Endometriosis commonly presents with symptoms that mimic chronic gastrointestinal disorders. The authors used the autotransplantion model of endometriosis in rats to investigate the possible underlying mechanisms. After the rats were killed, the presence of endometriotic vesicles, colonic inflammation, and white blood cell (WBC) numbers in the peritoneal fluid was determined. Sections of colon and of jejunum were collected for measurement of myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and bacterial counts, and isometric recording in response to acetylcholine was measured in segments of longitudinal and circular smooth muscle. Experimental animals had significantly more colonic damage, MPO activity, and WBC numbers than controls did. There was no significant difference in the total bacterial load; however, experimental animals demonstrated an increased tension in the longitudinal muscle, which correlated with WBC numbers and colonic damage. In summary, this study presents evidence for a significant effect of peritoneal endometriosis on colonic function and integrity, which may help explain the gastrointestinal symptoms associated with this disease.
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