Add-back therapy and gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists in the treatment of patients with endometriosis: can a consensus be reached? Add-Back Consensus Working Group

Pharmacokinetic considerations for gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists and antagonists to treat endometriosis

INTRODUCTION

Endometriosis is a chronic disease characterized by endometriotic cells implanted outside the uterus triggering a chronic inflammatory state. Estradiol stimulates the endometriotic implants, which overexpress estrogen receptor β. Lowering estradiol levels to a range within 40-50 pg/ml allows antagonizing the growth of endometriotic implants and counteracting its-related disabling symptoms.

AREAS COVERED

By blocking the Gonadotropin-Releasing-Hormone (GnRH) receptors, GnRHagonists, peptide GnRHantagonists, non-peptide GnRHantagonists induce hypoestrogenism, due to the suppression of pituitary gonadotropins. This manuscript provides the results of an electronic literature search on pharmacological features of GnRHagonists and GnRHantagonists to treat endometriosis. Hypoestrogenism-dependent side effects can be counteracted by concomitant estrogen and progestin compounds (add-back therapy). GnRHagonists chronic administration induces hypoestrogenism after 10-12 days, since initial administrations stimulate gonadotropin rise (flare-up effect). Peptide GnRHantagonists quickly block GnRH-receptors inducing an immediate hypoestrogenism. Similarly to GnRHagonists, their peptide structure impedes the oral administration. The non-peptide GnRHantagonists have the advantage both of being taken orally and inducing a rapid dose-dependent hypoestrogenism.

EXPERT OPINION

GnRHagonists and peptide GnRHantagonists are effective to treat endometriosis, but require complex ways of administration. Non-peptide GnRHantagonists offer more important prospects in the tailored medical treatment of endometriosis, given their rapid onset of action and their oral way of administration.

Weighing up GnRH agonist therapy for endometriosis: outcomes and the treatment paradigm

INTRODUCTION

Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory estrogen-dependent disease affecting 10% of women worldwide leading to chronic pelvic pain and infertility which may be treated clinically or surgically.

AREAS COVERED

Current literature was reviewed using the keywords 'gonadotropin releasing hormone agonists (GnRHa),' 'endometriosis,' 'infertility' and 'chronic pelvic pain.' Relevant papers prioritizing randomized controlled clinical trials (RCT), systematic reviews, meta-analyses, as well as international guidelines were evaluated.

EXPERT OPINION

Available options for relieving endometriosis-associated pain include GnRHa, progestagens, and combined oral contraceptives, all of which block menstruation to control symptoms without curing the disease. GnRHa administration decreases pain and symptom recurrence after surgical treatment, but side effects and costs limit its use. Published studies to test its effectiveness in easing endometriosis-associated pain are heterogeneous, consider different outcomes with no long-term results. Drug choice should be individualized considering the side-effect profile, tolerability, costs, risks, and benefits as one size does not fit all. As we wait for the development of an ideal pharmacological agents, GnRHa with an add-back regimen remains a second-line option to alleviate the painful symptoms in women with endometriosis. Endometriosis management should consider the systemic nature of the disease and the complexity involved in the pathogenesis of symptoms.

Using estrogen and progesterone to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder, postnatal depression and menopausal depression

Female gonadal hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, are not only central to reproductive health but also play a crucial role in regulating mood, cognition, and overall brain health. These hormones have a significant impact on the central nervous system, influencing key processes such as neurotransmission, neuroplasticity, and brain development. Increasing evidence shows that hormonal fluctuations contribute to the onset and progression of mental health disorders that disproportionately affect women, particularly premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), postnatal depression (PND), and menopausal depression. This paper explores the current evidence regarding the neurobiological effects of female hormones on the brain and discusses the therapeutic approaches in conditions such as PMDD, PND, and menopausal depression.

Horizons in Endometriosis: Proceedings of the Montreux Reproductive Summit, 14-15 July 2023

Endometriosis is a complex and chronic gynaecological disorder that affects millions of women worldwide, leading to significant morbidity and impacting reproductive health. This condition affects up to 10% of women of reproductive age and is characterised by the presence of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus, potentially leading to symptoms such as chronic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhoea, dyspareunia, and infertility. The Montreux summit brought a number of experts in this field together to provide a platform for discussion and exchange of ideas. These proceedings summarise the six main topics that were discussed at this summit to shed light on future directions of endometriosis classification, diagnosis, and therapeutical management. The first question addressed the possibility of preventing endometriosis in the future by identifying risk factors, genetic predispositions, and further understanding of the pathophysiology of the condition to develop targeted interventions. The clinical presentation of endometriosis is varied, and the correlation between symptoms severity and disease extent is unclear. While there is currently no universally accepted optimal classification system for endometriosis, several attempts striving towards its optimisation - each with its own advantages and limitations - were discussed. The ideal classification should be able to reconcile disease status based on the various diagnostic tools, and prognosis to guide proper patient tailored management. Regarding diagnosis, we focused on future tools and critically discussed emerging approaches aimed at reducing diagnostic delay. Preserving fertility in endometriosis patients was another debatable aspect of management that was reviewed. Moreover, besides current treatment modalities, potential novel medical therapies that can target underlying mechanisms, provide effective symptom relief, and minimise side effects in endometriotic patients were considered, including hormonal therapies, immunomodulation, and regenerative medicine. Finally, the question of hormonal substitution therapy after radical treatment for endometriosis was debated, weighing the benefits of hormone replacement.

The Double Engines and Single Checkpoint Theory of Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic disease characterized by the ectopic localization of the endometrial tissue in the peritoneal cavity. Consequently, it causes local pathological changes and systemic symptoms, affecting at least one in every ten women. This disease is difficult to diagnose early, it is prone to dissemination, is difficult to eradicate, tends to recur, and is regarded as “a cancer of no kill”. Indeed, the development of endometriosis closely resembles that of cancer in the way of mutagenesis, pelvic spreading, and immunological adaptation. While retrograde menstruation has been regarded as the primary cause of endometriosis, the role of ovulation and menstrual stimuli in the development of endometriosis has long been overlooked. The development of ovarian and peritoneal endometrioses, similar to the development of high-grade serous carcinoma in the fallopian tube fimbriae with intraperitoneal metastasis, depends highly on the carcinogens released during ovulation. Moreover, endometriosis carries an extremely hypermutated genome, which is non-inferior to the ultra-mutated endometrial cancer. The hypermutation would lead to an overproduction of new proteins or neoantigens. Because of this, the developing endometriosis may have to turn on the PD-1/PDL-1 “self-tolerance” checkpoint to evade immune surveillance, leaving an Achilles tendon for an immune checkpoint blockade. In this review, we present the double engines and single checkpoint theory of the genesis of endometriosis, provide the current pieces of evidence supporting the hypothesis, and discuss the new directions of prevention and treatment.

