Abstract/Synopsis
Menopause occurs naturally in women at about age 50. There is a wealth of data concerning the relationship of menopause to systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, while there are limited data concerning other rheumatic diseases. Age at menopause may affect the risk and course of rheumatic diseases. Osteoporosis, an integral part of inflammatory rheumatic diseases, is made worse by menopause. Hormone replacement therapy has been studied and its effects are varied depending upon the disease and even different manifestations within the same disease. Cyclophosphamide can induce early menopause but there is underlying decreased ovarian reserve in rheumatic diseases.