Pharmacological options for the protection of ovarian function in patients undergoing chemotherapy

Authors

  • Matthys Hennie Botha University of Stellenbosch

Keywords:

protection of ovarian function, pharmacological options, chemotherapy, radiotherapy

Abstract

Chemotherapy, particularly alkylating agents, can be toxic to germ cells, and may lead to treatment amenorrhoea in young women. The age at which chemotherapy is administered is a strong predictor of subsequent premature ovarian failure, with older patients being at the highest risk. Smaller primordial follicles may survive the insult of chemotherapy better, and the suppression of follicle development may protect the germ cell pool. The suppression of follicle development by gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonists (or antagonists) or combined oral contraceptives has been reported in the literature. The results are promising, but conflicting reports on the protection makes further studies essential.

Author Biography

  • Matthys Hennie Botha, University of Stellenbosch
    MBChB, MMed (O&G), FCOG (SA), PhD Associate Professor and Head Unit for Gynaecological Oncology Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences University of Stellenbosch Tygerberg

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Published

2015-02-17

Issue

Vol. 7 No. 1 (2015)

Section

Review Articles

License

South African Journal of Gynaecological Oncology (SAJGO) Copyright is held by South African Society of Gynaecologic Oncology (SASGO). Copyright of the articles is held by the authors. The work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Non-Commercial Works 4.0 South Africa License (CC BY NC). Material submitted for publication in the SAJGO is accepted provided it has not been published elsewhere. The SAJGO does not hold itself responsible for statements made by the authors. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. They do no purport to reflect the opinions or views of SASGO or its members.