The uterine length in women with Turner syndrome reflects the postmenarcheal daily estrogen dose

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the effects of estrogen substitution on the uterine development in patients with Turner syndrome.

Method: 57 women, aged 18.1-41.5 years, were treated with estrogen from puberty induction.

Results: In 21 women (37%), the uterus developed to >65 mm in length. The daily estrogen dose correlated with both uterine length (r = 0.29; p < 0.05) and Tanner breast stage (r = 0.44; p < 0.001). A negative correlation between age at artificial menarche and uterine length was found (r = -0.29; p < 0.05). The endometrium thickness was greater in women with an uterus length >65 mm (p < 0.05). In 50% of the women (18 were evaluated), an adult-shaped uterus developed. Previous growth hormone therapy (n = 32) had no impact on the uterus length.

Conclusions: The uterine development was suboptimal in most patients. Further investigation is needed to optimize estrogen therapy for uterine development in patients with Turner syndrome.