Inverse relationship between the changes in trunk lean and fat mass during gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist therapy

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between the changes in lean and fat mass during gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH agonist) therapy. Methods: Subjects were 24 premenopausal women (mean age, 39.5±9.4 years; range, 32–52 years) with uterine leiomyomas. They were given GnRH agonist (leuprorelin acetate, 3.75 mg) monthly for 4 months. Age and height were recorded. Body weight, regional and total body composition, and the ratio of trunk fat mass to leg fat mass (trunk–leg fat ratio) were assessed by whole body scanning with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Changes in these variables were investigated. Relationships between the changes in regional lean and fat mass were investigated using Pearson's correlation test. Results: Trunk fat mass significantly increased from 8616±3538 to 9265±3526 g ( P<0.01) and trunk–leg fat ratio significantly increased (1.02±0.39 to 1.07±0.39, P<0.05). Trunk lean mass significantly decreased from 18,509±2602 to 17,916±2402 g ( P<0.01). However, body weight, and lean and fat mass component in the extremities did not change. Change in trunk fat mass was inversely correlated with change in trunk lean mass ( r=−0.439, P<0.05), but such relationships were not observed in arm and leg regions. Conclusion: Inverse relationship between the changes in trunk lean and fat mass is observed during GnRH agonist therapy.