What is the Origin of Endometriosis Inflammation?

The term combines endometriosis, the clinical condition defined by ectopic endometrium, and inflammation, derived from the Latin inflammatio, meaning to set on fire. The recognition of inflammation as a primary driver, rather than just a consequence, of the disease has evolved through significant gynecological and immunological research.

What is the Mechanism of Endometriosis Inflammation?

The mechanism involves the ectopic endometrial cells actively secreting a wide array of inflammatory mediators, including interleukins and tumor necrosis factor-alpha, which serve to recruit and activate immune cells. This cellular and biochemical cascade creates a localized, self-perpetuating pro-inflammatory environment that stimulates nerve fiber growth, promotes fibrotic adhesion formation, and sensitizes pain receptors, thereby generating the severe, characteristic nociception.

Endometriosis Inflammation ∞ Area

Endometriosis Inflammation

Meaning

Endometriosis inflammation is the chronic, pathological inflammatory response that is intrinsically linked to the presence and persistence of functional endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity. This inflammatory state is characterized by a significant elevation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and prostaglandins within the peritoneal fluid, which are directly responsible for inducing chronic pelvic pain and promoting disease progression. Targeted mitigation of this inflammation is central to effective therapeutic management.