Neuroendocrine disorders in women with epilepsy depending on anticonvulsants intake

Aim. To assess the influence of epilepsy and anticonvulsants on central control of hormone release and ovarian function in women of reproductive age. Methods. The reproductive and endocrine functions were assessed in 82 female patients with epilepsy, of whom 37 did not receive anticonvulsants (first group), 45 patients were on anticonvulsant treatment (second group). 17 healthy females (control group) were also assessed. Serum levels of estradiol, progesterone, prolactin, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone and dehydroepiandrosterone were estimated during follicular (n=48) and luteal (n=34) stages of menstrual cycle. Results. Estradiol serum level was below normal ranges, and prolactin serum level - above normal limits at follicular stage of menstrual cycle in female patients not treated with anticonvulsants. In luteal phase serum levels of estradiol, progesterone, dehydroepiandrosterone exceeded the reference ranges, and testosterone levels were lower than normal in both patients treated and not treated with anticonvulsants. Comparison of two groups showed that estradiol serum level was lower in untreated patients in both stages of menstrual cycle compared to patients treated with anticonvulsants. There was a marked difference in endocrine function at all levels of reproductive neuroendocrine regulation in untreated female patients compared to female patients treated with anticonvulsants with major transformations in female patients with epilepsy not treated with anticonvulsants. Conclision. Epilepsy and treatment with anticonvulsants can influence the central regulation of hormone release in females.