Endometriosis and oxidative stress. Treatment rationale in endometriosis-associated infertility

Oxidative stress, which reflects an imbalance between the manifestations of reactive oxygen species in the body and a biological system’s ability to readily detoxify the reactive intermediates, is of considerable importance among the mechanisms of endometriosis development. Disturbances in the redox state of cells can lead to toxic effects through the production of peroxides and free radicals. The data presented in this review indicate the necessity to include antioxidant agents capable of suppressing several important manifestations of oxidative stress in the complex of treatment measures for endometriosis. The most active antioxidants include resveratrol, which has anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and immunomodulatory effects. In addition to resveratrol, it is recommended to include indole-3-carbinol, a compound with a multifaceted anti-proliferative effect, in the comprehensive treatment of patients with endometriosis. Conclusion. Endometriosis is a disease of multiple etiology. One of the mechanisms of its development is oxidative stress. Therefore, it is essential to include antioxidant agents in the treatment of patients with endometriosis to relieve the negative manifestations of oxidative stress. Key words: endometriosis, oxidative stress, infertility, resveratrol, indole-3-carbinol