A Preliminary Study on the Effects of Black Cohosh Preparations on Bone Metabolism of Rat Models With GnRH-a-Induced Peri-Menopausal Symptoms

BACKGROUND

Endometriosis (EMS) is a relapsing and estrogen-dependent disease. For endometriosis such as deep endometriosis and ovarian endometrioid cysts, surgery is the most effective treatment. Long-term follow-up showed that the recurrence rate of endometriosis after surgical treatment was high, so postoperative drugs were needed to reduce recurrence, and Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRH-a) were the most commonly used drug for postoperative management.GnRH-a may reduce the post-treatment endometriosis relapses by lowering the hormone levels in the body. However, the use of GnRH-a can give rise to perimenopausal symptoms, especially osteoporosis, bone loss, and bone pain, for which reason GnRH-a use is often limited. The add-back therapy is often used to alleviate the untoward effects caused by GnRH-a. However, long-term use of hormone drugs may lead to EMS recurrence, thrombosis, and breast cancer. Therefore, a safer and more effective drug is urgently needed to alleviate the untoward effects caused by GnRH-a. In recent years, scholars at home and abroad have found that isopropanolic Cimicifuga racemosa extract (ICR), as a plant extract, can better relieve the symptoms of perimenopausal women. At the same time, some studies have initially confirmed that black cohosh preparations can relieve the perimenopausal symptoms caused by GnRH-a treatment in EMS patients.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of black cohosh preparations on the bone metabolism of rat models with GnRH-a-induced perimenopausal symptoms.

METHODS

The rat models of perimenopausal symptoms were established by GnRH-a injection. and normal saline (NS injection) was used as the control. According to the modeling method and drug intervention, the rats were randomly divided into four groups: GnRH-a injection + saline intervention group (GnRH-a + NS), saline injection control + saline intervention group (NS + NS), GnRH-a injection + estradiol intervention group (GnRH-a + E2), and GnRH-a injection + black cohosh preparation intervention group (GnRH-a + ICR). The rat models were identified with the vaginal smear method, and then the corresponding drug intervention was administrated for 28 days. After the intervention, the rats were sacrificed. The rats' bone mineral density (BMD) of the distal femur was detected by a dual-energy X-ray bone density scanner. Rat tibia bone tissues were decalcified and made into slices. The pathological and morphological changes of rat tibial bones in each group were observed through HE staining. Histomorphometry parameters of rat tibial bones in each group, such as trabecular bone volume (TBV), trabecular thickness (TbTh), trabecular number (TbN), and trabecular spacing (TbSp), were detected and analyzed by using an automatic image analysis system.

RESULTS

(1) The BMD level of the distal femur in the GnRH-a + NS group was significantly lower than the NS + NS, GnRH-a + E2, and GnRH-a + ICR groups (P<0.01), the BMD levels in GnRH-a + E2 and GnRH-a + ICR groups were slightly lower than the NS + NS group, but there was no significant difference among the three groups (P>0.05). (2) The pathological changes of the tibia bones under the microscope in different groups were as follows: The tibia bone trabecular structure was normal in the NS + NS group, without trabecular thinning or fracture, and the arch structure was normal. In the GnRH-a + NS group, some trabecular structures tapered, the arch structure disappeared, but no obvious bone fracture was observed in the trabecula. In the GnRH-a + E2 and GnRH-a + ICR groups, the trabecular structures were normal, without trabecular bone thinning or fracture, and the arch structures were normal. (3) The TBV level of the GnRH-a + INS group was significantly lower than that of the NS + NS, GnRH-a + E2 and GnRH-a + ICR groups (P<0.01, P<0.05, P<0.01), while there was no significant difference among NS + NS, GnRH-a + E2 and GnRH-a + ICR groups (P>0.05). (4) The TbTh levels in the four groups had no significant difference (P>0.05). Compared with the NS + NS group, the TbTh levels in the GnRH-a + NS, GnRH-a + E2, and GnRH-a + ICR groups showed a descending tendency, while the TbTh levels in the GnRH-a + E2 and GnRH-a + ICR groups were slightly higher than that of the GnRH-a + NS group. However, such differences were not significant statistically (P>0.05). (5) Compared with the NS + NS group, the TbN levels in the GnRH-a + NS, GnRH-a + E2, and GnRH-a + ICR groups decreased remarkably (P<0.05). Compared with the GnRH-a + NS group, the TbN levels in the GnRH-a + E2 and GnRH-a + ICR groups showed a mild descending tendency, but such differences were not significant statistically (P>0.05). (6) The TbSp level of the GnRH-a + NS group was significantly higher than that of the NS + NS, GnRH-a + E2, and GnRH-a + ICR groups (P<0.01), while there was no significant difference among NS + NS, GnRH-a + E2 and GnRH-a + ICR groups (P>0.05).

CONCLUSION

The GnRH-a injection could achieve the desired effect. GnRH-a injection may lead to the loss of bone mass in rats. Black cohosh preparations, like estrogen, may have a protective effect on bone mass loss caused by GnRH-a injection.

Conservative Management of Uterine Adenomyosis: Medical vs. Surgical Approach

Uterine adenomyosis is a commonly encountered estrogen-dependent disease in reproductive-age women, causing heavy menstrual bleeding, intense pelvic pain, and infertility. Although adenomyosis was previously considered a disease of multiparous women, it is becoming increasingly evident that it also affects younger nulliparous women and may compromise their fertility potential. It is clear that hysterectomy, the standard approach to definitively manage the disease, is not an option for patients wishing to preserve their fertility, so there is an urgent need to develop novel conservative strategies. We searched the current literature for available methods for conservative management of adenomyosis, including both pharmacological and surgical approaches. There is no existing drug that can cure adenomyosis at present, but some off-label treatment options may be used to tackle disease symptoms and improve fertility outcomes. Adenomyosis in patients wishing to conceive can be 'treated' by conservative surgery, though these procedures require highly experienced surgeons and pose a considerable risk of uterine rupture during subsequent pregnancies. While currently available options for conservative management of adenomyosis do have some capacity for alleviating symptoms and enhancing patient fertility perspectives, more effective new options are needed, with gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonists showing encouraging results in preliminary studies.

