Short-term physical therapy treatment for female urinary incontinence: a quality of life evaluation.

INTRODUCTION: Urinary incontinence (UI) is a widespread health condition and in some situations conservative treatment has been recommended. The aim of this study was to compare women's quality of life (QoL) before and after short-term physical therapy treatment. METHODS: We carried out a clinical trial involving 72 women who received an eight-session intervention based on pelvic floor electrical stimulation (PFES), pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) and behavioral training. QoL was evaluated by the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF). The Wilcoxon signed-rank test compared the ICIQ-SF scores; the relative changes were calculated by dividing the differences by the initial score, and McNemar's χ(2) compared the questions related to the type of, possible causes of or situations related to UI (p < 0.05). RESULTS: There was a significant reduction in the frequency (p < 0.03), amount (p < 0.04) and impact (p < 0.001) of UI on QoL. The total score decreased from 14.6 ± 4.2 to 7.2 ± 4.5 (p < 0.001). All questions regarding the type of, possible causes of or situations related to UI had significantly decreased. Also, 15 women reported the 'never leaked urine' condition (p < 0.001) after treatment. CONCLUSION: A short-term physical therapy treatment based on PFES, PFMT and behavioral modifications reduced the frequency, amount and impact of UI and therefore resulted in QoL improvement.

Microablative fractional radiofrequency for sexual dysfunction and vaginal Trophism: A randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate Microablative Fractional Radiofrequency (MAFRF) as a possible option in treating vaginal atrophy. METHODS: This was a randomized, controlled clinical trial with postmenopausal women diagnosed with vaginal atrophy. The treatment consisted of three sessions of MAFRF, compared to vaginal estrogen administration and an untreated control group. Assessments occurred at baseline and 90 days. The primary endpoints were sexual function, evaluated by the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), and vaginal health, assessed by the Vaginal Health Index (VHI). Secondary outcomes included vaginal microbiota composition (Nugent score) and epithelial cell maturation (Maturation Value ‒ MV). RESULTS: One hundred and twenty women (40 in each group) were included. Concerning the FSFI, both groups, MAFRF (median 4.8 [3.6‒6.0]) and vaginal estrogen (mean 4.7 ± 1.1), experienced improved sexual desire when compared to the control group (median 3.6 [2.4‒4.8]). Regarding the total score of VHI, the authors observed an improvement in the mean of the MAFRF (23.7 ± 2.0) and vaginal estrogen groups (23.5 ± 1.9) when compared to the control (14.8 ± 2.9). The Nugent score was reduced in the MAFRF and estrogen groups (p < 0.01) compared to the control group. Lastly, the MV was modified after treatment with MAFRF (p < 0.01) and vaginal estrogen (p < 0.001). No differences existed between the MAFRF and vaginal estrogen groups in the studied variables. No adverse effects were reported following the MAFRF protocol. CONCLUSIONS: Radiofrequency was comparable in efficacy to estrogen administration for treating vulvovaginal atrophy. It deserves consideration as a viable option in managing this condition.

Evaluation of sexual function in Brazilian women with recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis and localized provoked vulvodynia.

INTRODUCTION: Recurrent vulvovaginitis is an important trigger for inflammatory processes that in many cases may result in vulvovaginal pain. Vulvodynia, a vulvar disorder, can also cause a lot of pain in the female genitals. The sexual function in women with vulvodynia or recurrent vulvovaginitis will possibly be negatively affected and therefore should be evaluated. AIM: To assess sexual function in women with recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) and localized provoked vulvodynia (LPV) in comparison with women without lower genital tract dysfunction. METHODS: A 1-year cross-sectional study evaluated sexual function in 58 women (11 with RVVC, 18 with LPV, and 29 controls) seen at a university outpatient clinic. Sexual function was assessed by taking into account the results obtained from the application of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire. Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney, chi-square, and Fisher's tests were used for statistical analysis. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: FSFI, a validated questionnaire in Portuguese. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in the three groups with respect to age, marital status, schooling, race, body mass index, contraceptive method, and parity. The FSFI questionnaire total score found was 25.51 (±5.12), 21.17 (±5.15), and 29.56 (±3.87) for the RVVC, LPV, and control groups, respectively. The scores were significantly statistically lower in the study groups compared with the control group (P<0.05). Women with RVVC and LPV also had lower total scores compared with 26.55 values, considered a cutoff score for sexual dysfunction in literature. The LPV group showed a significant difference and scored worse in the domains of arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain but not in the domain of sexual desire. The same occurred with the RVVC group but only for the domains of orgasm and satisfaction. CONCLUSION: Women with RVVC and LPV had significantly more symptoms of sexual dysfunction than women without lower genital tract diseases.

