Sublingual human chorionic gonadotropin as an adjuvant to ovulation induction.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of sublingually administered human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) in combination with clomiphene citrate (CC) or letrozole (LTZ) for ovulation induction. METHODS: In this prospective, double-blind, randomized study, the patients were divided into two placebo groups and two intervention groups using CC, LTZ, and HCG. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences in ovulation induction between the groups. We compared endometrial thickness at the beginning of the cycle and during the pre-ovulatory period, and detected a moderately positive correlation when CC was administered with HCG. CONCLUSIONS: Sublingual HCG with CC caused a moderately positive correlation with endometrial thickening when compared with that at the beginning of the cycle and during the pre-ovulatory period. There was no significant change in the number of pre-ovulatory follicles.

Effects of clinical and metabolic variables and hormones on the expression of immune protein biomarkers in the endometrium of women with polycystic ovary syndrome and normal-cycling controls.

BACKGROUND: Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are at an elevated risk of endometrial cancer, which may be associated with the continuous proliferative state caused by the interaction between hormones and metabolic factors. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the impact of hormones and metabolic factors in the proliferation and death of endometrium during the proliferative phase. METHODS: Cross-sectional study with 11 women with PCOS and eight normal-cycling non-PCOS controls at the Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro from February 2011 to June 2019. Clinical, biochemical, and hormonal data were collected to analyze their influence on the expression of biomarkers related to the endometrial tissue breakdown. Hysteroscopy and endometrial biopsies were conducted, and the endometrial samples underwent immunohistochemistry for markers of apoptosis B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2), cleaved caspase-3 (CASP3), fas cell surface death receptor (FAS), FAS ligand (FASLG), BCL2 associated X (BAX), marker of proliferation Ki-67 (MKI67), and cell death using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick and labeling (TUNEL). RESULTS: CASP3 and TUNEL expressions were lower in both stroma and endometrium gland of PCOS women than in controls. MKI67 and homeostasis indexes (BCL2/BAX; FASLG/FAS) in the endometrium of the PCOS group were significantly higher. Body mass index (BMI) values were positively correlated with the expression of MKI67 and MKI67/TUNEL ratio in the endometrial stroma compartment. Fasting insulin levels were positively correlated with the expression of BCL2, and DHEA-S levels were negatively correlated with the expression of CASP3 of women with PCOS. CONCLUSION: BMI, insulin, and DHEA-S influence the endometrial homeostasis breakdown in PCOS in the endometrium stroma.

Expression levels of BCL2 and MKI67 in endometrial polyps in postmenopausal women and their correlation with obesity.

Obesity is associated with numerous diseases, including endometrial disorders in postmenopausal women, such as adenocarcinoma, hyperplasias and endometrial polyps, and the risk of malignant transformation of these structures. The present study evaluated the influence of body mass index (BMI) on cell proliferation (BCL2 and MKI67) in endometrial polyps in postmenopausal women. A prospective cross-sectional study using immunohistochemical analysis of the expression of a cell proliferation marker (MKI67) and an anti-apoptotic gene (BCL2) in endometrial polyps in postmenopausal women was performed. The patients were divided into three groups depending on BMI: i) <24.9 kg/m2 (normal); ii) >25 and <29.9 kg/m2 (overweight); and iii) >30 kg/m2 (obese). The present study analyzed the expression of these markers in relation to polyp size, histological type and time since menopause in 38 patients. The interpretation of MKI67 and BCL2 expression accounted for the percentage of positive cells (scores): 1 (weak), <5% of cells showed expression; 2 (moderate), between 5 and 50%; and 3 (intense), >50%. Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad InStat version 3.00 software. ANOVA was used to analyze BCL2 and MKI67 expression. A significance level of P<0.05 was adopted for rejecting the null hypothesis. There was greater glandular expression of MKI67 in obese women than in normal weight women (P=0.02) and greater expression of BCL2 in the stroma of polyps >2 cm (P=0.03). Hyperplastic polyps exhibited hyperexpression of MKI67 (P=0.04) compared with atrophic polyps. No difference in MKI67 and BCL2 expression was identified in the glands and stroma of polyps when comparing overweight and obese postmenopausal patients. The present findings suggest that BMI has an influence on proliferation markers (MKI67) in the polyps of postmenopausal women and that polyps >2 cm exhibit hyperexpression of BCL2 in the stroma.

