Abstract: Cell adhesion molecules are transmembrance receptors that facilitate intercellular binding and cellular interaction with the extracellular matrix. They play important roles in infiltration and metastasis of the tumor. Endometriosis is a common gynecologic disease in women of reproductive age. The etiology and pathogenesis of endometiosis are still unclear. The function of eutopic and ectopic endometrial CAMs has been a focus of recent studies concerning the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Specific alterations in endometrial and peritoneal CAMs could facilitate binding of reflux menstruated endometrium at ectopic sites. In addition， the expression of CAMs by endometriotic lesions has been investigated to help understand mechanisms involved in the maintenance of endometrial tissue in ectopic locations. An understanding of the mechanisms involved in the interaction of endometrium with peritoneal tissues may provide new strategies to prevent endometriotic implants from forming and help treat existing lesions. This report reviewed the roles of cell adhesion molecules in the pathogenesis of endometriosis.

Key words: Endometriosis, Cell adhesion molecules, Integrins, Selections, Cadherins, Immunoglobulins