Presented by Dr. Tatjana Gibbons at the Society for Reproductive Investigation annual meeting, the study showcased 99mTc-maraciclatide's ability to visualize superficial peritoneal endometriosis, the earliest stage of the disease. This is a significant breakthrough as current methods rely on invasive surgery for accurate diagnosis.
The study, led by Professor Christian Becker and Professor Krina Zondervan, involved imaging patients with known or suspected endometriosis using a SPECT-CT camera, followed by laparoscopic surgery. Results indicate that 99mTc-maraciclatide holds promise as a non-invasive tool for detecting early-stage endometriosis.
New Imaging Agent Shows Potential for Endometriosis Diagnosis
Key findings include the ability of 99mTc-maraciclatide to accurately identify superficial peritoneal endometriosis, accounting for approximately 80% of diagnoses. Additionally, the imaging agent showed potential in highlighting activity in patients with deep endometriosis and endometrioma.
One notable case study revealed the detection of superficial peritoneal endometriosis missed by ultrasound but visualized with 99mTc-maraciclatide and later confirmed by surgery.
Key partners
Speaking on the significance of these findings, David Hail, CEO of Serac Healthcare, emphasized the potential of maraciclatide as a novel diagnostic tool for early-stage endometriosis. He noted the importance of early detection, considering the significant delay in diagnosis that many patients face.
Professor Christian Becker highlighted the urgency for improved diagnostic tools, given the widespread impact of endometriosis on women's health and quality of life. Similarly, Professor Krina Zondervan stressed the potential of early diagnosis to improve outcomes and prospects for affected individuals.
Future prospects for Improved Diagnostics
The ongoing DETECT study, anticipated to conclude later this year, aims to further validate these promising results. Our department are focused on identifying innovative approaches for the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis, with the ultimate goal of improving patient outcomes.
This groundbreaking research offers hope for millions of women worldwide affected by endometriosis, paving the way for earlier detection and intervention to alleviate suffering and improve overall well-being.
Superficial peritoneal endometriosis is the most prevalent form of the disease. It often affects younger women for whom earlier diagnosis could enable intervention at an earlier stage, with the potential to significantly change outcomes and improve prospects. At the Endometriosis CaRe Centre at the University of Oxford our studies focus on identifying novel genetic, diagnostic and therapeutic targets for endometriosis. We are delighted about the early results of the DETECT study and are looking forward to recruiting more patients to consolidate the data.
- Prof. Krina Zondervan, Head of Department at the Nuffield Department of Women’s and Reproductive Health
These promising initial findings indicate that there is real potential for maraciclatide as a novel non-invasive method of diagnosing early-stage endometriosis. The ability to visualise the early stage of this disease is particularly significant as it cannot be seen by other imaging modalities, which contributes to the almost nine year average delay to secure a diagnosis. We are hugely encouraged by these results and look forward to continuing this work with the world-leading specialists from Oxford University.
- David Hail, Chief Executive Officer of Serac Healthcare
Endometriosis is a common disease affecting many millions of women worldwide with pain and infertility. The current delay in diagnosis results in prolonged suffering and uncertainty. Therefore, a novel imaging tool to assist healthcare professionals in identifying or ruling out the disease is urgently needed
- Professor Christian Becker, Co-Director of the Endometriosis CaRe Centre