Efficacy of the LNG-IUS for treatment of endometrial hyperplasia and early stage endometrial cancer: Can biomarkers predict response?

Abstract

Endometrial Cancer (EC) is the most common gynaecologic malignancy in the developed world, and is increasing in premenopausal women. The surgical standard of care for early-stage EC is not possible in women with concurrent comorbidities or women who desire a fertility sparing approach. The Levonorgestrel Intrauterine System (LNG-IUS) is gaining traction as an alternative treatment for endometrial hyperplasia and early stage EC in inoperable women. Whilst early evidence appears promising, predictive biomarkers need to be established to determine non-responders, which make up one in three women. This timely review discusses the current literature around the identification of clinical, molecular and novel biomarkers that show potential to predict response to progesterone treatment, including the LNG-IUS.

Keywords

• Endometrial Cancer
• Endometrial Hyperplasia
• Levonorgestrel intrauterine system
• Mirena® Biomarker