Research Journal of Medical Sciences

Year: 2013
Volume: 7
Issue: 5
Page No. 134 - 147

The Endocrine Causes of Amenorrhoea-Abnormalities in the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Ovarian Axis: A Review

Authors : Gabriela Camilleri

Abstract: Menstruation depends on the presence of an intact uterus and vagina and on the presence of a functioning hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. Failure in any of these will invariably lead to a menstrual disorder like amenorrhoea or oligomenorrhoea. This review will focus on amenorrhoea, the absence of menses and the endocrine causes that could be responsible for it. In the first part of the review, an outline of the hormonal regulation of menstruation is given followed by a definition of primary and secondary amenorrhoea. Following this will be a detailed systematic evaluation of the conditions that lead to hormonal disturbances of the menstrual cycle, starting with conditions affecting the hypothalamus, pituitary and finally the ovaries. A brief outline of other endocrine disorders that can lead to amenorrhoea and menstrual cycle disturbances, like thyroid and adrenal disorders can also be found in this review. This study will conclude with an evaluation of the patient presenting with amenorrhoea the history, physical examination and laboratory tests that need to be done in specific clinical situations.

How to cite this article:

Gabriela Camilleri , 2013. The Endocrine Causes of Amenorrhoea-Abnormalities in the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Ovarian Axis: A Review. Research Journal of Medical Sciences, 7: 134-147.

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