Influence of sexual hormones on Chagas disease / Influencia de las hormonas sexuales en la enfermedad de Chagas

Abstract Objective: Analyze sex hormone's influence during Chagas disease. Methods: Male and female BALB/c mice were divided into six groups, four experimental (sham, orchiectomized, orchiectomized and supplemented with estradiol, orchiectomized supplemented with testosterone, oophorectomized, oophorectomized and supplemented with estradiol, and oophorectomized and supplemented with testosterone), and two control (healthy and intraperitoneally with T. cruzi strain NINOA infected). Clinical data were recorded daily, parasitemia was evaluated using a Neubauer chamber during the infection, and heart histopathological analysis was performed using the paraffin embedding technique. To analyze parasitemia curves and the area under the parametric curves, two-way ANOVA test was performed to correlate groups' data. P-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: Higher mortality rates, cardiomegaly, hepatomegaly, ascites, edema, higher parasitemia levels, more amastigote nests, and more severe inflammatory infiltrate were found in higher testosterone concentration mice, whereas in higher estradiol concentration groups, paresia, prostration, edema, and necrosis were found. Conclusions: Our results showed that testosterone increased infection severity, whereas estradiol had the opposite effect. This research improves the understanding of sex hormones´ infuence upon this infection to contribute with the handling of Chagas´ disease.

Resumen Objetivo: Analizar la influencia de las hormonas durante la enfermedad de Chagas. Métodos: Se separaron grupos de ratones macho y hembras BALB/c, todos infectados con T. cruzi (cepa NINOA), 4 grupos experimentales de machos (Sham, orquidectamizados, orquidectimezados y suplementados con estradiol, orquidectamizaos y suplementados con testosterona). 4 grupos experimentales de hembras (oforectomizadas, oforectomizadas y suplementadas con estradiol, oforectomizadas y suplementadas con testosterona y sham), and y dos grupos control para cada sexo (sin infección e infectados intraperitonealmente con T. cruzi (cepa NINOA). Los datos clínicos fueron registrados diariamente, la parasitemia fue evaluada durante toda la infección utilizando una cámara de Neubauer y el análisis histopatológico del corazón fue realizada con la técnica de inclusión en parafina. Para el análisis de las curvas de parasitemia y el área bajo la curva, se realizó una prueba de ANOVA de dos vías, p < 0.05 fueron considerados estadísticamente diferentes. Resultados: Las mayores tasas de mortalidad, cardiomegalia, hepatomegalia y mayor infiltrado inflamatorio, se encontró en los ratones con una mayor concentración de testosterona. En contraste los ratones con mayor concentración de estradiol presentaron paresia, postración edema y necrosis. Conclusiones: Nuestros resultados ponen en manifiesto que la testosterona incrementa la severidad del curso de la enfermedad de Chagas, mientras que el estradiol tuvo el efecto opuesto. Este trabajo mejora el entendimiento del rol que juegan las hormonas sexuales en esta infección para contribuir en un mejor manejo de la enfermedad de Chagas.

Gender affirming hormone therapy and transgender women fertility: Histologic predictors of germ cell presence.

Objective: Evaluate histological changes in testicular parameters after hormone treatment in transgender women. Methods: Cross-section study with patients who underwent gonadectomy at Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre from 2011 to 2019. Hormone treatment type, route of administration, age at initiation and duration were recorded. Atrophy parameters were observed: testicular volume, tubular diameter, basal membrane length, presence of spermatogonia and spermatids (diploid and haploid spermatozoid precursors). Results: Eighty-six patients were included. Duration of hormone treatment is associated with testicular atrophy and spermatogenesis arrest. Other characteristics of hormone treatment such as age of initiation, route of administration and type of treatment were not associated with testicular histological changes. Testicular volume may predict spermatogenesis arrest. Basal membrane length and tubular diameter ratio is an interesting predictor of germ cell presence. Conclusion: Cross-sex hormone treatment affects testicular germ cell presence. Basal membrane length and tubular diameter ratio reduces inter variability of measurements and better exemplify how atrophic seminiferous tubules are. Fertility preservation should be addressed by healthcare providers in order to recognize gender affirming treatment impact on transgender health.

Gender affirming hormone therapy and transgender women fertility: Histologic predictors of germ cell presence

Abstract Objective: Evaluate histological changes in testicular parameters after hormone treatment in transgender women. Methods: Cross-section study with patients who underwent gonadectomy at Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre from 2011 to 2019. Hormone treatment type, route of administration, age at initiation and duration were recorded. Atrophy parameters were observed: testicular volume, tubular diameter, basal membrane length, presence of spermatogonia and spermatids (diploid and haploid spermatozoid precursors). Results: Eighty-six patients were included. Duration of hormone treatment is associated with testicular atrophy and spermatogenesis arrest. Other characteristics of hormone treatment such as age of initiation, route of administration and type of treatment were not associated with testicular histological changes. Testicular volume may predict spermatogenesis arrest. Basal membrane length and tubular diameter ratio is an interesting predictor of germ cell presence. Conclusion: Cross-sex hormone treatment affects testicular germ cell presence. Basal membrane length and tubular diameter ratio reduces inter variability of measurements and better exemplify how atrophic seminiferous tubules are. Fertility preservation should be addressed by healthcare providers in order to recognize gender affirming treatment impact on transgender health.