Role of medical treatment of endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic benign disease that affects women of reproductive age. Medical therapy is often the first line of management for women with endometriosis in order to ameliorate symptoms or to prevent post-surgical disease recurrence. Currently, there are several medical options for the management of patients with endometriosis and long-term treatments should balance clinical efficacy (controlling pain symptoms and preventing recurrence of disease after surgery) with an acceptable safety-profile. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used in the treatment of chronic inflammatory conditions, being efficacious in relieving primary dysmenorrhea. Combined oral contraceptives and progestins, available for multiple routes of administration, are commonly administered as first-line hormonal therapies. Several studies demonstrated that they succeed in improving pain symptoms in the majority of patients; moreover, they are well tolerated and not expensive. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone-agonists are prescribed when first line therapies are ineffective, not tolerated or contraindicated. Even if these drugs are efficacious in treating women not responding to COCs or progestins, they are not orally available and have a less favorable tolerability profile (needing an appropriate add-back therapy). Because few data are available on long-term efficacy and safety of aromatase inhibitors they should be reserved only for women with symptoms who are refractory to other treatments only in a research environment. Almost all of the currently available treatment options for endometriosis suppress ovarian function and are not curative. For this reason, research into new drugs is unsurprisingly demanding. Amongst the drugs currently under investigation, gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonists have shown most promise, currently in late-stage clinical development. There is a number of potential future therapies currently tested only in vitro, in animal models of endometriosis or in early clinical studies with a small sample size. Further studies are necessary to conclude whether these treatments would be of value for the treatment of endometriosis.

Uterine Fibroids and Progestogen Treatment: Lack of Evidence of Its Efficacy: A Review

BACKGROUND

The objective of this review is to determine the evidence or, conversely, the absence of evidence regarding the effectiveness of progestogens in treating premenopausal women with uterine fibroids. In particular, the goal is to address recurring questions as to whether they are effective or not for managing symptoms commonly attributed to fibroids.

METHODS

A review of the most relevant papers (n = 63) on the efficacy of progesterone and progestogens as medical therapy for uterine fibroids.

RESULTS

Having reviewed the most significant papers on the relationship between uterine fibroids and progesterone/progestogens, it is clear that there is biochemical, histological and clinical evidence that progesterone and progestogens play a critical role in the pathogenesis of myomas.

CONCLUSION

Since progesterone is already implicated in the pathogenesis of this entity, using progestogens to manage fibroids is like constantly adding fuel to the fire, rendering this treatment ineffective.

Treatment of Endometriosis with the GnRHa Deslorelin and Add-Back Estradiol and Supplementary Testosterone

Background. This randomized, multicenter, open-label clinical trial was intended to generate pilot data on the efficacy and safety of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) deslorelin (D) with low-dose estradiol ± testosterone (E₂  ± T) add-back for endometriosis-related pelvic pain. Methods. Women with pelvic pain and laparoscopically confirmed endometriosis were treated with a six-month course of daily intranasal D with concurrent administration of either transdermal E₂, intranasal E₂, or intranasal E₂  + T. Efficacy data included evaluation of dyspareunia, dysmenorrhea, pelvic pain, tenderness, and induration. Cognition and quality of life were also assessed. Safety parameters included assessment of endometrial hyperplasia, bone mineral density (BMD), and hot flashes. Results. Endometriosis symptoms and signs scores decreased in all treatment arms from a baseline average of 7.4 to 2.5 after 3 months of treatment and 3.4 after 6 months. BMD changes and incidence of hot flashes were minimal, and no endometrial hyperplasia was observed. Patient-reported outcomes showed significant improvement across multiple domains. Conclusions. Daily intranasal D with low dose E₂  ± T add-back resulted in significant reduction in severity of endometriosis symptoms and signs with few safety signals and minimal hypoestrogenic symptoms that would be expected with the use of a GnRHa alone.

GnRH and GnRH receptors in the pathophysiology of the human female reproductive system

BACKGROUND

Human reproduction depends on an intact hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Hypothalamic gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) has been recognized, since its identification in 1971, as the central regulator of the production and release of the pituitary gonadotrophins that, in turn, regulate the gonadal functions and the production of sex steroids. The characteristic peculiar development, distribution and episodic activity of GnRH-producing neurons have solicited an interdisciplinary interest on the etiopathogenesis of several reproductive diseases. The more recent identification of a GnRH/GnRH receptor (GnRHR) system in both the human endometrium and ovary has widened the spectrum of action of the peptide and of its analogues beyond its hypothalamic function.

METHODS

An analysis of research and review articles published in international journals until June 2015 has been carried out to comprehensively summarize both the well established and the most recent knowledge on the physiopathology of the GnRH system in the central and peripheral control of female reproductive functions and diseases.

RESULTS

This review focuses on the role of GnRH neurons in the control of the reproductive axis. New knowledge is accumulating on the genetic programme that drives GnRH neuron development to ameliorate the diagnosis and treatment of GnRH deficiency and consequent delayed or absent puberty. Moreover, a better understanding of the mechanisms controlling the episodic release of GnRH during the onset of puberty and the ovulatory cycle has enabled the pharmacological use of GnRH itself or its synthetic analogues (agonists and antagonists) to either stimulate or to block the gonadotrophin secretion and modulate the functions of the reproductive axis in several reproductive diseases and in assisted reproduction technology. Several inputs from other neuronal populations, as well as metabolic, somatic and age-related signals, may greatly affect the functions of the GnRH pulse generator during the female lifespan; their modulation may offer new possible strategies for diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. A GnRH/GnRHR system is also expressed in female reproductive tissues (e.g. endometrium and ovary), both in normal and pathological conditions. The expression of this system in the human endometrium and ovary supports its physiological regulatory role in the processes of trophoblast invasion of the maternal endometrium and embryo implantation as well as of follicular development and corpus luteum functions. The GnRH/GnRHR system that is expressed in diseased tissues of the female reproductive tract (both benign and malignant) is at present considered an effective molecular target for the development of novel therapeutic approaches for these pathologies. GnRH agonists are also considered as a promising therapeutic approach to counteract ovarian failure in young female patients undergoing chemotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Increasing knowledge about the regulation of GnRH pulsatile release, as well as the therapeutic use of its analogues, offers interesting new perspectives in the diagnosis, treatment and outcome of female reproductive disorders, including tumoral and iatrogenic diseases.

Initiation of GnRH agonist treatment on 3-5 days postoperatively in endometriosis patients: a randomized controlled trial

Seventy patients with stage III or IV endometriosis were randomly assigned to 2 groups after conservative surgery. Group O (n = 35) received 3 cycles of a 28-day gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH-a) treatment (goserelin, 3.6 mg) starting 3-5 days postoperatively. Group M (n = 35) received the same treatment starting on days 1-5 of menstruation. Groups were further subdivided according to add-back treatment. Pre- and posttreated levels of estradiol (E2 ), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) and visual analog scale (VAS), Kupperman menopausal index (KMI), and bone mineral density (BMD) scores were recorded. The incidence of uterine bleeding was assessed. In both groups, serum levels of E2 , FSH, and LH and VAS scores decreased significantly after treatment. Spotting was the most frequent bleeding pattern. During cycle 1, the bleeding time in group M was much longer that than that in group O (P =.001), and the bleeding rate in group M was significantly higher than that in group O (P =.024, RR = 1.185). In patients with stage III or IV endometriosis, the efficacy of GnRH-a initiated 3-5 days postoperatively was equivalent to that of GnRH-a initiated on days 1-5 of menstruation. Female patients who initiated GnRH-a treatment 3-5 days postoperatively experienced less uterine bleeding during the first cycle of treatment.

