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An Australian medical technology company, Proteomics International, is set to revolutionize the diagnosis of endometriosis with the upcoming launch of PromarkerEndo, the world’s first blood test for this chronic condition affecting one in ten women globally. Developed in collaboration with researchers from the University of Melbourne and the Royal Women’s Hospital, this test promises to transform how endometriosis is diagnosed, moving away from invasive surgical procedures that have historically delayed diagnosis.
Endometriosis is characterized by the growth of tissue similar to the uterine lining outside the uterus, leading to painful lesions, infertility, and other health complications. Patients often suffer for up to seven years with debilitating symptoms before receiving a definitive diagnosis. Currently, laparoscopy is the gold standard for diagnosis, but it is an invasive, costly procedure that is not accessible to everyone.
PromarkerEndo could significantly reduce this diagnostic delay by providing a simple and non-invasive alternative. In recent peer-reviewed trials, the test showed an impressive 99.7 percent accuracy in identifying severe cases of endometriosis, with an accuracy rate exceeding 85 percent even in earlier stages of the disease.
The test’s development stems from extensive research into blood biomarkers for endometriosis, involving bloodwork analysis from 749 participants who underwent laparoscopies to confirm their diagnosis. Researchers identified a panel of ten proteins strongly associated with the disease, utilizing advanced algorithms to enhance the test’s reliability.
Despite these promising results, further refinements are needed. Researchers are currently addressing potential inaccuracies that may have arisen from undiagnosed positive cases among control participants in the trial. Proteomics International plans to launch PromarkerEndo in Australia in the second quarter of this year, pending approval from the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), and has filed patents for the test in major jurisdictions around the world.
This breakthrough could signify a new chapter in the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis, offering hope for millions who have long struggled with this condition. If successful, PromarkerEndo may usher in a significant shift in patient care, providing a reliable and non-invasive method to diagnose endometriosis, ultimately improving the lives of countless women worldwide.
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