Endometriosis: Diagnosis and Management – Key Updates from NICE Guidelines (NG73)

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has recently updated its guideline on endometriosis: diagnosis and management (NG73), incorporating significant advancements in the understanding and treatment of this complex condition.

Originally published in 2017 and most recently updated on 11 November 2024, this guideline provides a comprehensive framework to improve awareness, diagnosis, and management of endometriosis.

Designed for healthcare providers and patients alike, the guideline addresses key areas such as identifying symptoms, making timely referrals, and providing evidence-based treatments. Importantly, it offers insights into managing endometriosis when fertility is a priority.

This update introduces new recommendations on diagnostic approaches and revisits existing advice on symptoms, signs, and patient support, ensuring alignment with the latest evidence and best practices.

Key Changes in the NICE Endometriosis Guideline (NG73)

1. Non-Invasive Diagnostics Prioritized: The updated guidelines recommend transitioning from routine laparoscopic surgery to non-invasive methods like transvaginal ultrasound (TVS) and MRI as first-line diagnostic tools. These approaches, combined with clinical assessments, reduce unnecessary surgeries while maintaining diagnostic accuracy, particularly for deep infiltrating and ovarian endometriosis.

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3. Expanded Symptom Awareness: Emphasis is placed on recognizing the diverse presentations of endometriosis, including chronic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, and infertility. Clinicians are urged to...