Korean J Fam Med.  2009 Sep;30(9):723-727. 10.4082/kjfm.2009.30.9.723.

One Case of Malignant Mixed Mullerian Tumor Developed in a Postmenopausal Woman under Hormone Therapy

• Hwang IC
• Kuk MJ
• Kim KK
• Lee KB
• Na SY
• Lee KS
• Suh HS

• KMID: 2235650
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4082/kjfm.2009.30.9.723

Abstract

Hormone therapy for peri- and postmenopausal women is widely used for relieving vasomotor symptoms or preventing osteoporosis. Even though exogenous hormone is the most common cause of vaginal bleeding in postmenopausal women under hormone therapy, in clinical practice, physicians must never exclude the possibility of endometrial disorders, such as endometrial hyperplasia or cancer. Taking thorough medical history and performing physical and pelvic examinations are essential for the evaluation of abnormal uterine bleeding in menopausal hormone therapy. Transvaginal ultrasonography, endometrial aspiration biopsy, dilatation and curettage, and hysteroscopy are the options which physicians may use. This case is about a woman with continuous combined hormone therapy for 5 years who had experienced rather sudden onset of vaginal spotting lasting for several months and was finally diagnosed as having malignant mixed Mullerian tumor. Our purpose is to inquire into the proper approaching steps for vaginal bleeding in menopausal hormone therapy.

Keyword

Hormone Therapy; Abnormal Uterine Bleeding; Malignant Mixed Mullerian Tumor

MeSH Terms

Biopsy, Needle
Dilatation and Curettage
Endometrial Hyperplasia
Female
Gynecological Examination
Humans
Hysteroscopy
Metrorrhagia
Osteoporosis
Uterine Hemorrhage