Common Misdiagnoses of Metrorrhagia

Metrorrhagia is irregular uterine bleeding, usually occurring between a woman's menstrual periods. The average menstrual cycle occurs every 28 days, but it is not abnormal for a woman to experience a cycle every 21 days. Metrorrhagia may indicate certain underlying causes including cancer, endometriosis, hormonal imbalance, polyps or uterine fibroids. Other possible causes are abortion aftereffects, cervicitis, eptopic pregnancy (a fertilized egg in a place other than the uterus), infection or an STD such as syphilis. Anticoagulants, oral contraception and other drugs may also lead to the condition.

In addition to bleeding between periods, those suffering with metrorrhagia may experience bleeding after sex, heavy bleeding with clots, bleeding more than seven days or bleeding after menopause. A proper diagnosis of metrorrhagia will help a physician determine any underlying cause. This is imperative in a case of cancer, an infection or an eptopic pregnancy, any of which can lead to serious complications or even death.

Proper Diagnosis of Metrorrhagia

A proper diagnosis of metrorrhagia entails a physical examination as well as a medical history. A doctor may inquire about the regularity of a woman's menstrual cycle, how heavy the flow is, any abnormal vaginal discharges (which may indicate infection), birth control usage, sexual habits, drug use and any habit that may adversely affect the menstrual cycle.

Certain diagnostic tests may be performed including a pap smear, a pelvic ultrasound and an endometrial biopsy, which entails a sample taken from the uterus and assessed for possible cancer. A pregnancy test will be given as well and lab tests such as thyroid function tests or CBC may be requested. The goal is to determine the underlying cause.

Treatment for Metrorrhagia

Treatment for metrorrhagia depends on the hidden condition causing the abnormal bleeding. Depending on the cause, treatment may include a prescription of oral contraception, progestogens or anti-inflammatory medication. Other possible treatments include:

• Depo provera
• Dilatation and curettage
• Endometrial ablation
• Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonists
• Goserelin
• Hysterectomy
• Hysteroscopic myomectomy
• Norethisterone
• Tranexamic acid
• Uterine artery embolisation

Misdiagnosis of Metrorrhagia

Because metrorrhagia may point to various serious underlying conditions, it is imperative that it is diagnosed properly and in a timely fashion. However, the symptoms may be mistaken for other bleeding disorders such as Von Willebrand's disease, which is common in women and can lead to heavy periods. The condition may also be mistaken as a pelvic inflammatory disease. Improper diagnosis can lead to over-treatment such as an unnecessary hysterectomy. Undertreatment, conversely, can lead to a virulent condition going unchecked and forcing the need for more aggressive intervention.

Talk to an Attorney

If you have been harmed because of misdiagnosed metrorrhagia, you may have a cause of action for medical malpractice. If this is the case, you have the right to recover damages arising from the malpractice including additional medical costs and any lost wages. In some cases you may also recover compensation for pain and suffering. Talk with an experienced medical malpractice attorney to discuss your case.