Endocrine causes of amenorrhea

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Endocrinology
• Gynecology
• Primary Care Medicine

Background:

• Amenorrhea signifies various underlying disorders and dysfunctions.
• Primary care practitioners need to understand normal menstrual function and when to initiate diagnostic assessments for amenorrhea.
• A comprehensive understanding of menstrual function is crucial for effective patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review definitions and basic principles of menstrual function.
• To present the causes of amenorrhea, categorized by affected systems (uterus, ovary, anterior pituitary, central nervous system).
• To provide a framework for the differential diagnosis and assessment of amenorrhea.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian-uterine axis as a diagnostic framework.
• Reviewing components of an amenorrhea-specific history (menstrual, sexual, lifestyle, family, medical).
• Presenting a step-by-step laboratory assessment protocol.

Main Results:

• Disorders of the uterus, ovary, anterior pituitary, and central nervous system are identified as causes.
• A structured approach to patient assessment, including detailed history and laboratory tests, is outlined.
• Management strategies and health promotion for amenorrheic women are discussed.

Conclusions:

• Primary care practitioners play a vital role in managing women with amenorrhea.
• Early and accurate diagnosis through a systematic approach is essential for effective management.
• Understanding the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian-uterine axis is key to diagnosing amenorrhea.