Endometriosis evaluation often follows pelvic symptoms, infertility, or pregnancy loss without a clear explanation. Clinical history guides the initial assessment, and surgical evaluation can establish the presence of disease. Newer testing approaches provide additional information before surgical confirmation occurs. Here is a look at advancements in endometriosis test procedures:
Using Endometrial Biopsy Testing
Endometriosis evaluation includes tissue-based assessment of the uterine lining. An endometrial biopsy provides the tissue needed for this type of endometriosis test. Collection takes place 7–10 days after ovulation, and an ovulation test helps identify the appropriate testing window. A healthcare provider collects the sample during an office visit and sends it for laboratory analysis. They will contact you to discuss results.
The laboratory examines the tissue for BCL6 overexpression. BCL6 is a protein associated with inflammation in the uterine lining, and increased expression indicates a higher chance of endometriosis. The pathology report records the BCL6 finding together with the diagnosis from the endometrial tissue. The biopsy also receives a broader pathology evaluation.
This review includes examination for atypical cells, polyps, malignancy, and other tissue findings. These observations provide additional information about the condition of the sampled uterine lining. An optional CD138 test uses the same biopsy sample to evaluate endometritis, an inflammation of the uterine lining. This additional analysis provides information about a separate endometrial condition alongside the BCL6 assessment.
Exploring BCL6 Biomarkers
BCL6 is a protein associated with inflammation in the uterine lining. It also relates to cell growth, cell survival, and immune response. Increased BCL6 expression in eutopic endometrium is associated with endometriosis. The marker reflects inflammatory activity within the endometrium. Endometriosis is associated with inflammation in this tissue, and BCL6 expression provides a measurable finding. BCL6 also has a documented relationship with progesterone resistance.
Progesterone resistance affects how endometrial tissue responds to progesterone. The relationship between BCL6 and progesterone resistance provides additional biological context for endometriosis-associated inflammation. The pathology report identifies BCL6 overexpression when present in the sampled tissue. It records the BCL6 finding alongside the endometrial diagnosis and pathology findings.
Interpreting Test Results
The pathology report identifies BCL6 as positive or negative. A positive result shows BCL6 overexpression in the endometrial tissue, while a negative result shows no overexpression. A positive finding indicates a high likelihood of endometriosis that laparoscopy could confirm. The test detects BCL6 as an indicator associated with endometriosis. Laparoscopy provides diagnostic confirmation through surgical evaluation. A positive finding supports further evaluation by a qualified gynecologic surgeon specializing in endometriosis.
Increasing Endometriosis Test Access
Endometriosis testing is available through OB-GYN and other women’s healthcare providers. IVF centers also offer the testing as part of routine fertility care and assessment. A healthcare provider orders the collection kit and performs the biopsy. The collection kit contains biopsy materials, provider instructions, and an ovulation detection test. An ovulation test identifies the appropriate window for collecting the endometrial sample. The laboratory processes the specimen and prepares the pathology report.
Detecting Silent Endometriosis
Silent endometriosis is a case with few or no noticeable symptoms. A person may have the condition without experiencing the pelvic pain generally associated with endometriosis. When infertility or recurrent pregnancy loss has no clear explanation, testing can help determine whether endometriosis could contribute to these reproductive concerns.
The condition can affect fertility even when noticeable symptoms remain limited. Endometriosis-related inflammation affects the uterine lining and its ability to support reproduction. This inflammatory activity has been associated with changes in hormone signaling, embryo implantation, and early embryo development.
Schedule an Endometriosis Test
BCL6 testing provides information about inflammation associated with endometriosis in the uterine lining. Healthcare providers review these findings alongside clinical information, and they can determine whether further evaluation is appropriate. When additional evaluation is warranted, laparoscopy provides diagnostic confirmation through surgical assessment. Contact fertility experts today to discuss BCL6 testing and next steps.