Current and future applications of GnRH, kisspeptin and neurokinin B analogues

Reproductive hormones affect all stages of life from gamete production, fertilization, fetal development and parturition, neonatal development and puberty through to adulthood and senescence. The reproductive hormone cascade has, therefore, been the target for the development of numerous drugs that modulate its activity at many levels. As the central regulator of the cascade, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists and antagonists have found extensive applications in treating a wide range of hormone-dependent diseases, such as precocious puberty, prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia, endometriosis and uterine fibroids, as well as being an essential component of in vitro fertilization protocols. The neuroendocrine peptides that regulate GnRH neurons, kisspeptin and neurokinin B, have also been identified as therapeutic targets, and novel agonists and antagonists are being developed as modulators of the cascade upstream of GnRH. Here, we review the development and applications of analogues of the major neuroendocrine peptide regulators of the reproductive hormone cascade: GnRH, kisspeptin and neurokinin B.

Will GnRH antagonists assist in the treatment of benign gynaecological diseases?

While GnRH agonists have become well-established tools for preoperative treatment of uterine fibroids or postoperative treatment in endometriosis for 3-6 months, GnRH antagonists seem to offer important advantages due to their specific pharmacological mode of action. Avoiding any flare-up effect, it seems to be possible to reduce treatment time to about only 2-4 weeks in the case of fibroids to obtain a clinically relevant reduction in size. Furthermore, due to the classic competitive receptor blockade induced by GnRH antagonists, it is feasible to preserve residual oestradiol secretion for a period of 8 weeks in patients with endometriosis. Endometriosis patients undergoing this treatment reported a symptom-free period, with no signs of mood changes, hot flushes, loss of libido, vaginal dryness or other symptoms. Serum oestradiol oscillated around a mean level of 50 pg/ml during therapy. Sequential administration of the GnRH antagonist cetrorelix (Cetrotide), in a 3 mg dosage once weekly over 8 weeks in the case of endometriosis or administration every 4th day for a time span of 2-4 weeks for fibroids, creates a new opportunity for medical treatment. Although 3 mg of cetrorelix acetate obviously acts as an intermediate depot preparation, results obtained so far are very preliminary.

Gonadotropin releasing hormone agonists: Expanding vistas

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists are derived from native GnRH by amino acid substitution which yields the agonist resistant to degradation and increases its half-life. The hypogonadotropic hypogonadal state produced by GnRH agonists has been often dubbed as "pseudomenopause" or "medical oophorectomy," which are both misnomers. GnRH analogues (GnRH-a) work by temporarily "switching off" the ovaries. Ovaries can be "switched off" for the therapy and therapeutic trial of many conditions which include but are not limited to subfertility, endometriosis, adenomyosis, uterine leiomyomas, precocious puberty, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, chronic pelvic pain, or the prevention of menstrual bleeding in special clinical situations. Rapidly expanding vistas of usage of GnRH agonists encompass use in sex reassignment of male to female transsexuals, management of final height in cases of congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and preserving ovarian function in women undergoing cytotoxic chemotherapy. Hypogonadic side effects caused by the use of GnRH agonists can be tackled with use of "add-back" therapy. Goserelin, leuprolide, and nafarelin are commonly used in clinical practice. GnRH-a have provided us a powerful therapeutic approach to the treatment of numerous conditions in reproductive medicine. Recent synthesis of GnRH antagonists with a better tolerability profile may open new avenues for both research and clinical applications. All stakeholders who are partners in women's healthcare need to join hands to spread awareness so that these drugs can be used to realize their full potential.

Chronic pelvic pain and endometriosis: translational evidence of the relationship and implications

BACKGROUND

Many clinicians and patients believe that endometriosis-associated pain is due to the lesions. Yet causality remains an enigma, because pain symptoms attributed to endometriosis occur in women without endometriosis and because pain symptoms and severity correlate poorly with lesion characteristics. Most research and reviews focus on the lesions, not the pain. This review starts with the recognition that the experience of pain is determined by the central nervous system (CNS) and focuses on the pain symptoms.

METHODS

Comprehensive searches of Pubmed, Medline and Embase were conducted for current basic and clinical research on chronic pelvic pain and endometriosis. The information was mutually interpreted by a basic scientist and a clinical researcher, both in the field of endometriosis. The goal was to develop new ways to conceptualize how endometriosis contributes to pain symptoms in the context of current treatments and the reproductive tract.

RESULTS

Endometriotic lesions can develop their own nerve supply, thereby creating a direct and two-way interaction between lesions and the CNS. This engagement provides a mechanism by which the dynamic and hormonally responsive nervous system is brought directly into play to produce a variety of individual differences in pain that can, in some women, become independent of the disease itself.

CONCLUSIONS

Major advances in improving understanding and alleviating pain in endometriosis will likely occur if the focus changes from lesions to pain. In turn, how endometriosis affects the CNS would be best examined in the context of mechanisms underlying other chronic pain conditions.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist and add-back therapy: what do the data show?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Endometriosis is a gynecologic disorder that can lead to debilitating chronic pelvic pain and infertility. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRHa) have emerged as a primary medical therapy for patients with symptomatic disease, but secondary hypoestrogenic side effects may limit compliance. Add-back therapy is a means of surmounting this problem.

RECENT FINDINGS

Progestins such as norethindrone acetate may be administered with or without addition of low doses of estrogens to safely and effectively extend GnRHa therapy while minimizing side effects. Recent studies have demonstrated that the use of add-back enhances compliance and duration of therapy. The initiation of an add-back should not be deferred given evidence demonstrating an increase in vasomotor symptoms and bone loss if not administered concomitantly. The subset of adolescents with endometriosis who require GnRHa therapy should be administered an add-back, but require careful monitoring of bone mineral density.

SUMMARY

Implementation of an appropriately selected add-back will significantly reduce hypoestrogenic side effects, enhance compliance, and allow for prolongation of therapy without interfering with the efficacy of GnRHa in treating symptomatic endometriosis.

