Impact of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus on Ovarian Reserve in Premenopausal Women before Receiving Cyclophosphamide Therapy: Evaluation Using Anti-Müllerian Hormone

Abstract

Introduction: Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) is shown to be a possible indicator of ovarian function. Severe systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients exposed to high-dose cyclophosphamide (CTX) have a much higher risk of developing infertility and premature ovarian failure. Therefore, we performed a prospective case-control study to evaluate the impact of SLE on women’s ovarian reserve using AMH before CTX therapy. Methods: SLE patients before receiving CTX therapy were enrolled in our hospital. Age-matched healthy women were served as controls. Serum AMH level was measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Basal hormone levels were measured including follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and estradiol on the third day of their menstrual periods. All participants underwent transvaginal ultrasonographic examination for the determination of total antral follicle count on the third day. Results: AMH value in SLE patients was significantly lower compared to healthy control with normal ovarian reserve. No significant difference in AMH levels was found between SLE and healthy control with low ovarian reserve. Conclusions: SLE patients not receiving CTX therapy even with normal menstruation, still had an impaired ovarian reserve. Therefore, early monitoring of AMH levels could better reflect the ovarian function and reproductive outcomes of SLE patients and relative protective strategy needed to reserve fertility.