Exploring Morphometric Features of the Female Reproductive Tract in Brazilian Pantanal Cattle / Un Análisis de las Características Morfométricas del Tracto Reproductivo Femenino en el Ganado del Pantanal Brasileño

SUMMARY: The cattle in the Pantanal region show a notable influence from Bos indicus breeds and their crossbreeds. However, a comprehensive biometric assessment of the reproductive system in these animals is currently lacking. This study evaluated the effects of breed, age, carcass weight, and estrous cycle phase on female reproductive system morphometry. A total of 124 healthy, non-pregnant reproductive tracts (83 Nelore and 41 Crossbred) were collected at a slaughterhouse. Neither the volume and weight of the ovaries nor the majority of uterine dimensions were affected by breed. Compared to heifers, cows showed longer uterine horns, a larger external caudal diameter of the uterine horns and body, and a greater external cranial diameter and internal caudal diameter of the cervix. The carcass weight (below vs. within commercial weight) affected the length of the uterine horns, uterine body, and cervix. Ovaries with a corpus luteum presented higher volume and weight than those with only follicles. Although the uterine measurements in the luteal phase were increased, the cycle stage did not affect the uterine morphometry. The average number of cervical rings was 5.0, independent of weight or breed. Crossbred animals presented a higher first cervical ring. Age didn´t influence the number, height, or distance between cervical rings. Deviation from the normal alignment of the cervix was recorded in 14.29 % of the animals, with a higher occurrence among Nelore cattle; deviation from the median axis was the most common (30%). This study emphasizes various parameters influencing the morphometry of the female reproductive system in Nelore cattle and their crosses, which could be crucial for implementing reproductive biotechnology techniques better suited to the morphological characteristics of zebu breeds.

El ganado de la región del Pantanal muestra una notable influencia de las razas Bos indicus y sus cruces. Sin embargo, actualmente falta una evaluación biométrica exhaustiva del sistema reproductivo de estos animales. Este estudio evaluó los efectos de la raza, la edad, el peso de la canal y la fase del ciclo estral sobre la morfometría del sistema reproductivo de la hembra. En un matadero se recogieron un total de 124 tractos reproductivos sanos y no preñados (83 Nelore y 41 cruzados). Ni el volumen ni el peso de los ovarios ni la mayoría de las dimensiones del útero se vieron afectados por la raza. En comparación con las novillas, las vacas mostraron cuernos uterinos más largos, un diámetro caudal externo más grande de los cuernos y del cuerpo uterino, y un diámetro craneal externo y un diámetro caudal interno más grandes del cuello uterino. El peso de la canal (por debajo versus dentro del peso comercial) afectó la longitud de los cuernos uterinos, el cuerpo uterino y el cuello uterino. Los ovarios con cuerpo lúteo presentaron mayor volumen y peso que aquellos con solo folículos. Aunque las medidas uterinas en la fase lútea aumentaron, la etapa del ciclo no afectó la morfometría uterina. El número promedio de anillos cervicales fue de 5,0, independientemente del peso o la raza. Los animales mestizos presentaron un primer anillo cervical más alto. La edad no influyó en el número, altura o distancia entre anillos cervicales. La desviación de la alineación normal del cuello uterino se registró en el 14,29 % de los animales, con mayor ocurrencia en el ganado Nelore; la desviación del eje de la mediana fue la más común (30%). Este estudio enfatiza varios parámetros que influyen en la morfometría del sistema reproductor de las hembras en el ganado Nelore y sus cruces, lo que podría ser crucial para implementar técnicas de biotecnología reproductiva más adecuadas a las características morfológicas de las razas cebú.

Assessment of obstetric history and cervical length as risk factors for preterm birth / Evaluación de la história obstétrica y la longitud cervical como factores de riesgo para el parto prematuro

Introduction: Preterm birth, before 37 weeks of gestation, is the main determinant of neonatal morbidity and mortality and is associated with serious consequences,including compromised quality of life for the affected individual and physical, psychological, and economic costs. Objective: To evaluate the correlation of obstetric history, cervicovaginal infections, and cervical length with preterm birth. A prospective, blind cohort study evaluated 1,370 pregnant women from Ribeirão Preto between 20 and 25 weeks of gestation. Materials and methods: The correlation between obstetric history, cervical length, and gestational age at birth was obtained by calculating the relative risk of the different variables. Results: The distribution of pregnant women according to cervical length (CL) showed a predominance of women with a cervix longer than 2.5 cm (n = 1,308, 95.8%), followed by women with a cervix between 2 and 2.49 cm (n = 42, 3.1%) and < 2 cm (n = 15, 1.1%). Among the 1,370 pregnant women evaluated, 133 had spontaneous preterm birth (< 259 days); 14 (10.5%) preterm births occurred in women under 19 years of age, 105 (79%) in women between 19 and 35 years, and 14 (10.5%) in women older than 35 years. Microbiological analysis showed the growth of Mycoplasma hominis, Ureaplasma urealyticum, and other bacteria in 8, 17, and 16 women with preterm birth, respectively. Among the 133 women with spontaneous preterm birth, CL was < 2.5 cm in 15 women, < 2 cm in 3, < 1.5 cm in 3, and < 1 cm in 2. Conclusion: The identification of pregnant women at high risk for preterm delivery can reduce the incidence of preterm birth. Although no gold standard test exists for the prediction of preterm birth, this study confirms that the measurement of CL is a good individual predictor.

