Use of estrogen antagonists and aromatase inhibitors in endometriosis.
Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent disorder mostly occurring in reproductive-age women. Various therapies have been used in an attempt to treat endometriosis, including ovarian suppression therapy, surgical treatment or a combination of these strategies. However, in general, substantial surgery remains the primary treatment option for endometriosis at all stages. Recently, aromatase inhibitors and anti-estrogens have been proposed as novel potential candidates. The rationale for the use of aromatase inhibitors is mostly related to the high aromatase expression in endometriotic cysts and extra-ovarian endometriotic implants. Among anti-estrogens, raloxifene has been investigated in animal models with good results, but in premenopausal women, the compound does not seem to suppress estrogen production.
Viganò
Paola
P
II Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Milano, Via Commenda 12, 20122 Milano, Italy. paola.vigano@unimi.it
Mangioni
Silvia
S
Odorizzi
Maria Paola
MP
Chiodini
Annalisa
A
Rocca
Sabrina
S
Chiodo
Ilda
I
D047072:Aromatase Inhibitors; D004715:Endometriosis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D004791:Enzyme Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004965:Estrogen Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans
D047072:Aromatase Inhibitors; D004791:Enzyme Inhibitors; D004965:Estrogen Antagonists