Efeitos adversos relacionados ao uso de hormônio em pessoas transexuais: revisão integrativa / Adverse effects related to hormone use in transgender people: integrative review

As pessoas Transexuais são aquelas que apresentam identidade de gênero diferente do sexo biológico e gênero atribuído ao nascer. Há um sentimento de não relação entre o sexo e gênero e, assim, sentem a necessidade de adquirir certas características corporais do gênero com o qual se identificam. Por vezes, essa transição ocorre por meio da utilização de hormônios e/ou procedimentos estéticos. Durante o processo da hormonização, certos efeitos adversos ocorrem e podem apresentar vários riscos e problemas à saúde. Para tanto, indaga-se: Quais são as evidências científicas sobre efeitos adversos em pessoas transexuais que utilizam hormônio de sexo cruzado? Assim, o presente trabalho objetivou identificar e analisar os efeitos adversos descritos na literatura relacionados ao uso de hormônios em pessoas transexuais. Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa cuja busca dos artigos foi realizado em dezembro de 2021 até o mês de janeiro de 2022, nas seguintes bases de dados: Embase, PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus e Lilacs. Foram incluídos 18 artigos para integrar o presente estudo. A análise de dados dos artigos incluídos partiu da ordenação e categorização do problema de pesquisa e com auxílio de estatística descritiva, com emprego da frequência e porcentagem. A partir da análise crítica dos artigos permitiu a identificação dos efeitos adversos. Foram identificados 75 efeitos adversos, os mais identificados foram a diminuição significativa de HDL e o aumento considerável de IMC ambos apresentaram o mesmo porcentual 6,7% (n = 5), seguidos do surgimento de acne com 5,3%(n=4), hiperuricemia e hiperprolactinemia ambos apresentam 4% (n = 3). Portanto, os resultados alcançados neste estudo, fornecem maior compreensão dos eventuais problemas que os efeitos adversos podem causar no organismo. Diante disso, constata-se a necessidade da realização de estudo direcionado especificamente aos efeitos adversos dos hormônios em pessoas transexuais que optam por usar hormônios para a realização de transição de gênero. Outro ponto importante a ser estudado é qual seria o hormônio ideal ou a combinação ideal de hormônio que produz resultados mais satisfatórios ou menos efeitos adversos. Também, há necessidade da realização do monitoramento desses indivíduos durante todo o processo.

Transgender people are those who have a gender identity different from the biological sex and gender assigned at birth. There is a feeling of unrelatedness between sex and gender, and thus they feel the need to acquire certain body characteristics of the gender with which they identify. Sometimes this transition occurs through the use of hormones and/or aesthetic procedures. During the process of hormonization, certain adverse effects occur and can present several risks and problems to health. Therefore, the following questions are posed: What is the scientific evidence on adverse effects in transsexual people who use cross-sex hormone? Thus, the present work aimed to identify and analyze the adverse effects described in the literature related to the use of hormones in transsexual people. This is an integrative review whose search for articles was carried out from December 2021 to January 2022, in the following databases: Embase, PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Lilacs. Eighteen articles were included in this study. The data analysis of the included articles started with the ordering and categorization of the research problem and with the help of descriptive statistics, using frequency and percentage. The critical analysis of the articles allowed the identification of adverse effects. Seventy-five adverse effects were identified, the most identified were a significant decrease in HDL and a considerable increase in BMI, both with the same percentage of 6.7% (n = 5), followed by the appearance of acne with 5.3% (n = 4), hyperuricemia and hyperprolactinemia, both with 4% (n = 3). Therefore, the results achieved in this study, provide greater understanding of the possible problems that adverse effects can cause in the body. In view of this, there is a need for a study directed specifically at the adverse effects of hormones on transsexuals who choose to use hormones for their gender transition. Another important point to be studied is what would be the ideal hormone or the ideal combination of hormones that produces more satisfactory results or fewer adverse effects. Also, there is a need for monitoring these individuals during the entire process.

Sports metabolism in improving national fitness / O metabolismo esportivo e a melhora no preparo físico nacional / El metabolismo deportivo y la mejoría en el preparo físico nacional

ABSTRACT Introduction: Exercise can invigorate the body's metabolism. There are very few people who know how sports promote people's physical and mental health. How to lead people to participate in physical exercise through sports is a question worth considering. Objective: We explore the effects of sports on human metabolism. Methods: The article analyzes athletes' physical and chemical indicators before and after exercise and during the recovery period. The indicators cover blood routine, urine routine, and blood testosterone content. Results: The blood and urine routines of athletes before and after training are different (P<0.05). After an expressive number of exercises, the urine testosterone content will be different due to the difference in genders (P<0.05). Conclusions: Physical exercise has a very significant impact on human metabolism. The body's hormone levels and metabolism are related to the amount of exercise. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment results.