Introducción: El nacimiento pretérmino, antes de las 37 semanas de gestación, es el principal determinante de la morbimortalidad neonatal y se asocia a graves consecuencias,incluyendo el compromiso de la calidad de vida del individuo afectado y costes físicos, psicológicos y económicos. Objetivo: Evaluar la correlación de los antecedentes obstétricos, infecciones cervicovaginales y longitud cervical con el parto prematuro. Estudio de cohorte prospectivo, ciego, evaluando 1.370 gestantes de Ribeirão Preto entre 20 y 25 semanas de gestación. Material y métodos: La correlación entre los antecedentes obstétricos, la longitud cervical y la edad gestacional al nacer se obtuvo calculando el riesgo relativo de las diferentes variables. Resultados: La distribución de las gestantes según la longitud cervical (LC) mostró un predominio de mujeres con cuello uterino mayor de 2,5 cm (n = 1,308, 95.8%), seguidas de mujeres con cuello uterino entre 2 y 2,49 cm (n = 42, 3.1%) y menor de 2 cm (n = 15, 1.1%). De las 1,370 embarazadas evaluadas, 133 tuvieron un parto prematuro espontáneo (< 259 días); 14 (10.5%) partos prematuros se produjeron en mujeres menores de 19 años, 105 (79%) en mujeres de entre 19 y 35 años, y 14 (10.5%) en mujeres mayores de 35 años. Los análisis microbiológicos mostraron la proliferación de Mycoplasma hominis, Ureaplasma urealyticum y otras bacterias en 8, 17 y 16 mujeres con parto prematuro, respectivamente. Entre las 133 mujeres con parto prematuro espontáneo, la CL fue < 2.5 cm en 15 mujeres, < 2 cm en 3, < 1.5 cm en 3 y < 1 cm en 2. Conclusión: La identificación de las gestantes con alto riesgo de parto prematuro puede reducir la incidencia de parto prematuro. Aunque no existe una prueba de referencia para la predicción del parto prematuro, este estudio confirma que la medición de la longitud cervical es una buena predicción individual.

Detección e integración del virus del papiloma humano de alto riesgo en lesiones pre-neoplásicas en mujeres del sur de Chile: un estudio transversal / High-risk human papillomavirus detection and integration in preneoplastic lesions among women in Southern Chile: a cross-sectional study

INTRODUCCIÓN: El virus del papiloma humano de alto riesgo (VPH-AR) es responsable del cáncer de cuello uterino y sus lesiones preneoplásicas. Los genotipos VPH16 y VPH18 son los más frecuentes en este cáncer. La integración del VPH-AR en el genoma de la célula hospedera es crucial en la carcinogénesis cervical, pero la etapa en que ocurre en la población chilena es incierta. OBJETIVO: Evaluar la integración de VPH16 y VPH18 en lesiones pre-neoplásicas de cuello uterino. MÉTODOS: Se analizaron 108 muestras de raspados cervicales. El VPH se genotipificó mediante reacción de polimerasa en cadena (RPC) e hibridación no radiactiva. La integración de VPH16 y VPH18 se determinó por presencia del gen E2 mediante RPC. RESULTADOS: VPH16 y VPH18 se detectaron en 36,1% y 12,0% de las muestras, respectivamente. El VPH16 se integró en 23,1% de los casos de VPH16, mientras que VPH18 se integró en 100% de las muestras positivas para este genotipo. CONCLUSIONES: La integración VPH-AR es un evento temprano en la carcinogénesis cervical que ocurre en casi la mitad de las lesiones pre-neoplásicas y es más frecuente en VPH18 que en VPH16. La evaluación de la integración VPH-AR puede ser una herramienta útil para detectar el virus en la población chilena.

BACKGROUND: High-risk Human Papillomaviruses (HR-HPVs) are the etiological agents of cervical cancer and its preneoplastic lesions. HPV16 and 18 are the most frequent HR-HPV genotypes detected in cervical cancer. HR-HPV genome integration into the host cell is an important event in the carcinogenic process. However, it remains uncertain which stage of cervical carcinogenesis HPV16 and 18 integration occurs in the Chilean population. AIM: The goal of this study was to evaluate HPV16 and HPV18 integration in preneoplastic lesions of the cervix. METHODS: DNA was extracted from 108 cervical scrape samples with preneoplastic lesions. HPV was genotyped using PCR and non-radioactive hybridization. The integration status of HPV16 and HPV 18 was determined by evaluating the E2 gene presence through PCR. RESULTS: HPV16 and HPV18 tested positive in 36.1% and 12.0% of samples, respectively. HPV16 was found integrated in 23.1% of HPV 16 cases, while HPV 18 in 100% of samples positive for this viral genotype. CONCLUSIONS: HR-HPV integration is an early event in cervical carcinogenesis, occurring in nearly half of preneoplastic lesions and being more frequent in HPV18 than in HPV16. The evaluation of HR-HPV integration can be utilized as a complementary tool for detecting HPV in the Chilean population.

The top hat procedure does not impact the management of women treated by LEEP in cervical cancer screening

Abstract Objective: To describe Top-hat results and their association with margin status and disease relapse in a referral facility in Brazil. Methods: A retrospective study of 440 women submitted to LEEP to treat HSIL, in which 80 cases were complemented immediately by the top hat procedure (Top-hat Group - TH). TH Group was compared to women not submitted to Top-hat (NTH). The sample by convenience included all women that underwent LEEP from January 2017 to July 2020. The main outcome was the histological result. Other variables were margins, age, transformation zone (TZ), depth, and relapse. The analysis used the Chi-square test and logistic regression. Results: The TH Group was predominantly 40 and older (NTH 23.1% vs. TH 65.0%, p<0.001). No difference was found in having CIN2/CIN3 as the final diagnosis (NTH 17.0% vs. TH 21.3%, p=0.362), or in the prevalence of relapse (NTH 12.0% vs. TH 9.0%, p=0.482). Of the 80 patients submitted to top hat, the histological result was CIN2/CIN3 in eight. A negative top hat result was related to a negative endocervical margin of 83.3%. A CIN2/CIN3 Top-hat result was related to CIN2/CIN3 margin in 62.5% (p=0.009). The chance of obtaining a top hat negative result was 22.4 times higher (2.4-211.0) when the endocervical margin was negative and 14.5 times higher (1.5-140.7) when the ectocervical margin was negative. Conclusion: The top hat procedure did not alter the final diagnosis of LEEP. No impact on relapse was observed. The procedure should be avoided in women of reproductive age.

