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Abnormal uterine bleeding in adolescents
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, USA.
Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America
|February 29, 2000
Summary
Abnormal uterine bleeding in adolescents is often due to immature reproductive systems. About 20% of cases indicate an underlying disorder needing specific diagnosis and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Gynecology
- Adolescent Medicine
- Reproductive Endocrinology
Background:
- Irregular uterine bleeding is a frequent concern for adolescents, accounting for half of gynecologic visits in this demographic.
- The primary cause is typically immaturity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis, leading to anovulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the common causes and diagnostic approaches for abnormal uterine bleeding in adolescent populations.
- To emphasize the importance of identifying underlying disorders.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical presentations of adolescent irregular bleeding.
- Correlation of symptoms with HPO axis function.
- Guidance on diagnostic workup including history, physical examination, and laboratory tests.
Main Results:
- Anovulation due to HPO axis immaturity is the most frequent cause of abnormal uterine bleeding in adolescents.
- A significant minority (approximately 20%) of adolescents present with an underlying disorder requiring specific investigation.
Conclusions:
- Thorough clinical evaluation, including history, physical exam, and labs, is crucial for diagnosing the source of abnormal uterine bleeding.
- Targeted diagnostic testing is necessary for the 20% of adolescents with underlying disorders.
- Treatment should be tailored to the identified underlying cause of abnormal uterine bleeding.