Are endometrial polyps from pre-menopausal women similar to post-menopausal women? An immunohistochemical comparison of endometrial polyps from pre- and post-menopausal women

ObjectiveDo endometrial polyps from pre- and post-menopausal women have similar immunohistochemical expression of oestrogen and progesterone receptors (ER, PR) and markers of cellular proliferation/apoptosis (Ki67 and Bcl-2).DesignProspective cohort study. Non-parametric statistical analysis was used.SettingPolyps recruited from women attending an out-patient hysteroscopy clinic in a UK district general hospital.PatientsFourteen pre-menopausal and 16 post-menopausal women who presented with abnormal bleeding with endometrial polyps.InterventionsImmunohistochemical staining was performed on endometrial polyps.Main outcome measuresSignificant differences or correlations between hormone receptor expression (oestrogen and progesterone) and cell growth indices (Ki67 and Bcl-2).ResultsEndometrial polyps from pre- and post-menopausal women had significant differences in their expression of hormone receptors and Ki67. However, polyps from both groups of women had similarly increased levels of Bcl-2, an inhibitor of apoptosis.ConclusionsPre- and post-menopausal polyps exhibit differing hormone receptor and proliferation markers, presumably a result of their hormonal milieu. However, both groups appear to have lost the usual control mechanisms for apoptotic regulation, this appears to be responsible for their growth.