The efficacy and tolerability of short-term low-dose estrogen-only add-back therapy during post-operative GnRH agonist treatment for endometriosis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of a low-dose estrogen-only regimen as a short-term add-back therapy during post-operative GnRH agonist (GnRHa) treatment of patients with endometriosis.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study. One hundred seventeen women of reproductive age who were treated with post-operative GnRHa after conservative laparoscopic surgery for endometrioma were eligible for this study. The patients were divided into two groups: group A (n = 56) received tibolone (2.5mg) between 2002 and 2004 and group B (n = 61) received estradiol valerate (1mg) between 2005 and 2007 as an add-back therapy for five months, beginning at the time of the second injection of a GnRHa. The incidence of hypoestrogenic symptoms and the degree of pelvic pain according to a verbal rating scale (VRS) scoring system, the incidence and patterns of uterine bleeding during add-back therapy, the endometrial thickness by ultrasonography two months after the last GnRHa treatment, and the serum CA-125 level were evaluated.

RESULTS

The incidence of uterine bleeding, hypoestrogenic symptoms such as hot flashes and sweating, and pelvic pain did not differ significantly between the two treatment groups. However, the endometrium was thicker in group A than group B (p = 0.022). In group B, the frequency of uterine bleeding was lower from the second month after starting add-back therapy than in group A, but without statistical significance (at the sixth month, p = 0.086).

CONCLUSION

The low-dose estrogen-only regimen was efficacious and tolerable as a short-term add-back therapy during post-operative GnRHa treatment after surgery for endometriosis.

Add-back therapy use and its impact on LA persistence in patients with endometriosis

OBJECTIVES

Persistence and compliance in women with endometriosis who are receiving gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRH-a) may be limited by its hypoestrogenic side effects. Use of concomitant therapy with norethindrone acetate (NA), estrogen, estrogen/progestin combinations, or other progestin (i.e., 'add-back therapy' [ABT]) is recommended to alleviate these side effects. This retrospective study evaluated ABT utilization and its effect on compliance and persistence in patients with endometriosis taking the GnRH-a leuprolide acetate (LA) depot suspension.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of a large pharmacy claims database identified patients who started LA therapy from 2002 to 2004 for the treatment of endometriosis. Patients were identified as having received ABT if they started 7 days before, or within 45 days of the last LA fill.

RESULTS

A total of 1285 women with endometriosis who began using LA were identified with 12 months of evaluable data: 211 (16.4%) used concomitant NA therapy, 116 (9.0%) used concomitant estrogen-based therapy, 28 (2.2%) used concomitant combination estrogen- and progestin-based therapies, 56 (4.4%) used concomitant progestin-based therapy, and 874 (68.0%) did not use any ABT. Mean (+/-SD) LA persistence in women receiving NA-based ABT was 5.83 +/- 2.98 months, compared with 4.25 +/- 2.62 months for those not using ABT (P < 0.0001). Average medication possession ratio was 0.43 +/- 0.20 for women receiving NA-based ABT versus 0.32 +/- 0.18 for those not receiving any ABT (P < 0.0001). Patients < 30 years of age were most likely to continue therapy longer and have greater compliance compared with the older age group cohorts (P < 0.01). Patients who used ABT continued to do so for 3.79 +/- 3.21 months.

LIMITATIONS

Limitations of this study include those associated with the use of retrospective claims databases: It does not include any information regarding the patient's pain symptoms, disease severity, or other factors, which could correlate to compliance and persistence.

CONCLUSIONS

Among women using LA therapy for endometriosis, only 32% used any type of ABT, and these patients had significantly higher persistence and compliance with LA therapy compared to no ABT user group.

Bone density in adolescents treated with a GnRH agonist and add-back therapy for endometriosis

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the bone density of adolescents with endometriosis treated with a GnRH-agonist and "add-back" therapy with norethindrone acetate.

DESIGN

Retrospective chart review.

SETTING

Pediatric gynecology clinic at a tertiary care center.

PARTICIPANTS

36 adolescents, ages 13 to 21 years, with endometriosis.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Bone mineral density (BMD, g/cm(2)) by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA); BMD Z-scores of hip and spine.

RESULTS

The mean BMD Z-score at the total hip was -0.24 +/- 1.0, with a range of -2.4 to 1.7. At this site, 6 subjects had a BMD Z-score between -1.0 and -2.0 SD, while 2 had a Z-score < or = -2.0 SD. The mean BMD Z-score at the lumbar spine was 0.55 +/- 1.1, with a range of -2.8 to 1.4. At the spine, 11 subjects had a BMD Z-score between -1.0 and -2.0 SD, while 3 had a Z-score < or = -2.0 SD. There was no correlation noted between duration of therapy with the GnRH-agonist plus add-back and BMD at the hip or spine.

CONCLUSION

BMD at the hip was normal in most adolescents with endometriosis who were receiving a GnRH-agonist plus add-back therapy with norethindrone acetate. Almost one third of subjects exhibited skeletal deficits at the spine. These data suggest that BMD should be carefully monitored in adolescents receiving treatment with GnRH agonists.

The incidence and characteristics of uterine bleeding during postoperative GnRH agonist treatment combined with tibolone add-back therapy in endometriosis patients of reproductive age

OBJECTIVES

This study was undertaken to evaluate the incidence and the factors associated with uterine bleeding while taking GnRH agonist treatment combined with tibolone add-back therapy in endometriosis patients of reproductive age.

STUDY DESIGN

The medical records of 188 endometriosis (stages III-IV) patients of reproductive age receiving postoperative GnRH agonist treatment combined with tibolone add-back therapy for 6 months were reviewed. Clinical features were analyzed and compared between the two groups: Group A, patients without an episode of uterine bleeding (n=137) and Group B, patients that had experienced uterine bleeding (n=51).

RESULTS

Demographic profiles were not different in the two groups. The incidence of uterine bleeding was 27.1% and irregular spotting was the most frequent bleeding pattern. The proportion of patients who received ovarian surgery during pelviscopy was higher in Group B (p<0.05), but other clinical characteristics were not different between two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of uterine bleeding was 27.1%. And, the proportion of patients who received ovarian surgery was higher in patients with uterine bleeding.

Long-term fracture risk among women with proven endometriosis

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether women with pelvic endometriosis are at increased fracture risk.

DESIGN

Historical cohort study.

SETTING

Population-based investigation using the data resources of the Rochester Epidemiology Project.

PATIENT(S)

From Olmsted County, Minnesota, 987 women with endometriosis that was first surgically visualized or histologically proven in 1970-1989.

INTERVENTION(S)

None, observational study.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Follow-up for fractures through complete inpatient and outpatient community medical records.

