Possible Role of Phthalate in the Pathogenesis of Endometriosis: In Vitro, Animal, and Human Data

Abstract

These findings strongly suggest that exposure to phthalate may lead to establishment of endometriosis by enhancing invasive and proliferative activities of endometrial cells.

First-trimester determination of fetal gender by ultrasound: measurement of the ano-genital distance

“…These results could be particularly relevant, as for male fetuses, to detect early sexual dysmorphism. In addition, in accordance to M a n u s c r i p t 12 previous studies [29,30] demonstrating the risk of developing endometriosis linked to exposure to phthalates and to xeno-estrogenes, abnormalities in the AGD in female foetuses might be a parameter to take into account in further studies to better understand the physiopathology of this debilating disorder.…”

Increased Urinary Phthalate Levels in Women with Uterine Leiomyoma: A Case-Control Study

“…However, the adverse effects of phthalates on the human reproductive system are largely unknown. Many studies suggest that phthalates contribute to the pathogenesis of endometriosis [16,17,18]. Similar to endometriosis, leiomyoma are estrogen sensitive; therefore, endocrine-disrupting chemicals may play a role in their development.…”

In vitro effects of phthalate esters in human myometrial and leiomyoma cells and increased urinary level of phthalate metabolite in women with uterine leiomyoma

“…On the basis of the weak estrogenic and antiandrogenic effect of phthalates, several studies have shown the possible association of exposure to phthalate with common estrogendependent diseases, such as premature thelarche (14,15), pubertal gynecomastia (16), endometriosis (17)(18)(19)(20), and breast cancer (21). With respect to uterine leiomyoma, one study revealed that women with leiomyoma have significantly higher levels of total urinary MEHP levels compared with controls (22).…”