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Taranto P, de Brito Sales D, Maluf FC, Guendelmann RAK, de Melo Pompei L, Leal A, Buzaid AC, Schvartsman G. Safety and efficacy of topical testosterone in breast cancer patients receiving ovarian suppression and aromatase inhibitor therapy. Breast Cancer Res 2024; 26:133. [PMID: 39285489 PMCID: PMC11403844 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-024-01886-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Premenopausal, high-risk, hormone receptor-positive breast cancer patients are often treated with ovarian suppression in combination with aromatase inhibitors (AI). This combination has important adverse effects, particularly in sexual function, such as vaginal dryness and loss of libido. There is no effective therapy for reduced sexual function in this setting. Our study aimed to determine the efficacy and safety, particularly regarding sexual function, of a low-dose, topical testosterone gel administration. METHODS This is a pilot, single-center study, designed to evaluate the efficacy of topical testosterone gel (3 mg/day) in improving sexual function in 29 premenopausal patients on ovarian suppression in combination with an AI. The primary safety endpoint was to assess serum estradiol elevation. The primary efficacy endpoint was sexual function improvement, assessed by the Female Sexual Function Index questionnaire. RESULTS We report the results on 29 patients. Twenty-two patients (75%) completed the 3-month treatment, and seven discontinued treatment before completion, mostly due to logistical difficulties related to the COVID-19 pandemic. All patients maintained the value of baseline mass spectrometry assay for estradiol of less than 2.7 pg/mL during the undertaken measurements. We observed a significant improvement in Female Sexual Function Index measures over the visits, with an increase from a mean of 11.7 at baseline to 19.1 in the third month (p < 0.001), with the greatest improvement observed between the second and third months. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that topical testosterone seems to be safe and may be effective in improving sexual function in patients on ovarian suppression and AI. TRIAL REGISTRATION The project was submitted and approved through the hospital's SGPP platform in 11/26/2019 (Project No. SGPP 393819) and CAAE (Research Ethics Committee) (CAAE No 25609719.5.0000.007).
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Taranto
- Centro de Oncologia e Hematologia Einstein Dayan-Daycoval, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Fernando Cotait Maluf
- Centro de Oncologia e Hematologia Einstein Dayan-Daycoval, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Antonio Carlos Buzaid
- Centro Oncológico Antonio Ermírio de Morais, Beneficência Portuguesa, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Schvartsman
- Centro de Oncologia e Hematologia Einstein Dayan-Daycoval, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
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2
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Pearson A, Chen J, Dhillon HM, Kiely BE. Measuring serum oestrogen levels in breast cancer survivors using vaginal oestrogens: a systematic review. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2024; 206:215-226. [PMID: 38780887 PMCID: PMC11182841 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-024-07364-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Vaginal oestrogens can be used to treat genitourinary symptoms in women with early breast cancer. Studies evaluating vaginal oestrogens have commonly measured serum oestrogen levels as a surrogate marker of safety, but methods vary. We sought to summarise the data on serum oestrogen measurement in women with breast cancer using vaginal oestrogens to better understand the methods, levels and reliability. METHODS We searched Medline, Embase, CENTRAL, SCOPUS and CINAHL from inception to October 2023 for clinical studies where serum oestrogen was measured in women with a history of early breast cancer using vaginal oestrogens. Studies with a reported testing methodology were included. RESULTS Nine studies met the inclusion criteria for this systematic review. Methods used to measure oestradiol and oestriol in selected studies included mass spectrometry and immunoassays; several studies used more than one with variable concordance. Mass spectrometry detected oestradiol levels down to a lower limit between 1.0 pg/mL and 3.0 pg/mL. Immunoassays such as ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), ECLIA (enhanced chemiluminiscence immunoassay) and RIA (radioimmunoassay) had lower detection limits ranging between 0.8 pg/mL and 10 pg/mL. Studies were heterogeneous in testing techniques used, timing of testing, and the population including with subsequent varying results in the effect on oestrogens reported. CONCLUSIONS Adopting consistent and standardised methods of measuring oestrogens in clinical trials involving women with early breast cancer on vaginal oestrogens is critical. Serum oestrogens are used as a surrogate marker of safety in this population, and good-quality data are necessary to enable clinicians and patients to feel confident in prescribing and taking vaginal oestrogens. Mass spectrometry, although more expensive, gives more reliable results when dealing with very low levels of oestrogens often found in women on aromatase inhibitors, compared to immunoassays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonia Pearson
- Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.
