Current medical treatment of uterine fibroids

• Published in: Obstetrics & gynecology science Vol. 61; no. 2; pp. 192 - 201
• Main Authors: Sohn, Geum Seon, Cho, SiHyun, Kim, Yong Man, Cho, Chi-Heum, Kim, Mee-Ran, Lee, Sa Ra
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Korea (South) Korean Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Korean Society of Contraception and Reproductive Health; Korean Society of Gynecologic Endocrinology; Korean Society of Gynecologic Endoscopy and Minimal Invasive Surgery; Korean Society of Maternal Fetal Medicine; Korean Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology; Korean Urogynecologic Society 01.03.2018; Korean Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology; 대한산부인과학회
• Subjects: gnrh receptor; Review; uterine fibroids; 산부인과학; Uterine fibroids; GnRH receptor
• ISSN: 2287-8572; 2287-8580
• DOI: 10.5468/ogs.2018.61.2.192

Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas or myomas), benign monoclonal tumors, are the most common benign tumors in women. Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, abnormal uterine bleeding, resultant anemia, pelvic pain, infertility, and/or recurrent pregnancy loss are generally associated with uterine fibroids. Although curative treatment of this tumor relies on surgical therapies, medical treatments are considered the first-line treatment to preserve fertility and avoid or delay surgery. The aim of this review is to provide available and emerging medical treatment options for symptomatic uterine fibroids. Literature review and consensus of expert opinion. Many uterine fibroids are asymptomatic and require no intervention, although it is advisable to follow-up patients to document stability in size and growth. Fibroid-associated symptoms include heavy menstrual bleeding and pain or pelvic discomfort. The association between infertility and fibroids increases with age. Treatment options for symptomatic uterine fibroids - include medical, surgical, and radiologically guided interventions. Various medical therapies are now available for women with uterine fibroids, although each therapy has its own advantages and disadvantages. Currently, gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists and selective progesterone receptor modulators (SPRMs) are the most effective medical therapies, with the most evidence to support their reduction of fibroid volume and symptomatic improvement in menstrual bleeding. The choice of treatment depends on the patient's personal treatment goals, as well as efficacy and need for repeated interventions.