The physiopathology of endometriosis: Pollution and dioxin

Reports in the literature of an increasing incidence of endometriosis in in dustrialized countries and increasing problems with pollution in these coun tries leads to speculation about a possible link between one of the most ha rmful components of pollution, dioxin, and endometriosis. To establish this link, we need to examine three issues more closely: What are the effects o f dioxin, what is the true incidence of endometriosis, and what is the natu re of the association between endometriosis and dioxin. This report reviews current thinking on these issues.