Hormone study could support blood test for endometriosis
pharmafile | July 8, 2026 | News story | Research and Development | endometriosis
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have identified a distinct hormone profile associated with endometriosis that could lead to the development of a blood test for the condition.
The study found women with endometriosis had characteristic differences in a group of hormones known as 11-oxygenated androgens, including higher levels of 11-ketotestosterone.
Endometriosis affects around one in ten women. Diagnosis currently takes an average of more than nine years in the UK and is usually confirmed through surgery.
Researchers analysed blood samples from 159 women with confirmed endometriosis and 57 women without the condition. The hormone signature correctly identified more than 95% of patients with endometriosis, although the findings will require validation in larger studies.
Douglas Gibson, from the University of Edinburgh’s Centre for Reproductive Health, said: “These findings mark a significant breakthrough in our understanding of endometriosis.”
He pointed out that, while the condition was traditionally seen as an oestrogen-driven disorder, the study had thrown new light on this, saying: “Our research challenges this view by showing different androgen levels in the condition. We are optimistic that this new insight will lead to earlier diagnosis and the development of innovative new treatments for those affected by endometriosis.”
He added that the research could lead to earlier diagnosis and support development of new treatments.
The team is now working with Edinburgh Innovations to identify commercial partners to develop a diagnostic blood test based on the findings.
Emma Cox, Chief Executive Officer of Endometriosis UK, said a reliable, non-surgical diagnostic test had been “much needed” and could significantly reduce the time taken for patients to receive a diagnosis.
She added: “These early results are promising, however larger trials will be essential to validate these findings. This is exactly why investment in endometriosis research matters – and why we will be following the progress of this research with interest.”
The findings were published in the European Journal of Endocrinology and were funded by Wellcome and the Medical Research Council.
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