Non-Chromosomal, Non-Iatrogenic Premature Ovarian Failure in an Adolescent Population: A Case Series

Abstract 

Study Objective

To review a cohort of patients with non-chromosomal, non-iatrogenic premature ovarian failure (POF) presenting to the Gynaecology Clinic of the Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne.

Design

Case series

Setting

The Department of Gynaecology, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.

Participants

Adolescent patients with non-chromosomal, non-iatrogenic premature ovarian failure

Results

Seventeen patients with non-chromosomal, non-iatrogenic POF were identified between 1990 and 2006. The average age at the time of diagnosis was 16.1 years. 58.8% (10/17) presented with primary amenorrhea, 23.5% (4/17) with secondary amenorrhea and 17.6% (3/17) with oligomenorrhea. 41.1% (7/17) were positive for anti-nucleic acid antibodies and one patient had antithyroid antibodies. Two sets of sisters were identified.

Conclusion

Non-chromosomal, non-iatrogenic POF in an adolescent population is poorly characterized and its incidence unknown. It most commonly presents as primary amenorrhea, but may also present as a disturbance in a previously established menstrual cycle. Like adult onset POF, there appears to be an association with autoimmune conditions although, in our population, overt autoimmune conditions were rare.

The occurrence of POF in two sets of sisters raises the possibility of a genetic basis of the condition being more significant in the younger age group, and provides an interesting cohort for further studies in the area.

Key Words: Premature ovarian failure, Adolescence, Menstruation disturbances