RESUMO Introdução: o exercício pode fortalecer o metabolismo corporal. Poucas pessoas sabem o quanto o esporte promove a saúde física e mental de indivíduos. Como levar as pessoas a participar em exercícios físicos através dos esportes é uma questão que vale a pena considerar. Objetivo: Explorar os efeitos do esporte no metabolismo humano. Métodos: O artigo analisa indicadores físicos e químicos de atletas antes e depois do exercício e durante o período de recuperação. Os indicadores cobrem testes de sangue, de urina e conteúdo de testosterona no sangue. Resultados: Os resultados dos testes de sangue e urina dos atletas antes e depois de treinar são diferentes (P<0.05). Após muito exercício, o conteúdo de testosterona na urina será diferente devido a diferença entre os sexos (P<0.05). Conclusões: O exercício físico tem um impacto significativo no metabolismo humano. O nível hormonal e o metabolismo do corpo estão relacionados a quantidade de exercício. Nível de evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos - investigação de resultados de tratamento.

RESUMEN Introducción: El ejercicio puede fortalecer el metabolismo corporal. Pocas personas saben cuánto el deporte promueve la salud física y mental de individuos. Cómo llevar a las personas a participar en ejercicios físicos a través de los deportes es una cuestión que vale la pena considerar. Objetivo: Explorar los efectos del deporte en el metabolismo humano. Métodos: El artículo analiza indicadores físicos y químicos de atletas antes y después del ejercicio y durante el periodo de recuperación. Los indicadores abarcan análisis de sangre, urina y contenido de testosterona en la sangre. Resultados: Los resultados de los análisis de sangre antes y después de entrenar son distintos (P<0.05). Tras mucho ejercicio, el contenido de testosterona en la urina será diferente debido a la diferencia entre los sexos (P<0,05). Conclusiones: El ejercicio físico tiene un impacto significativo en el metabolismo humano. El nivel hormonal y el metabolismo del cuerpo están relacionados a la cantidad de ejercicio. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos - investigación de resultados de tratamiento.

Tumor ovárico de células esteroideas sin otra especificación, durante el embarazo

Los tumores de células esteroides de ovario se clasifican en luteoma estromal, tumor de células de Leydig y tumor de células esteroideas sin otra especificación, según su origen embrionario. El tumor ovárico de células esteroideas sin otra especificación es un tumor benigno raro, pero con potencial maligno; representa menos del 0,1% de todos los tumores de ovario. Deben ser considerados como causa de virilización en mujeres adultas por la producción de testosterona. Solo un feto femenino corre riesgo de virilización. Al igual que otros tumores del estroma ovárico, los tumores deben ser tratados quirúrgicamente. La cirugía está indicada en casos de agrandamiento ovárico unilateral sólido, debido a un 50% de probabilidad de malignidad. En el embarazo, los tumores ováricos de células esteroideas sin otra especificación son excepcionalmente raros y deben ser diferenciados del luteoma del embarazo y otras neoplasias malignas del ovario. Con mayor frecuencia pueden complicarse con rotura y/o torsión. Se presenta un caso de tumor ovárico de células esteroideas sin otra especificación durante el embarazo.

Ovarian steroid cell tumors are classified into stromal luteoma, Leydig cell tumor and steroid cell tumor not otherwise specified, according to their embryonal origin. Ovarian steroid cell tumor not otherwise specified is a rare benign tumor, but with malignant potential; it accounts for less than 0.1% of all ovarian tumors. They should be considered as a cause of virilization in adult women due to testosterone production. Only a female fetus is at risk of virilization. Like other ovarian stromal tumors, the tumors must be treated surgically. Surgery is indicated in cases of solid unilateral ovarian enlargement, due to a 50% chance of malignancy. In pregnancy, ovarian steroid cell tumors not otherwise specified are exceptionally rare and should be differentiated from luteoma of pregnancy and other malignant ovarian neoplasms. More frequently they may be complicated by rupture and/or torsion. A case of nonspecific ovarian steroid cell tumor during pregnancy is presented.

Action of hormonal therapy in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a systematic review

SUMMARY Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal disease characterized by muscle weakness, atrophy, fasciculations, and decreased reflexes due to upper and lower motor neurons death. It can be present in both sexes (55-65 years), but with predominance in males. However, in female patients, ALS presents its first symptoms when they are already postmenopausal, when then the incidence ratio of the disease is practically equal between the sexes, which leads to a probable involvement of sex hormones in the development and protection against ALS. The aim of this systematic review, which used the PRISMA consensus and NOS (New Castle-Ottawa Scale) score, was to evaluate the evidence of the action of hormone therapy in women with ALS. The Medline and Cochrane databases were accessed from March 2019 to June 2019, and only full-text articles in Spanish, English, and Portuguese were included. Only four articles matched our inclusion criteria. Postmenopausal women who used exogenous estrogen did not have the same protective factor as women still under the action of endogenous estrogen in the same age group. There was also no increase in the survival of these women.

Diagnosis of precocious puberty: clinical guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of precocious puberty.

The Mexican Society of Pediatric Endocrinology developed a clinical practice guide for the diagnosis and treatment of precocious puberty. This document presents recommendations related to the diagnosis of precocious puberty. The detailed description of the methodology for the development of this guide and the grading system, as well as the synthesis of the evidence on which it is based can be accessed in this same supplement.

La Sociedad Mexicana de Endocrinología Pediátrica elaboró una guía de práctica clínica para el diagnóstico y el tratamiento de la pubertad precoz. Este documento presenta recomendaciones relacionadas con el diagnóstico de pubertad precoz. La descripción detallada de la metodología para el desarrollo de esta guía y del sistema de gradación, así como la síntesis de la evidencia en la que se basa, pueden consultarse en este suplemento.

