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1.
Cureus ; 16(4): e58645, 2024 Apr.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38770508

ABSTRACT

Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) represents a significant precursor to cervical cancer, posing a considerable threat to women's health globally. This comprehensive review examines recent advancements in the management of CIN, encompassing screening, diagnosis, and treatment modalities. The etiology and pathogenesis of CIN are explored alongside an analysis of traditional and emerging screening techniques, including liquid-based cytology and molecular biomarkers. Treatment options, from minimally invasive procedures to immunotherapy approaches, are evaluated for efficacy and potential impact on patient outcomes. Furthermore, this review highlights the implications of these findings for clinical practice, emphasizing the importance of staying abreast of evolving guidelines and integrating innovative strategies into routine care. Recommendations for future research and practice are provided, emphasizing personalized approaches, disparities in access to care, and the exploration of novel therapeutic avenues. By addressing these challenges and opportunities, this review aims to contribute to the ongoing efforts to mitigate the burden of CIN and cervical cancer, ultimately improving women's health outcomes worldwide.

2.
Cureus ; 16(4): e58320, 2024 Apr.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38752091

ABSTRACT

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) are common mesenchymal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract. Some somatic factors have been linked to an increased incidence risk. The diagnostic process for GIST poses difficulties since it bears limited resemblance to ovarian masses, given its manifestation through symptoms like abdominal pain, abdominal mass, fever, weight loss, and loss of appetite. Patients with GIST usually exhibit clinical symptoms and signs of an abdominal mass and chronic pelvic pain might look like an ovarian mass, and diagnosed as GIST on histological examination. A 50-year-old woman presented to the gynecology outpatient department with complaints of an abdominal lump accompanied by pain and decreased appetite persisting for five months, leading to a preliminary diagnosis of an ovarian mass. Further evaluation by histopathological examination was confirmed to be GIST on the final diagnosis.

3.
Cureus ; 16(3): e56753, 2024 Mar.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38654788

ABSTRACT

This comprehensive review provides an in-depth examination of congenital anomalies of the female genital tract, explicitly focusing on the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) Müllerian Anomalies Classification. The classification system is crucial for standardizing communication and guiding accurate diagnoses in clinical practice. The review explores the diverse clinical presentations, etiological factors, and diagnostic modalities associated with these anomalies. Management strategies, ranging from conservative approaches to advanced reproductive technologies, are discussed in the context of individualized treatment plans based on the ASRM classification. The psychosocial impact of female genital tract anomalies is thoroughly examined, emphasizing the importance of holistic care and patient-centered approaches. Looking toward the future, the review outlines emerging research areas, including advances in diagnosis techniques, innovative treatment modalities, and genetic studies. It ultimately underscores the need for a comprehensive understanding of physical and psychosocial dimensions, offering insights for healthcare professionals to navigate this complex landscape and improve the lives of affected individuals.

4.
Cureus ; 16(3): e55382, 2024 Mar.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38562358

ABSTRACT

The hydatidiform mole is a rare gynaecological condition originating from trophoblastic cells, with an incidence of 1-3 per 1000 pregnancies. Theca lutein cysts (TLCs) and an invasive mole are rarely observed in association with a partial mole. This case describes an unusual case involving a 17-year-old primigravida at 11 weeks of gestation. She presented with abdominal pain and was diagnosed with a molar pregnancy with post-evacuation rupture of TLC, presenting as an acute abdomen, subsequently undergoing laparoscopy. Post-molar pregnancies exhibit a highly variable course, ranging from recurrent pregnancy loss and stillbirths to preterm deliveries and recurrent molar pregnancies. Few studies are available on obstetric outcomes after a molar pregnancy; most available data originate from national databases and monocentric research.