| | - Jill Chen
- Psycho-Oncology Cooperative Research Group, Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Haryana M Dhillon
- Psycho-Oncology Cooperative Research Group, Faculty of Science, School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Belinda E Kiely
- Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
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3
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Kolokythas A, Betschart C, Wunder D, Janka H, Stute P. Impact of vaginal estriol on serum hormone levels: a systematic review. Climacteric 2024; 27:137-153. [PMID: 38164918 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2023.2287624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) affects up to 84% of postmenopausal women and may significantly reduce the quality of life in some. For symptom relief, there are several non-hormonal and hormonal vaginal products available. In Europe, vaginal estriol (E3) is the most frequently chosen estrogen for GSM treatment. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the impact of vaginal E3 on serum sex hormone levels, an outcome that has been previously used to assess safety in similar products. In our review, we did not find any alterations in serum estrone, estradiol, testosterone, progesterone and sex hormone binding globulin levels after vaginal E3 application. In contrast, some studies showed a minimal and transient decrease in serum gonadotropin levels, which however remained within the postmenopausal range. Similarly, only a few studies reported a minimal and transient increase of serum E3 levels, with the rest reporting no changes. The lack of clinically relevant long-term changes in serum sex hormone levels supports the current literature providing evidence about the safety of vaginal E3 products.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Kolokythas
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - C Betschart
- Department of Gynecology, University Hospital and University Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - D Wunder
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cantonal Hospital of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - H Janka
- Medical Library, University Library of Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - P Stute
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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4
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Dugan CL, Othieno AA, Goldman ME. Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause in Cancer Survivors. Clin Obstet Gynecol 2024; 67:89-100. [PMID: 38108399 DOI: 10.1097/grf.0000000000000848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) encompasses the symptoms of estrogen deprivation in the vaginal, vulva, and bladder areas. Because many cancer treatments induce a hypoestrogenic state, GSM is common in cancer survivors. The number of cancer survivors is increasing, and the unique aspects of GSM management for cancer survivors, such as the safety of hormonal therapies, is important to understand. In this review, we cover important considerations in the assessment of GSM; nonpharmacologic, behavioral, integrative, pharmacologic, and medical device treatments for GSM: the unique considerations in GSM by cancer treatment modality; bladder manifestations of GSM; and GSM in specific populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine L Dugan
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Alisha A Othieno
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Mindy E Goldman
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco
- Midi Health, Menlo Park, California
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Servayge J, Verduyn AC, Page A, Lagaert L, Tjalma WAA. Clinical guidelines for managing menopausal symptoms in women with (a history of) breast cancer. Facts Views Vis Obgyn 2023; 15:297-308. [PMID: 37963326 PMCID: PMC10832648 DOI: 10.52054/fvvo.15.4.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. At the time of diagnosis, 75% of patients are postmenopausal. Many will receive anti-hormone therapy, which often induces menopausal symptoms. Premenopausal breast cancer patients frequently become postmenopausal as a result of the treatment and often experience menopausal symptoms. The increased incidence of breast cancer, combined with longer survival, has led to an increase in the number of women experiencing menopausal symptoms. Therefore, the management of menopausal symptoms in women with a history or current breast cancer is a relevant and common clinical problem. Objectives To provide a clinically useful overview of the steps in the management of menopausal symptoms in women with (a history of) breast cancer. Materials and Methods A comprehensive literature review was conducted by authors JS and WT using the PubMed and Medline databases. Abstracts were critically appraised and, where appropriate, the full text was analysed. Main Outcome Measures Not applicable. Results Depending on the condition, either meta-analyses, randomised controlled trials or retrospective cohorts were identified. No evidence was found for some proposed treatments. Conclusions Menopausal symptoms in women with (a history of) breast cancer require a patient-tailored approach. Shared decision making is paramount and adequate up-to-date knowledge can help the breast cancer specialist to advise and guide patients accordingly. What is new? A comprehensive, clinically-based overview of evidence-based treatment options for menopausal symptoms in women with (a history of) breast cancer.
