Ovarian Morphology and Menstrual Cycle of Reproductive Age Women Receiving Anti-Epilepsy Medication

항경련제 투여를 받는 가임기 간질 여성의 난소의 형태 및 월경주기에 관한 연구

Background : An increased frequency of reproductive endocrine disorders and polycystic ovary(PCO) has been reported in women with epilepsy. A possible role of the seizure disorder or, of the use of antiepileptic drugs(AEDs) has been suggested as the pathogenic mechanism. The objective of the present study was to assess the prevalence of reproductive endocrine disorders, such as PCO or menstrual abnormalities, in a series of women with epilepsy, examining the possible relationships of these disturbances with different epilepsy syndromes and AED treatment. Methods : Thirty epileptic women, all of reproductive age and none pubertal, pregnant, or lactating, were evaluated by clinical endocrinological assessment, and pelvic ultrasonography. Seven patients were on valproic acid(VPA), nineteen on carbamazepine(CBZ), and four on diphenylhydantoin(DPH) treatment, respectively. Results : Menstrual irregularity was observed in 8 women(26.7%), dysmenorrhea in 7(23.3%), and premenstrual syndrome in 1(3.3%). Ultrasonographic examination revealed that one women(3.3%) showed polycystic ovary, 4(13.3%) had ovarian cyst(s), and 2(6.7%) had uterine myoma, respectively. There was no difference in the prevalence of menstrual abnormalities or polycystic ovary according to the different preparations of AEDs. Conclusions : Data from this investigation suggest that, in Korean reproductive age women, the treatment of AEDs and the kind of medication may not have a significant effect on the prevalence of menstrual abnormalities or ultrasonographic polycystic ovary.