title: Treatment of uterine fibroids with GnRH-analogues prior to hysterectomy.
abstract: GnRH-analogues have a longer half-life and stronger receptor affinity than native GnRH. They block the secretion of gonadotropins from the anterior pituitary, producing a hypoestrogenic state. Preoperative treatment with GnRH-agonists for 3 months prior to hysterectomy reduces the size of uterine fibroids by about 50%. The hematologic profile is improved and subjective symptoms reduced. Other results are: a smaller peroperative blood loss, a shorter hospitalization time, and a tendency to easier operations. Side effects are predominantly hypoestrogenic. Treatment with GnRH-agonists before hysterectomy is recommended in cases of large fibroids, when technical problems may be anticipated, when preoperative anemia is present, or when it is desirable to postpone surgery.
authors.affiliation: Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden.
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Stjernquist
mesh_terms: D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D005260:Female; D007987:Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone / Q000819:agonists / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D007044:Hysterectomy; D007889:Leiomyoma / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000601:surgery*; D014594:Uterine Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000601:surgery*
chemical_list: D007987:Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone