Endometrial Polyps and Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB-P): What is the relationship, how are they diagnosed and how are they treated?

Abstract

The diagnosis and treatment of endometrial polyps will be familiar to most gynaecologists. However, the aetiology and natural history of these focal intrauterine lesions are yet to be elucidated. This lack of clarity is also true with regard to their clinical significance; whilst endometrial polyps are highly prevalent in all types of abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB), they are also commonly found in women without AUB. These controversies will be discussed along with current thoughts on the diagnosis and treatment of endometrial polyps. Criteria for diagnosis of uterine polyps vary according to the test used, but optimal testing is not yet solidified. Recent data from randomised trials evaluating new and established surgical technologies as well as comparing treatment protocols and settings will be examined.

Keywords: abnormal uterine bleeding; office hysteroscopy; outpatient hysteroscopy; polypectomy.