Anal High-risk HPV and Liquid-based Cytology of Immunocompetent Brazilian Women with Genital High-risk HPV.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to compare the frequency of the occurrence of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) and abnormal anal cytology in immunocompetent women with and without HPV-induced genital lesions. METHODS: This analytical cross-sectional, observational study was conducted between July 2017 and December 2018 in a specialized outpatient clinic of a tertiary hospital in Fortaleza, CE. Fifty-seven immunocompetent women with and without genital intraepithelial lesions were assessed; they were divided into two groups: group 1 was comprised of women with HPV-associated genital lesions (n = 26), and group 2 was comprised of those without HPV-associated genital lesions (n = 31). Samples for liquid-based cytology and high-risk DNA-HPV polymerase chain reaction real-time tests were collected from the cervix and anus. All cases were evaluated using high-resolution anoscopy; biopsies were performed when required. The Fisher exact and chi-squared tests were applied for consolidated data in the contingency table, and the Student t-test and Mann-Whitney U-test for independent variables. RESULTS: Anal high-risk HPV infections were more frequent in group 1 (odds ratio [OR], 4.95; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.34-18.3; p = 0.012), along with concomitant high-risk HPV infections in the uterine cervix and the anus (OR 18.8; 95% CI, 2.20-160; p < 0.001). The incidence of high-risk cervical HPV infection was associated with high-risk anal HPV infection (OR, 4.95; 95% CI, 1.34-18.3; p = 0.012). There was no statistical difference concerning abnormal anal cytology or anoscopy between the groups, and no anal intraepithelial lesion was found in either group. CONCLUSION: Immunocompetent women with HPV-associated genital lesions and high-risk cervical HPV were more likely to have high-risk anal HPV.

OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar a frequência de papilomavírus humano (HPV) de alto risco e citologia anal anormal em mulheres imunocompetentes com e sem lesões genitais induzidas por HPV. MéTODOS: Este estudo transversal analítico e observacional foi realizado entre julho de 2017 e dezembro de 2018 em um ambulatório especializado de um hospital terciário em Fortaleza, CE. Cinquenta e sete mulheres imunocompetentes com e sem lesões intraepiteliais genitais foram avaliadas. Foram divididas em dois grupos: grupo 1, composto por mulheres com lesões genitais associadas ao HPV (n = 26) e grupo 2, composto por mulheres sem lesões genitais associadas ao HPV (n = 31). Amostras para citologia em meio líquido e testes de reação em cadeia da polimerase em tempo real para DNA-HPV de alto risco foram coletadas do colo do útero e do ânus. Todos os casos foram avaliados por anuscopia de alta resolução; sendo realizada biópsia quando necessária. Os testes exatos de Fisher e qui-quadrado foram aplicados para dados consolidados na tabela de contingência; o teste t de Student e o teste U de Mann-Whitney foram aplicados para variáveis independentes. RESULTADOS: As infecções anais por HPV de alto risco foram mais frequentes no grupo 1 (razão de chances [RC], 4,95; intervalo de confiança [IC] de 95%, 1,34­18,3; p = 0,012), assim como infecções concomitantes por HPV de alto risco em colo uterino e ânus (RC 18,8; IC de 95%, 2,20­160; p < 0,001). A incidência de infecção de HPV cervical de alto risco foi associada à infecção de HPV anal de alto risco (RC, 4,95; IC de 95%, 1,34­18,3; p = 0,012). Não houve diferença estatística em relação à citologia anal anormal ou anuscopia entre os grupos, e não houve caso de lesão intraepitelial anal em nenhum dos grupos. CONCLUSãO: Mulheres imunocompetentes com lesões genitais associadas ao HPV e com HPV cervical de alto risco foram mais propensas a ter HPV anal de alto risco.

Brazilian Protocol for Sexually Transmitted Infections, 2020: infections causing vaginal discharge.

