Endoscopy 1982; 14(6): 209-211
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1021623
© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Laparoscopy, Ovarian and Endometrial Biopsies in Secondary Amenorrhea

J.A. Poruondo, R.F. Tejada, J.A. Benito, F.J. Bilbao
  • Ciudad Sanitaria “Enrique Sotomayor”. University of Bilbao School of Medicine. Cruces-Bilbao (Spain)
Human Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Pathology. Ciudad Sanitaria “Enrique Sotomayor” University of Bilbao School of Medicine. Cruces-Bilbao (Spain)
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
17 March 2008 (online)

Summary

A series of 114 patients complaining of secondary amenorrhea underwent laparoscopy and ovarian biopsy to evaluate ovarian function. Endometrial biopsy were performed on 81 patients. Smooth-inactive and polycystic-sclerocystic ovaries are the two more frequent gross ovarian findings. Normal ovarian histology was found in 61 % of the series, Stein-Leventhal in 17 % and ovarian fibrosis in 22 %. Atrophic wrinkled ovaries should be biopsied to identify possible ovarian failure. Sclerocysticpolycystic, smooth-inactive, and normally active ovaries are not recommended for biopsy, since equally valuable information may be obtained from the gross ovarian appearance. Proliferative and atrophic endometrium are the two most frequent pathologic reports in secondary amenorrhea patients. Laparoscopic gross ovarian appearance, ovarian biopsy and endometrial biopsy should be considered as an alternative in the diagnostic management of patients with secondary amenorrhea, when sophisticated laboratory assays are not readily available.