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Curigliano G, Burstein HJ, Gnant M, Loibl S, Cameron D, Regan MM, Denkert C, Poortmans P, Weber WP, Thürlimann B. Understanding breast cancer complexity to improve patient outcomes: The St Gallen International Consensus Conference for the Primary Therapy of Individuals with Early Breast Cancer 2023. Ann Oncol 2023; 34:970-986. [PMID: 37683978 DOI: 10.1016/j.annonc.2023.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The 18th St Gallen International Breast Cancer Conference held in March 2023, in Vienna, Austria, assessed significant new findings for local and systemic therapies for early breast cancer with a focus on the evaluation of multimodal treatment options. The emergence of more effective, innovative agents in both the preoperative (primary or neoadjuvant) and post-operative (adjuvant) settings has underscored the pivotal role of a multidisciplinary approach in treatment decision making, particularly when selecting systemic therapy for an individual patient. The importance of multidisciplinary discussions regarding the clinical benefits of interventions was explicitly emphasized by the consensus panel as an integral part of developing an optimal treatment plan with the 'right' degree of intensity and duration. The panelists focused on controversies surrounding the management of common ductal/no special type and lobular breast cancer histology, which account for the vast majority of breast tumors. The expert opinion of the panelists was based on interpretations of available data, as well as current practices in their professional environments, personal and socioeconomic factors affecting patients, and cognizant of varying reimbursement and accessibility constraints around the world. The panelists strongly advocated patient participation in well-designed clinical studies whenever feasible. With these considerations in mind, the St Gallen Consensus Conference aims to offer guidance to clinicians regarding appropriate treatments for early-stage breast cancer and assist in balancing the realistic trade-offs between treatment benefit and toxicity, enabling patients and clinicians to make well-informed choices through a shared decision-making process.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Curigliano
- Division of New Drugs and Early Drug Development for Innovative Therapies, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan; Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
| | - H J Burstein
- Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston; Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA.
| | - M Gnant
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna; Austrian Breast and Colorectal Cancer Study Group, Vienna, Austria
| | - S Loibl
- Center for Hematology and Oncology Bethanien, Frankfurt; German Breast Group, Neu-Isenburg, Germany
| | - D Cameron
- Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre, University of Edinburgh and NHS Lothian, Edinburgh, UK
| | - M M Regan
- International Breast Cancer Study Group Statistical Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - C Denkert
- Institut für Pathologie, Philipps-Universität Marburg und Universitätsklinikum Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - P Poortmans
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Iridium Netwerk, Wilrijk-Antwerp; University of Antwerp, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wilrijk-Antwerp, Belgium
| | - W P Weber
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Faculty of Medicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - B Thürlimann
- SwissBreastCare, Bethanienspital, Zürich, Switzerland; SONK Foundation, St. Gallen, Switzerland
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Di Nardo P, Lisanti C, Garutti M, Buriolla S, Alberti M, Mazzeo R, Puglisi F. Chemotherapy in patients with early breast cancer: clinical overview and management of long-term side effects. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2022; 21:1341-1355. [DOI: 10.1080/14740338.2022.2151584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Paola Di Nardo
- Department of Medical Oncology, CRO Aviano, National Cancer Institute, IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
| | - Camilla Lisanti
- Department of Medical Oncology, CRO Aviano, National Cancer Institute, IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
| | - Mattia Garutti
- Department of Medical Oncology, CRO Aviano, National Cancer Institute, IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
| | - Silvia Buriolla
- Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Martina Alberti
- Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Roberta Mazzeo
- Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Fabio Puglisi
- Department of Medical Oncology, CRO Aviano, National Cancer Institute, IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
- Department of Medicine (DAME), University of Udine, Udine, Italy
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8
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Exogenous Hormones and Breast Cancer Risk: Contraception, Menopausal Hormone Therapy, and Breast Cancer Survivors. Clin Obstet Gynecol 2022; 65:510-523. [PMID: 35703230 DOI: 10.1097/grf.0000000000000718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The use of exogenous estrogen and progesterone/progestin medications spans the reproductive and postreproductive lives of millions of women providing control over pregnancy timing, management of premenopausal and postmenopausal symptoms, and prevention of disease, including endometrial and ovarian cancer. These same hormones can also increase the risk of breast cancer in some settings and their use in breast cancer survivors may increase the risk of breast cancer recurrence. Given both the benefits and risks of these exogenous hormones, a detailed understanding of the available scientific evidence is imperative to help counsel individuals in their use across various settings.
