Abstract
BACKGROUND: Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is a prevalent clinical concern, particularly in women approaching or beyond menopause. With a myriad of possible etiologies ranging from benign hyperplasia to malignant transformations, accurate diagnosis becomes crucial. This study aims to examine the histopathological patterns of the endometrium in peri- and postmenopausal women presenting with abnormal uterine bleeding and correlate these findings with endometrial thickness (ET) measured by transvaginal sonography (TVS). METHODS: A retrospective cohort of 307 women aged 40 and above presenting with abnormal uterine bleeding was evaluated over a year period. Clinical history and transvaginal sonography findings were meticulously recorded. Endometrial samples obtained through biopsy or curettage were studied. The correlation between endometrial thickness and histological diagnosis was statistically analyzed using Mann-Whitney U Test and Chi square test, with a focus on distinguishing functional, benign, pre-malignant, and malignant endometrial pathologies. RESULTS: Endometrial polyp is the most frequent pattern in both perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. An ET > 11 mm in peri menopausal and postmenopausal women showed a strong association with hyperplasia and malignancy. This suggests that transvaginal sonography, as a non-invasive tool, can significantly guide diagnostic and management strategies when interpreted alongside clinical and histopathological parameters. CONCLUSION: Endometrial thickness serves as a valuable adjunct in the evaluation of abnormal uterine bleeding. However, the gold standard for a conclusive diagnosis is endometrial tissue biopsy. Integrating histopathology with imaging findings enhances diagnostic precision, allowing early identification of precancerous and cancerous lesions, especially in the postmenopausal cohort. Our study concludes that endometrial sample is recommended when ET > 11 mm in perimenopausal and ET > 5 mm in postmenopausal women, particularly when bleeding is persistent.