Bariatric Surgery Impact on Reproductive Hormones, Semen Analysis, and Sperm DNA Fragmentation in Men with Severe Obesity: Prospective Study.

PURPOSE: Growing evidence in the literature suggests that obesity is capable of altering reproductive hormone levels and male fertility. Effects on classic semen parameters and sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF), however, have not been properly established. Additionally, the impact of bariatric surgery (BS) on those parameters is still controversial. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In Phase 1, 42 patients with obesity and 32 fertile controls were submitted to reproductive hormone evaluation, semen analysis, and SDF testing. In Phase 2, patients with obesity were submitted to BS or clinical follow-up and were invited to 6-month revaluation. RESULTS: Phase 1: Men with obesity have higher levels of estradiol, LH, and FSH and lower levels of total testosterone (TT) when compared with eutrophic fertile men. Additionally, they present worse semen parameters, with reduction in ejaculated volume and sperm concentration, worse sperm motility and morphology, and higher SDF. Phase 2: 32 patients returned to revaluation. Eighteen were submitted to BS (group S) and 14 were not submitted to any specific therapeutic regimen (group NS). In group S, TT more than doubled after surgery (294.5 to 604 ng/dL, p < 0.0001). Worsening of sperm concentration and total ejaculated sperm count were also noticed, and 2 patients became azoospermic after BS. SDF, however, improved after the procedure. No changes in the variables studied were observed in non-operated patients. CONCLUSION: In this prospective study, we have found that BS results in improvements in reproductive hormone levels and SDF after 6-month follow-up. Sperm concentration, however, reduced after the procedure.

Diagnóstico de pubertad precoz / Diagnosis of precocious puberty: clinical guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of precocious puberty

Resumen La Sociedad Mexicana de Endocrinología Pediátrica elaboró una guía de práctica clínica para el diagnóstico y el tratamiento de la pubertad precoz. Este documento presenta recomendaciones relacionadas con el diagnóstico de pubertad precoz. La descripción detallada de la metodología para el desarrollo de esta guía y del sistema de gradación, así como la síntesis de la evidencia en la que se basa, pueden consultarse en este suplemento.

Abstract The Mexican Society of Pediatric Endocrinology developed a clinical practice guide for the diagnosis and treatment of precocious puberty. This document presents recommendations related to the diagnosis of precocious puberty. The detailed description of the methodology for the development of this guide and the grading system, as well as the synthesis of the evidence on which it is based can be accessed in this same supplement.

Influência das alterações hormonais advindas do climatério nos tecidos bucais / Influence of climacteric hormonal changes on buccal tissues

Durante o climatério, período em que as gônadas femininas cessam sua função, a deficiência de estrógenos, especialmente do estradiol, provoca alterações importantes na cavidade bucal, interferindo em mecanismos inflamatórios, secreção salivar, metabolismo do colágeno, entre outros. Por meio de uma revisão de literatura, esse estudo teve como objetivo, ver a influência das alterações hormonais advindas do período de climatério nos tecidos bucais, proporcionando ao cirurgião dentista informações em relação às consequências e cuidados relacionados a esta fase da vida da mulher. Nesse período, as mulheres tornam-se mais suscetíveis a alterações tais como: osteopenia e osteoporose dos maxilares, hipossalivação, doenças periodontais, entre outros. O tratamento preventivo por meio de remoção de placa, adequação do meio bucal e orientação antes e durante o climatério são os melhores meios de minimizar os problemas bucais advindos dessa fase da vida da mulher.

During the climacteric period, when female gonads cease their function, estrogen deficiency, especially estradiol, causes important changes in the oral cavity, interfering in inflammatory mechanisms, salivary secretion, collagen metabolism, among others. Through a literature review, this study aimed to see the influence of the hormonal changes from the climacteric period in the oral tissues, providing the dentist surgeon with information regarding the consequences and care related to this phase of the woman's life. In this period, women become more susceptible to changes such as: osteopenia and osteoporosis of the jaws, hyposalivation, periodontal diseases, among others. Preventive treatment through removal of plaque, adequacy of the buccal environment and orientation before and during climacteric are the best means of minimizing oral problems arising from this phase of a woman's life.

Hormônios sexuais, moralidades de gênero e contracepção de emergência no Brasil / Sex hormones, gender moralities and emergency contraception in Brazil / Hormonas sexuales, moralidades de género y contracepción de emergencia en Brasil

Propõe-se discutir juízos sociais distintos sobre o crescente uso de hormônios sexuais, para fins contraceptivos ou não, prática cada vez mais abrangente no contexto internacional e no Brasil. Há uma expansão vertiginosa de indicações clínicas para uso de hormônios sexuais em diferentes circunstâncias da vida (como envelhecimento, embelezamento, melhoria de performance sexual e física), sendo tais inovações tecnológicas propagadas com entusiasmo pela mídia. Paradoxalmente, convive-se com certa reserva ao uso da contracepção de emergência pelas jovens mulheres. A despeito da popularização do conhecimento científico sobre hormônios sexuais como fontes de aprimoramento humano, a difusão e uso da contracepção de emergência, aprovados há vinte anos no Brasil, com indicações clínicas precisas, continuam marginais e sofrendo restrições, em um país no qual o aborto segue interditado às mulheres. A hipótese considera uma perspectiva de gênero que subjuga o exercício da sexualidade feminina a determinados padrões morais vigentes.(AU)

