Alicia, a 29-year-old female, complained of cramping in the abdomen with severe, dull, aching pain. She has been generally healthy and has no other health concerns or physical findings by her health clinician. A laparoscopic exam was ordered and revealed the presence of ectopic endometrial tissue on the outside of the uterine wall, ovaries, and even some on the lower loops of the intestinal tract. Stacy was prescribed a lengthy course of oral Danazol or Danocrine (a synthetic androgen that inhibits gonadotropins) 800 mg/day to suppress the growth of abnormal endometrial tissue and provide symptomatic relief. Danazol is described in the literature as a “GnRH (Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone) agonist”. What is an “agonist” and what is its purpose for Alicia’s treatment?
Story:
Alicia, a 29-year-old female, complained of cramping in the abdomen with severe, dull, aching pain. She has been generally healthy and has no other health concerns or physical findings by her health clinician. A laparoscopic exam was ordered and revealed the presence of ectopic endometrial tissue on the outside of the uterine wall, ovaries, and even some on the lower loops of the intestinal tract. Stacy was prescribed a lengthy course of oral Danazol or Danocrine (a synthetic androgen that inhibits gonadotropins) 800 mg/day to suppress the growth of abnormal endometrial tissue and provide symptomatic relief.
- Danazol is described in the literature as a “GnRH (Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone) agonist”. What is an “agonist” and what is its purpose for Alicia’s treatment?
In the given case, the condition suffered by the patient is known as endometriosis. Endometriosis is a painful condition in which the endometrium, the tissue that typically borders the inside of the uterus, develops outside the uterus. The ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the tissue that forms the pelvis are most frequently involved in endometriosis. Pain and menstrual complications are the most frequent symptoms associated with this condition.
Endometriosis, which affects up to 10-15% of females, is a specific hormone imbalance. Elevated concentrations of the hormone estrogen have been associated with endometriosis. This hormone is liable for the monthly menstrual cycle, which thickens the endometrium. Certain women may also have a disorder called estrogen dominance, which is also a potential cause of endometriosis.
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