RESULT(S)

In 17,408 person-years of follow-up, 256 women experienced 449 different fractures. The cumulative incidence after 20 years (30.8%) was not elevated relative to that expected (30.6%). The independent predictors of any fracture included age (hazard ratio [HR] per 10 years: 1.61; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.42-1.84]), corticosteroid use (HR: 2.78; 95% CI 1.48-5.24), prior hip, spine, or forearm fracture (HR: 1.82; 95% CI 1.10-3.02), and use of the selective estrogen receptor modulators, tamoxifen or raloxifene (HR: 4.34; 95% CI 2.14-8.81); physical activity was protective (HR: 0.40; 95% CI 0.18-0.88). There was no significant influence on fracture risk of surgery or other medical treatments for endometriosis.

CONCLUSION(S)

Despite reported adverse effects of treatment on bone density, there was no overall increase in long-term fracture risk in this unselected cohort of women with proven endometriosis.

Novel targets for the treatment of endometriosis

Endometriosis is an enigmatic, debilitating disease that affects up to 15% of all women of reproductive age. It is characterised by pelvic pain and infertility. Current treatment regimens control the disease by inducing a hypoestrogenic state. Although the absence of circulating oestrogen levels leads to a regression of the disease, this hypoestrogenism also induces many unpleasant side effects. As such, these and other shortcomings of current drug therapies emphasise their limitations and the necessity for the development of novel endometriosis treatments. In this review, current therapies for medical management of endometriosis are discussed, as are their shortcomings. Potential target areas that may be attractive alternatives to current therapies are also reviewed. Emphasis is placed upon the emerging research using TNF inhibitors, their potential benefits over current treatment regimens and the development of future potential therapeutic targets.

Add-back therapy in the treatment of endometriosis-associated pain

OBJECTIVE

To determine the efficacy of GnRH analogue plus add-back therapy compared with GnRH analogue alone and estroprogestin in patients with relapse of endometriosis-associated pain.

DESIGN

Randomized, controlled study.

SETTING

University hospital.

PATIENT(S)

One hundred thirty-three women with relapse of endometriosis-related pain after previous endometriosis surgery.

INTERVENTION(S)

Forty-six women were treated with GnRH analogue plus add-back therapy, 44 women were given GnRH analogue alone, and 43 women received estroprogestin, for 12 months.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Pain evaluation by a visual analogue scale, quality of life in treated patients according to the SF-36 questionnaire, and occurrence of adverse effects, including bone mass density loss, at pretreatment, after 6 months of treatment, at the end of treatment (12 months), and 6 months after discontinuation of treatment.

RESULT(S)

Patients treated either with GnRH analogue alone or GnRH analogue plus add-back therapy showed a higher reduction of pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, and dyspareunia than patients treated with oral contraceptive, whereas patients treated with add-back therapy showed a better quality of life, as assessed with the SF-36 questionnaire, and adverse effects rate than the other two groups.

CONCLUSION(S)

Add-back therapy allows the treatment of women with relapse of endometriosis-associated pain for a longer period, with reduced bone mineral density loss, good control of pain symptoms, and better patient quality of life compared with GnRH analogue alone or oral contraceptive.

Evaluation and management of breast pain

Pain is one of the most common breast symptoms experienced by women. It can be severe enough to interfere with usual daily activities, but the etiology and optimal treatment remain undefined. Breast pain is typically approached according to its classification as cyclic mastalgia, noncyclic mastalgia, and extramammary (nonbreast) pain. Cyclic mastalgia is breast pain that has a clear relationship to the menstrual cycle. Noncyclic mastalgia may be constant or intermittent but is not associated with the menstrual cycle and often occurs after menopause. Extramammary pain arises from the chest wall or other sources and is interpreted as having a cause within the breast. The risk of cancer in a woman presenting with breast pain as her only symptom is extremely low. After appropriate clinical evaluation, most patients with breast pain respond favorably to a combination of reassurance and nonpharmacological measures. The medications danazol, tamoxifen, and bromocriptine are effective; however, the potentially serious adverse effects of these medications limit their use to selected patients with severe, sustained breast pain. The status of other therapeutic strategies and directions for future research are discussed.

Effect of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist and medroxyprogesterone acetate on calcium metabolism: a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to prospectively compare the effectiveness of administering medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA; 20 mg/d) in either the first (protocol A) or last (protocol B) 12-week period as well as a 6-month course of the GnRH agonist (GnRH-a; leuprolide acetate; 1 mg/d, SC) on calcium (Ca) metabolism.

DESIGN

Prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial.

SETTING

Clinical research center, university hospital.

PATIENT(S)

Twenty women were randomized into protocol A or B, received either MPA or placebo along with GnRH-a, and were then crossed over at 12 weeks to placebo or MPA, for the final 12-week interval of GnRH-a therapy.

INTERVENTION(S)

Collection of serum and urine samples and measurement of bone density. Sex hormone, calcitropic hormone, and bone density studies were performed at baseline and at 12 and 24 weeks.

RESULT(S)

In both protocol A and B, LH and E(2) levels declined by 79%-81% and 83%-90% of the baseline, respectively, at 12 and 24 weeks. Serum Ca, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, and osteocalcin; 2-h fasting and 24-h urinary Ca excretion; and urinary hydroxyproline levels all increased significantly during GnRH-a treatment alone. Estimated Ca balance decreased significantly during GnRH-a treatment alone. The addition of MPA attenuated the increases in phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, and 2-h fasting and 24-h urinary Ca excretion, and the decrease in estimated Ca balance. Comparison of phase order demonstrated that MPA prevented 24-h urinary Ca excretion and urinary hydroxyproline loss and decline in estimated Ca balance when it was added back during the second 12 weeks (protocol B) but not during the first 12 weeks (protocol A). CONCLUSION (S): We conclude that sequential MPA appears to reverse in part the negative effects of GnRH-a on calcitropic hormones and estimated Ca balance.

