A randomized, controlled clinical trial comparing the effects of aromatase inhibitor (letrozole) and gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (triptorelin) on uterine leiomyoma volume and hormonal status

Objective

To examine and compare the efficacy and safety of GnRH agonist (GnRHa) vs. aromatase inhibitor in premenopausal women with leiomyomas.

Design

Multicenter, randomized, controlled clinical trial.

Setting

University hospitals.

Patient(s)

A total of 70 subjects with a single uterine myoma measuring ≥5 cm. Subjects were randomized into two groups with use of a random table. They were treated with aromatase inhibitor (group A) or GnRHa (group B).

Intervention(s)

Group A received letrozole (2.5 mg/d) for 12 weeks. Group B received triptorelin (3.75 mg/mo) for 12 weeks.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Measurement of myoma volume and E₂, FSH, LH, and T levels.

Result(s)

Total myoma volume decreased by 45.6% in group A and 33.2% in group B. Reductions in myoma volume in the two groups were statistically significant. There was no significant change in hormonal milieu in group A. The serum level of hormones significantly decreased in group B by the 12th week of treatment.

Conclusion(s)

Uterine myoma volume was successfully reduced by use of an aromatase inhibitor. Rapid onset of action and avoidance of initial gonadotropin flare with an aromatase inhibitor may be advantageous for short-term management of women with myomas of any size who are to be managed transiently and who wish to avoid surgical intervention, specifically women with unexplained infertility having uterine myoma.

Key Words: Uterus, myoma, medical therapy, aromatose inhibitor, GnRha