UC Researcher Aims to Develop Non-Invasive Endometriosis Test

Katie Burns' work focuses on using white blood cells as biomarkers to create a new diagnostic tool for the common but often misdiagnosed condition.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 11:55am

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Endometriosis affects one in 10 women worldwide, but many go years before receiving a proper diagnosis due to normalizing of symptoms and lack of non-invasive testing options. Researcher Katie Burns at the University of Cincinnati is working to develop a new diagnostic test that analyzes white blood cells in menstrual fluid to identify endometriosis, aiming to replace the current standard of invasive laparoscopic surgery.

Why it matters

Endometriosis is a common and debilitating condition that often goes undiagnosed for years, leading to unnecessary suffering. Burns' research could revolutionize the diagnostic process and provide earlier access to treatment for millions of women.

The details

Burns, an associate professor in the Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences, believes the initiation of endometriosis is more immune system-driven than hormone system-driven. Her work focuses on using white blood cells as biomarkers to create a non-invasive, at-home diagnostic test that could replace the current standard of invasive laparoscopic surgery.

  • Burns' research was recently featured on Spectrum News.

The players

Katie Burns

An associate professor in the Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences at the University of Cincinnati, whose research is focused on developing a new, non-invasive test for endometriosis using white blood cells as biomarkers.

University of Cincinnati

The institution where Burns conducts her endometriosis research.

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What they’re saying

“What our study really did was show us definitely that this initiation of disease is more immune system-driven than hormone system-driven.”

— Katie Burns, Associate Professor

“Women go for years being told that having pain with menstruation is absolutely normal. This is what you should experience. This is what is normal.”

— Katie Burns, Associate Professor

What’s next

Burns' research aims to develop a non-invasive, at-home diagnostic test that could replace the current standard of invasive laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis diagnosis.

The takeaway

Burns' work highlights the need for improved diagnostic tools and a better understanding of endometriosis, a common but often misdiagnosed condition that can have a significant impact on women's health and quality of life. Her research could lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment, reducing the years of suffering many women experience.