Ischemic colitis in postmenopausal women taking hormone replacement therapy

Background and aim. Estrogen and progestins have established effects on the gastrointestinal tract and ischemic colitis was related in the past with certain regimens including both hormones. On this basis, we aimed to evaluate a group of postmenopausal women who presented with ischemic colitis after taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for the last several months. Method. Postmenopausal women taking conjugated estrogens, conjugated estrogens plus medroxyprogesterone acetate, 17 beta-estradiol plus norethisterone and estradiol valerate plus norgestrel are included in the present study. All patients, without a medical history of bowel problems, reported an acute crisis of colitis a few months after the beginning of the treatment. Results. Fasting, parenteral nutrition, intravenous antibiotic treatment with metronidazole and discontinuation of HRT proved successful. Antibiotics were continued after the patients' discharge from the hospital. A second-look colonoscopy, 3 to 4 months after the initial episode, was normal in all cases. Conclusion. Ischemic colitis is a rare complication of HRT that should not be ignored when HRT is prescribed.