Evaluación de la dilatación cervical en simuladores comparada con una herramienta visual: estudio aleatorizado / Cervical dilation assessment in simulators compared to a visual tool: A randomized study / Avaliação da dilatação cervical em simuladores comparada a uma ferramenta visual: estudo randomizado

Objetivo: comprobar la tasa de evaluación correcta mediante la comparación visual directa de las medidas de dilatación cervical en modelos de cuello uterino de consistencia dura. Método: estudio aleatorizado abierto con 63 estudiantes de obstetricia a los que se les asignó usar o no la comparación visual directa con una guía de dilatación. Los estudiantes estimaron de forma ciega la dilatación cervical en simuladores con diferentes dilataciones. El resultado primario fue la tasa de evaluación correcta. Resultados: los estudiantes realizaron 441 pruebas. Se observó una mayor tasa de evaluación correcta en el grupo experimental que en el grupo control (47,3% versus 27,2%; p < 0,001; Odds Ratio = 2,41; intervalo de confianza del 95% = 1,62-3, 58). Conclusión: la comparación visual directa aumentó la precisión de la evaluación de la dilatación cervical en modelos de simulación de cuello, lo que podría ser beneficioso en el entrenamiento de laboratorio. Registro Brasileño de Ensayos Clínicos n.º U1111-1210-2389.

Objective: to verify the correct assessment rate when using direct visual comparison in the cervical dilation measures in hard-consistency cervix simulation models. Method: an open-label and randomized study conducted with 63 Obstetrics students that were designated either to use direct visual comparison in a dilation guide or not. The students estimated cervical dilation blindly in simulators with different dilations. The primary outcome was the correct assessment rate. Results: the students performed 141 tests. A higher correct assessment rate was found in the Experimental Group than in the Control Group (47.3% versus 27.2%; p<0.001; Odds Ratio = 2.41; 95% Confidence Interval = 1.62-3.58). Conclusion: the direct visual comparison increased precision of the cervical dilation assessment in cervix simulation models, with the possibility of being beneficial in laboratory training. Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials No. U1111-1210-2389.

Objetivo: verificar a taxa de avaliação correta com o uso da comparação visual direta nas medidas de dilatação cervical em modelos de simulação de colo com consistência dura. Método: estudo randomizado aberto com 63 estudantes de obstetrícia que foram designados para usar comparação visual direta em um guia de dilatação ou não. Os estudantes estimaram cegamente a dilatação cervical em simuladores com diferentes dilatações. O desfecho primário foi a taxa de avaliação correta. Resultados: os estudantes realizaram 441 testes. Foi encontrada maior taxa de avaliação correta no grupo experimental do que no grupo controle (47,3% versus 27,2%; p <0,001; Odds Ratio = 2,41; intervalo de confiança de 95% = 1,62-3,58). Conclusão: a comparação visual direta aumentou a precisão da avaliação da dilatação cervical em modelos de simulação de colo, podendo ser benéfica no treinamento em laboratório. Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos nº U1111-1210-2389.

Especificidades técnicas no tamponamento uterino com balões e algumas dificuldades técnicas / Technical specificities in uterine tamponade with balloons and some technical difficulties

A mortalidade materna é inaceitavelmente alta. A hemorragia pós-parto encontra- se na primeira posição no mundo, tendo como principal causa específica a atonia uterina. Eventualmente, as medidas iniciais e a terapia farmacológica não são efetivas no controle do sangramento, impondo a necessidade de tratamentos invasivos, cirúrgicos ou não. Entre esses, o tamponamento uterino com balão requer recursos locais mínimos e não exige treinamento extensivo ou equipamento muito complexo. Entretanto, algumas dificuldades podem ocorrer durante a inserção, infusão ou manutenção do balão na cavidade uterina, com especificidades relacionadas à via de parto. Após o parto vaginal, a dificuldade mais prevalente é o prolapso vaginal do balão. Na cesárea, as principais dificuldades são a inserção e o posicionamento do balão na cavidade uterina, principalmente nas cesáreas eletivas. Este artigo revisa e ilustra as principais dificuldades e especificidades relacionadas ao tamponamento uterino com balões.

Maternal mortality is unacceptably high. Postpartum hemorrhage is ranked first in the world, with the main specific cause being uterine atony. Eventually, initial measures and pharmacological therapy are not effective in controlling bleeding, imposing the need for invasive treatments, surgical or not. Among these, uterine balloon tamponade requires minimal local resources and does not require extensive training or very complex equipment. However, some difficulties may occur during insertion, infusion, or maintenance of the balloon in the uterine cavity, with specificities related to the mode of delivery. After vaginal delivery, the most prevalent difficulty is vaginal balloon prolapse. In cesarean section, the main difficulty is the insertion and positioning of the balloon in the uterine cavity, especially in elective cesarean sections. This article reviews and illustrates the main difficulties and specificities related to uterine balloon tamponade.

Importância do diagnóstico por imagem em pacientes com sangramento uterino anormal / Importance of diagnostic imaging in patients with abnormal uterine bleeding

O sangramento uterino anormal é diagnóstico sindrômico comum no consultório do ginecologista e pode comprometer substancialmente a qualidade de vida. O objetivo no diagnóstico de sangramento uterino anormal é distinguir pacientes com causas estruturais (anatômicas), como pólipo, adenomiose, leiomioma, malignidade e hiperplasia, de pacientes que apresentam anatomia normal, nas quais o sangramento pode ser devido a alteração dos mecanismos de coagulação, distúrbios ovulatórios, distúrbios primários do endométrio, iatrogenia, ou ter outra causa não classificada. O diagnóstico se inicia a partir de anamnese detalhada e exame físico geral e ginecológico completos, seguidos da solicitação de exames complementares (laboratoriais e de imagem), conforme indicado. O exame de imagem de primeira linha para identificação das causas estruturais inclui a ultrassonografia pélvica. Histerossonografia, histeroscopia, ressonância magnética e amostragem endometrial para exame de anatomia patológica são opções que podem ser incluídas no diagnóstico a depender da necessidade. O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar a relevância dos exames de imagem na investigação das causas de sangramento uterino anormal.

Abnormal uterine bleeding is one of the commonest presenting complaints encountered in a gynecologist's office and may substantially affect quality of life. The aim in the diagnosis of abnormal uterine bleeding is to distinguish women with anatomic causes such as polyp, adenomyosis, leiomyoma, malignancy and hyperplasia from women with normal anatomy where the cause may be coagulopathy, ovulatory disorders, endometrial, iatrogenic and not otherwise classified. Diagnosis begins with a thorough history and physical examination followed by appropriate laboratory and imaging tests as indicated. The primary imaging test for the identification of anatomic causes include ultrasonography. Saline infusion sonohysterography, magnetic resonance, hysteroscopy, endometrial sampling are options that can be included in the diagnosis depending on the need. The aim of this article is to present the relevance of imaging exams in the investigation of the causes of abnormal uterine bleeding.

