Amenorrhea Flashcards
(17 cards)
What is amenorrhoea?
The absence of menstrual periods
Amenorrhoea can be classified into primary and secondary types.
What are the two main types of amenorrhoea?
Primary and secondary
Each type has its own potential causes and diagnostic considerations.
What is crucial for evaluating a patient with amenorrhoea?
A meticulously obtained history and comprehensive examination
Historical details can provide crucial clues to underlying aetiology.
What aspects should be included in the history of a patient with amenorrhoea?
- Developmental history
- Cyclical symptoms
- Chronic illness history
- Weight fluctuations
- Exercise habits
- Contraceptive use
- Reproductive history
- Menopausal symptoms
- Family history
- Medication intake
Each of these factors can indicate different underlying causes.
What signs may suggest hormonal imbalances or tumours in amenorrhoea patients?
Virilizing signs or galactorrhoea
Galactorrhoea refers to nipple discharge not related to breastfeeding.
What symptoms could indicate polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)?
- Hirsutism
- Acne
Hirsutism is excessive hair growth, while acne can be a common symptom of hormonal imbalances.
In evaluating primary amenorrhoea, what specific history is important?
Developmental history
This reflects the production of sexual hormones.
What can excessive weight loss or eating disorders lead to in terms of menstruation?
Absence of menses
These factors can disrupt the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis.
Why is a detailed contraceptive history necessary in cases of amenorrhoea?
Menses occurring solely on exogenous hormones may mask underlying primary amenorrhoea
Understanding contraceptive use helps clarify the menstrual history.
What familial component might be relevant in primary amenorrhoea?
Family history of premature menopause
This may indicate a risk of premature ovarian failure.
What medications can inhibit the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis?
Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogues
These medications can affect menstrual cycles.
What is a common cause of secondary amenorrhoea?
Pregnancy
Pregnancy is the most common reason women experience secondary amenorrhoea.
What surgical history is important to explore in secondary amenorrhoea?
Previous genital tract surgery
This includes procedures like intrauterine instrumentation or LLETZ.
What menopausal symptoms should be inquired about during secondary amenorrhoea evaluation?
- Night sweats
- Hot flushes
These symptoms could indicate premature ovarian insufficiency.
What type of drug history is particularly relevant in secondary amenorrhoea?
History of dopamine antagonists used for psychiatric conditions
These medications can affect menstrual cycles.
What recent issues should be explored in secondary amenorrhoea cases?
Eating issues or excessive exercise
These factors remain relevant as they can impact menstrual health.
What gynaecological history details may provide insights in secondary amenorrhoea?
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Prior intrauterine device (IUCD) use
These conditions can have implications for menstrual health.
