Aromatase inhibitors for the treatment of endometriosis

Objective: To review the use of aromatase inhibitors (AIs) for the treatment of endometriosis. Design: Literature review. Conclusion(s): Most studies show that in reproductive-age women, the combination of AI with conventional therapy alleviates endometriosis-related pain. In postmenopausal women, using an AI alone has been shown to be an effective treatment, although more studies are needed in this subgroup. Side effects of using AIs appear to be tolerable in most women, although special consideration should be given to monitoring bone mineral density. More studies need to be done examining pregnancy rates and outcomes after AI treatment for endometriosis. In addition, larger randomized clinical trials using AIs need to be done. In summary, AIs may be effective in treating endometriosis-related chronic pelvic pain in both reproductive-age and postmenopausal women. (Fertil Steril (R) 2012;98:1370-9. (C) 2012 by American Society for Reproductive Medicine.)