A Novel 8.7-Kb Mitochondrial Genome Deletion Accurately Detects Endometriosis in the Plasma of Symptomatic Women

Aim: To evaluate an 8.7-kb mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) deletion as a potential biomarker of endometriosis. Materials & methods: We tested the diagnostic accuracy of the 8.7-kb deletion real-time PCR assay using 182 prospectively collected blood samples from females presenting with symptoms of endometriosis in a case–control format. Results: The assay differentiated between endometriosis and controls (area under curve: 0.74–0.89) with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) in 8.7-kb deletion levels measured for all disease subtypes and stages. No correlation was seen between 8.7-kb deletion levels and participant or specimen age, hormone status or menstrual phase. Conclusion: The diagnostic accuracy of the 8.7-kb deletion for endometriosis suggests potential utility in the clinic to improve patient management.