Treatment of uterine fibroids: current findings with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists

Abstract

The gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists have potential benefit as presurgical adjuncts in the management of uterine leiomyomas or fibroids. Uterine fibroids contain estrogen receptors and are responsive to therapeutic hormonal manipulation; gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists are effective by inducing a state of hypoestrogenism. Clinical trials with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists consistently have demonstrated efficacy for decreasing both myoma size and uterine volume. The advantages of the preoperative use of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists include a reduction in uterine and myoma size and vascularity and potentially improved operative technique and uterine cavity integrity. Ongoing clinical trials will be needed to confirm the role of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists in the treatment of uterine fibroids.