Mechanisms of premature ovarian failure: reappraisal and overview.

摘要

OBJECTIVE: To present an overview of the potential etiologies of premature ovarian failure (POF), with an emphasis on the chromosomal abnormalities, gene mutations and autoimmune disorders. STUDY DESIGN: This article is based on a literature review of articles on POF using PubMed and MEDLINE for the years 1966-2005 using the keywords premature ovarian failure, trying to ascertain the possible mechanisms of POF reported to date. RESULTS: The etiology of POF is still under investigation, even though a wide range of etiologies has been unveiled, encompassing genetic mutations, chromosomal abnormalities, autoimmune disorders, and iatrogenic (irradiation, chemotherapy) and idiopathic causes. CONCLUSION: In the majority of POF cases, the etiology remains subtle.