction of the tests. She emphasized the importance of accompanying education for GPs and nurses to ensure prompt access and to prevent symptoms from being overlooked.
