Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
摘要
Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is defined as irregular bleeding from the uterus, characterized by abnormalities in volume, duration, regularity, or frequency, in nonpregnant women of reproductive age. It is one of the most common gynecological symptoms. Although rarely life-threatening, AUB is frequently life-altering. It affects the quality of life, has significant psychological and social impacts, and places a large burden on domestic economy with women spending substantial personal resources on menstrual products and pharmaceuticals. The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) Menstrual Disorders Working Group proposed a new system of classification to standardize and unify terms, named PALM-COEIN (Polyp, Adenomyosis, Leiomyoma, Malignancy and hyperplasia (organic causes)-Coagulopathy, Ovulatory dysfunction, Endometrial, Iatrogenic, and Not yet classified (inorganic causes). Ultrasound is considered the first-line screening technique for AUB. The treatment will depend on the cause. The goal of initial therapy is to control the bleeding, treat anemia (if present), and restore quality of life. Medical therapy, with both hormonal and nonhormonal options, is the appropriate initial treatment for most women. Surgery for abnormal uterine bleeding without uterine pathology is reserved for cases of medical treatment failure, with endometrial resection/ablation and hysterectomy being the main procedures. Minimally invasive surgical procedures such as hysteroscopy and laparoscopic abdominal surgery (myomectomy or hysterectomy) are considered the most suitable options for organic entities.