The topic of vaginal discharge is one of the chapters of the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines for Comprehensive Health Care for People with Sexually Transmitted Infections, published by the Brazilian Ministry of Health in 2020. The chapter has been developed based on scientific evidence and validated in discussions with specialists. This article presents epidemiological and clinical aspects associated with vaginal discharge conditions, as well as guidance to health service managers and health professionals. Screening, diagnosing, and treating these conditions, the main complaints among women seeking health services, caused by infectious or non-infectious factors, also are presented. Besides, information is presented on surveillance, prevention, and control actions to promote knowledge of the problem and provide quality care and effective treatment. In healthcare servicing cases of sexually transmitted infections, vaginal discharge is the main referred symptom, common among pregnant women.

[Brazilian Protocol for Sexually Transmitted Infections 2020: infections causing vaginal discharge]. / Protocolo Brasileiro para Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis 2020: infecções que causam corrimento vaginal.

The topic of vaginal discharge is one of the chapters of the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines for Comprehensive Care for People with Sexually Transmitted Infections, published by the Brazilian Ministry of Health in 2020. The chapter has been developed based on scientific evidence and validated in discussions with specialists. This article presents epidemiological and clinical aspects related to vaginal discharge conditions, as well as guidelines for health service managers and health professionals about screening, diagnosing and treating these conditions, which are one of the main complaints among women seeking health services, and which may be caused by infectious or non-infectious factors. In addition, information is presented on strategies for surveillance, prevention and control actions, in order to promote knowledge of the problem and provision of quality care and effective treatment.

O tema corrimento vaginal é um dos capítulos que compõem o Protocolo Clínico e Diretrizes Terapêuticas para Atenção Integral às Pessoas com Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis, publicado pelo Ministério da Saúde do Brasil em 2020. Tal documento foi elaborado com base em evidências científicas e validado em discussões com especialistas. Neste artigo, são apresentados aspectos epidemiológicos e clínicos relacionados às situações de corrimento vaginal, bem como orientações aos gestores e profissionais de saúde na triagem, diagnóstico e tratamento desses agravos, que constituem uma das principais queixas entre mulheres que procuram serviços de saúde e que podem ser causados por fatores infecciosos ou não infecciosos. Além disso, são apresentadas informações sobre estratégias para as ações de vigilância, prevenção e controle, a fim de promover o conhecimento do problema e a oferta de assistência de qualidade e tratamento efetivo.

El tema del flujo vaginal es uno de los capítulos del Protocolo Clínico y Directrices Terapéuticas para la Atención Integral a las Personas con Infecciones de Transmisión Sexual, publicado por el Ministerio de Salud de Brasil en 2020. El documento fue desarrollado en base a evidencia científica y validado en discusiones con especialistas. En este artículo se presentan aspectos epidemiológicos y clínicos relacionados a las situaciones de flujo vaginal, así como pautas para gestores y profesionales de la salud en el cribado, diagnóstico y tratamiento de esas complicaciones, que son una de las principales quejas entre las mujeres que buscan servicios de salud y que pueden ser causadas por factores infecciosos o no infecciosos. Además, se presenta información sobre estrategias para acciones de vigilancia, prevención y control, con el fin de promover la comprensión del problema y la oferta de asistencia de calidad y tratamiento eficaz.

Impact of microablative fractional radiofrequency on the vaginal health, microbiota, and cellularity of postmenopausal women.

OBJECTIVES: We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of microablative fractional radiofrequency (MAFRF) in the non-hormonal treatment of genitourinary syndrome of menopause. METHODS: We examined the cases of 55 postmenopausal women before and after treatment with regard to their vaginal health index (VHI), vaginal microbiota, vaginal pH, and cell maturation. Three applications of MAFRF were performed in the vagina/vaginal introitus. During the treatment, six vaginal smears were obtained and stained with the Papanicolaou stain for determining the degree of cell maturation and with Gram stain for classification of vaginal flora, as per the criteria of Spiegel and Amsel. For vaginal pH determination, pH indicator strips were applied against the vaginal wall. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS for Windows (version 17.0). Data were reported as mean±standard deviation. The differences were analyzed using the statistical method of generalized estimation equations with autoregressive correlation structure "1" and robust standard errors. RESULTS: The mean age was 59.8±4.2 years, and the mean time of menopause was 15.4±4.5 years. After treatment, there was an increase in the percentage of Lactobacillus spp. (p<0.001). Consequently, there was a progressive decrease in vaginal pH during the treatment (p<0.001). Regarding cell maturation, there was a decrease in the percentage of parabasal cells (p=0.001) and an increase in the rate of superficial cells (p<0.001). Additionally, there was an improvement in the VHI index. The mean VHI values before and after treatment were 13.2±5.6 and 22.5±3.7, respectively (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: MAFRF treatment is well tolerated and leads to improvement in the vaginal microenvironment.

