Correlation between lipid metabolism and endometriosis: a meta-analysis

To analyze and evaluate the correlation between different lipid metabolism levels and endometriosis. The literatures on lipid metabolism and endometriosis published in databases were searched and collected. The search was conducted up to December 2023. The meta-analysis was conducted using Review Manager 5.4.1 software, with odds ratios (ORs) or standardized mean difference (SMD), confidence intervals (CIs), and heterogeneity (I²) being calculated. The literature bias was evaluated by drawing funnel plot. Five hundred and eighty-four literatures were retrieved, and finally, 7 literatures were included in this study. Meta-analysis showed that the level of total cholesterol (TC) in endometriosis groups was higher than control group [SMD = 1.70, 95%CI (0.60-2.80), p = 0.003], while triglyceride (TG) [SMD=-0.24, 95%CI (-0.68-0.21), p = 0.300], low-density lipoprotein (LDL) [SMD = 0.22, 95%CI (-0.34 - 0.78), p = 0.440] and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) [SMD = 0.06, 95%CI (-0.14 - 0.25), p = 0.550] was not statistically significant. Sensitivity analysis indicated that the combined effect size results were stable and reliable [SMD = 1.70, 95%CI (0.60-2.80), p = 0.030]. Funnel plot results showed publication bias. Patients with endometriosis have abnormal blood lipid level, and higher TC level may be a risk factor for endometriosis. The impact of blood lipid metabolism on endometriosis may provide new insights into the pathogenesis and treatment prognosis of endometriosis.