Prolonged amenorrhea associated with total nodal irradiation for Hodgkin's disease

Abstract

Pelvic irradiation in the treatment of Hodgkin's disease, including total nodal irradiation, may result in substantial radiation to the ovaries unless oophoropexy and central pelvic shielding is used. Despite such precautions, temporary or permanent amenorrhea may result due to direct or scattered radiation. This article describes a 32-year-old patient who underwent oophoropexy followed by total nodal irradiation for Hodgkin's disease. The patient became amenorrheic for 14 consecutive months. Spontaneous recovery of ovarian function with resumption of menses then occurred and has remained normal to date. The occurrence of prolonged but temporary amenorrhea should be recognized after pelvic radiotherapy for the treatment of Hodgkin's disease.