Effect of actinomycin D on ovarian reserve in low-risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia

Int J Gynecol Cancer. 2023 Aug 7;33(8):1222-1226. doi: 10.1136/ijgc-2023-004292.

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to explore the single-agent chemotherapy actinomycin D on ovarian reserve by measuring the anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels before, during, and after chemotherapy.

Methods: This study recruited premenopausal women aged 15 to 45 with a newly diagnosed low-risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia needing actinomycin D. AMH was measured at baseline, during chemotherapy, and 1, 3, and 6 months after the last chemotherapy. The reproductive outcomes were also documented.

Results: Of the 42 women recruited, we analyzed 37 (median: 29 years; range 19-45) with a complete dataset. The follow-up was 36 months (range 34-39). Actinomycin D significantly decreased AMH concentrations during treatment, from 2.38±0.92 ng/mL to 1.02±0.96 ng/mL (p<0.05). Partial recovery was seen at 1 month and 3 months after treatment. Full recovery was reached 6 months after treatment among patients younger than 35 years. The only factor correlated with the extent of AMH reduction at 3 months was age (r=0.447, p<0.05). Notably, the number of courses of actinomycin D was not associated with the extent of AMH reduction. A total of 18 (90%) of 20 patients who had a desire to conceive had live births with no adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Conclusion: Actinomycin D has a transient and minor effect on ovarian function. Age is the only factor that impacts the patient's rate of recovery. Patients will achieve favorable reproductive outcomes after actinomycin D treatment.

Keywords: Gestational Trophoblastic Disease.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Mullerian Hormone
  • Dactinomycin / therapeutic use
  • Female
  • Gestational Trophoblastic Disease* / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Ovarian Reserve*
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Outcome

Substances

  • Dactinomycin
  • Anti-Mullerian Hormone