Levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in serum of patients with endometriosis

Authors: D. Gagné; M. Pagé; G. Robitaille; P. Hugo; D. Gosselin

Source: Human Reproduction, Volume 18, Number 8, August 2003 , pp. 1674-1680(7)

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Abstract:

BACKGROUND: Elevated concentrations of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) have been detected in the peritoneal fluid of patients with endometriosis. Furthermore, it was postulated that VEGF is involved in the development of endometriotic lesions. The present study is aimed at determining whether high levels of VEGF could also be found in the serum of patients with endometriosis. METHODS: VEGF levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in serum from 131 subjects with surgically confirmed endometriosis and 146 controls with no clinical evidence of the disease or detectable endometriotic lesions at the time of surgical examination. Parameters such as demographics, personal habits, menstrual characteristics and clinical profile were collected from each subject included in this study. RESULTS: The mean VEGF levels were not significantly modulated in serum samples of cases compared with controls in a crude general linear model and in a model adjusted for possible confounders. VEGF serum levels did not correlate with the score, stage of endometriosis or the presence of benign gynaecological disorders. However, a correlation was found between circulating concentrations of VEGF and body mass index. CONCLUSION: Although VEGF seems to play a pivotal role locally in the implantation and development of endometriotic lesions, the disease is not associated with a significant modulation in the levels of circulating VEGF.

Keywords: : angiogenesis/endometriosis/serum/VEGF/VEGF serum

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/humrep/deg326

Affiliations: 1: To whom correspondence should be addresssed. e-mail: dgosselin@metriogene.com

Publication date: 2003-08-01

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Human Reproduction features full-length, peer-reviewed papers reporting original research, clinical case histories, as well as opinions and debates on topical issues. Papers published cover the scientific and medical aspects of reproductive physiology and pathology, endocrinology, andrology, gonad function, gametogenesis, fertilization, embryo development, implantation, pregnancy, genetics, genetic diagnosis, oncology, infectious disease, surgery, contraception, infertility treatment, psychology, ethics and social issues. The highest scientific and editorial standard is maintained throughout the journal along with a rapid rate of publication.

Levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in serum of patients with endometriosis

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