Cytokeratins 8, 18 and 19 in endometrial epithelial cells during the normal menstrual cycle and in women receiving Norplant®

Abstract

Cytokeratins 8, 18 and 19 are members of the cytoskeletal intermediate filament protein family. They are expressed in all simple epithelial tissues, including endometrium, and are recognised as dynamic structures that can be affected by numerous external factors. The Norplant system is a subdermal slow release levonorgestrel implant commonly used as a long-acting progestogen contraceptive. Norplant implants have been shown to have atrophie effects on endometrial epithelial and stromal cells, and cause a range of endometrial bleeding problems among users. The aim of this study is to describe changes in the immunohistochemical expression and distribution of Cytokeratins 8, 18 and 19 in endomet..