Heterotopic cervical pregnancy after in-vitro fertilization - case report and literature review.

Heterotopic cervical pregnancy is an uncommon condition, with a rising incidence due to the increasing number of pregnancies resulting from in-vitro fertilization (IVF). Although it is associated with maternal-fetal complications, there is no consensus in the literature about the best approach for this condition. This study aims to report a case of cervical heterotopic gestation after IVF in which the intrauterine pregnancy was preserved, with spontaneous elimination of the cervical gestational sac after patient sedation and introduction of the vaginal speculum. In addition, we reviewed the literature on the subject, which demonstrated that most cases have a favorable outcome, especially after treatment with surgical excision of the cervical pregnancy. The growing body of evidence is still scarce to define the best treatment for this condition.

How long is the ovary relevant for synthesis of steroids after menopause?

This study aimed to determine whether the ovaries synthesize estradiol (E2), testosterone (T), and androstenedione (A) after menopause. The first group (30 patients) underwent surgical menopause (SM) - their ovaries were removed due to a benign condition around the time of menopause. The second group (30 patients) consisted of patients with natural menopause (NM). The E2 median level was 10.0 pg/ml (CI ± 2.18) and 9.5 pg/ml (CI ± 1.63) in the NM and SM groups (p = .69), respectively. The median level of total T was 0.12 ng/ml (CI ± 0.01) and 0.11 ng/ml (CI ± 0.03) in NM and SM, respectively (p = .96). The median level of A was 783.85 pg/ml (CI ± 154.39) and 883.48 pg/dl (CI ± 201.03) in NM and SM, respectively (p = .57). The FAI (free androgen index) was 1.06 (CI ± 0.24) and 1.35 (CI ± 0.68) for NM and SM, respectively (p = .98). We concluded that 5-10 years after menopause the ovaries are no longer relevant for sex steroid synthesis.

The evaluation of endometrial sulfate glycosaminoglycans in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

The aim of this study was to quantify the sulfated glycosaminoglycans in the endometria of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Of the 18 patients recruited for this study, 10 patients with PCOS comprised the PCOS group (PCOSG), and eight patients with regular and ovulatory menstrual cycles comprised the control group (CG). The clinical, biochemical, morphological and endometrial data from both groups were analyzed. Biopsies were performed during the proliferative phase of the menstrual cycle for the CG and during the persistent proliferative phase for the PCOSG (all women were amenorrheic). In the PCOSG, there was a significant increase in the endometrial concentration levels of heparan sulfate (p = 0.03), but no difference in the concentrations of chondroitin sulfate was determined between the two groups (p = 0.77). Period of time without menstruation (p = 0.001) and body mass index (BMI) (p = 0.04) correlated directly and positively with heparan sulfate concentration. There was no association between heparan sulfate levels and basal insulin values (p = 0.08). High levels of endometrial heparan sulfate in women with PCOS indicate an interference with maternal-fetal recognition, which contributes to infertility; thus, endometrial heparan sulfate may be a predictive marker of future neoplasia risk.

