Efficacy of Levamisole on Experimental Endometriosis

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the efficacy of levamisole on experimental endometriosis. Methods: After the implantation of endometrial tissue on abdominal peritoneum, 40 rats were randomized to 1 of 4 equal intervention groups. Levamisole (2 mg/rat) was applied subcutaneously to group "L" once a week. Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (3 mg/kg) was applied intramuscularly to group "M" twice at 4-week intervals. Leuprolide (0.075 mg/kg) was applied subcutaneously to group "G" twice at 4-week intervals. Saline (0.1 cm3/rat) was applied subcutaneously to group "C" once a week for 8 weeks. The efficacy of levamisole was determined by volume measurement and characterizing the histological structure of the implants. Result: Volume increase of the implants in group C (P < 0.05), and volume decrease in groups M, G, and L was found (P < 0.05, P < 0.01, and P < 0.01, respectively.) Stromal tissue and glandular activity were not different between groups L and G. Conclusion: Levamisole was found to be as effective as leuprolide in regression of the volume of endometriotic implants. © 2007 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics.