Abnormal uterine bleeding: symptomatology, clinical impact and diagnosis

Abstract

Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is one of the most common gynaecological disorders in women of all age groups, it affects quality of life (QoL) and carries high direct and indirect socioeconomic costs. The present article aims to summarise the different aetiologies of AUB, using the unambiguous terminology and systematic approach provided by the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) PALM-COEIN classification system with its periodic evolutions; the objective is also to evaluate the clinical impact and the most accurate diagnostic management, due to continuous improvements in imaging and outpatient hysteroscopy in order to improve patient care and reduce healthcare costs.