Dispositivo intrauterino de cobre / Copper intrauterine device

O dipositivo intra-uterino de cobre (DIU) é utilizado há anos como método contraceptivo de longo prazo. É método que não necessita de uso ou lembrança diária pela mulher e apresenta poucos efeitos adversos. É bem tolerado pela maioria das usuárias com baixo índice de descontinuidade. Atua basicamente no útero (endométrio e muco cervical) sendo especialmente indicado nos casos onde não se deve administrar hormônios pelos efeitos sistêmicos. Há alguns poucos efeitos adversos que podem interferir na qualidade de vida de algumas mulheres e o texto apresenta intervenções para minimizar estes efeitos. Tecemos comentários sobre as contraindicações do método. O DIU é um excelente método contraceptivo de longo prazo com poucos efeitos colaterias, desprovido de ação sistêmica e bem tolerado pelas mulheres.(AU)

The copper intrauterine device (IUD) is used for years as long-term contraception. It is a method that does not require use or daily reminder for the woman and has few side effects. It is tolerated by most users with low discontinuation rate. Basically, acts in the uterus (endometrium and cervical mucus) being especially suitable in cases where it should not be administered hormones for systemic effects. There are a few side effects that can affect the quality of life of some women, and the text presents interventions to minimize these effects. We made comments about the contraindications of the method. The IUD is an excellent long-term contraception with few side-effects, devoid of systemic action and well tolerated by women.(AU)

Conduta na dor e prurido vulvar / Pain and pruritus vulvae management

Prurido e dor são as principais manifestações clínicas das doenças vulvares. Estes sintomas podem estar associados a processos inflamatórios, imunológicos, distúrbios metabólicos e neoplasias. Na dúvida, é sempre recomendável o estudo histopatológico. Quando não há definição etiológica, várias opções terapêuticas estão disponíveis: cremes tópicos, fármacos sistêmicos, operações de dessensibilização nervosa da vulva. A conduta terapêutica deve ser individualizada quando não há etiologia definida. São escassos os trabalhos científicos, com metodologia adequada, que abordam o tema. Portanto, anamnese e exame físico cuidadosos irão definir a melhor abordagem terapêutica

Pruritus and pain are common manifestations of vulvae diseases. The symptoms can be associated with inflammatory, immunologic, metabolic or neoplastic diseases. Undoubtedly, the histopathological exam is always recommended. When there is no etiologic definition, many therapeutic options are available: creams, systemic drugs, and surgical neural desensitization of the vulvae. When there is no precise etiology, therapeutical approach must be individualized. Scientific studies, with good methodology, are rare. Therefore, careful anamnesis and physical exam will point to the best therapeutical approach

Exames pré-operatórios nas cirurgias ginecológicas eletivas / Preoperative exams in elective gynecological surgeries

A solicitação rotineira e sem critérios de exames complementares em pacientesno período pré-operatório não deve ser realizada. A avaliação médica completa com abrangente anamnese eexame clínico permitem ao médico o julgamento dos exames realmente necessários. Quanto mais exames foremsolicitados, maior a chance de serem encontradas alterações nos resultados. Novas consultas, novos exames,atraso no procedimento cirúrgico e aumento do custo são as principais consequências de exame anormal semindicação de realização. Algumas entidades médicas formularam guidelines baseados no porte da cirurgia eno estado clínico da paciente, que servem de apoio para decisão de quais exames são fundamentais. Porém,cada instituição deve possuir seu próprio modelo de avaliação destes pacientes, otimizando o pré-operatório e,indiretamente, reduzindo os custos cada vez maiores dos sistemas de saúde.

The routine and criterionless solicitation of exams for patients in thepreoperative period should not be done. The complete clinical examination with anamnesis and physical examinationallows to the physician the judgment of the real necessary exams. The chances of finding alterations in tests arehigher as numerous exams are solicited. New medical consultations, new laboratory tests, delay in the surgicalprocedure and increase in the costs are the main consequences of an abnormal exam without medical indication.Some medical associations established guidelines according to the grade of the surgery and conditions of thepatient in order to support the decision of which exams are fundamental. However, each institution shouldestablish a model of assessment of these patients, which could optimize the preoperative period and, indirectly,reduce the increasing costs of health insurances.

