Proteomics International (ASX:PIQ) leads the charge in endometriosis diagnosis revolution

For the one in nine women and girls navigating the painful maze of endometriosis, diagnosis has often been a seven-year ordeal of invasive procedures and uncertainty.

Enter Proteomics International Laboratories (ASX: PIQ), whose latest breakthrough promises to change this narrative.

Their refined blood test, PromarkerEndo, offers a revolutionary diagnostic approach by identifying all stages of endometriosis with high accuracy.

The Biomarker Breakthrough

Endometriosis, a debilitating condition characterised by tissue similar to the uterine lining growing elsewhere in the body, often eludes early diagnosis.

However, Proteomics International’s recent study, published in Human Reproduction, may signal a turning point.

Researchers utilised a panel of 10 plasma protein biomarkers, achieving near-perfect diagnostic accuracy for severe endometriosis.

The test also showed excellent performance across earlier disease stages, offering sensitivity and specificity levels that position it as a potential game-changer in women’s health diagnostics.

Dr Richard Lipscombe, Managing Director of Proteomics International, underscored the significance of this development:

“The integration of the PromarkerEndo blood test into clinical practice could streamline diagnosis, improve patient outcomes, and deepen the understanding of endometriosis. This advancement marks a significant step toward non-invasive, personalised care for a condition that has long been underserved by current medical approaches.”

From Lab to Clinic

The current gold standard for diagnosing endometriosis involves laparoscopy—a costly, invasive procedure often accompanied by delays. In stark contrast, PromarkerEndo provides a non-invasive alternative, offering the potential for earlier intervention and tailored treatment plans.

By distinguishing symptomatic cases even in early stages, the test could play a pivotal role in fertility contexts, where women with endometriosis face a threefold increased risk of complications.

Professor Peter Rogers of the University of Melbourne elaborated: “

This innovation seeks to address a critical need for a non-invasive, accurate diagnostic tool for early stages of endometriosis, that could help reduce delays in diagnosis and the associated health impacts.”

Beyond Diagnosis

Looking ahead, Proteomics International aims to launch the test by Q2 2025 in Australia, with global expansion to follow.

The company is refining its diagnostic algorithm, employing a “traffic light” system to enhance clinical usability, and developing a cloud-based reporting hub.

Discussions are also underway to secure licensing opportunities in women’s health and fertility markets.

The Bigger Picture

With endometriosis costing Australia an estimated $9.7 billion annually, advancements like PromarkerEndo represent more than a medical breakthrough—they are a societal imperative.

By reducing diagnostic delays and enabling personalised care, Proteomics International is not just innovating; it is advocating for the millions of women who have endured years of unnecessary suffering.

As the test moves closer to clinical adoption, it signals a paradigm shift: from invasive and reactive diagnostics to precision and patient-centric care. In the words of Dr Lipscombe,

“This is the future of women’s health diagnostics.”