The aim of the present study is to discuss different social judgments about the growing use of sex hormones, a practice that is increasingly common in Brazil and worldwide. There has been a rapid expansion of clinical indications for the use of sex hormones in different circumstances, such as aging, beauty purposes and improvement of physical and sexual performance. These technological innovations are disseminated by the media enthusiastically. Paradoxically, there is some reserve regarding the use of emergency contraception by young women. Despite the popularization of scientific knowledge of sex hormones as a tool to improve some physical human aspects, the diffusion and use of emergency contraception, which was approved twenty years ago with precise clinical indications, remain marginal and restricted, in a country where abortion is still unavailable to women. The study hypothesis considers a gender perspective that subjugates the exercise of women's sexuality to specific prevailing standards.(AU)

Se propone discutir juicios sociales distintos sobre le creciente uso de hormonas sexuales, para fines contraceptivos o no, práctica cada vez más incluyente en el contexto internacional y en Brasil. Hay una expansión vertiginosa de indicaciones clínicas para la utilización de hormonas sexuales en diferentes circunstancias de la vida (tales como envejecimiento, embellecimiento, mejora del desempeño sexual y físico), siendo tales innovaciones tecnológicas propagadas con entusiasmo por los medios. Paradojalmente, se convive con cierta reserva al uso de la contracepción de emergencia por parte de las mujeres jóvenes. A pesar de popularización del conocimiento científico sobre hormonas sexuales como fuentes de perfeccionamiento humano, la difusión y el uso de la contracepción de emergencia, aprobados desde hace veinte años en Brasil, con indicaciones clínicas precisas, continúan marginalizados y sufriendo restricciones en un país en el cual el aborto sigue siendo prohibido para las mujeres. La hipótesis considera una perspectiva de género que subyuga el ejercicio de la sexualidad femenina a determinados estándares morales vigentes.(AU)

African ancestry is associated with facial melasma in women: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Melasma is a chronic acquired focal hypermelanosis affecting photoexposed areas, especially for women during fertile age. Several factors contribute to its development: sun exposure, sex steroids, medicines, and family history. Melanic pigmentation pathway discloses several SNPs in different populations. Here, we evaluated the association between genetic ancestry and facial melasma. METHODS: A cross-sectional study involving women with melasma and an age-matched control group from outpatients at FMB-Unesp, Botucatu-SP, Brazil was performed. DNA was extracted from oral mucosa swabs and ancestry determined by studying 61 INDELs. The genetic ancestry components were adjusted by other known risk factors by multiple logistic regression. RESULTS: We evaluated 119 women with facial melasma and 119 controls. Mean age was 39 ± 9 years. Mean age at beginning of disease was 27 ± 8 years. Pregnancy (40%), sun exposure (37%), and hormonal oral contraception (22%) were the most frequently reported melasma triggers. All subjects presented admixed ancestry, African and European genetic contributions were significantly different between cases and controls (respectively 10% vs 6%; 77% vs 82%; p < 0.05). African ancestry (OR = 1.04; 95% CI 1.01 to 1.07), first generation family history (OR = 3.04; 95% CI 1.56 to 5.94), low education level (OR = 4.04; 95% CI 1.56 to 5.94), and use of antidepressants by individuals with affected family members (OR = 6.15; 95% CI 1.13 to 33.37) were associated with melasma, independently of other known risk factors. CONCLUSIONS: Facial melasma was independently associated with African ancestry in a highly admixed population.

Association between asthma and female sex hormones / Associação entre asma e hormônios sexuais femininos

ABSTRACT CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: The relationship between sex hormones and asthma has been evaluated in several studies. The aim of this review article was to investigate the association between asthma and female sex hormones, under different conditions (premenstrual asthma, use of oral contraceptives, menopause, hormone replacement therapy and pregnancy). DESIGN AND SETTING: Narrative review of the medical literature, Universidade Federal do Tocantins (UFT) and Universidade Federal de São Paulo (Unifesp). METHODS: We searched the CAPES journal portal, a Brazilian platform that provides access to articles in the MEDLINE, PubMed, SciELO, and LILACS databases. The following keywords were used based on Medical Subject Headings: asthma, sex hormones, women and use of oral contraceptives. RESULTS: The associations between sex hormones and asthma remain obscure. In adults, asthma is more common in women than in men. In addition, mortality due to asthma is significantly higher among females. The immune system is influenced by sex hormones: either because progesterone stimulates progesterone-induced blocking factor and Th2 cytokines or because contraceptives derived from progesterone and estrogen stimulate the transcription factor GATA-3. CONCLUSIONS: The associations between asthma and female sex hormones remain obscure. We speculate that estrogen fluctuations are responsible for asthma exacerbations that occur in women. Because of the anti-inflammatory action of estrogen, it decreases TNF-α production, interferon-γ expression and NK cell activity. We suggest that further studies that highlight the underlying physiopathological mechanisms contributing towards these interactions should be conducted.