5.
Cureus ; 16(2): e54802, 2024 Feb.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38529421

ABSTRACT

Background Urogenital health is a necessary part of health for all women, especially in the postmenopausal age group. We suspected that the increased incidence of vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA) had some or other effects on the quality of life of older women. So, we aimed to study VVA/genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) and its impact on the quality of life of postmenopausal women in Central India. Despite its significant prevalence and detrimental impact on women's health, VVA/GSM is underdiagnosed and undertreated. In view of the feminization of aging, VVA management is becoming increasingly crucial. This study contributes to postmenopausal women's understanding that keeping their urogenital and sexual longevity is a critical step toward healthy living and gender equality. Given its relationship with urogynecological conditions, this study will help to evaluate both subjectively and objectively the incidence of symptoms related to VVA and its effects on the quality of life of postmenopausal women. This will eventually help to understand the need to address this issue while making postmenopausal women health-related policies. Potential remedies to overcome the obstacles currently preventing patient-HCP interactions addressing sexual health include providing communication tools to facilitate the "uncomfortable" conversation, educating women, and providing enough training for healthcare professionals. Methods The current study was conducted at a rural tertiary healthcare center in Central India and is a cross-sectional study. The study population taken into consideration were all the postmenopausal women between the age group 45 and 75 years with at least one vulvovaginal symptom attending the Outpatient Department (OPD). The total study sample size was 100 women. Further study was conducted by interview method using a questionnaire by the principal investigator. Data was gathered with the help of a pretested questionnaire in the patient's language. Symptoms related to GSM were studied by the vaginal symptom Bothersomeness Scale. Further, a gynecological clinical examination for the confirmation of VVA was carried out, which included a gynecological physical examination. The Vaginal Health Index (VHI) was calculated for each female using the score scale. Assessment of the quality of life of postmenopausal females using the Day-to-Day Impact of Vaginal Aging (DIVA) Questionnaire was performed. Results The majority of females (34%) who presented with the symptoms were in the category of 55-60 years followed by 22% in the age group of 61-65 years. The most common symptoms experienced by females were vaginal dryness (77%) followed by vaginal discharge (74%). Our study confirmed that 79% of the total females included in the study have a VHI score of less than 15, i.e., they suffer from VVA, thus presenting our incidence at 79%. Conclusion According to the surveys discussed in this research, a significant portion of postmenopausal women have symptoms linked to VVA that have a negative impact on their quality of life, including their sexual relationships and self-esteem.

6.
F1000Res ; 13: 84, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38450050

ABSTRACT

Background: Functional ovarian cysts are common among women of reproductive age, often necessitating medical intervention. This hospital-based interventional study compares the efficacy and safety of combined oral contraceptive pills (COC) and dydrogesterone in managing functional ovarian cysts. Methods: This randomized controlled trial will be conducted over two years at the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, AVBRH, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences. The study population consists of reproductive-age women seeking care at the outpatient unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology at AVBRH hospital. The sample size of 46 participants per group has been calculated based on a 95% confidence interval and the estimated prevalence of functional ovarian cysts. Group A will receive low-dose COC for three menstrual cycles. At the same time, Group B will be administered dydrogesterone (10 mg twice daily) for ten days during the luteal phase, repeated across three cycles. Expected outcomes: The primary outcomes include evaluating the recession of cysts within three months, monitoring alterations in menstrual patterns (frequency, regularity, duration, and volume), assessing the necessary treatment duration, and observing potential side effects (e.g., nausea, vomiting, weight gain, and acne) and complications (e.g., thromboembolism, delayed menstrual cycles post-treatment, and interactions with other drugs). Data analysis will encompass descriptive statistics, comparative tests, and regression models to assess the primary outcomes. The significance level for hypothesis testing will be 0.05 with a two-tailed approach. Registration: CTRI/2023/04/051811.