Cáncer endometrial: hallazgos en la citología cervical. Un caso clínico / Endometrial cancer: findings on cervical cytology. A clinical case

El cáncer endometrial representa la neoplasia ginecológica más frecuente en países desarrollados y la segunda en los países en vía de desarrollo, luego del cáncer cervical. Se ha establecido claramente la sensibilidad y la utilidad de la citología cervical para la detección de cáncer y lesiones precursoras del cuello uterino, especialmente para aquellas de origen escamoso, pero la utilidad de este muestreo para detectar lesiones a nivel de cavidad uterina es limitada debido a la dificultad del muestreo y otros factores de interpretabilidad. Es por eso que se presenta el siguiente caso clínico en el cual se logró establecer una orientación clara y certera de adenocarcinoma endometrial en una muestra tomada de cuello uterino en una paciente posmenopáusica, tras presentar un sangrado vaginal anormal(AU)

Endometrial cancer represents the most common gynecological neoplasm in developed countries and the second in developing countries after cervical cancer. The sensitivity and usefulness of cervical cytology for the detection of cervical cancer and precursor lesions, especially those of squamous origin, has been clearly established, but the usefulness of this sampling to detect lesions at the level of the uterine cavity is limited due to the difficulty of sampling and other interpretability factors. That is why the following clinical case is presented in which a clear and accurate orientation of endometrial adenocarcinoma was established in a sample taken from the cervix in a post-menopausal patient after presenting an abnormal vaginal bleeding(AU)

The characteristics and correlations of vaginal flora in women with cervical lesions / 中华肿瘤杂志

Objective: To explore the characteristics and correlations of vaginal flora in women with cervical lesions. Methods: A total of 132 women, including 41 women diagnosed with normal cervical (NC), 39 patients with low-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN 1), 37 patients with high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN 2/3) and 15 patients with cervical squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), who came from the gynecological clinic of Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University during January 2018 to June 2018, were enrolled in this study according to the inclusive and exclusive criteria strictly. The vaginal flora was detected by 16S rDNA sequencing technology. Co-occurrence network analysis was used to investigate the Spearman correlations between different genera of bacteria. Results: The dominant bacteria in NC, CIN 1 and CIN 2/3 groups were Lactobacillus [constituent ratios 79.4% (1 869 598/2 354 098), 63.6% (1 536 466/2 415 100) and 58.3% (1 342 896/2 301 536), respectively], while Peptophilus [20.4% (246 072/1 205 154) ] was the dominant bacteria in SCC group. With the aggravation of cervical lesions, the diversity of vaginal flora gradually increased (Shannon index: F=6.39, P=0.001; Simpson index: F=3.95, P=0.012). During the cervical lesion progress, the ratio of Lactobacillus gradually decreased, the ratio of other anaerobes such as Peptophilus, Sneathia, Prevotella and etc. gradually increased, and the differential bacteria (LDA score >3.5) gradually evolved from Lactobacillus to other anaerobes. The top 10 relative abundance bacteria, spearman correlation coefficient>0.4 and P<0.05 were selected. Co-occurrence network analysis showed that Prevotella, Peptophilus, Porphyrinomonas, Anaerococcus, Sneathia, Atopobium, Gardnerella and Streptococcus were positively correlated in different stages of cervical lesions, while Lactobacillus was negatively correlated with the above anaerobes. It was found that the relationship between vaginal floras in CIN 1 group was the most complex and only Peptophilus was significantly negatively correlated with Lactobacillus in SCC group. Conclusions: The increased diversity and changed correlations between vaginal floras are closely related to cervical lesions. Peptophilus is of great significance in the diagnosis, prediction and early warning of cervical carcinogenesis.

Analysis of natural regression and influencing factors of HSIL in the cervix of childbearing age patients / 中华妇产科杂志

Objective: To investigate the natural regression and related factors of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) in the cervix of childbearing age women, and to evaluate the applicability of conservative management for future fertility needs. Methods: This study included 275 patients of reproductive age with fertility needs, who were diagnosed as HSIL by biopsy from April 30, 2015 to April 30, 2022, including 229 cases (83.3%) cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) Ⅱ and 46 cases (16.7%) CIN Ⅱ-Ⅲ. They were followed-up without immediate surgery in the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University. The median follow-up time was 12 months (range: 3-66 months). The regression, persistence and progression of lesions in patients with HSIL were analyzed during the follow-up period, the influencing factors related to regression and the time of regression were analyzed. Results: (1) Of the 275 HSIL patients, 213 cases (77.5%, 213/275) experienced regression of the lesion during the follow-up period. In 229 CIN Ⅱ patients, 180 cases (78.6%) regressed, 21 cases (9.2%) persisted, and 28 cases (12.2%) progressed. In 46 CIN Ⅱ-Ⅲ patients, 33 cases (71.7%) regressed, 12 cases (26.1%) persisted, and 1 case (2.2%) progressed to invasive squamous cell carcinoma stage Ⅰ a1. There was no significant difference in the regression rate between the two groups (χ2=1.03, P=0.309). (2) The average age at diagnosis, age <25 years old at diagnosis were independent influencing factor of HSIL regression in univariate analysis (all P<0.05). There was no significant difference between HSIL regression and pathological grading, the severity of screening results, human papillomavirus (HPV) genotype, colposcopy image characteristics, number of biopsies during follow-up and pregnancy experience (all P>0.05). (3) The median regression times for patients aged ≥25 years and <25 years at diagnosis were 15 and 12 months, respectively. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that age ≥25 years at diagnosis significantly increased the median regression time compared to <25 years (χ2=6.02, P=0.014). Conclusions: For HSIL patients of childbearing age, conservative management without immediate surgical intervention is preferred if CINⅡ is fully evaluated through colposcopy examination. Age ≥25 years at diagnosis is a risk factor affecting the prognosis of HSIL patients.

Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of Nocardia rubra cell wall skeleton immunotherapy for cervical high-risk HPV persistent infection / 中华妇产科杂志

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Nocardia rubra cell wall skeleton (Nr-CWS) in the treatment of persistent cervical high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) infection. Methods: A randomized, double blind, multi-center trial was conducted. A total of 688 patients with clinically and pathologically confirmed HR-HPV infection of the cervix diagnosed in 13 hispital nationwide were recruited and divided into: (1) patients with simple HR-HPV infection lasting for 12 months or more; (2) patients with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) Ⅰ and HR-HPV infection lasting for 12 months or more; (3) patients with the same HR-HPV subtype with no CINⅡ and more lesions after treatment with CINⅡ or CIN Ⅲ (CINⅡ/CIN Ⅲ). All participants were randomly divided into the test group and the control group at a ratio of 2∶1. The test group was locally treated with Nr-CWS freeze-dried powder and the control group was treated with freeze-dried powder without Nr-CWS. The efficacy and negative conversion rate of various subtypes of HR-HPV were evaluated at 1, 4, 8, and 12 months after treatment. The safety indicators of initial diagnosis and treatment were observed. Results: (1) This study included 555 patients with HR-HPV infection in the cervix (included 368 in the test group and 187 in the control group), with an age of (44.1±10.0) years. The baseline characteristics of the two groups of subjects, including age, proportion of Han people, weight, composition of HR-HPV subtypes, and proportion of each subgroup, were compared with no statistically significant differences (all P>0.05). (2) After 12 months of treatment, the effective rates of the test group and the control group were 91.0% (335/368) and 44.9% (84/187), respectively. The difference between the two groups was statistically significant (χ2=142.520, P<0.001). After 12 months of treatment, the negative conversion rates of HPV 16, 18, 52, and 58 infection in the test group were 79.2% (84/106), 73.3% (22/30), 83.1% (54/65), and 77.4% (48/62), respectively. The control group were 21.6% (11/51), 1/9, 35.1% (13/37), and 20.0% (8/40), respectively. The differences between the two groups were statistically significant (all P<0.001). (3) There were no statistically significant differences in vital signs (body weight, body temperature, respiration, pulse rate, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, etc.) and laboratory routine indicators (blood cell analysis, urine routine examination) between the test group and the control group before treatment and at 1, 4, 8, and 12 months after treatment (all P>0.05); there was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions related to the investigational drug between the two groups of subjects [8.7% (32/368) vs 8.0% (15/187), respectively; χ2=0.073, P=0.787]. Conclusion: External use of Nr-CWS has good efficacy and safety in the treatment of high-risk HPV persistent infection in the cervix.

Value of postoperative radiotherapy and analysis of prognostic factors in early-stage neuroendocrine carcinoma of cervix / 中华妇产科杂志

Objective: To evaluate the effect of postoperative radiotherapy and high-risk pathological factors on the prognosis of early-stage neuroendocrine carcinoma of cervix (NECC). Methods: A single-center retrospective cohort study of early-stage NECC in Peking Union Medical College Hospital from January 2011 to April 2022 were enrolled. The patients were treated with radical hysterectomy±adjuvant treatment. They were divided into postoperative non-radiation group and postoperative radiation group. The possible postoperative recurrence risk factors identified by univariate analysis were assessed using multivariate logistic regression. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to analyze the progression free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), recurrence rate, and mortality rate. Results: (1) Sixty-two cases were included in the study, including 33 cases in postoperative non-radiation group and 29 cases in postoperative radiation group. (2) The median follow-up time was 37 months (ranged 12-116 months), with 23 cases (37%) experienced recurrences. There were 7 cases (11%) pelvic recurrences and 20 cases (32%) distant recurrences, in which including 4 cases (6%) both pelvic and distant recurrences. Compared with postoperative non-radiation group, the postoperative radiation group had a lower pelvic recurrence rate (18% vs 3%; P=0.074) but without statistic difference, a slightly elevated distant recurrence rate (24% vs 41%; P=0.150) and overall recurrence rate (33% vs 41%; P=0.513) without statistically significances. Univariate analysis showed that lymph-vascular space invasion and the depth of cervical stromal invasion≥1/2 were risk factors for postoperative recurrence (all P<0.05). Multivariate analysis showed lymph-vascular space invasion was an independent predictor for postoperative recurrence (OR=23.03, 95%CI: 3.55-149.39, P=0.001). (3) During the follow-up period, 18 cases (29%, 18/62) died with tumor, with 10 cases (30%, 10/33) in postoperative non-radiation group and 8 cases (28%, 8/29) in postoperative radiation group, without significant difference (P=0.814). The postoperative 3-year and 5-year survival rate was 79.2%, 60.8%. The depth of cervical stromal invasion≥1/2 was more common in postoperative radiation group (27% vs 64%; P=0.011), and postoperative radiation in such patients showed an extended trend in PFS (32.3 vs 53.9 months) and OS (39.4 vs 73.4 months) but without statistic differences (P=0.704, P=0.371). Compared with postoperative non-radiation group, the postoperative radiation did not improve PFS (54.5 vs 37.3 months; P=0.860) and OS (56.2 vs 62.4 months; P=0.550) in patients with lymph-vascular space invasion. Conclusions: Postoperative radiation in early-stage NECC patients has a trend to reduce pelvic recurrence but not appear to decrease distant recurrence and overall recurrence, and has not improved mortality. For patients with the depth of cervical stromal invasion≥1/2, postoperative radiation has a trend of prolonging OS and PFS but without statistic difference. Lymph-vascular space invasion is an independent predictor for postoperative recurrence, but postoperative radiation in such patients does not seem to have any survival benefits.

Intervención educativa basada en metodologías B-learning para mejorar las citologías cervicales: experiencias de enfermeras / Intervenção educacional através do B-learning para melhorar a citologia cervical: experiências de enfermeiras / Educational intervention through B-learning to improve cervical cytology: experiences of nurses

Resumen Objetivo analizar las experiencias de enfermeras en la toma de las citologías cervicales y otros factores organizacionales durante una intervención educativa asistida por metodologías B-learning. Método estudio cualitativo realizado en San Luis Potosí, México. Participaron 15 enfermeras. La recolección de datos se hizo a través de entrevistas semiestructuradas con base en una sistematización de experiencias. Para el análisis de la información se utilizó el programa Taguette y como referente teórico las metodologías B-learning. Resultados se identificaron debilidades en factores relacionados con la accesibilidad de las usuarias al servicio, insumos, infraestructura, bioseguridad, capacitación del personal de salud, entrega de resultados a las pacientes y conocimiento del programa por parte de las usuarias. Conclusiones e implicaciones para la práctica el cáncer cervical es un problema de salud pública. La citología cervical es la prueba de tamizaje más utilizada; sin embargo, existen limitantes en la calidad, por lo que se proponen acciones para mejorar los conocimientos y habilidades del personal de enfermería que tiene como función la toma. La intervención educativa fue efectiva para fomentar el aprendizaje integral sobre la toma de las citologías cervicales y permitió al personal de enfermería compartir sus experiencias.

