Ovarian insufficiency and fertility preservation during and after childhood cancer treatment

Authors: FOSTER, KAYLA - Texas Children'S Hospital; LEE, DANIELLE - Children'S Nutrition Research Center (CNRC); WITCHEL, SELMA - University Of Pittsburgh; GORDON, CATHERINE - Children'S Nutrition Research Center (CNRC)

Submitted to: Journal of Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology
Publication Type: Review Article
Publication Acceptance Date: 10/21/2023
Publication Date: 1/24/2024
Citation: Foster, K.L., Lee, D.J., Witchel, S.F., Gordon, C.M. 2024. Ovarian insufficiency and fertility preservation during and after childhood cancer treatment. Journal of Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology. https://doi.org/10.1089/jayao.2023.0111.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1089/jayao.2023.0111

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is one of many potential long-term consequences of childhood cancer treatment in adolescent girls and young adults. Causes of POI in these patients can include chemotherapy, especially alkylating agents, and radiation therapy. POI can manifest as delayed pubertal development, irregular menses or amenorrhea, and infertility. This diagnosis often negatively impacts emotional health due to the implications of impaired ovarian function after already enduring treatment for a primary malignancy. The emerging adult may be challenged by the impact on energy level, quality of life, and fertility potential. POI can also lead to low bone density and compromised skeletal strength. This review discusses the health consequences of POI in childhood cancer survivors. We also explore the role of fertility preservation for childhood cancer survivors, including ovarian tissue cryopreservation and other available options. Lastly, knowledge gaps are identified that will drive a future research agenda.