The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) has approved two non-invasive tests, EndoSure and Endotest, for use on the NHS in England and Wales. These tools aim to reduce the average diagnosis time for endometriosis, which currently stands at nine years and four months according to Nice healthtech programme director Dr. Anastasia Chalkidou.
How do the new endometriosis tests work?
Nice has approved two distinct technologies to identify the condition without immediate surgery. Endotest uses a saliva sample to detect microRNAs, which are small biological markers. This sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis before the results are returned to a GP.
EndoSure identifies the condition by measuring electrical signals in the gut. Patients fast for six to eight hours and drink water until full to help the device record activity accurately via sensor pads on the abdomen. According to Nice, this test provides results in 45 minutes.
Why is a faster diagnosis necessary?
Current diagnostic paths often rely on ultrasound scans, MRI, or laparoscopy—a surgical procedure where a camera is inserted through a stomach incision. Dr. Chalkidou noted that for women from ethnically diverse communities, the wait for a diagnosis rises to 11 years.
These delays lead to prolonged chronic pain that affects work, relationships, and daily life. Dr. Gail Busby, a consultant gynaecologist at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, stated that earlier answers allow doctors to start the right treatment sooner and free up surgical slots for other patients.
Comparison of Diagnostic Methods
| Method | Type | Time to Result |
|---|---|---|
| Laparoscopy | Invasive Surgery | Variable (Surgical wait) |
| EndoSure | Non-invasive (Electrical) | 45 Minutes |
| Endotest | Non-invasive (Saliva) | Lab-dependent |
What happens next for NHS patients?
The draft recommendation published by Nice approves these tests for a three-year period. During this window, the organization will collect further evidence on their effectiveness before deciding on permanent approval. A third test, DotEndo, was not approved at this time as Nice stated it requires more research.
These are not standalone diagnostics. Nice specified they are intended for women where endometriosis is suspected after a clinical exam but imaging results were negative, inconclusive, or not used. Emma Cox of Endometriosis UK stated that these tools must be paired with education for nurses and GPs to ensure symptoms are recognized promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can access these tests?
They are being made available for women in England and Wales through the NHS, specifically those with suspected endometriosis and inconclusive imaging.
Are these tests a replacement for surgery?
No. Nice stated they are not designed as standalone tests but as tools to speed up the diagnostic process and inform next steps in care.
How long does the EndoSure test take?
The test takes 45 minutes, and results are available as soon as the process is complete.
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