Resumo Objetivo analisar as experiências das enfermeiras na realização de esfregaços cervicais e outros fatores organizacionais durante uma intervenção educacional assistida por metodologias de b-learning. Método estudo qualitativo realizado em San Luis Potosí, México. Participaram 15 enfermeiras. A coleta de dados foi feita por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas a partir de uma sistematização de experiências. Para a análise das informações, utilizou-se o programa Taguette e metodologias de b-learning como referencial teórico. Resultados foram identificadas fragilidades em fatores relacionados com a acessibilidade dos usuários ao serviço, insumos, infraestrutura, biossegurança, capacitação da equipe de saúde, entrega de resultados aos pacientes e conhecimento do programa pelos usuários. Conclusões e implicações para a prática o câncer do colo do útero é um problema de saúde pública. A citologia cervical é o teste de triagem mais utilizado; no entanto, existem limitações na qualidade, por isso são propostas ações para aprimorar os conhecimentos e habilidades das enfermeiras que estejam desempenhando essa função. A intervenção educacional foi eficaz para promover o aprendizado integral sobre a realização do esfregaço cervical e permitiu que as enfermeiras compartilhassem suas experiências.

Abstract Objective to analyze the nursing staff's experiences in taking cervical smears and other organizational factors during an educational intervention assisted by B-learning methodologies. Method a qualitative study was carried out in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, with 15 nurses. Data collection was done through semi-structured interviews based on a systematization of experiences. The Taguette program and B-learning methodologies as theoretical references were used to analyze the information. Results weaknesses were identified in factors related to the accessibility of users to the service, supplies, infrastructure, biosafety, training of health personnel, delivery of results to patients, and knowledge of the program by the users. Conclusions and implications for practice cervical cancer is a public health problem. Cervical cytology is the most widely used screening test; however, there are limitations in quality, so actions are proposed to improve the knowledge and skills of the nursing staff in their functions. The educational intervention effectively promoted comprehensive learning about taking cervical smears and allowed the nursing staff to share their experiences.

The Use of Mid-Pregnancy Cervical Length to Predict Preterm Birth in Brazilian Asymptomatic Twin Gestations / O uso da medida do colo uterino no segundo trimestre de gestantes brasileiras como preditor de prematuridade na gestação gemelar

Abstract Objective To describe a reference curve for cervical length (CL) in mid-trimester twin gestations using transvaginal ultrasound (TVU) and to investigate whether short CL increases spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB) in asymptomatic twin pregnancies. Methods This was a prospective cohort study performed at 17 outpatient antenatal facilities of Brazil with women at 18 0/7 to 22 6/7 weeks of gestation who participated in a randomized clinical trial screening phase (P5 trial) between July 2015 and March 2019. TVU was performed to provide CL measurement in all screened women. Almost all women with CL ≤ 30 mm received vaginal progesterone 200mg/day and they were also randomized to receive cervical pessary or not. We considered data from the CL distribution among asymptomatic twin pregnancies and analyzed CL and its association with PTB generating receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves and Kaplan-Meier curves. Results A total of 253 pregnant women with twins were included in the distribution curve. The mean CL was 33.7 mm and median was 35.5mm. The 10th percentile was 17.8mm. We identified a PTB rate of 73.9% (187/253) with 33.6% of sPTB < 37 (85/253) and 15% (38/253) of sPTB < 34 weeks. The best cutoff point to predict sPTB < 37 was 24.15 mm. However, the ROC curve showed a poor performance (0.64). The Kaplan-Meier survival curves identified that only CL values ≤ 20mm were associated to sPTB < 34 weeks. Conclusion A cutoff point of CL ≤ 20 mm can be interesting point to identify short cervix in Brazilian twin pregnancies. However, in Brazilian asymptomatic twin pregnancies, CL does not show a good performance to predict PTB.

Resumo Objetivo Descrever uma curva de referência da medida do colo uterino no Segundo trimestre de gestações gemelares através de ultrassonografia transvaginal (TVU) e investigar a correlação entre a medida do colo uterino (CL) e o parto prematuro espontâneo (sPTB) em pacientes assintomáticas. Métodos Foi realizado uma coorte prospectiva multicêntrica em 17 centros de referência do Brasil com mulheres com gestação gemelar entre 18 0/7 a 22 6/7 semanas de gestação que participaram da primeira fase de um ensaio clínico randomizado (P5 trial) entre Julho/2015 a Março/2019. TVU foi realizada para obter a medida do colo uterino em todas as mulheres. A maioria das mulheres com CL ≤30 mm receberam progesterona por via vaginal 200mg/dia e estas foram randomizadas para receber ou não um pessário cervical. Este estudo considerou dados da medida do colo uterino entre mulheres assintomáticas, desenvolvendo uma curva de referência para gestantes gemelares e sua capacidade de predição do parto prematuro através de curva ROC (receiver operating characteristics) e curvas de sobrevida de Kaplan-Meyer. Resultados O total de 253 gestantes foram incluídos no estudo, A média do CL foi 33.7mm e a mediana 35.5mm. O Percentil 10 do CL foi 17.8mm. A taxa de parto prematuro foi de 73.9% (187/253) com 33.6% de sPTB < 37 (85/253) e 15% (38/253) de sPTB < 34 semanas. O melhor ponto de corte para predizer sPTB < 37 foi 24.15 mm, entretanto a curva ROC demonstrou baixa performance (0.64). A curva de Kaplan-Meier para sPTB identificou que apenas CL ≤ 20 mm estavam associados a sPTB < 34 semanas. Conclusão Colo uterino ≤20 mm pode ser um interessante ponto de corte para identificar colo curto entre gestações gemelares assintomáticas brasileiras. Entretanto, a medida do colo uterino não apresentou boa performance para predizer parto prematuro.

