Treatment of menorrhagia in women undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

Overview

The management of uterine bleeding in female transplant patients over a 3-year period at our institution was reviewed. A total of 33 females who had undergone allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant were identified as having received gynecologic consultation for the diagnosis of menorrhagia. Hormone therapy achieved a resolution of symptoms in 32 (97%) of the patients, and 26 (79%) required only one hormone regimen. Following resolution of symptoms, transition to standard-dose oral contraceptive pills as maintenance therapy prevented recurrent menorrhagia due to high circulating estrogen levels. Alternatives for patients who are unable to tolerate oral administration and those with hepatotoxicity are also discussed.