Peritoneal fluid volume, 17beta-estradiol and progesterone concentrations in women with endometriosis and/or luteinized unruptured follicle syndrome

Data on the presence of an ovulation ostium and the volume and the concentrations of estradiol (17 beta-estradiol) and progesterone In women with endometriosis (n = 80) and women with luteinized unruptured follicle (LUF) syndrome (n = 32) are reported and compared with data obtained from normal ovulatory women, previously reported. in women with endometriosis, less ovulation ostia were observed, the difference being significant in moderate and severe endometriosis. During the luteal phase, no statistical difference was found in the amount of peritoneal fluid of women with endometriosis. Estradiol and progesterone levels in the peritoneal fluid of normal women and women with mild endometriosis were not significantly different. Lower steroid concentrations found in peritoneal fluid of women with moderate (phase days 20-22) and severe endometriosis (phase days 14-19 and 20-22) may explain the high incidence of infertility reported in these women (peritoneal steroids deficiency). During the phases days 14-19 and 20-22, very low peritoneal steroid concentrations were found in women with LUF syndrome. It is suggested that progesterone assay in peritoneal fluid is an aid to diagnose the luteinized unruptured syndrome.