-IBIS-1.5.0-
tx
reproductive system
menorrhagia
diagnoses

definition and etiology

definition:
Also called hypermenorrhea or menostaxis; is excessively prolonged or profuse menses.

etiology:
This condition falls under a broader category of "abnormal bleeding", (prolonged, excessive, irregular with regard to time of the cycle or time of life). It is important (although seemingly obvious) in the diagnosis to determine if the bleeding is coming from the vagina and not the urethra or the rectum.
There are many causes which are so varied that they may be treated as separate conditions.
• DUB: "dysfunctional uterine bleeding" describes abnormal uterine bleeding not associated with tumor, inflammation, or pregnancy. Commonly caused by unopposed estrogen stimulation from a tumor or disease condition. This causes the endometrial tissue to hypertrophy and eventually to begin sloughing and bleeding.

signs and symptoms

signs and symptoms:
• excessive bleeding during menses

lab findings:
• CBC, platelet count, clotting factors
• ovulation testing
• thyroid, estrogen, progesterone levels
• D&C, especially in older patients

course and prognosis

Usually responds well to treatment of the underlying condition. Conventionally, hysterectomy may be a later option.

differential diagnosis

• endometrial carcinoma
• IUD damage
• endometriosis
• estrogen therapy
• uterine myomas
• tubal or ovarian carcinoma
• blood coagulation disorders
• bleeding due to the complications of pregnancy
• DUB


footnotes