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9
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Individual Benefits and Risks of Intravaginal Estrogen and Systemic Testosterone in the Management of Women in the Menopause, With a Discussion of Any Associated Risks for Cancer Development. Cancer J 2022; 28:196-203. [PMID: 35594467 DOI: 10.1097/ppo.0000000000000598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Several formulations of intravaginal oestrogen are available for the treatment of genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). These are safe and effective treatments for the symptoms of GSM. Licensed doses of intravaginal oestrogen do not elevate systemic estradiol levels above the normal postmenopausal range with long term use and there is no evidence of an increased risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, thromboembolism, colorectal cancer, endometrial cancer, breast cancer or breast cancer recurrence with their use. This should reassure both women and their healthcare professionals and should lead to more women receiving these localised, vaginally administered hormonal treatments. Available evidence also suggests a positive safety profile for transdermal testosterone treatment when delivered at physiological concentrations.
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10
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Lázaro-Carrasco de la Fuente J, Cuerva González M, González Rodríguez S, Delgado Marín JL, Cuevas Castillo C, Nieto Magro C. Early Effect of 0.005% Estriol Vaginal Gel on Symptoms and Signs of Vulvovaginal Atrophy. J Menopausal Med 2022; 28:60-69. [PMID: 36070871 PMCID: PMC9452593 DOI: 10.6118/jmm.21038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Marcos Cuerva González
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, San Francisco de Asís University Hospital, La Paz University Hospital, and Alfonso X El Sabio University, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Juan Luis Delgado Marín
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Virgen de la Arrixaca University Clinical Hospital, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
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11
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Burstein HJ, Curigliano G, Thürlimann B, Weber WP, Poortmans P, Regan MM, Senn HJ, Winer EP, Gnant M. Customizing local and systemic therapies for women with early breast cancer: the St. Gallen International Consensus Guidelines for treatment of early breast cancer 2021. Ann Oncol 2021; 32:1216-1235. [PMID: 34242744 PMCID: PMC9906308 DOI: 10.1016/j.annonc.2021.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 383] [Impact Index Per Article: 127.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The 17th St Gallen International Breast Cancer Consensus Conference in 2021 was held virtually, owing to the global COVID-19 pandemic. More than 3300 participants took part in this important bi-annual critical review of the 'state of the art' in the multidisciplinary care of early-stage breast cancer. Seventy-four expert panelists (see Appendix 1) from all continents discussed and commented on the previously elaborated consensus questions, as well as many key questions on early breast cancer diagnosis and treatment asked by the audience. The theme of this year's conference was 'Customizing local and systemic therapies.' A well-organized program of pre-recorded symposia, live panel discussions and real-time panel voting results drew a worldwide audience of thousands, reflecting the far-reaching impact of breast cancer on every continent. The interactive technology platform allowed, for the first time, audience members to ask direct questions to panelists, and to weigh in with their own vote on several key panel questions. A hallmark of this meeting was to focus on customized recommendations for treatment of early-stage breast cancer. There is increasing recognition that the care of a breast cancer patient depends on highly individualized clinical features, including the stage at presentation, the biological subset of breast cancer, the genetic factors that may underlie breast cancer risk, the genomic signatures that inform treatment recommendations, the extent of response before surgery in patients who receive neoadjuvant therapy, and patient preferences. This customized approach to treatment requires integration of clinical care between patients and radiology, pathology, genetics, and surgical, medical and radiation oncology providers. It also requires a dynamic response from clinicians as they encounter accumulating clinical information at the time of diagnosis and then serially with each step in the treatment plan and follow-up, reflecting patient experiences and treatment response.
