Targeting inflammation in endometriosis: emerging therapeutic options

Targeting inflammation represents a promising shift in endometriosis management, particularly for women who do not respond to hormonal therapies or aim to conceive. Preclinical studies consistently demonstrate reductions in lesion size, inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress, and neuroangiogenic signaling. Early clinical evidence - especially for TNF-α and IL-1 blockade and for N-acetylcysteine - suggests improvements in pain and, in selected cases, reproductive outcomes. Although preliminary, these findings support the rationale for inflammation-directed therapies. Future research should prioritize randomized trials, long-term safety and fertility assessment, and biomarker-guided patient stratification to identify responders and optimize precision use of these agents.