Reversible ovulatory failure associated with the development of luteinized unruptured follicles in women with inflammatory arthritis taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
The case histories of three young women with ankylosing spondylitis, rheumatoid arthritis and a seronegative inflammatory polyarthritis undergoing investigations for infertility are presented. In each, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) therapy was associated with the recurrent development of luteinized unruptured ovarian follicles and normal ovulation following drug withdrawal. It is suggested that NSAID therapy may be an important and frequently overlooked cause of anovulation and infertility.
Smith
G
G
Rheumatic Diseases Unit, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh.
Roberts
R
R
Hall
C
C
Nuki
G
G
D000328:Adult; D000858:Anovulation / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000503:physiopathology; D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / Q000009:adverse effects*; D001168:Arthritis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000188:drug therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007247:Infertility, Female / Q000139:chemically induced; D007986:Luteinizing Hormone / Q000502:physiology*; D006080:Ovarian Follicle / Q000187:drug effects*; D010060:Ovulation / Q000187:drug effects*; D013167:Spondylitis, Ankylosing / Q000188:drug therapy
D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal; D007986:Luteinizing Hormone