Estimates of avoided costs attributed to a short cervix screening program to prevent preterm birth from the perspective of the Unified Health System (SUS) / Estimativa de custos evitados atribuídos a um programa de rastreio de colo curto para prevenção da prematuridade na perspectiva do SUS

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To perform an economic cost analysis of the implementation of a short cervix screening program to reduce preterm birth in singleton pregnancies in a short-term time horizon. METHODS We performed a cost-benefit economic analysis using the P5 trial database, a randomized multicenter clinical trial for prevention of preterm birth. Data collection was conducted from July 2015 to March 2019 in 17 different Brazilian hospitals. We conducted a cost analysis for universal cervical screening in singleton pregnancies between 18 weeks and 22 weeks plus 6 days. In subjects with a cervical length ≤ 25 mm, the analysis incorporated the costs of administering 200 mg/day of vaginal progesterone prophylactically until 36 weeks gestation. These findings were subsequently compared with the economic implications of forgoing cervical screening. The time horizon comprised from birth to 10 weeks postpartum. The outcome was measured monetarily in Brazilian real (R$) from the perspective of the Unified Health System. RESULTS Among 7,844 women, 6.67% (523) had a cervix ≤ 25 mm. The cost of screening with transvaginal ultrasound and vaginal progesterone for prevention of births with < 34 weeks was estimated at R$ 383,711.36, while non-screening generated an estimated additional cost of R$ 446,501.69 (related to the 29 non-screened preterm deliveries). Thus, screening and prophylaxis would generate a final cost reduction of R$ 62,790.33, constituting a possible cost-benefit strategy. CONCLUSION Universal short cervix screening for preterm birth has lower costs compared to non-screening within a short-term time horizon, which suggests an interesting benefit-cost ratio. Future studies should consider the cost-effectiveness of prophylactic treatment using sensitivity analyses in different scenarios within the Brazilian health system, as well as analyses that consider the long-term costs associated with preterm births, to robustly justify the implementation of a short cervix screening program.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Realizar uma análise econômica de custo da implementação de um programa de rastreio de colo curto para redução da prematuridade em gestações únicas num horizonte temporal de curto prazo. MÉTODOS Realizamos uma análise econômica do tipo custo-benefício utilizando o banco de dados do P5 trial, um ensaio clínico multicêntrico randomizado para prevenção da prematuridade. A coleta de dados ocorreu de julho de 2015 a março de 2019 em 17 diferentes hospitais do Brasil. Comparamos os custos do rastreamento universal em mulheres com gestação única de 18 a 22 semanas e 6 dias associado à progesterona vaginal profilática 200 mg/dia até 36 semanas naquelas com colo ≤ 25 mm com os do não rastreamento. O horizonte temporal foi do nascimento até 10 semanas após o parto. O desfecho foi medido monetariamente em real brasileiro (R$) na perspectiva do Sistema Único de Saúde. RESULTADOS Entre 7.844 mulheres, 6,67% (523) apresentaram colo ≤ 25mm. O custo do rastreio com a ultrassonografia transvaginal mais a progesterona vaginal para prevenção de nascimentos < 34 semanas foi estimado em R$ 383.711,36, enquanto o não rastreamento gerou custo adicional estimado de R$ 446.501,69 (relacionado aos 29 partos prematuros não rastreados). Assim, o rastreamento mais a profilaxia geraria uma redução de custo final de R$ 62.790,33, apresentando-se como uma possível estratégia de custo-benefício. CONCLUSÃO O rastreamento universal de colo curto para prematuridade apresenta menores custos em relação ao não rastreamento dentro de um horizonte temporal de curto prazo, o que sugere uma interessante relação de custo versus benefício. Novos estudos que considerem a custo-efetividade do tratamento profilático utilizando-se de análises de sensibilidade em diferentes cenários dentro do sistema de saúde brasileiro, assim como análises que considerem os custos de longo prazo atrelados ao nascimento prematuro, são necessários para justificar com robustez a implementação de um programa de rastreamento.

Melanoma Maligno Primário do Colo do Útero: Um Relato de Caso Raro / Primary Malignant Melanoma of the Uterine Cervix: Rare Case Report

O melanoma cervical primário é um diagnóstico raro e frequentemente desafiador, especialmente na presença de lesões amelanóticas, cuja confirmação deve ser feita por métodos imuno-histoquímicos. Apesar do tratamento agressivo, o prognóstico para essa doença costuma ser ruim. Relato do caso: Mulher, 79 anos, com histórico de sangramento vaginal decorrente de uma lesão cervical maligna. Inicialmente, a colposcopia revelou uma lesão ulcerada no exocérvix e a biópsia confirmou ser um tumor maligno. No entanto, após uma histerectomia abdominal radical, o exame histopatológico mostrou tratar-se de uma neoplasia maligna epitelioide, confirmada como um melanoma maligno do colo do útero por meio de exame imuno-histoquímico. A paciente recebeu quimioterapia adjuvante e radioterapia, mas eventualmente apresentou recorrência e veio a óbito. Conclusão: O presente relato avalia uma paciente com um diagnóstico incomum de melanoma cervical que, apesar do tratamento agressivo, teve um desfecho desfavorável. No entanto, uma vigilância cutânea minuciosa deve ser realizada para diagnosticá-lo corretamente como primário.