Conhecimento para apoio aos profissionais responsáveis pelo diagnóstico de citologia anal: revisão narrativa e interpretação de critérios citomorfológicos

Resumo:Introdução:O câncer anal é uma patologia considerada rara, apesar de crescente na população. A citologia anal tem sido uma aposta para diagnosticar as alterações pré-neoplásicas, evitando a evolução ao câncer. Objetivos:I) Abordar aspectos de satisfatoriedade da amostra celular e revisar os critérios citomorfológicos dos achados benignos e malignos nos esfregaços de citologia anal. II) Tornar este artigo um instrumento de suporte aos profissionais de saúde que atuam no setor de Citopatologia vinculados ao Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) ou à iniciativa privada. Métodos:Revisão narrativa, com busca nas bases PubMed, Science Direct e SciELO, de fevereiro a abril/2023. Desenvolvimento:A análise da literatura aponta para a aplicação da citologia anal para diagnóstico das alterações induzidas pelo Papilomavírus Humano (HPV) no canal anal. O rastreamento se baseia na semelhança ao controle do câncer de colo uterino e à história natural da doença, reconhecendo que as lesões precursoras evoluem ao câncer invasivo. Essa janela entre a lesão e o câncer abre espaço para detecção precoce. Oportunamente, a técnica pode diagnosticar agentes responsáveis por outras Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis (IST). Conclusão: Qualificar os laudos de diagnóstico citopatológico pode apoiar o cuidado desde a atenção primária. O intuito deste trabalho foi contribuir com o processo de aprendizagem dos profissionais da saúde e apoiar a saúde pública nas estratégias de garantia de cuidado às pessoas.

Chatbot, ChatGPT: artificial intelligence and/or business intelligence and/or robotic untruths, for now / Chatbot, ChatGPT: inteligência artificial e/ou inteligência comercial e/ou inverdades robotizadas, por enquanto

The authors, like most humans on the planet at all times, go through many profound transformations throughout their lives. Let's imagine hominids starting to master fire more than a million years ago. Inventing the wheel, writing, navigating the seas, inventing the light bulb, motor vehicles, Santos Dumont's plane, telex, teleradiography, and so many other things that for each era, it was unimaginable such an advance would be incorporated into daily of human life. Today, in 2023, we are facing a computerized conversation through the world wide web, the internet. For now, called artificial intelligence ­ AI, chatbot. How much will this technology add benefits in the health area? When will this technology spread untruths? How much will people blindly follow the information and experience huge gains and marked problems, side effects? In these dialogues with the various chatbots already being made available, free or with payment of monthly fees, can these computer programs, after several human-AI arguments, write that, for the situations presented in a given conversation, suicide is plausible conduct? The concerns of the authors are concerns that are valid in March 2023. The editorial tests conversations. And time will show us how to learn, teach, live together, and transform this artificial intelligence