Endometriosis: Treatment Strategies

Endometriosis is often a perplexing medical condition for both the physician and the patient. Accordingly, development of treatment strategies based on the needs of the individual patient is highly desirable. Although endometriosis has been part of the clinical practice for almost a century, many questions remain relating to the relationship between endometriosis and infertility as well as endometriosis and pelvic pain. Endometriosis is a disease of reproductive-age women, and it is now well recognized that a genetic susceptibility appears probable. The prevalence in the general population has never been clearly established. Factors to consider in management include the age and reproductive desires of the patient, the stage of the disease, and, most importantly, the symptoms. Therapeutic options include no treatment, medical therapy, surgery, or combination therapy. Oral contraceptives, androgenic agents, progestins, and gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) analogs have all been used successfully, although at the present time, the latter preparations are the most popular medical therapy for endometriosis. Leuprolide acetate, goserelin acetate, and nafarelin acetate are all effective agents. Surgical therapy is appropriate, especially for advanced stages of the disease. Laparoscopy is an effective surgical approach with the goal of excision of visible endometriosis in a hemostatic fashion. Since endometriosis is a chronic condition, it is not uncommon for recurrences to occur. While endometriosis remains an enigmatic disease, the introduction of new pharmacologic agents, such as GnRH analogs and newer endoscopic methods of surgical treatment, have facilitated and improved the overall management of this disease.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone and reproductive medicine

The hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is a key regulator of the reproductive system, mainly through its effects on pituitary luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) release. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues are modifications of the natural decapeptide, being either agonists (GnRHa) or antagonists. GnRHa may imitate the native hormone and induce an endogenous LH surge; however, sustained treatment with GnRHa results in complete refractoriness of LH and FSH production. This aspect of GnRHa action is the main application of the GnRHa in reproduction today. The hypogonadotropic hypogonadal state that results from the sustained treatment is the basis for additional applications of the GnRHa. The agonists appear to be effective, to some extent, for the treatment of endometriosis and were proved to be beneficial prior to surgery for fibroma uteri. GnRHa is used in assisted reproduction for both induction of an endogenous LH surge and for induction of ovulation, and its capacity to cause refractoriness of the pituitary may be used to avoid a premature LH surge. It is suggested that the GnRHa have a direct effect on ovarian steroidogenesis, which is independent of its action on the pituitary. This unwanted effect and other possible drawbacks of the agonists are thought to be eliminated with the use of the antagonists. The mechanism of action of these antagonists is through competitive blocking of the GnRH receptor, which results in a rapid but reversible suppression of gonadotropin secretion. As for GnRHa, GnRH antagonists have been proven effective to prevent the LH surge and to reduce the incidence of severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome in controlled ovarian stimulation cycles.

Raloxifene administration in women treated with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist for uterine leiomyomas: effects on bone metabolism

This prospective randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was performed to evaluate the efficacy of raloxifene in preventing the bone loss associated with GnRH agonist (GnRH-a) administration. One hundred premenopausal women with uterine leiomyomas were treated with leuprolide acetate depot at a dosage of 3.75 mg/d for 28 d and then randomized into two groups to receive raloxifene hydrochloride at 60 mg/d (group A) or placebo (1 tablet/d; group B). Bone mineral density (BMD) and serum bone metabolism markers were evaluated at admission and after six treatment cycles. Posttreatment BMD differed significantly from baseline BMD in group B but not in group A. BMD was significantly higher in group A than in group B. In group A, serum osteocalcin and bone alkaline phosphatase levels and urinary deoxypyridinoline and pyrilinks-D excretion were unchanged vs. baseline. Differently, posttreatment concentrations of these bone turnover markers were significantly lower in group B compared with baseline and group A values. In conclusion, raloxifene prevents GnRH-a related bone loss in premenopausal women with uterine leiomyomas.

Endometriosis: current concepts and therapy

Endometriosis is the growth of endometrial tissue in ectopic locations. The clinical picture is extremely pleiomorphic, which can make the diagnosis difficult. Despite 70 years of theories and experimentation, the cause is not clear, and it is likely that more than one mechanism is at work in most patients. Both medical and surgical treatments are available. In each case, the woman and her physician should formulate a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the primary complaint as well as the patient's reproductive desires.

Use of GnRH antagonists in the treatment of endometriosis

Endometriosis is an oestrogen-dependent disease that is treatable by oestrogen withdrawal, a therapy that has been effectively provided by the use of a gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist. Complete oestrogen withdrawal results in unacceptable side-effects, in particular in accelerated bone density loss. This problem has been effectively overcome with 'add-back therapy' using low-dose oestrogens and progestins in combination with a GnRH agonist to limit these side-effects, while still allowing regression of endometriotic lesions. The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of using a subcutaneous injection of GnRH antagonist in the treatment of endometriosis. All patients (15/15; 100%) reported a symptom-free period during GnRH antagonist treatment, including mood changes, hot flushes, loss of libido, vaginal dryness and other symptoms. Serum oestradiol oscillated around a mean concentration of 50 pg/ml during therapy. Diagnostic laparoscopy before GnRH antagonist administration showed a mean stage III of disease. Regression occurred in 60% of cases (9/15) and the degree of endometriosis declined to stage II. Sequential administration of the GnRH antagonist cetrorelix (Cetrotide) in a 3 mg dosage once weekly over 8 weeks creates a new opportunity for medical treatment of symptomatic endometriosis. Preserving basic oestrogen production during the course of treatment apparently does not influence regression of disease, and has no major side-effects.

Prevention of bone loss and hypoestrogenic symptoms by estrogen and interrupted progestogen add-back in long-term GnRH-agonist down-regulated patients with endometriosis and premenstrual syndrome

OBJECTIVE

To examine the utility of a low-dose estrogen and pulsed progestogen hormone replacement therapy (HRT) regimen for add-back during long-term gonadotropin-releasing hormone-agonist (GnRH-agonist) therapy.

DESIGN

A pilot clinical trial conducted at a tertiary referral, academic, reproductive sciences center. The study included 15 patients with endometriosis and 5 patients with severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Patients with endometriosis received leuprolide acetate depot 3.75 mg IM monthly until their symptoms had resolved (2-3 months), at which time HRT was initiated along with the GnRH-agonist. Patients with severe PMS received the same treatment with the addition of HRT after 1 month. The HRT regimen consisted of 1 mg oral micronized estradiol daily and 0.35 mg norethindrone daily for 2 days alternating with 2 days without norethindrone. The main outcome measure included bone density assessment in the lumbar spine and femoral neck by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry at 6- to 12-month intervals. The mean follow-up duration +/- SD while on GnRH-agonist treatment was 31.2 +/- 17 months (for endometriosis patients) and 37.7 +/- 8.4 months (for patients with severe PMS).

RESULTS

Bone mineral density was stable after initiation of HRT for the entire follow-up period. No patient had return of pelvic pain or resumption of mood swings after HRT add-back. After the first 3 months of HRT, all women remained amenorrheic.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term GnRH-agonist down-regulation is safe and effective when combined with HRT add-back. Furthermore, on the basis of this small study, the low-dose pulsed progestogen, continuous estrogen HRT regimen seems to be safe for use as add-back therapy in terms of bone health.

