MEDICAL TREATMENT OF LEIOMYOMAS

Abstract

Leiomyomas are the most common benign gynecological tumors observed during the reproductive period. Although, they are exceedingly common, not all are symptomatic. Leiomyomas are of genetic or hormonal origin and have estrogen and progesterone receptors, making them sensitive to hormones. The main treatment for leiomyomas is surgery, but in women who are not willing to undergo surgery or who want to preserve their fertility, medical treatment options may be used. The main basis of medical treatment in leiomyomas are hormones due to positive response to anti-hormonal therapies. Medical treatment options comprise gonadotropin-releasing-hormone agonists and antagonists, aromatase inhibitors, and selective progesterone receptor modulators. In addition to controlling bleeding, these treatment regimens cause a decrease in the volume of the tumor. In this review, treatment options are discussed.