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Background
Abnormal uterine bleeding is a common presenting problem in the ED. Dysfunctional uterine
bleeding (DUB) is defined as abnormal uterine bleeding in the absence of organic disease.
Dysfunctional uterine bleeding is the most common cause of abnormal vaginal bleeding during a
woman's reproductive years. Dysfunctional uterine bleeding can have a substantial financial and
quality-of-life burden.[1] It affects women's health both medically and socially.
Pathophysiology
The normal menstrual cycle is 28 days and starts on the first day of menses. During the first 14
days (follicular phase) of the menstrual cycle, the endometrium thickens under the influence of
estrogen. In response to rising estrogen levels, the pituitary gland secretes follicle-stimulating
hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which stimulate the release of an ovum at the
midpoint of the cycle. The residual follicular capsule forms the corpus luteum.
After ovulation, the luteal phase begins and is characterized by production of progesterone from
the corpus luteum. Progesterone matures the lining of the uterus and makes it more receptive to
implantation. If implantation does not occur, in the absence of human chorionic gonadotropin
(hCG), the corpus luteum dies, accompanied by sharp drops in progesterone and estrogen levels.
Hormone withdrawal causes vasoconstriction in the spiral arterioles of the endometrium. This
leads to menses, which occurs approximately 14 days after ovulation when the ischemic
endometrial lining becomes necrotic and sloughs.[2]
Terms frequently used to describe abnormal uterine bleeding:
United States
Dysfunctional uterine bleeding is one of the most often encountered gynecologic problems. An
estimated 5% of women aged 30-49 years will consult a physician each year for the treatment of
menorrhagia. About 30% of all women report having had menorrhagia.[4]
International
No cultural predilection is present with this disease state.
Mortality/Morbidity
Morbidity is related to the amount of blood loss at the time of menstruation, which occasionally
is severe enough to cause hemorrhagic shock. Excessive menstrual bleeding accounts for two
thirds of all hysterectomies and most endoscopic endometrial destructive surgery. Menorrhagia
has several adverse effects, including anemia and iron deficiency, reduced quality of life, and
increased healthcare costs.[1]
Race
Dysfunctional uterine bleeding has no predilection for race; however, black women have a higher
incidence of leiomyomas and, as a result, they are prone to experiencing more episodes of
abnormal vaginal bleeding.
Age
Dysfunctional uterine bleeding is most common at the extreme ages of a woman's reproductive
years, either at the beginning or near the end, but it may occur at any time during her
reproductive life.