Management of Atypical Squamous Cell Cases: A Prospective Study of Women seen at a Private Health Service in Northeastern Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the management chosen by gynecologists after atypical squamous cells (ASCs) cytology results, and to evaluate the outcomes of these cases in Brazilian women. METHODS: A prospective observational study evaluated the initial management offered by the gynecologist in the case of 2,458 ASCs cytology results collected between January of 2010 and July of 2016. The outcomes of the cytology, high-risk human papilloma virus (HR-HPV) test and histology were compared in two subgroups: atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC-US) and atypical squamous cells-cannot exclude high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (ASC-H). RESULTS: In many cases of ASC-US (36.97%) and ASC-H (40.50%), no clinical actions were taken. Cytology was the most frequent follow-up chosen, including for cases of ASC-H, which goes against the conduct recommended in the national guideline. In women over 30 years of age, the period of time elapsed between an ASC-US result and a new cytology was in 13.03 months, in disagreement with the national guideline recommendations (p < 0.0001). Negative for intraepithelial lesions or malignancy (NILM) cytologic (p = 0.0026) and histologic (p = 0.0017) results in the follow-up were associated with prior ASC-US, while negative results for ASC-H were cytologically (p < 0.0001) and histologically associated with high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) (p < 0.0001). Two invasive cervical carcinomas (ICCs) were found in the follow-up for ASC-H, and there was a statistically significant association (p = 0.0341). A positive HR-HPV test was associated with ASC-H (p = 0.0075). CONCLUSION: The data suggest that even for a population of Brazilian women assisted at private clinics, the national guidelines recommendations for ASCs results are not followed.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a conduta adotada por ginecologistas após resultados citológicos apresentando células escamosas atípicas (ASCs) e os desfechos destes casos em mulheres brasileiras. MéTODOS: Um estudo observacional prospectivo avaliou o manejo clínico inicial do ginecologista nos casos de 2.458 resultados citológicos apresentando ASCs coletados entre janeiro de 2010 e julho de 2016. Os respectivos desfechos citológicos, histológicos e de detecção do papilomavírus humano (HPV) foram comparados entre os subgrupos células escamosas atípicas de significado indeterminado (ASC-US) e células escamosas atípicas não podendo excluir lesão intraepitelial de alto grau (ASC-H). RESULTADOS: Nenhuma conduta foi adotada em 36,97% de citologias do tipo ASC-US e 40,5% do tipo ASC-H. A conduta mais escolhida foi a repetição da citologia, inclusive para acompanhamento de ASC-H, o que contraria as diretrizes nacionais. O tempo de realização de uma nova citologia para resultado do tipo ASC-US em mulheres com mais de 30 anos de idade foi de 13,03 meses, também em desacordo com as diretrizes (p < 0,0001). Resultados negativos para lesão intraepitelial ou neoplasia maligna (NILM), tanto citológicos (p = 0,0026) como histológicos (p = 0,0017), foram associados a ASC-US, enquanto que resultados negativos para lesões intraepiteliais escamosas de alto grau (HSILs), citológicos (p < 0,0001) e histológicos, foram associados a ASC-H (p < 0,0001). Dois carcinomas cervicais invasivos foram encontrados durante o acompanhamento para ASC-H e uma associação estatisticamente significante foi estabelecida (p = 0,0341). Um teste de HR-HPV positivo foi associado a ASC-H (p = 0,0075). CONCLUSãO: Os dados sugerem que mesmo para uma população de mulheres brasileiras atendidas em clínicas privadas, as recomendações das diretrizes clínicas nacionais para resultados citológicos apresentando ASCs não são seguidas.

Microablative fractional radiofrequency for sexual dysfunction and vaginal Trophism: A randomized clinical trial

Abstract Objectives: To evaluate Microablative Fractional Radiofrequency (MAFRF) as a possible option in treating vaginal atrophy. Methods: This was a randomized, controlled clinical trial with postmenopausal women diagnosed with vaginal atrophy. The treatment consisted of three sessions of MAFRF, compared to vaginal estrogen administration and an untreated control group. Assessments occurred at baseline and 90 days. The primary endpoints were sexual function, evaluated by the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), and vaginal health, assessed by the Vaginal Health Index (VHI). Secondary outcomes included vaginal microbiota composition (Nugent score) and epithelial cell maturation (Maturation Value ‒ MV). Results: One hundred and twenty women (40 in each group) were included. Concerning the FSFI, both groups, MAFRF (median 4.8 [3.6‒6.0]) and vaginal estrogen (mean 4.7 ± 1.1), experienced improved sexual desire when compared to the control group (median 3.6 [2.4‒4.8]). Regarding the total score of VHI, the authors observed an improvement in the mean of the MAFRF (23.7 ± 2.0) and vaginal estrogen groups (23.5 ± 1.9) when compared to the control (14.8 ± 2.9). The Nugent score was reduced in the MAFRF and estrogen groups (p < 0.01) compared to the control group. Lastly, the MV was modified after treatment with MAFRF (p < 0.01) and vaginal estrogen (p < 0.001). No differences existed between the MAFRF and vaginal estrogen groups in the studied variables. No adverse effects were reported following the MAFRF protocol. Conclusions: Radiofrequency was comparable in efficacy to estrogen administration for treating vulvovaginal atrophy. It deserves consideration as a viable option in managing this condition.

