Endometriosis is a medical condition where endometrial tissue grows in abnormal areas of the body. This tissue is normally found lining the inside of the uterus, but with endometriosis, it can appear in locations such as the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Individuals who have this condition sometimes live years without knowing it, though many people experience unexplained pain or infertility. BCL6 testing provides a way to detect endometriosis. Here’s information about completing an endometriosis test, interpreting the results, and choosing the next steps:
Understanding Endometriosis Testing
BCL6 is a type of protein marker, and it helps identify inflammation of the uterine lining. In people with endometriosis, BCL6 levels are often higher than normal. This can interfere with fertility, leading to an unexplained infertility diagnosis or recurrent pregnancy loss.
Testing for BCL6 involves an endometrial biopsy. To complete this step, a doctor collects a small sample of the uterine lining during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. The doctor then sends the tissue to a lab to measure BCL6 expression. The luteal phase is when the uterine lining is prepared for potential implantation. Performing the biopsy at this time makes sure hormone-driven changes are fully present. It promotes more accurate measurements, and it helps doctors determine whether elevated BCL6 may be contributing to infertility or pregnancy loss.
Endometriosis testing is beneficial because up to 25% of individuals with this condition are completely asymptomatic. This means they don’t show classic symptoms, such as severe pelvic pain or heavy periods. If a couple is planning to undergo in vitro fertilization (IVF), which involves multiple steps and significant medical intervention, identifying endometriosis beforehand can be clinically relevant. Undiagnosed endometriosis has the potential to interfere with implantation, reducing the effectiveness of IVF. Early identification allows clinicians to address inflammation or disease activity before initiating IVF.
Interpreting the Test Results
A negative BCL6 test indicates that the protein marker’s expression is within the normal range, making inflammation related to endometriosis less likely. It does not completely rule out the condition, but it suggests that there’s less than a 7% chance of it being present. Clinicians may look into alternative causes of infertility or pregnancy loss and recommend additional diagnostic testing as needed.
A positive BCL6 test indicates the presence of inflammation, and it is highly associated with endometriosis. With this result, there is a 90% or greater chance that the condition is present. It helps justify a follow-up appointment with an endometriosis specialist to confirm an official diagnosis.
Reviewing Possible Next Steps
After completing an endometriosis test, individuals should talk to their doctor to determine whether they require further evaluation. For those who receive elevated BCL6 results, additional steps may include:
- Imaging tests
- Laparoscopic evaluation
- Hormonal therapy
- Fertility treatment planning
Imaging studies include ultrasounds and MRIs, which are used to evaluate pelvic anatomy and identify abnormalities associated with endometriosis. This is because some affected individuals develop structural changes such as scar tissue or ovarian cysts. Imaging doesn’t officially diagnose endometriosis, but it can rule out other conditions and support clinical decision-making.
Laparoscopy helps doctors confirm the presence of endometriosis, supporting an official diagnosis. This minimally invasive procedure enables a specialist to visualize the pelvic cavity and identify endometrial-like tissue growing outside the uterus. During the evaluation, the tissue can also be biopsied and removed; this helps reduce pain and improve fertility outcomes. Hormonal therapy aims to manage symptoms and reduce inflammation associated with endometriosis. These treatments suppress hormonal stimulation of endometrial tissue, and they may include birth control pills, progestins, or other hormone-modulating medications.
For individuals pursuing pregnancy, elevated BCL6 results support specialized fertility treatment planning. This can involve addressing inflammation prior to conception or tailoring assisted reproductive techniques. Fertility specialists and endometriosis experts are also able to coordinate care, optimizing outcomes. Identifying inflammation with endometriosis testing helps guide personalized treatment decisions and symptom management, and it supports informed planning for future fertility care.
Complete Your Endometriosis Test
Testing for endometriosis using the BCL6 protein marker allows individuals to detect inflammation with a simple timed biopsy. It can be completed as part of a routine visit with a gynecologist or reproductive specialist, and it is an effective detection tool. With the results, individuals are able to pursue laparoscopic assessment, targeted hormonal therapy, or adjustments to fertility treatment plans. Talk to your provider today or order an endometriosis test kit to get started.
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