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Chapter 5 - Premature Ovarian Insufficiency

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  23 October 2024

By
Austin B. Gardner  and
Sukhkamal B. Campbell
Edited by
Laurie J. Mckenzie  and
Denise R. Nebgen
Laurie J. Mckenzie
Affiliation:
University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston
Denise R. Nebgen
Affiliation:
University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston
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Summary

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a heterogeneous diagnosis caused by a multitude of factors including genetic, autoimmune, iatrogenic, social, and environmental. It is defined as loss of ovarian function prior to 40 years of age with subsequent secondary amenorrhea for at least 4−6 months in conjunction with elevated follicle stimulating hormone levels on two different measurements. Prompt recognition of symptoms should encourage thorough history-taking and work-up, as some causes of POI are associated with conditions requiring additional screening or medical management. Early initiation of hormone replacement therapy is necessary to prevent long-term sequelae from chronic hypoestrogenism such as cardiovascular events, poor bone health, and cognitive dysfunction. Extensive counseling with regards to future fertility and family building options is necessary as the diagnosis of POI can be psychologically devastating to many women.

Keywords

Premature ovarian insufficiencyovarian dysfunctionsecondary amenorrheageneticsautoimmuneiatrogenicchemotherapyradiationhormone replacement therapyinfertility
Type
Chapter
Information
Caring for the Female Cancer Patient
Gynecologic Considerations
 , pp. 81 - 92
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2024

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