Sexualidade e hormônios na transição menopausal e na pós-menopausa / Sexuality and hormones in menopausal transition and after the menopause

A síntese dos esteróides segue seqüência consagrada. Dois sistemas enzimáticos são importantes para a biotransformação das diversas substâncias: hidrogenases e citocromo P450. Tanto os estrogênios como os androgênios são relevantes para o desenvolvimento e manutenção da troficidade das estruturas genitais, além de muitas outras ações metabólicas em todo o organismo. Há queda na síntese dos androgênios a partir da terceira década da vida da mulher, podendo agravar-se em situações especiais. Algumas mulheres têm manifestações clínicas, impondo-se a suplementação terapêutica. É também inegável a ação dos esteróides sexuais no sistema nervoso central. Experiências em aves e animais comprovaram essas influências. Malgrado outros estímulos na atividade sexual - olfato, visão, tato - e de várias substâncias - vasopressina, ocitocina, dopamina, é inegável o fator preponderante dos esteróides sexuais. A insuficiência androgênica (IA) pode manifestar-se com sinais e sintomas peculiares. A reposição androgênica poderá melhorar tanto a sexualidade quanto o bem-estar das pacientes.

The steroid biosynthesis follows a time-honored sequence. Two enzymatic groups are important in this action: hydrogenases and cytochrome P450. Both estrogens and androgens act on the development and trophicity of genital organs besides other metabolic actions. Female androgen secretion declines, starting in the thirties, with aggravation in particular clinical situations needing therapeutic supplementation. The action of sexual steroids on the Central Nervous System is well established. Experiments with birds and animals prove this action. Despite the influence of smell, vision, tact and substances such as vasopressin, oxytocin, and dopamine, it is indisputable that the sexual steroids play the major role in sexual activity. Androgen insufficiency (AI) may exhibit signs and symptoms in particular clinical situations. Replacement therapy (androgens) may improve well-being and sexual activity.

Síndrome metabólica/policistose ovariana: condições relacionadas? / Metabolic syndrome/polycystic ovaries: related diseases?

A policistose ovariana (PCO) é entidade clínica muito frequente na ginecologia e bem conhecida pelos especialistas. Descrita há mais de dois séculos, tem ainda muitas características clínicas indefinidas. A síndrome metabólica (SM) é outra condição patogênica com roupagem clínica superponível à PCO. A SM teve identificação e descrição mais recente, apesar de já ser abordada há muito na prática clínica. A importância das duas condições mórbidas está relacionada aos distúrbios associados graves que, se não identificados e prontamente tratados, encurtarão a vida e comprometerão a qualidade de vida das portadoras. Diversos critérios foram elaborados para diagnóstico das duas condições patogênicas e o diagnóstico diferencial se impõe para exclusão de outras doenças. O ginecologista está em posição de destaque para identificação, tratamento ou envio das pacientes para outros especialistas quando requerido pelas condições clínicas das pacientes.

Tratamento Psicofarmacológico da Síndrome da Tensão Pré-menstrual Estado Atual / Psychopharmacologic treatment of the Premestrual Syndrome. Current State

A síndrome da tensão pré-menstrual(STPM) compreende um grupo de transtornos relacionados à menstruação. Sintomas pré-menstruais suficientemente intensos para prejudicar a vida diária e as relações sociais afetam até 40 por cento das mulheres na idade reprodutiva, 5 por cento desse grupo de mulheres sofre uma forma de tensão pré-menstrual que é caracterizada predominantemente por alterações do humor que são graves o suficiente para prejudicar seu desempenho usual, sua relação com colegas, família e ou amigos. Este grupo de mulheres sofre do transtorno Disfórico Pré-menstrual(TDMP). Apesar do intenso sofrimento e prejuízo do desempenho em várias classes de mulheres com TDPM, não existe até o momento um tratamento específico definido. Foi realizada revisão bibliográfica que utilizou o MEDLINE do período de 1987 a 2000. Os termos chaves para pesquisa foram: premenstrual Syndrome, treatment premenstrual syndrome, dysphoric premenstrual disorder. Vários tratamentos foram tentados para o TDPM. Esses incluem desde exercícios físicos e dieta a hormônios sexuais, benzodiazepínicos, ansiolíticos e antidepressivos. Contudo alguns destes não têm demonstrado grande eficácia.