Possible Effects of Endometriosis-Related Immune Events on Reproductive Function

Abstract

Purpose: To examine possible effects of endometriosis-related immune events on reproductive function. Methods: The synthesis and review of the relevant current literature in English language. Results: The endometriosis-related immune events may have a negative impact on almost all components of the reproductive function including fallopian tube function, oocyte quality, sperm function, fertilization, embryo quality, endometrial receptivity, implantation and placentation. Conclusions: An important portion of the cases of infertility or miscarriage seen in women with endometriosis may be due to some immunological alterations associated with endometriosis. © 2013 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.