Subject(s)
Cysts , Ovarian Cysts , Pregnancy , Humans , Female , Dydrogesterone/therapeutic use , Contraceptives, Oral, Combined/therapeutic use , Hospitals , Ovarian Cysts/drug therapy
7.
Cureus ; 16(1): e53316, 2024 Jan.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38435897

ABSTRACT

The genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) encompasses a range of symptoms linked to the genitourinary tract stemming from the reduction in estrogen levels following menopause. These symptoms may endure throughout a woman's lifetime. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP), known for its capacity to induce angiogenesis and the restoration effects of growth factors, has been widely employed in various disorders, including GSM. This article aims to comprehensively review the existing literature on the utilization of PRP for managing GSM. The search was executed in electronic databases, specifically PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, up until April 2023. Eligible studies were meticulously chosen for inclusion in this systematic review. PRP emerges as a viable alternative for addressing vaginal atrophy, exhibiting favorable outcomes. Notably, it can be considered for patients with contraindications to hormonal therapy. However, the available body of evidence supporting the use of PRP for GSM remains limited. PRP presents itself as a promising agent, offering a patient-friendly, cost-effective alternative modality. To establish the efficacy of PRP in treating GSM definitively, future randomized trials are imperative.

8.
Cureus ; 16(2): e53473, 2024 Feb.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38440004

ABSTRACT

Incisional hernias (IHs) are the most common postoperative complication of incisions during laparotomy and contribute to a significant burden. The aetiology of IHs varies depending on the surgical technique, patient's condition, and surgeon's experience. Many patients present with abdominal swelling and some degree of discomfort, and in an emergency, the presentation is usually as bowel obstruction or strangulation, necessitating immediate exploration. Hernias can be repaired by closing the defect with a nonabsorbable suture or using mesh. Amidst the use of invasive techniques and mesh, the rate of recurrence remains high for IHs, with pain and infection being the most common symptoms. The consequence of IH repair is affected by comorbid conditions such as chronic cough, constipation, urethral stricture, benign prostate hyperplasia, ascites, and obesity. We present a case of a 63-year-old male with an IH, adrenal adenoma, and adrenal cyst, which was an incidental finding.

9.
Cureus ; 16(1): e52476, 2024 Jan.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38371111

ABSTRACT

Vaginal cysts can occur due to embryonic remnants, misplaced tissue, or an abnormality in the urinary system. They are a common occurrence and usually indicate non-cancerous conditions. A case is presented here of a 35-year-old female para three living three who reported to the emergency room with complaints of acute retention of urine with something coming out of her vagina over the last two years. She was managed operatively by vaginal cystectomy, which led to the resolution of the symptoms.

10.
Cureus ; 15(11): e48143, 2023 Nov.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38046779

ABSTRACT

Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is a progressive condition due to a hypoestrogenic state affecting perimenopausal and menopausal women. GSM was previously known as urogenital syndrome, vulvovaginal atrophy, or atrophic vaginitis. The term vulvovaginal atrophy did not encompass the symptoms of the urinary tract like incontinence, urgency, and discomfort, or allude that it is due to a hypoestrogenic state. Although a significant segment of the population is affected by GSM, it is very sparsely studied, detected, and treated. GSM affects the quality of life and sexual health of most menopausal women suffering from it. Only a few healthcare providers ask about the symptoms of GSM and a tiny percentage of women seek consultation for it. This may be because they are either embarrassed or believe it to be a part of the natural process of aging. As the life expectancy of women has increased in general, the prevalence of GSM has also risen, while it still remains underdiagnosed and untreated. Properly educating women so that they can seek consultation regarding symptoms of GSM, and training healthcare professionals about communicating with the patient, as well as correctly identifying, diagnosing, and managing the patient are all important to overcome this communication barrier. Once we cross the barrier of diagnosing patients with GSM, we still have to manage the patients with tailor-made prescriptions according to the severity of the symptoms and their preferences. While there are various treatment options, the most effective one is low-dose topical estrogen therapy. In this review, we intend to explore the existing knowledge about GSM and its effect on the quality of life and sexual health of women along with the treatment options for managing and reversing the effects of GSM.