RESUMO CONTEXTO E OBJETIVO: A relação entre os hormônios sexuais e a asma tem sido investigada em diversos estudos. Esta revisão tem como objetivo descrever a relação entre hormônios sexuais (endógenos e exógenos) e a inflamação nas vias aéreas, especialmente na asma, em eventos diferentes (na asma pré-menstrual, durante o uso de anticoncepcionais, na menopausa, no uso de terapia hormonal e na gestação). TIPO DE ESTUDO E LOCAL: Revisão narrativa da literatura médica, Universidade Federal do Tocantins (UFT) e Universidade Federal de São Paulo (Unifesp). MÉTODO: Pesquisamos o Portal de Periódicos Capes, uma plataforma brasileira que fornece acesso a artigos nas bases de dados MEDLINE, PubMed, SciELO e LILACS. Os descritores utilizados foram asma, hormônios sexuais, mulheres e uso de anticoncepcionais, com base no "Medical Subject Headings". RESULTADOS: As associações entre hormônios sexuais e asma ainda permanecem obscuras. Em adultos, a asma é mais frequente em mulheres do que em homens. Além disso, a mortalidade por asma é significativamente maior no sexo feminino, destacando-se que o sistema imunológico sofre influência de hormônios sexuais, seja porque a progesterona estimula o fator bloqueador induzido pela progesterona e citocinas Th2 ou porque contraceptivos derivados de progesterona e estrógeno estimulam o fator de transcrição GATA-3. CONCLUSÕES: A associação entre asma e hormônios sexuais femininos permanece obscura. Nós especulamos que as flutuações do estrogênio são responsáveis pelas exacerbações da asma que ocorrem nas mulheres. Devido à ação anti-inflamatória do estrogênio há redução da produção de TNF-α, da expressão do interferon-γ e da atividade das células NK. Sugerimos que sejam realizados novos estudos para esclarecer os mecanismos fisiopatológicos dessas interações.

Impact of body mass index, age and varicocele on reproductive hormone profile from elderly men

ABSTRACT Objectives: To study the impact of obesity, age and varicocele on sexual hormones fof adult and elderly men. Materials and Methods: 875 men who were screened for prostate cancer were enrolled in this study. Data recorded comprised age, body mass index (BMI), serum levels of total testosterone (TT), free testosterone (FT), sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicular stimulating hormone (FSH). Patients were divided in groups according to their BMI in underweight, normal weight, overweight and obese grades 1, 2 or 3. First, it was studied the association between age, BMI, and hormone profile. Then, clinical varicocele was evaluated in 298 patients to assess its correlation to the others parameters. Results: Obese patients had lower levels of TT, FT and SHBG (p<0.001) compared to underweight or normal weight patients. There were no differences in age (p=0.113), FSH serum levels (p=0.863) and LH serum levels (p=0.218) between obese and non-obese patients. Obese grade 3 had lower levels of TT and FT compared to obese grade 1 and 2 (p<0.05). There was no difference in the SHBG levels (p=0.120) among obese patients. There was no association between varicocele and BMI; and varicocele did not impact on testosterone or SHBG levels. Conclusions: Men with higher BMI have a lower serum level of TT, FT and SHBG. The presence of clinical varicocele as well as its grade has no impact on hormone profile in elderly men.

Características y efectos del uso de hormonas femeninas en transexuales masculinos en Lima, Perú / Characteristics and effects of female hormones used by male transsexuals in Lima, Peru

Introducción: En el proceso de feminización, los transexuales masculinos usan hormonas sexuales femeninas, cuya seguridad en el sexo genéticamente masculino no ha sido definida. Objetivos: Evaluar el grado de conocimiento y prácticas de la administración de hormonas femeninas, la frecuencia de uso, reacciones adversas, fuentes de información y acceso a estos productos por parte de transexuales femeninos. Diseño: Investigación cualitativa y cuantitativa prospectiva comunitaria. Lugar: Lima. Participantes: Transexuales masculinos de 18 años o más. Intervenciones: Cuatro transexuales capacitados identificaron mediante la modalidad æbola de nieveÆ a transexuales femeninos. Luego, se les realizó una entrevista semi-estructurada validada, el examen clínico respectivo y la toma de una muestra de 10 mL de sangre venosa. Medidas de resultados: El nivel de conocimiento, redes y calidad de información recibida, lugares de adquisición y efectos de las hormonas femeninas. Resultados: Solo el 11,8 por ciento de los participantes conseguía las hormonas con receta médica y poseía conocimiento sobre su efecto. Los principales efectos secundarios presentados fueron sensibilidad mamaria y aumento del peso corporal (88,2 por ciento), y disminución de la libido y erección (58,8 por ciento). La hormona más usada fue una combinación de dihidroxiprogesterona y estradiol vía intramuscular (47,1 por ciento). Conclusiones: Es necesario implementar servicios multidisciplinarios que cubran las necesidades de salud, incluyendo la de feminización que tiene esta población, y así evitar o disminuir el riesgo inherente a este proceso...

Introduction: In the feminization process, some male transsexuals use synthetic female hormones whose safety has not been defined in genetically male persons. Objectives: To evaluate the degree of knowledge, frequency of use, type of administration, adverse effects and source of information on female hormones in male transsexual persons. Design: Qualitative and quantitative community prospective study. Place: Lima. Participants: Male transsexuals 18 years old or older who had been using female hormones for 6 months or more. Interventions: Four trained male transsexuals identified new male transsexuals by the æsnow ballÆ method. Then, subjects were interviewed, underwent physical examination, and a 10 mL blood sample was obtained. Main outcome measures: Level of knowledge, quality of information received, acquisition source, and side effects of female hormones. Results: Only 11.8 per cent of the participants obtained the hormones by medical prescription and had some knowledge about their effects. Most common side effects were breast tenderness and weight gain (88.2 per cent), and decline of libido and erection (58.8 per cent). A combination of dihydroxyprogesterone plus estriol IM was the most common female hormone used (47.1 per cent). Conclusions: Implementation of multidisciplinary services that meet this population health needs is necessary to decrease risks...

