Endocrine Abstracts

Does HT still have a place? The impact on menopausal-related symptoms

C Cristea, C Vulpoi, MC Ungureanu, L Leustean, C Concita, V Mogos & E Zbranca

Department of Endocrinology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, Romania.

Hormonal treatment (HT) represents the only complete therapy of the consequences of the postmenopausal estrogenic deficiency. Quality of life in postmenopausal women is often compromised. We evaluated the quality of life (appreciated with IQL questionnaire) in 80 postmenopausal women – 40 with intact uterus, treated with natural estrogens associated with progestin, and 40 non-treated women. Group selection (treated/not treated) was made function of the inform consent of the patients. No significant differences in age, age at menopause, and chronic diseases and socio-economic status were present in the two groups. The follow-up period was 3 months. The questionnaire was completed at the base line and 3 months after. A significant amelioration of the symptoms (diminution of the global score from −2.8 to 1.8, P<0.01) was found in the treated group (T), but practically no modification was seen in the non-treated (NT) one (from 2.5 to 2.2, P>0.05): Hot flushes score was more important at the base-line in the T group and decreased from 2.9 to 1.8 in the T group while in the NT they had only a slight, non-significant diminution (from 2.6 to 2.2). Perspirations have also improved in the T group (2.97 vs 1.78) but not in the NT (2.4 vs 2.17). In the T group palpitations and insomnia diminished from 2.61 to 1.93, respectively from 2.19 to 1.59, while in the NT group they did not change (2.35 vs 2.05, 2.6 vs 2.2). Asthenia has improved in both groups. HT remains the election treatment of the menopausal symptoms. In the light of the new studies, the estrogen type and dosage, the period and administration route must be established together with the well-informed patient.

Endocrine Abstracts (2006) 11 P209