11.
Cureus ; 15(11): e48194, 2023 Nov.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38050524

ABSTRACT

The luteal phase of the menstrual cycle is a pivotal period characterized by hormonal intricacies that lay the foundation for successful embryo implantation and early pregnancy development. Luteal phase defect (LPD), marked by abnormalities in luteal function, presents challenges that can impede reproductive outcomes. This comprehensive review article explores the role of dydrogesterone in LPD management, elucidating its mechanisms of action, evidence of efficacy, safety profile, and potential in combination therapies. Dydrogesterone, a synthetic progestogen, closely mirrors natural progesterone's actions, effectively supplementing the luteal phase and enhancing endometrial receptivity. Clinical studies demonstrate improved pregnancy rates, extended luteal phase support, and enhanced reproductive outcomes with dydrogesterone supplementation. Its favorable safety profile, minimal side effects, and reduced risk of unwanted hormonal effects contribute to its appeal. Furthermore, dydrogesterone's inclusion in international guidelines solidifies its importance in LPD management. Combination therapies, leveraging synergistic effects, offer a comprehensive approach. As gaps in knowledge persist, future research directions and personalized treatment strategies pave the way for a future where dydrogesterone stands as a beacon of hope in conquering the challenges of LPD and achieving successful reproductive outcomes.

12.
Cureus ; 15(11): e49079, 2023 Nov.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38125238

ABSTRACT

Estrogen is a key regulatory hormone in the functioning of a female reproductive system. Estrogen hormone regulates many complex physiological processes, which has its role in reproduction and skeletal and cardiovascular systems by acting on estrogen receptors alpha (ERα) and beta (ERß), which are nuclear transcription factors. Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) are now being used to treat bone loss, breast carcinoma, and menopausal symptoms, metabolic neurodegenerative because of their characteristics that allow them to function as both estrogen agonists and antagonists, depending on the target tissue. First-generation SERMs, such as Tamoxifen, are used in the management protocol for breast cancer, which is estrogen receptor (ER-positive). Raloxifene is a second-generation SERM that is a valuable adjunct used to treat and prevent osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and prevent compression fractures of the vertebral column. Novel SERM molecules are on the horizon, proven more potent and efficacious in preventing and treating osteoporosis. These include Ospemifene, lasofoxifene, bazedoxifene and arzoxifene. The benefits of Raloxifene versus that of Bazedoxifene are under trial. Despite their therapeutic benefits and actions, these medications are not without adverse effects, such as thromboembolic disorders. Increased risk of uterine cancer has been linked to Tamoxifen. This article delves into the world of SERMs, including their development and discovery. The newer SERMs in late development, ospemifene, lasofoxifene, bazedoxifene, and arzoxifene, are described in detail.

13.
Cureus ; 15(10): e47877, 2023 Oct.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38021492

ABSTRACT

Heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) or abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is a common cause of gynecological complaints in perimenopausal women. The treatment chosen by most of the women having HMB/AUB in the perimenopausal age group when medical therapy fails is hysterectomy, which unfortunately has significant issues related to safety and long-term quality of life apart from being a burden on the health care system and cost to patients. Minimal access surgical techniques like hysteroscopic targeted therapies are available which are conservative and spare the uterus and major surgery and its complications and sequelae. Hysteroscopic management of HMB is a minimally invasive and targeted approach in diagnosing and treating the pathological lesions causing the symptoms and not radical like hysterectomy which has more chances of occurrence of adverse events both intra and postoperatively. In terms of health-related quality of life, women suffering from HMB who underwent a hysteroscopic conservative approach had better scores when compared to those with hysterectomy. The present review aims to review the evidence generated to compare the two surgical modalities, hysteroscopic targeted therapy and hysterectomy, in terms of their effectiveness, safety, and effect on the quality of life of these perimenopausal women having HMB/AUB.

14.
Cureus ; 15(10): e47455, 2023 Oct.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38021867

ABSTRACT

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue that lines the uterus grows outside the uterus. Patients with endometriosis often experience pelvic pain with menstrual periods and sometimes also infertility. Sometimes it is mistaken for pelvic inflammatory disease or ovarian cysts. This condition is a contraindication for pregnancy. This is a case report of a 37-year-old female who came to in vitro fertilisation (IVF) with a history of infertility of 14 years and was diagnosed with Grade 4 endometriosis on diagnostic ultrasonography-guided hysterolaparoscopy. After many trials of intrauterine insemination she was advised to go for IVF, and that not by obtaining her own ovum. The donor's egg and male partner's sperm were used for the IVF. The fertilised zygote was then implanted in the patient's uterus.