Melasma: a clinical and epidemiological review

Melasma is a chronic acquired hypermelanosis of the skin, characterized by irregular brown macules symmetrically distributed on sun-exposed areas of the body, particularly on the face. It is a common cause of demand for dermatological care that affects mainly women (especially during the menacme), and more pigmented phenotypes (Fitzpatrick skin types III-V). Due to its frequent facial involvement, the disease has an impact on the quality of life of patients. Its pathogeny is not yet completely understood, although there are some known triggering factors such as sun exposure, pregnancy, sexual hormones, inflammatory processes of the skin, use of cosmetics, steroids, and photosensitizing drugs. There is also a clear genetic predisposition, since over 40% of patients reported having relatives affected with the disease. In this manuscript, the authors discuss the main clinical and epidemiological aspects of melasma.

Patogênese e aspectos clínicos do granuloma gravídico: Relato de caso e revisão de literatura / Pathogenesis and clinical aspects of granuloma gravidarum: case report and review of literature

Relatar o caso de um granuloma gravídico (GG) presente em gengiva de uma mulher no sexto mês de gestação, que apresentou queixa funcional e estética e realizar uma revisão de literatura sobre os principais aspectos clínicos, hormonais e acerca da patogênese da lesão. Relato de Caso: Paciente do sexo feminino, 24 anos, cor parda, procurou atendimento odontológico queixando-se da presença de lesão na gengiva palatina, a mesma encontrava-se no sexto mês de gestação. Após exame anamnésico e clínico as hipóteses diagnósticas foram GG, lesão periférica de células gigantes e fibroma ossificante periférico. Diante do comprometimento estético e funcional, a biópsia excisional conservadora foi realizada, confirmando a hipótese diagnóstica de GG. A paciente foi acompanhada durante os últimos meses de gestação, tendo demonstrado um processo cicatricial normal e prognóstico favorável. Considerações Finais: no decorrer da gravidez o GG pode apresentar evolução súbita e exacerbada, atingindo dimensões tais que podem alarmar profissionais da Odontologia menos informados. Assim, a conduta baseada em adequada anamnese, avaliação clínica criteriosa e observação do período gestacional da paciente será decisiva para a realização do tratamento, o qual pode ser cirúrgico ou apenas observacional. É importante evidenciar a necessidade de cuidados com a higiene, remoção da placa bacteriana e o uso de escovas dentais adequadas, com técnicas de escovação que diminuam o trauma da mucosa bucal...

To report the case of a granuloma gravidarum (GG) present in the gum of a woman in the sixth month of pregnancy, complained functional and aesthetic and conduct a literature review on the main clinical, hormonal and regarding the pathogenesis of the lesion. Case Report: Female patient, 24 years old, brown color, sought dental care complaining of the injury gum palate, it was in the sixth month of gestation. After anamnesis and clinical examination diagnostic hypotheses were GG, peripheral giant cell lesions and peripheral ossifying fibroma. Given the esthetic and functional, conservative excisional biopsy was performed, confirming the diagnosis of GG. The patient was followed during the last months of pregnancy, having demonstrated normal wound healing process and favorable prognosis. Conclusion: during pregnancy may have an evolution GG sudden and exacerbated, reaching such dimensions that may scare dental professionals less informed. Thus, the conduct based on accurate anamnesis, clinical evaluation and careful observation of the patient during pregnancy is crucial to the achievement of the treatment, which can be surgical or just observational. It is important to highlight the need for care with hygiene, plaque removal and proper use of toothbrushes with brushing techniques that reduce the trauma of the oral mucosa...

Can endometrial arylsulfatase A activity predict the onset of endometrial polyps over the years? / A atividade da arilsulfatase endometrial A pode prever a aparição de pólipos endometriais ao longo dos anos?

