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Therapeutic Choices for Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) in Breast Cancer Survivors: A Systematic Review and Update

Authors :
Lucia Merlino
Giulia D’Ovidio
Viviana Matys
Maria Grazia Piccioni
Maria Grazia Porpora
Roberto Senatori
Maria Federica Viscardi
Antonio Vitale
Carlo Della Rocca
on behalf of Policlinico Umberto I Collaborators
Source :
Pharmaceuticals, Vol 16, Iss 4, p 550 (2023)
Publication Year :
2023
Publisher :
MDPI AG, 2023.

Abstract

(1) Background: Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is a medical condition that can affect breast cancer survivors (BCS). This is a complication that often can occur as a result of breast cancer treatment, causing symptoms such as vaginal dryness, itching, burning, dyspareunia, dysuria, pain, discomfort, and impairment of sexual function. BCS who experience these symptoms negatively impact multiple aspects of their quality of life to the point that some of them fail to complete adjuvant hormonal treatment; (2) Methods: In this systematic review of the literature, we have analyzed possible pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments for GSM in BCS. We reviewed systemic hormone therapy, local hormone treatment with estrogens and androgens, the use of vaginal moisturizers and lubricants, ospemifene, and physical therapies such as radiofrequency, electroporation, and vaginal laser; (3) Results: The data available to date demonstrate that the aforementioned treatments are effective for the therapy of GSM and, in particular, vulvovaginal atrophy in BCS. Where possible, combination therapy often appears more useful than using a single line of treatment; (4) Conclusions: We analyzed the efficacy and safety data of each of these options for the treatment of GSM in BCS, emphasizing how often larger clinical trials with longer follow-ups are needed.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
14248247
Volume :
16
Issue :
4
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Pharmaceuticals
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.0700a44e250c4d908882854568b917f3
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3390/ph16040550