Wayne State University 's Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology will host a patient forum on endometriosis at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 7, at Lawrence Technological University , in Southfield .

Endometriosis is a hormonal and immune disease affecting women of all ages. About 5 million American women suffer from this chronic disease, which often causes ongoing pain, infertility, immune-system problems and an increased risk for certain autoimmune diseases and cancers. It is sometimes difficult to diagnose and although it can be treated, there is no cure.

The patient forum will feature information on several topics, including endometriosis and infertility; surgical diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis; and the overall effect of endometriosis on the body's functioning.

Presenters will include Michael P. Diamond, M.D., WSU associate chairman of OB/GYN and director of the WSU Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility; Elizabeth E. Puscheck, M.D., WSU assistant professor of reproductive endocrinology and infertility; George H. Shade, Jr., M.D., WSU associate professor of OB/GYN and chief of OB/GYN at Sinai-Grace Hospital; and Mary Lou Ballweg, founder and president of the Endometriosis Association.

A reception and book signing of "Endometriosis: The Complete Reference for Taking Charge of Your Health" will be at 7 p.m.; the one-hour presentation will begin at 7:30 p.m., followed by a question-and-answer period.

To RSVP for this event, members of the public may call (800) 992-3636.