Post-Menopausal Bleeding: Role of Imaging

Semin Ultrasound CT MR. 2023 Dec;44(6):519-527. doi: 10.1053/j.sult.2023.10.003. Epub 2023 Oct 11.

Abstract

Post-menopausal bleeding (PMB) accounts for 5% of gynecologic office visits and is the presenting symptom in 90% of women with endometrial cancer, which requires prompt evaluation. The most common etiology of PMB is vaginal or endometrial atrophy and endometrial polyps, while endometrial hyperplasia and carcinoma account for less than 10% of PMB. Transvaginal ultrasonography measurement of an endometrial thickness (EMT) less than or equal to 4 mm has a 99% negative predictive value for endometrial carcinoma. Endometrial sampling is required if EMT >4 mm or persistent bleeding occurs. Further evaluation can be accomplished with saline infusion sonography, magnetic resonance imaging, and hysteroscopy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Endometrial Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Endometrium / diagnostic imaging
  • Endometrium / pathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Postmenopause
  • Ultrasonography / methods
  • Uterine Hemorrhage / diagnostic imaging
  • Uterine Hemorrhage / etiology
  • Uterine Neoplasms*