Endometriosis is a condition that affects millions of women worldwide, often causing debilitating pain, fertility issues, and a range of other symptoms. Despite its widespread impact, diagnosing endometriosis has long been a challenge, with many women enduring invasive procedures and lengthy delays before receiving a definitive diagnosis. Now, a groundbreaking new development in medical research is offering hope. French scientists have developed a non-invasive test that could revolutionise the way we diagnose and manage endometriosis, allowing for earlier detection, more accurate results, and less physical and emotional strain on the female it inflicts. This breakthrough represents a major step forward in women’s health and could transform the lives of those struggling with this often-misunderstood condition. Below, everything we know about the Ziwig Endotest.
What is the Ziwig Endotest?
The Ziwig Endotest is the world's first saliva-based diagnostic test for endometriosis, that uses Next Generation Sequencing of microRNA’s with Artificial Intelligence.
Typically, it takes nine years for a woman to receive an endometriosis diagnosis, often requiring invasive examinations and exploratory surgery to get there. The Ziwig Endotest is designed to allow for the early detection of the disease in patients between the ages of 18 and 43 years who are clinically suspected to have endometriosis. Symptoms that could indicate endometriosis include chronic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhoea, pelvic pain outside menstruation, pain during bowel movements or urination, and infertility.
How does the Ziwig Endotest work?
While a doctor is required to order the Ziwig Endotest, patients with suspected endometriosis can carry out the saliva sample collection themselves.
The test must be requested by a doctor although the saliva sample collection can be carried out by the patient as a self-collect sample or under the supervision of her doctor or healthcare professional. The sample is then analysed in a fully automated laboratory, which enhances accuracy. Results are expected in around seven days.
Where is the Ziwig Endotest currently available?
Ziwig Endotest is currently available in various countries, including Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Italy, and German. There's no word yet on if and when the test will arrive in Australia, however plans for immediate expansion include Hungary, Belgium, Luxembourg, Kuwait, Qatar, and Israel.