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Affiliation(s)
- H J Burstein
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA.
| | - G Curigliano
- European Institute of Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
| | | | - W P Weber
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - M M Regan
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - H J Senn
- St. Gallen Oncology Conferences (Foundation SONK), St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - E P Winer
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - M Gnant
- Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Pérez-López FR, Phillips N, Vieira-Baptista P, Cohen-Sacher B, Fialho SCAV, Stockdale CK. Management of postmenopausal vulvovaginal atrophy: recommendations of the International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease. Gynecol Endocrinol 2021; 37:746-752. [PMID: 34169794 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2021.1943346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop a best practice document for the management of postmenopausal vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA). METHOD Literature review carried out using clinical terms, treatments or interventions and comorbidity related to VVA. RESULTS There is a wide variety of interventions that may produce temporal benefits for VVA. However, there are significant limitations in scientific publications concerning VVA and related issues, including variable outcome evaluations, variability in population age range, and small, often underpowered sample sizes. Therapeutic management of VVA should follow a sequential order, considering women's age, symptoms, general health as well as treatment preference. Beneficial options include lubricants, moisturizers, vaginal estrogens (estradiol, estriol, promestriene, conjugated estrogens), androgens, prasterone, and laser application. In women with general menopausal symptoms who are candidates for systemic hormone therapy, the lowest effective dose should be used. Oral ospemifene is an effective selective estrogen receptor modulator to treat VVA. Systemic androgens have a limited role. Although laser procedures are commonly used, at this moment the International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease does not endorse its use out of the setting of clinical trials. Pelvic floor muscle training improves blood flow and elasticity of the vulvovaginal tissue. In breast cancer survivors, moisturizers and lubricants are first line therapy. However, limited absorption of low/ultra-low doses of estrogens suggests safety, especially in women under treatment with aromatase inhibitors. As clinical practice and available preparations vary between countries this text should be adapted to local circumstances. CONCLUSIONS There is a wide range of therapeutic options to individualize VVA treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faustino R Pérez-López
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Zaragoza, Faculty of Medicine, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Nancy Phillips
- Department Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Pedro Vieira-Baptista
- Hospital Lusíadas Porto, Porto, Portugal
- LAP, Unilabs, Porto, Portugal
- Lower Genital Tract Unit, Centro Hospitalar de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Bina Cohen-Sacher
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helen Schneider Hospital for Women, Rabin Medical Center, Petach Tikva, Israel
| | - Susana C A V Fialho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal Fluminense Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Colleen K Stockdale
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA
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13
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Hirschberg AL, Bitzer J, Cano A, Ceausu I, Chedraui P, Durmusoglu F, Erkkola R, Goulis DG, Kiesel L, Lopes P, Pines A, van Trotsenburg M, Lambrinoudaki I, Rees M. Topical estrogens and non-hormonal preparations for postmenopausal vulvovaginal atrophy: An EMAS clinical guide. Maturitas 2021; 148:55-61. [PMID: 33896654 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2021.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA) is a chronic condition caused by estrogen deficiency. It affects around 50% of postmenopausal women, reducing their general and sexual quality of life as well as the quality of their personal relationships. AIM The aim of this clinical guide is to set out an individualized approach to the management of VVA with topical estrogens and non-hormonal preparations. MATERIALS AND METHODS Literature review and consensus of expert opinion. SUMMARY RECOMMENDATIONS An individualized approach is required for the management of VVA. Topical low-dose estrogens are effective and also alleviate urinary incontinence and prevent recurrent urinary tract infections. Women should not be denied long-term use of topical estrogens as long as they feel that this treatment is of benefit to them, because the safety data are reassuring. Non-hormonal preparations (lubricants and moisturizers) should be the first-line treatment for VVA in women taking adjuvant endocrine therapies for cancers considered to be hormone-dependent. They can be used over the long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelica Lindén Hirschberg
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Johannes Bitzer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Antonio Cano
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Valencia and INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain
| | - Iuliana Ceausu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology I, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, "Dr. I. Cantacuzino" Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Peter Chedraui
- Instituto de Investigación e Innovación de Salud Integral (ISAIN), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Fatih Durmusoglu
- İstanbul Medipol International School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Risto Erkkola
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Central Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Dimitrios G Goulis
- Unit of Reproductive Endocrinology, First Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ludwig Kiesel
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Patrice Lopes
- Polyclinique de l'Atlantique Saint Herblain, F 44819 St Herblain France and Université de Nantes F 44093 Nantes Cedex, France
| | - Amos Pines
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Israel
| | - Mick van Trotsenburg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital St. Poelten-Lilienfeld, Austria
| | - Irene Lambrinoudaki
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece
| | - Margaret Rees
- Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
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