Uterine factors.
Uterine anomalies are one of the most common parental causes of recurrent pregnancy loss, occurring in about 19% of patients. Congenital uterine anomalies are most likely caused by HOX gene mutations, although the mechanism is probably polygenic. There are no known environmental causes other than estrogenic endocrine disruptors such as diethylstilbestrol. Acquired uterine anomalies may result from uterine trauma (adhesions) or benign growths of the myometrium (fibroids) or endometrium (polyps). Although randomized controlled trials are lacking, surgical treatment is recommended for repair of uterine septa, and for removal of severe adhesions and submucosal fibroids, especially if no other causes are identified.
Department of Biology, Rhodes College, 2000 North Parkway, Memphis, TN 38112, USA. Electronic address: cjaslow@rhodes.edu.
Carolyn R
CR
Jaslow
D000026:Abortion, Habitual / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015907:Hysteroscopy; D007889:Leiomyoma; D009095:Mullerian Ducts / Q000002:abnormalities / Q000473:pathology*; D011127:Polyps; D011247:Pregnancy; D000267:Tissue Adhesions; D014564:Urogenital Abnormalities / Q000473:pathology; D014591:Uterine Diseases / Q000150:complications* / Q000473:pathology; D014599:Uterus / Q000002:abnormalities / Q000473:pathology*
Acquired; Congenital; Fibroids; Pregnancy loss; Recurrent miscarriage; Septum; Uterine anomalies; Uterus