Primary cervical melanoma is a rare and often challenging diagnosis, particularly in the presence of amelanotic lesions, where confirmation should be made through immunohistochemical methods. Despite aggressive treatment, the prognosis for this disease is typically poor. Case Report: A 79-year-old woman with a history of vaginal bleeding from a malignant cervical lesion. Initially, colposcopy examination revealed an ulcerated lesion of the exocervix, and biopsy confirmed a malignant neoplasm. However, following a radical abdominal hysterectomy, histopathological examination displayed a malignant epithelioid neoplasm, confirmed a malignant melanoma of the cervix through immunohistochemical assays. The patient received adjuvant chemotherapy and radiation therapy, but eventually experienced recurrence and died. Conclusion: The present report assesses a patient with an uncommon diagnosis of cervical melanoma, which, despite aggressive treatment, had an unfavorable outcome. However, thorough skin surveillance should be performed to correctly diagnose it as primary

Papanicolaou test in Brazil: analysis of the National Health Survey of 2013 and 2019 / Exame de Papanicolaou no Brasil: análise da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde em 2013 e 2019

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVES To compare the coverage of cervical cancer screening in Brazil in 2013 and 2019, investigating the factors associated with having the test performed and the reasons given for not doing it. Additionally, a comparison is made concerning the time taken to receive the test result in SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde) and in the private health services. METHODS Using data from the National Health Survey (Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde - PNS), prevalence rates and corresponding confidence intervals were calculated to determine the frequency of recent cervical cancer screenings among women aged between 25 and 64 years old in Brazil, for both 2013 and 2019. Poisson regression models were employed to compare the prevalence of the outcome according to sociodemographic characteristics. The reasons for not having the test and the time between performing and receiving the result were also analyzed. RESULTS The findings revealed an increase in the coverage of preventive cervical cancer exams in Brazil from 78.7% in 2013 to 81.3% in 2019. Additionally, there was a decline in the proportion of women who had never undergone the exam, from 9.7% to 6.1%. Prevalence of test uptake was higher among white women, those with higher levels of education and income, and those residing in the South and Southeast regions of the country. The most commonly cited reasons for not taking the test were the impression it was unnecessary (45% in both 2013 and 2019) and never having been asked to undergo the test (20.6% in 2013 and 14.8% in 2019). CONCLUSIONS Despite the high coverage of screening achieved in the country, there is great inequality in access to the test, and a non-negligible number of women are at greater risk of dying from a preventable disease. Efforts must be made to structure an organized screening program that identifies and captures the most vulnerable women.

RESUMO OBJETIVOS Comparar a cobertura do rastreamento do câncer de colo do útero no Brasil em 2013 e 2019, investigar os fatores associados à realização do exame e os motivos informados para não ter realizado, além de comparar o tempo do recebimento do resultado do exame no SUS e na rede privada. MÉTODOS A partir de dados da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde (PNS) foram calculadas as prevalências e os respectivos intervalos de confiança de realização do exame preventivo do câncer do colo do útero há menos de três anos, em mulheres de 25 a 64 anos, em 2013 e 2019. Modelos de regressão de Poisson foram utilizados para comparar as prevalências do desfecho segundo características sociodemográficas. Também foram analisados os motivos para não ter feito o exame e o tempo entre a realização e o recebimento do laudo. RESULTADOS Houve aumento na cobertura do exame preventivo no Brasil entre 2013 (78,7%) e 2019 (81,3%) e redução na proporção de mulheres que nunca fizeram o exame de 9,7% para 6,1%. A prevalência de realização do exame foi maior em mulheres brancas, melhor escolaridade e renda mais alta, residentes nas regiões Sul e Sudeste. Os motivos mais frequentes para não realizar o exame foram achar desnecessário (45% em 2013 e em 2019) e nunca ter sido orientada a fazê-lo (20,6% em 2013 e 14,8% em 2019). CONCLUSÕES Apesar das elevadas coberturas de rastreamento alcançadas pelo país, há grande desigualdade no acesso ao exame, e uma parcela não desprezível de mulheres está sob maior risco de morrer por uma doença que pode ser evitada. Esforços devem ser feitos para a estruturação de um programa de rastreamento organizado que identifique e capte as mulheres mais vulneráveis.

Cobertura e fatores associados à não realização do exame citopatológico do colo do útero entre mulheres brasileiras de 18 a 39 anos / Pap test coverage and factors associated with non-performing among Brazilian women aged 18-39

Objetivos: avaliar a cobertura e os fatores associados à não realização do exame citopatológico do colo do útero entre mulheres de 18 a 39 anos no Brasil. Métodos: estudo transversal, de base populacional, com dados de inquérito domiciliar com 2.002 mulheres alfabetizadas de áreas urbanas, selecionadas por amostragem aleatória por conglomerados em 2016. Foram avaliados a prática do exame nos três anos anteriores e os fatores associados à não realização, com cálculo de razão de prevalência ajustada (RPaj) e intervalos de confiança de 95% (IC95%) por regressão de Poisson. Resultados: a cobertura do exame entre mulheres de 18-39 anos foi de 66,5%, sendo mais elevada naquelas de 35-39 anos (76,8%). Mulheres com renda familiar até 1 salário-mínimo (RPaj=2,08;IC95% 1,72-2,54), que estudaram até a 4a série (RPaj=2,30;IC95% 1,22-2,67), residentes na região Nordeste (RPaj=1,79;IC95% 1,34-2,09) e em municípios com até 20.000 habitantes (RPaj=3,15;IC95% 2,33-3,96) apresentaram maior prevalência de não realização do exame. Conclusão: a cobertura do exame citopatológico esteve abaixo do recomendado, com disparidades socioeconômicas e geográficas. Os dados sugerem necessidade de oportunizar o rastreamento entre mulheres jovens de maior risco para o câncer do colo do útero.

Objectives: to evaluate the coverage and factors associated with non-performing Pap smear test among women aged 18-39 years in Brazil. Methods: cross-sectional, population-based study with household survey data with 2,002 literate women from urban areas, selected by random sampling by clusters in 2016. The practice of Pap test in the previous three years and associated factors with non-participation were evaluated, with calculation of adjusted prevalence ratio (PRad) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) by Poisson regression. Results: coverage of Pap tests among women 18-39 years was 66.5%, being higher in those aged 35-39 years (76.8%). Women with a family income up to 01 minimum wage (PRad=2.08; 95%CI 1.72-2.54), who studied up to 4th grade (PRad=2.30; 95%CI 1.22-2.67) and residents in the Northeast region (PRad=1.79; 95%CI 1.34-2.09) and in municipalities up to 20,000 inhabitants (PRad=3.15; 95%CI 2.33-3.96) had a higher prevalence of non-participation in screening. Conclusions: the coverage of the Pap smear test was below recommended, with socioeconomic and geographical disparities. The data suggest the need to provide screening among young women at higher risk for cervical cancer.