AuntMinnie.com Women's Imaging Radiology Insider

Dear Women's Imaging Insider,

Abnormal gynecological bleeding can be brought on by a number of conditions -- anatomic pelvic lesions, endometrial lesions, adenomyosis, and excessive ginseng consumption.

Yes, that's right, the herbal root resulted in menometrorrhagia, according to a case study out of Ankara, Turkey. In fact, too much zing from the ginseng is one of the more common iatrogenic causes of abnormal uterine bleeding (American Family Physician, April 15, 2004).

While an impressive amount of research has been done on the connection between ginseng and abnormal bleeding, studies have yet to be published on this phenomenon and how it manifests on imaging. But it's a safe bet that when these studies are completed, ultrasound will be the modality of choice.

Time and again, ultrasound has proved itself as a stellar way to noninvasively evaluate the female reproductive system for the underlying causes of abnormal bleeding. In this issue of the Women's Imaging Insider, our exclusive article takes a look back at how sonography has staked a claim in gynecologic imaging over the last decade. To read more, click here.

Also, check out our coverage from Breast Cancer Awareness Month. You'll find reports on CAD for diagnostic mammograms, the link between breast cancer and childhood irradiation, and the connection between obesity and cancer survival. Just look for the articles adorned with a pink ribbon in the Women's Imaging Digital Community.