Residual clinical impact of estrogen therapy in postmenopausal

Abstract

Objetive: a) To determine residual estrogen plasma levels seven days after conclusion of estrogen administration in postmenopausal women. b) To confirm if there is any difference in plasma levels between oral (0, 625mg conjugated estrogen) and transdermal (50 mg 17 beta estradiol) administration. c) To assess the clinical impact of residual plasma levels with the Blatt Kupperman Postmenopausal Index (BKMI). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Measurements of estrogen plasma levels were done previous to treatment, and in the seventh day following two or four months treatment with oral and transdermal administration. Symptoms were assessed in each three instances. RESULTS: Estrogen plasma levels remain above basal levels aftertwo and fourmonths treatment. The BKMI decreases 70% independently of estrogen plasma levels and route of administration. Conclusions: Estrogen plasma levels remain above basal levels seven days after discontinuation of estrogen therapy, more so when administered transdermally, with marked symptomatology improvement as measured by BKMI, independent ofroute ofadministration and estrogen plasma levels. Key words: Postmenopause, climacteric, hormone re-placement therapy, Blatt Kupperman Index.