Behavioral and psychopharmacological treatment of the paraphilic and hypersexual disorders

In this article, the second of a two-part series, the authors present information on the clinical assessment of individuals with paraphilias and hypersexual disorders. They review ethical considerations in the assessment and treatment of individuals with paraphilias. The role of interview and subjective and objective instruments in the assessment of individuals with paraphilias and hypersexual disorders is discussed. The authors discuss the use of penile plethysmography or phallometry, polygraphy, and viewing time assessments. Risk assessment of sexual offenders is reviewed. The authors then discuss behavioral, environmental, and psychopharmacological treatments for paraphilias and hypersexual disorders. Cognitive-behavioral therapy appears to be the most effective nonpharmacological strategy. The authors describe cognitive-behavioral techniques for decreasing and/or controlling sexual urges (e.g., satiation, covert sensitization, fading, cognitive restructuring, victim empathy therapy) as well as methods for enhancing appropriate sexual interest and arousal (e.g., social skills training, assertiveness skills training, sex education, couples therapy). The authors also discuss the role of relapse prevention therapy and 12-step programs, as well as other nonbiological therapies such as surveillance networks. The importance of providing appropriate treatment for comorbid conditions (e.g., depression, substance abuse or dependence) is stressed. The authors then review psychopharmacological treatments, including serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs) and antiandrogens, in particular, the use of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GNRH) agonists. SRIs have been studied in these disorders in an uncontrolled way and appear promising. Earlier antiandrogens (e.g., estrogen, progesterone, and cyproterone acetate) have demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of paraphilias. The newer GNRH agonists have the advantage over the earlier treatments of being available in long-acting depot formulations and having fewer side effects. Preliminary studies and case reports with these agents appear promising. Further study of both the SRIs and GNRH agonists in these disorders is needed. The article concludes with a treatment algorithm, in which the authors suggest beginning with less restrictive treatments (e.g., behavioral or verbal therapies), if possible, and moving to more restrictive alternatives (e.g., biological therapies, institutionalization) as needed. A guide for clinicians and patients about where and how to find appropriate clinicians and treatment resources in the United States is provided.

[Diagnosis and follow-up of endometriosis during consultation: changes]

In a literature review, news in symptomatology and follow-up of endometriosis were analyzed (infertility, pain, hemorrhage, adnexal tumors). Survey and examination can be made with improved quality (pain scale, menorragha scheme of Higham). Diagnosis and follow-up of endometriosis are more perfect by ultrasonographical examination by the gynecologist in his office. Ultrasonography is better for endometrioma and adenomyosis than other localisation (complementary explorations-magnetic resonance imaging, outside of consultation, are useful for deeper and superficial lesions). In follow-up, clinical research and ultrasonic exploration show the true relapses. Treatment's observance and success will be improved by ultrasonic analysis. Intolerances, add-back therapy, contraception, substitutive hormonal treatment of menopauses and cancer risk, are different problem and solution will be offer.

Medical and surgical therapies for pain associated with endometriosis

Endometriosis is a common condition for which a number of treatments have been proposed. Medical treatments are based on the hormonal responsiveness of endometriosis implants. These therapies include progestins (with or without estrogens), androgens, and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogs. Surgical treatments may include hysterectomy with oophorectomy or organ-sparing surgery involving ablation or resection of visible lesions of endometriosis and restoration of pelvic anatomy. There are no studies that directly compare the effectiveness or adverse effects of medical therapy and surgical therapy. Studies on medical therapy compare different treatments with placebo or with other active treatments. Hormone-based therapies for endometriosis show 80%-100% effectiveness in relief of pelvic pain over a 6-month course of therapy. Serious adverse outcomes after medical therapy are unusual. Studies on surgical therapy are largely anecdotal, with noncomparative reports on a variety of surgical methods. A few comparative surgical studies have been reported. Because of the noncomparative nature of many of the surgical studies, the use of combinations of surgical procedures and techniques in the reported studies, and the reporting of results from surgeons with an unusually high level of technical skill, the gynecological practitioner has little basis in the literature for assessing the optimum surgical approach. Surgical complications are believed to be underreported and may be related to how aggressive a surgical procedure is undertaken.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist plus "add-back" hormone replacement therapy for treatment of endometriosis: a prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effect of add-back therapy with continuous combined estrogen-progestin on the GnRH agonist-induced hypoestrogenic state and its effectiveness in healing of endometriotic lesions.

DESIGN

A prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial.

SETTING

Multiple centers in The Netherlands.

PATIENT(S)

41 premenopausal women with laparoscopically diagnosed endometriosis (revised American Fertility Society scores >/=2).

INTERVENTION(S)

Patients were randomly assigned to receive a subcutaneous depot formulation of goserelin, 3. 6 mg, every 4 weeks, plus oral placebo or oral continuous combined estradiol-norethisterone acetate add-back therapy daily for 24 weeks.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Endometriosis response, bone mineral density, transvaginal ultrasonographic changes, endocrinologic effects, and subjective side effects.

RESULT(S)

The number of endometriotic implants was significantly reduced in both groups. In the group that received GnRH agonist plus placebo, bone mineral density of the lumbar spine decreased by 5.02%.

CONCLUSION(S)

The effectiveness of GnRH agonist treatment for endometriosis was not decreased by the addition of add-back continuous combined hormone replacement therapy. Bone mineral density of the lumbar spine was maintained and subjective side effects were diminished.

Treatment of bone diseases with bisphosphonates, excluding osteoporosis

The main biologic action of bisphosphonates consists of the inhibition of osteoclastic bone resorption, and, at least, for the drugs introduced after etidronate, without any significant inhibition of bone mineralization. Bisphosphonates therefore play a major role in conditions that are characterized, at least partly, by an increased bone resorption. Primary and secondary osteoporosis by far constitute the most widespread indications for bisphosphonates, mostly because recent published trials have demonstrated their ability to prevent fractures. Potentially crippling conditions such as symptomatic Paget disease of bone remain a major therapeutic challenge for bisphosphonates, but the prevention of the major complications such as sarcoma has still to be proven. The availability of more potent bisphosphonates, less toxic for bones, has certainly widened the therapeutic interventions to asymptomatic patients, bearing in mind the various potential troublesome complications. Fibrous dysplasia resembles, in certain aspects, Paget disease; it is therefore not surprising that bisphosphonate therapy has been proposed in this indication. With the aging of world populations, more and more cancers will be diagnosed. For those with a bone metastatic propensity or malignant hematologic condition, such as multiple myeloma, the most recent generation of more potent bisphosphonates may bring more comfort to crippled patients and even, hopefully, have a direct antitumoral activity, if used synergistically with the armamentarium already available to the clinician. New indications for bisphosphonates include osteogenesis imperfecta both in children and adults. In the future, they might be used in the prevention of erosions in rheumatoid arthritis and of loosening of joint prostheses, as well as possibly in osteoarthritis. Now that the fear of theoretically freezing bone remodeling has been reasonably dismissed, potential uses for bisphosphonates might be considered nearly infinite.