[Association between high risk HPV viral load, p16ink4a expression and intra-epithelial cervical lesions]. / Associação entre a carga viral de HPV de alto risco, expressão de p16INK4a e lesões intra-epiteliais escamosas do colo uterino.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the (HR-HPV) high risk HPV viral load in squamous intra-epithelial lesions and association with p16INK4a expression. METHODS: A series of 109 cervical biopsies were studied (57 normal tissue, 26 low grade squamous intra-epithelial lesions [LSIL] and 26 high grade squamous intra-epithelial lesions [HSIL]). Detection of high risk HPV and viral load in cervical cells was made by molecular biology using hybrid capture 2nd generation collected before the biopsy. The p16INK4a was identified by immunohistochemistry using the p16INK4a kit (clone E6H4). RESULTS: High risk HPV was positive in 57.8% of all cases (29.8% in normal tissue, 80.8% in LSIL and 96.1% in HSIL). Protein p16INK4a was expressed in 23.8% of squamous intra-epithelial lesions (15.4% in LSIL and 84.6% in HSIL). In normal tissue all cases were negative to p16INK4a. The viral load was higher in p16 positive cases than in negative cases (positive p16INK4a mean of 669.9 RLU/PCB [9.47-2814.9] and negative p16INK4a mean of 253.94 RLU/PCB [1.07-1882.21] (p<0.05). However when studying just the HSIL cases differences were not significant. CONCLUSION: In this study although the HR-HPV viral load had shown a significant difference between p16 positive and negative cases, in HSIL cases this finding was not confirmed. New studies with a larger number of cases are necessary for consistent conclusions.

Assessment of 100% Rapid Review as an Effective Tool for Internal Quality Control in Cytopathological Services.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the 100% rapid review (100%-RR) as an effective tool for internal quality control (IQC) in gynecological cytopathology services. STUDY DESIGN: A total of 8,677 swabs were analyzed; the negative results were submitted to 100%-RR. Divergent cases were discussed in a consensus meeting to reach a conclusion on the final diagnosis. The data were entered into SAS statistical software, and the agreement of the 100%-RR results with the final diagnosis was tested with the weighted kappa statistic. RESULTS: Of the 8,155 smears characterized as negative, 255 (3.13%) were abnormal smears, and 552 (6.77%) unsatisfactory smears were deemed negative. Regarding the results on the 8,155 smears subjected to 100%-RR when compared with the final diagnosis, there was agreement in 7,063 (86.60%) of them, and there were 1,092 (13.40%) discordant results (65.6%, unsatisfactory; 5.47%, atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance [ASC-US]). The κ index had an agreement of 0.867, with κ = 0.734 (p < 0.0001). Compared with the final diagnosis, the sensitivity of 100%-RR was 99.91% and its specificity was 99.4% for severe abnormalities. The sensitivity for high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions was 88.2%, with a specificity of 100.00%. For abnormalities considered borderline, such as ASC-US, the sensitivity was 94.50% and the specificity was 99.5%. CONCLUSION: The 100%-RR was considered efficient when used as an IQC method.

Anal High-risk HPV and Liquid-based Cytology of Immunocompetent Brazilian Women with Genital High-risk HPV / HPV de alto risco e citologia em meio líquido de canal anal de mulheres brasileiras imunocompetentes com HPV genital de alto risco

Abstract Objective The purpose of this study was to compare the frequency of the occurrence of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) and abnormal anal cytology in immunocompetent women with and without HPV-induced genital lesions. Methods This analytical cross-sectional, observational study was conducted between July 2017 and December 2018 in a specialized outpatient clinic of a tertiary hospital in Fortaleza, CE. Fifty-seven immunocompetent women with and without genital intraepithelial lesions were assessed; they were divided into two groups: group 1 was comprised of women with HPV-associated genital lesions (n=26), and group 2 was comprised of those without HPV-associated genital lesions (n=31). Samples for liquidbased cytology and high-risk DNA-HPV polymerase chain reaction real-time tests were collected from the cervix and anus. All cases were evaluated using high-resolution anoscopy; biopsies were performed when required. The Fisher exact and chi-squared tests were applied for consolidated data in the contingency table, and the Student ttest and Mann-Whitney U-test for independent variables. Results Anal high-risk HPV infections were more frequent in group 1 (odds ratio [OR], 4.95; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.34-18.3; p=0.012), along with concomitant highrisk HPV infections in the uterine cervix and the anus (OR 18.8; 95% CI, 2.20-160; p<0.001). The incidence of high-risk cervical HPV infection was associated with highrisk anal HPV infection (OR, 4.95; 95% CI, 1.34-18.3; p=0.012). There was no statistical difference concerning abnormal anal cytology or anoscopy between the groups, and no anal intraepithelial lesion was found in either group. Conclusion Immunocompetent women with HPV-associated genital lesions and high-risk cervical HPV were more likely to have high-risk anal HPV.

