CHARACTERISTICS OF MENSTRUAL CYCLE DEVELOPMENT IN ADOLESCENT GIRLS WITH A HISTORY OF BRUCELLOSIS

Abstract

Brucellosis remains a significant zoonotic infection with the capacity to affect various organ systems, including the reproductive endocrine axis. Adolescent girls who previously experienced brucellosis may develop alterations in hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian regulation, potentially influencing menstrual cycle maturation and stability. This study aims to investigate the characteristics of menstrual cycle development in adolescent females aged 12–18 with a documented history of brucellosis, comparing their reproductive maturation indicators with healthy peers. A mixed observational analysis was conducted using clinical, hormonal, and developmental parameters collected from 2022 to 2024. A total of 118 adolescent girls were included: 62 with a verified history of brucellosis and 56 healthy controls. Data included age of thelarche, menarche timing, cycle regularity, hormonal markers (FSH, LH, estradiol, prolactin), inflammatory indicators, and BMI percentile categories.