Technologies to support the rapid diagnosis of endometriosis (provisional title)

Status:

In progress

Technology type:

Device

Decision:

Selected

Reason for decision:

Anticipate the topic will be of importance to patients, carers, professionals, commissioners and the health of the public to ensure clinical benefit is realised, inequalities in use addressed, and help them make the best use of NHS resources

Description:

Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which tissue, similar to that found in the womb, starts to grow in other parts of the body. This can cause inflammation, pain and the formation of scar tissue. The main symptoms are painful periods, pelvic pain, bloating, fatigue and nausea. The abnormal growth of this tissue can also mean that there can be difficulties getting pregnant. As a result, endometriosis can have a significant negative impact on people’s quality of life, work and relationships. Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 resulting in a total 1.5 million people with endometriosis in the UK. Due to some symptoms overlapping with other common conditions, this often results in repeated appointments contributing to delays in diagnosis. It is recognised that there are significant delays to obtain a diagnosis of endometriosis, with current estimates at an average of 8 years. NICE Guidance on the diagnosis and management of endometriosis (NG73, 2024) recommends that a transvaginal ultrasound scan is offered to all those with suspected endometriosis. If this is declined or not suitable then a transabdominal ultrasound scan of the pelvis should be considered. Referrals to gynaecology services can be made with confirmed endometriosis or symptoms of endometriosis, even with a normal ultrasound scan. Further investigations in secondary care to confirm a diagnosis may include pelvic MRI scans and diagnostic laparoscopy. Technologies to support the rapid diagnosis of endometriosis include those that offer minimally invasive approaches, such as saliva or blood sampling to effectively diagnose endometriosis. These technologies aim to reduce the need for current intrusive therapies and support earlier diagnosis of endometriosis. NICE Health Technologies Programme will assess the clinical and cost-effectiveness of diagnostic tests to support the rapid diagnosis of endometriosis in order to make recommendations on their use in the NHS.

Project Team

Project lead

Lee Berry

Timeline

Key events during the development of the guidance: