Uterine leiomyoma in relation to insulin like growth factor-1

Background: uterine leiomyoma is a very common benign smooth muscle tumor of the uterus. it isthe most frequent benign neoplasm in women of reproductive age and could have a harmful impact on the reproductive system. insulin-like growth factor-i (igf-i) plays a vital role in the pathogenesis of fibroids. aim: to find out the relationship of uterine leiomyoma with insulin like growth factor -1. study design: cross sectional study methods: a cross sectional study for duration of 6 months (may 2013- nov 2013) was designed. 50 women with uterine fibroids (confirmed by usg) with age range of 25-50 years with confirmed report of fibroid usg,were included in the study. a group of 50 women with no history of disease were taken as controls. level of plasma igf-1 was measured by elisa. results: about 44% cases and 11% controls had irregular menstrual cycle. an average of two fibroids was noted. about 54% women have small size fibroid (<2cm) and 46% have large size fibroid. intramural fibroid was observed in 78% and subserosal in 22%. level of plasma igf-1 was significantly increased in patients as compared to controls. conclusion: it is concluded that there is a direct relationship of uterine leiomyomata with igf-1. however,more research is needed to find out the association of igf-1with the onset of myoma and its growth.