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Hormonal replacement therapy after stem cell transplantation.
Paola Piccioni1, Paolo Scirpa, Ilenia D'Emilio
1Instituto di Ematologia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Agostino Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy.
Maturitas
|November 9, 2004
Summary
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) effectively relieved menopausal symptoms in pre-menopausal women post-stem cell transplantation (SCT). However, HRT feasibility and patient compliance require careful evaluation in long-term survivors.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Gynecology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Stem cell transplantation (SCT) can lead to premature ovarian failure in pre-menopausal women.
- Symptomatic ovarian failure significantly impacts quality of life due to menopausal symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the compliance and effectiveness of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for symptomatic ovarian failure in pre-menopausal women after SCT.
- To evaluate the impact of HRT on menopausal symptoms and well-being in this patient population.
Main Methods:
- Prospective follow-up of 31 pre-menopausal females post-SCT.
- Regular gynecological examinations, hormonal assessments (LH, FSH, E2), and bone mineral density measurements.
- Patient-reported menopausal symptom assessment before and during HRT.
Main Results:
- All patients experienced gonadal failure post-SCT, with vasomotor symptoms, musculoskeletal pain, and vulvo-vaginal atrophy being most common.
- 51.6% of patients received HRT; it was effective in relieving symptoms with minimal side effects.
- HRT was not administered in 48.4% due to patient refusal, malignancy relapse, or liver toxicity.
Conclusions:
- HRT significantly improved menopausal symptoms and well-being in eligible post-SCT patients.
- HRT is a feasible and well-tolerated option for managing gonadal failure symptoms post-SCT.
- Careful evaluation of HRT feasibility and patient compliance is crucial for long-term survivors.