Resumo Objetivo O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar a frequência de papilomavírus humano (HPV) de alto risco e citologia anal anormal em mulheres imunocompetentes com e sem lesões genitais induzidas por HPV. Métodos Este estudo transversal analítico e observacional foi realizado entre julho de 2017 e dezembro de 2018 em um ambulatório especializado de um hospital terciário em Fortaleza, CE. Cinquenta e sete mulheres imunocompetentes com e sem lesões intraepiteliais genitais foram avaliadas. Foram divididas em dois grupos: grupo 1, composto por mulheres com lesões genitais associadas ao HPV (n=26) e grupo 2, composto pormulheres sem lesões genitais associadas ao HPV (n=31). Amostras para citologia em meio líquido e testes de reação em cadeia da polimerase em tempo real para DNA-HPV de alto risco foram coletadas do colo do útero e do ânus. Todos os casos foram avaliados por anuscopia de alta resolução; sendo realizada biópsia quando necessária. Os testes exatos de Fisher e qui-quadrado foram aplicados para dados consolidados na tabela de contingência; o teste t de Student e o teste U de Mann-Whitney foram aplicados para variáveis independentes. Resultados As infecções anais por HPV de alto risco forammais frequentes no grupo 1 (razão de chances [RC], 4,95; intervalo de confiança [IC] de 95%, 1,34-18,3; p=0,012), assim como infecções concomitantes por HPV de alto risco em colo uterino e ânus (RC 18,8; IC de 95%, 2,20-160; p<0,001). A incidência de infecção de HPV cervical de alto risco foi associada à infecção de HPV anal de alto risco (RC, 4,95; IC de 95%, 1,34-18,3; p=0,012). Não houve diferença estatística em relação à citologia anal anormal ou anuscopia entre os grupos, e não houve caso de lesão intraepitelial anal em nenhum dos grupos. Conclusão Mulheres imunocompetentes com lesões genitais associadas ao HPV e com HPV cervical de alto risco foram mais propensas a ter HPV anal de alto risco.

Secretory immunoglobulin A: a protective factor in the genital mucosa.

The genital mechanisms of defense are not well understood and are therefore ignored during therapy. This fact results in a great number of cases of treatment failure. The mucosa is an important protective factor of the genital female system, through self-defense mechanisms, and secretor antibodies (immunoglobulin A). The lymphoid tissue exerts protective anti-inflammatory activity, besides inhibiting microorganism adherence, neutralizes viruses and toxins and stabilizes the mucosal flora. Although certain microorganisms, such as viruses and fungus, are controlled by cellular immunity, secretory IgA can also exert an important role in the control of these agents.

Protocolo Brasileiro para Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis 2020: infecções que causam corrimento vaginal / Brazilian Protocol for Sexually Transmitted Infections 2020: infections causing vaginal discharge / Protocolo Brasileño para Infecciones de Transmisión Sexual 2020: infecciones que causan flujo vaginal

O tema corrimento vaginal é um dos capítulos que compõem o Protocolo Clínico e Diretrizes Terapêuticas para Atenção Integral às Pessoas com Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis, publicado pelo Ministério da Saúde do Brasil em 2020. Tal documento foi elaborado com base em evidências científicas e validado em discussões com especialistas. Neste artigo, são apresentados aspectos epidemiológicos e clínicos relacionados às situações de corrimento vaginal, bem como orientações aos gestores e profissionais de saúde na triagem, diagnóstico e tratamento desses agravos, que constituem uma das principais queixas entre mulheres que procuram serviços de saúde e que podem ser causados por fatores infecciosos ou não infecciosos. Além disso, são apresentadas informações sobre estratégias para as ações de vigilância, prevenção e controle, a fim de promover o conhecimento do problema e a oferta de assistência de qualidade e tratamento efetivo.

The topic of vaginal discharge is one of the chapters of the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines for Comprehensive Care for People with Sexually Transmitted Infections, published by the Brazilian Ministry of Health in 2020. The chapter has been developed based on scientific evidence and validated in discussions with specialists. This article presents epidemiological and clinical aspects related to vaginal discharge conditions, as well as guidelines for health service managers and health professionals about screening, diagnosing and treating these conditions, which are one of the main complaints among women seeking health services, and which may be caused by infectious or non-infectious factors. In addition, information is presented on strategies for surveillance, prevention and control actions, in order to promote knowledge of the problem and provision of quality care and effective treatment.

