1Dr. Rabia, 2Fazilat Jamala, 3Umar Shahzad, 4Hadi Kamran, , 5Dr Samra Ismat, 6Mohib Ali, 7Kashif Lodhi
1Senior registrar, Ali Fatima Hospital Abu Umara Medical and Dental College Lahore
2North West General Hospital & Research Center
3PIMS
4PIMS
5Associate Professor of Gynaecology, Abu Umara Medical College Lahore
6PIMS
7Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences. Università Politécnica delle Marche Via Brecce Bianche 10, 60131 Ancona (AN) Italy
ABSTRACT:
Background: Heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) is a common gynecological concern, especially among women aged 35 years and older. Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective management. Ultrasound (USG) has emerged as a valuable tool for assessing the underlying causes of HMB.
Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of USG in diagnosing the causes of HMB in women aged over 35 years presenting in a gynecology outpatient department (OPD).
Methods: A retrospective analysis of medical records of 300 women aged 35 and above presenting with HMB at a gynecology OPD was conducted. USG findings, including endometrial thickness, uterine abnormalities, and ovarian pathology, were assessed. The results were correlated with subsequent diagnostic procedures or interventions.
Results: USG was found to be a valuable diagnostic tool, with 82% sensitivity and 90% specificity in identifying the causes of HMB in this age group. The most common findings included endometrial thickening (28%), fibroids (22%), and polyps (15%). Subsequent management decisions were significantly influenced by USG findings.
Conclusion: USG is a reliable and non-invasive method for diagnosing the causes of HMB in women aged over 35 years. Early detection and accurate diagnosis through USG can guide appropriate management strategies and improve the overall quality of care for these patients.
Keywords: Heavy menstrual bleeding, ultrasound, gynecology, diagnosis, women, age, outpatient department.