Endometrial adenocarcinoma following insertion of the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (mirena) in a 36-year-old woman.
The levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS), commonly referred to as mirena, is an effective form of contraception, which is widely used as an intrauterine device. It has a 32-mm long-shaped plastic frame that holds a reservoir (on the vertical stem) of 52 mg of levonorgestrel mixed with polydimethylsiloxane to allow a steady release of 20 mug of levonorgestrel per day within the endometrial cavity through a rate-limiting surface membrane. Apart from contraceptive purpose, it is also now commonly used in the management of heavy menstrual blood loss. This study included a 36-year old woman who developed endometrial cancer following the insertion of the LNG-IUS. Her main presentation was irregular vaginal bleeding, which is a common finding in women using this form of contraception. Although we would advice caution in investigating such women, the LNG-IUS remains a relatively safe method of contraception.
Abu
J
J
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester LE1 5WW, UK. Jafaru.abu@uhl-tr.nhs.uk
Brown
L
L
Ireland
D
D
D000328:Adult; D018269:Carcinoma, Endometrioid / Q000139:chemically induced*; D003271:Contraceptive Agents, Female / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects; D016889:Endometrial Neoplasms / Q000139:chemically induced*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007044:Hysterectomy; D007436:Intrauterine Devices, Medicated / Q000009:adverse effects*; D016912:Levonorgestrel / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*
D003271:Contraceptive Agents, Female; D016912:Levonorgestrel