El tema del flujo vaginal es uno de los capítulos del Protocolo Clínico y Directrices Terapéuticas para la Atención Integral a las Personas con Infecciones de Transmisión Sexual, publicado por el Ministerio de Salud de Brasil en 2020. El documento fue desarrollado en base a evidencia científica y validado en discusiones con especialistas. En este artículo se presentan aspectos epidemiológicos y clínicos relacionados a las situaciones de flujo vaginal, así como pautas para gestores y profesionales de la salud en el cribado, diagnóstico y tratamiento de esas complicaciones, que son una de las principales quejas entre las mujeres que buscan servicios de salud y que pueden ser causadas por factores infecciosos o no infecciosos. Además, se presenta información sobre estrategias para acciones de vigilancia, prevención y control, con el fin de promover la comprensión del problema y la oferta de asistencia de calidad y tratamiento eficaz.

High Risk HPV E6/E7 Oncoprotein Expression in Women with High Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion.

PURPOSE: To correlate the expression of high-risk HPV E6 mRNA with pap smear, colposcopy, and biopsy results in women with high grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL). METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed on women referred for primary care services after cytological diagnosis of HSIL. We evaluated the expression of E6/E7 mRNA of HPV types 16,18,31,33, and 45 and correlated the results with those of Pap smear, colposcopy, and biopsy. For amplification/detection of mRNA E6 / E7 we used NucliSENSEasyQ kit to detect HPV mRNA by polymerase chain reaction with primers/probes for HPV types 16, 18, 31, 33, and 45. RESULTS: Out of 128 valid tests, the results of 30 (23.4%) tests were negative and 98 (70%) tests were positive. Only one type of HPV was detected in 87.7% of the E6/E7 mRNA positive cases. HPV16 was detected in 61.2% of the cases, followed by HPV33 (26.5%), HPV31 (17.3%), HPV18 (10%), and HPV45 (4.08%). Pap smear tests revealed that the E6/E7 test was positive in 107 (83.8%) women with atypical squamous cells - high grade (ASC-H), HSIL, or higher. The E6/E7 test was positive in 69 (57.5%) specimens presenting negative cytology results. When analyzing the association with colposcopy results, the frequency of positive E6/E7 results increased with the severity of the injury, ranging from 57.1% in women without colposcopy-detected injury to 86.5% in those with higher levels of colposcopy findings. Of the 111 women who underwent biopsy and E6/E7 testing, the E6/E7 test was positive in 84.7% of the women who presented with lesions of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) grade 2 or higher. Finally, 41.2% of women with a negative biopsy presented a positive E6/E7 test. CONCLUSIONS: E6/E7 mRNA expression was higher in women with HSIL and CIN grade 2 or higher.

Impact of microablative fractional radiofrequency on the vaginal health, microbiota, and cellularity of postmenopausal women

OBJECTIVES: We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of microablative fractional radiofrequency (MAFRF) in the non-hormonal treatment of genitourinary syndrome of menopause. METHODS: We examined the cases of 55 postmenopausal women before and after treatment with regard to their vaginal health index (VHI), vaginal microbiota, vaginal pH, and cell maturation. Three applications of MAFRF were performed in the vagina/vaginal introitus. During the treatment, six vaginal smears were obtained and stained with the Papanicolaou stain for determining the degree of cell maturation and with Gram stain for classification of vaginal flora, as per the criteria of Spiegel and Amsel. For vaginal pH determination, pH indicator strips were applied against the vaginal wall. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS for Windows (version 17.0). Data were reported as mean±standard deviation. The differences were analyzed using the statistical method of generalized estimation equations with autoregressive correlation structure "1" and robust standard errors. RESULTS: The mean age was 59.8±4.2 years, and the mean time of menopause was 15.4±4.5 years. After treatment, there was an increase in the percentage of Lactobacillus spp. (p<0.001). Consequently, there was a progressive decrease in vaginal pH during the treatment (p<0.001). Regarding cell maturation, there was a decrease in the percentage of parabasal cells (p=0.001) and an increase in the rate of superficial cells (p<0.001). Additionally, there was an improvement in the VHI index. The mean VHI values before and after treatment were 13.2±5.6 and 22.5±3.7, respectively (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: MAFRF treatment is well tolerated and leads to improvement in the vaginal microenvironment.