CORRELATIONS BETWEEN THE LYMPHOID INFILTRATE AND THE STEROID HORMONE RECEPTORS IN ENDOMETRIOSIS
Abstract
Aim: Endometriosis, a chronic estrogen-dependent disease, is associated with persistent pelvic pain and is classified as a neuro-inflammatory disorder. This study aimed to decipher the inflammatory milieu in endometriosis, focusing on the lymphoid infiltrate represented by the CD4+ cells, CD8+ cells, and CD68+ macrophages, and the possible correlation with steroid hormone receptor expressions. Material and methods: Research conducted at the “Elena Doamna” Clinical Hospital and the “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Iași, Romania, involved retrospective analysis of 53 patients with endometriosis from 2018 to 2023. Results: Through immunohistochemical assays, we observed correlations between CD4 and CD8 expressions, and between CD4, CD68, and the PR score. Also, a possible causality between the macrophage infiltrate and PR expression could be suggested. Conclusions: The inflammatory infiltrate’s analysis in endometriosis provides a deeper knowledge of its pathological development and the interplay of inflammatory cells. Understanding these receptors might guide future treatment strategies for better disease management.
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