Summary
Epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFr) were studied by immunohistochemistry in human
myometrium and leiomyomas from women treated with the GnRH agonist (GnRH-a) goserelin.
The results were compared with those obtained from women not treated. Vessel cells
of leiomyomas and myometrium were always more immunoreactive than fibrocytes and myocites.
In fibroids from treated patients the histochemical score (HSCORE) of vessel cells
was always significantly lower (p < 0.001) than in control patients. Our data confirm
a role of EGF also in fibroid growth and suggest that, the blood supply reduction
associated with the volume reduction of these tumours, consequent to the GnRH-a treatment,
could be EGF mediated.
Key words
Fibroids - EGF - Angiogenesis - GnRH Agonist
