[The effects of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) on lipid metabolism in the menopause].

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS

During menopause the number of cardiovascular attacks increases parallel to the elimination of estradiol production. The administration of the latter reverses this tendency owing to a compound mechanism (improved HDL) cholesterol/total cholesterol ratio, diminished vasal resistance).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The authors present a study performed in 34 patients in menopause receiving oestroprogestinic replacement therapy using an oral or transdermal route. Metabolic status (serum concentrations of total cholesterol (TC) and HDL cholesterol (C.HDL) was evaluated in all patients before treatment and after 12 months.

RESULTS

A statistically significant positive correlation (p < 0.0001) was found between the use of oestrogen and serum levels of HDL. This correlation appeared to be more evident in patients using transdermal treatment compared to the oral form.

CONCLUSIONS

The authors conclude that in the absence of contraindications, hormone replacement therapy in menopause exercises a beneficial effect on the lipid status, contributing to diminishing the risk of cardiovascular attacks. The possibility of an increased incidence of breast cancer is now being evaluated, whereas effective protection of the endometrium against the risk of hyperplasia and cancer was shown using the doses of progestin used in this study, which coincide with those currently prescribed in the literature.