What Causes Cystic Endometrial Hyperplasia

Endometrial hyperplasia is a medical condition where the endometrium, or the lining of the uterus, gets thicker than it should be. This can cause abnormal bleeding and sometimes lead to cancer. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about endometrial hyperplasia, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

Tamoxifenassociated Endometrial Changes Ultrasound

One of the causes of endometrial hyperplasia is tamoxifen, a medication used to treat breast cancer. Tamoxifen-associated endometrial changes can be detected through an ultrasound. This is known as tamoxifen-associated endometrial changes ultrasound, or TAEC ultrasound for short. TAEC ultrasound is a non-invasive technique that can accurately diagnose endometrial hyperplasia.

TAEC ultrasound is particularly useful in detecting hyperplasia caused by tamoxifen, as this type of hyperplasia is typically difficult to detect through other methods. However, it is important to note that TAEC ultrasound is not foolproof and may miss some cases of endometrial hyperplasia.

What Causes Endometrial Hyperplasia?

Aside from tamoxifen use, there are many other causes of endometrial hyperplasia. One of the most common is an excess of the hormone estrogen. Estrogen stimulates the growth of the endometrium, and an excess of it can cause the lining to become thicker than it should be.

Other hormonal imbalances can also cause endometrial hyperplasia. For example, the hormone progesterone helps to regulate the growth of the endometrium. If there is not enough progesterone in the body, the endometrium can grow unchecked, leading to hyperplasia.

There are also some lifestyle factors that can increase the risk of endometrial hyperplasia. Obesity, for example, can cause an excess of estrogen in the body, leading to the thickening of the endometrium. A sedentary lifestyle can also contribute to the development of hyperplasia.

Symptoms of Endometrial Hyperplasia

The most common symptom of endometrial hyperplasia is abnormal uterine bleeding. This can take the form of heavy or prolonged periods, irregular periods or bleeding between periods. Some women with endometrial hyperplasia may also experiencing spotting or bleeding after menopause.

Other symptoms of endometrial hyperplasia can include pelvic pain or pressure, cramping, and discomfort during sexual intercourse. However, these symptoms are much less common and are typically only seen in more advanced cases of the condition.

Treatment Options for Endometrial Hyperplasia

If you have been diagnosed with endometrial hyperplasia, there are a number of treatment options available to you. The best course of treatment will depend on the cause and severity of your hyperplasia, as well as your overall health and medical history.

One common treatment option for endometrial hyperplasia is a procedure called a dilation and curettage, or D&C for short. This involves dilating the cervix and removing the excess endometrial tissue. This can be done in a doctor's office or under general anesthesia, depending on the severity of the hyperplasia.

In some cases, hormone therapy may be used to treat endometrial hyperplasia. This can involve taking progesterone supplements to help regulate the growth of the endometrium, or taking medications to reduce the amount of estrogen in the body.

In more severe cases of endometrial hyperplasia, a hysterectomy may be necessary. This involves the surgical removal of the uterus and is typically a last resort option for those who have not responded well to other treatments.

Conclusion

Endometrial hyperplasia is a condition that can cause a number of uncomfortable symptoms and lead to cancer if left untreated. However, with proper diagnosis and treatment, it is possible to successfully manage the condition. If you are experiencing abnormal uterine bleeding or other symptoms of endometrial hyperplasia, be sure to seek medical attention right away.