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Diethylstilbestrol exposure
Sarina Schrager1, Beth E Potter
1University of Wisconsin Medical School, Department of Family Medicine, Madison, Wisconsin 53715, USA. sbschrag@wisc.edu
American Family Physician
|June 1, 2004
Summary
Diethylstilbestrol (DES) exposure in utero increases cancer risks for women and genital abnormalities for men. Long-term health surveillance and screenings are crucial for DES-exposed individuals.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Reproductive Health
Background:
- Diethylstilbestrol (DES) is a synthetic estrogen previously used to prevent pregnancy complications.
- DES exposure in utero has been linked to clear cell adenocarcinoma in female offspring.
- Long-term health effects persist despite DES no longer being prescribed to pregnant women.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the continued health risks associated with in utero diethylstilbestrol exposure.
- To provide recommendations for screening and management of DES-exposed individuals.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on diethylstilbestrol effects.
- Analysis of health risks for female and male offspring exposed in utero.
Main Results:
- Women exposed to DES in utero have an increased risk of breast cancer and reproductive tract anomalies.
- Male offspring have increased genital abnormalities and potential increased risk of prostate and testicular cancer.
- Despite risks, most DES-exposed women can deliver successfully.
Conclusions:
- DES-exposed women require regular gynecologic exams, including palpation and colposcopy, and mammography.
- Pregnant DES-exposed women need obstetric consultation due to risks of miscarriage and preterm birth.
- DES-exposed men should undergo routine prostate cancer screening and testicular self-examination.