PURPOSE: To assess if arylsulfatase A activity (ASA) and sulfatide (SL) concentration in the human endometrium can be predictive of the development of endometrial polyps over the years, since ASA activity reflects the endometrial sensitivity to hormones. METHODS: ASA activity and SL concentration were determined by biochemical procedures on endometrial samples collected between 1990 and 1994 in non-menopausal women. These women underwent a new endometrial sampling following the clinical indication some years after the first endometrial sampling. The histological assessment of the second endometrial specimens found four patients with normal endometrial pattern and 10 patients with one or more endometrial polyps. ASA activity/years elapsed and SL concentration/years elapsed were compared using two tailed Mann-Whitney test for unpaired data between patients with normal pattern and patients with endometrial polyps. RESULTS: Median ASA activities were 2.62 (normal pattern) versus 1.85 (endometrial polyps) nmol hydrolized substrate/min. Median activity/years elapsed is higher in patients with second endometrial sample presenting normal pattern (p=0.006) and median SL concentration/years elapsed does not differ significantly among groups, even if median SL concentration seems to be higher in patients who subsequently developed polyps (1031 µg/g of fresh tissue versus 341,5 µg/g of fresh tissue). CONCLUSIONS: ASA activity can predict the onset of endometrial polyps over the years.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar se a atividade da arilsulfatase A (ASA) e a concentração de sulfatida (SL) no endométrio humano pode ser preditivo em relação ao desenvolvimento de pólipos endometriais ao longo dos anos, posto que atividade da ASA reflete a sensibilidade do endométrio aos hormônios. MÉTODOS: A atividade da ASA, assim como a concentração de SL, foi determinada por meio de procedimentos bioquímicos em amostras de endométrio coletadas entre 1990 e 1994, em mulheres que não se encontravam na menopausa. Essas mulheres foram submetidas a uma nova amostragem endometrial após indicação clínica alguns anos depois da primeira amostragem endometrial. A avaliação histológica dos segundos espécimes endometriais permitiu identificar quatro pacientes com padrão endometrial normal e 10 com um ou mais pólipos endometriais. A atividade da ASA/anos depois e a concentração de SL/anos depois foram comparadas, utilizando o teste bilateral U de Mann-Whitney para dados não pareados entre as pacientes com padrão normal e as pacientes com pólipos endometriais. RESULTADOS: A ativitade da ASA foi 2,62 (padrão normal) em comparação com 1,85 (endometrial pólipos) de substrato hidrolisado/min. A atividade da ASA/anos depois é maior em pacientes com segunda amostra endometrial a apresentarem um padrão normal (p=0,006), e a concentração mediana de SL/anos depois não difere de forma significativa entre os grupos, apesar de a concentração mediana de SL parecer maior em pacientes que posteriormente desenvolveram pólipos (1031 µg/g de tecido fresco em comparação com 341,5 µg/g de tecido fresco). CONCLUSÕES: A atividade da ASA pode prever a aparição de pólipos endometriais ao longo dos anos.

Evidências da associação entre testosterona e doença periodontal no sexo masculino / Evidence of the association between testosterone and periodontal disease in males

A hipótese deste trabalho é que hormônios sexuais participam da etiopatogenia da doença periodontal (DP). Diferentes níveis de evidência científica testaram esta hipótese, avaliando: i. associação entre hormônios sexuais e DP em homens; ii. a influência de níveis sub- e suprafisiológicos de testosterona (T) sobre a DP em ratos; iii. se este mecanismo de ação envolve respostas de osteoblastos e osteoclastos in vitro. Dados do III NHANES relacionados com diagnóstico de DP e mensuração hormonal em homens com 30+ anos foram analisados para correlacionar estas duas variáveis. Em ratos, níveis subfisiológicos foram alcançados através da orquiectomia e níveis suprafisiológicos pelo tratamento com T. Metade dos animais em cada grupo foi submetida à DP utilizando–se modelo de ligadura. In vitro, células RAW264.7 foram diferenciadas em osteoclastos na presença de T (1nM-1μM) e identificados por TRAP. Cultura primária de osteoblastos murinos foi utilizada para avaliar a expressão de osteocalcina, RANKL e OPG na presença de T. Em homens, altos níveis de T biodisponível e baixa razão estradiol:T se correlacionaram significativamente com DP. Em idosos, baixos níveis de AAG, metabólito da dihidrotestosterona, também apresentaram correlação significativa. Em ratos, níveis sub- e suprafisiológicos de T aumentaram significativamente a perda óssea e modularam a expressão de citocinas inflamatórias. In vitro, doses fisiológicas de testosterona preveniram a osteoclastogênese e diminuíram a expressão de osteocalcina, RANKL e razão RANKL:OPG por osteoblastos. Concluiu-se que a T modula a resposta do hospedeiro à DP no sexo masculino, regulando a diferenciação de osteoclastos direta e indiretamente (via osteoblastos).

The hypothesis of this work is that sex hormones participate in the etiopathogenesis of periodontal disease (PD). Different levels of scientific evidence tested that hypothesis, evaluating: i. The association between sex hormones and PD in men; ii. The influence of sub- and supraphysiologic testosterone (T) levels on PD in rats; iii. If that mechanism of action involves osteoblast and osteoclast responses in vitro. Data from NHANES III related to diagnosis of PD and hormones measurement in 30+- year-old men were assessed to correlate those two variables. In rats, subphysiologic levels were obtained by orchiectomy and supraphysiolgic levels by T treatment. Half of the animals in each group received PD using a ligature model. In vitro, RAW264.7 cells were differentiated into osteoclastos in the presence of T (1nM-1µM) and identified by TRAP-staining. Murine osteoblast primary culture was used to evaluate the expression of osteocalcin, RANKL and OPG in the presence of T. In men, high levels of bioavailable T and low estradiol:T ratio significantly correlated with PD. In older men, low levels of AAG, a metabolite of dihydrotestosterone, also presented a significant correlation. In rats, low and high T levels significantly increased bone loss and modulated the expression of inflammatory cytokines. In vitro, physiologic T doses prevented osteoclastogenesis and decreased the expression of osteocalcin, RANKL and RANKL:OPG ratio produced by osteoblasts. We concluded that T modulates host response to PD in males, regulating osteoclast differentiation direct and indirectly (through osteoblasts)