Evaluation of estrogen receptor-β expression in the epithelium of the oral mucosa in menopausal women under hormone replacement therapy

Abstract

Purpose: We aimed to evaluate the ERβ expression in the epithelium of the oral mucosa in menopausal women treated with oral, transdermal or local (vaginal) menopausal hormone therapy.

Material/methods: In this study, we included 60 women treated with oral, transdermal or vaginal menopausal hormone therapy. The study material was obtained from swabs taken from the buccal mucosa before administering HRT, and after 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and 12 months of therapy. We assessed estrogen receptor-β (ERβ) expression levels in subsequent swabs by immunohistochemical analysis.

Results: The highest increase in the ERβ expression was observed after 3 months of oral and transdermal hormone therapy.

Conclusions: Oral and transdermal HRT may be an effective method of treatment of oral discomfort in menopausal women.

Keywords: Estrogen receptor; Menopause; Oral mucosa.