15.
Cureus ; 15(10): e47100, 2023 Oct.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38021994

ABSTRACT

Background and objectives Oral cancer is a significant health issue in India, with one of the highest incidence rates globally. Family caregivers play a crucial role in the care of oral cancer patients, but their mental health often faces challenges. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and perceived stress among family caregivers of oral cancer patients in a tertiary care hospital in central India and explore the associated psychosocial factors. Population and method The study was carried out between March 2023 and August 2023 in a tertiary care hospital in Wardha, Maharashtra. Family caregivers (N=82, mean age = 36.1 (SD 10.5) years) of patients with clinically diagnosed oral cancer were subjected first to structured psychiatric clinical interviews to screen for psychiatric diagnoses and then were given self-reporting questionnaires for socio-demographic data, Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) for measuring the emotional, cognitive, and motivational symptoms of depression, Manifest Anxiety Scale (MAS) to assess the degree of anxiety and Perceived Stress Scale-10 (PSS-10) to assess stress level. Data was analysed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 26.0 (Released 2019; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, United States). Chi-square test and logistic regression analyses were conducted wherever appropriate in order to explore predictive factors of depressive, anxious, or stress symptoms. Result In the studied population, the majority experienced symptoms of depression (65.1%), anxiety (69.5%), and perceived stress (74.7%). Caregivers of patients with advanced oral cancer were found to have a higher likelihood of experiencing depression (χ2 (1) = 16.76, p < .001) and anxiety related to unemployment (χ2 (1) = 10.12, p = .001) or insufficient earnings (χ2 (1) = 28.63, p < .001). Additionally, participants with no or little formal education (χ2 (1) = 4.63, p = 0.031) and lower income (χ2 (1) = 28.63, p < .0001) were significantly more likely to experience distress compared to those with higher levels of education. Conclusion This study highlights the need for comprehensive support systems for family caregivers of oral cancer patients. Educational programs, financial assistance, and mental health services should be tailored to caregivers' specific needs. Early identification and intervention strategies can help mitigate the psychological impact of caregiving. Further research is essential to develop targeted interventions that enhance the well-being of caregivers and improve the quality of life for both patients and caregivers.

16.
Cureus ; 15(10): e46703, 2023 Oct.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38022072

ABSTRACT

The incidence of malignancies during pregnancy has been on the rise in the recent years, primarily due to an increase in older age pregnancies. This poses a significant risk to both the mother and the developing fetus. We present the case of a 29-year-old woman who experienced intermittent vaginal bleeding during her pregnancy. In the last trimester, the patient presented with abnormal vaginal bleeding and abdominal pain. The gestational age was 37.6 weeks. Notably, to our knowledge, there have been no reported cases of grade 3 cervical intraepithelial neoplasia in the third trimester.

17.
Cureus ; 15(9): e46277, 2023 Sep.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37908913

ABSTRACT

This case report presents a unique clinical scenario involving a 32-year-old woman with a unicornuate uterus and a rudimentary horn, leading to recurrent fetal malpresentation. The patient, gravida 3, para 1, presented at 36 weeks of gestational age with contractions and vaginal bleeding. Clinical evaluation revealed a breech presentation and nonreassuring fetal heart tracings. An emergency cesarean section was performed, during which a unicornuate uterus with a rudimentary horn was identified and fused to the main uterine cavity on the left posterior aspect. The rudimentary horn bore a functional left tube and ovary. The surgical procedure was successful, resulting in the delivery of a healthy baby girl. This case underscores the importance of meticulous preoperative assessment, multidisciplinary collaboration, and informed consent in managing complex uterine anomalies to ensure optimal maternal and fetal outcomes.

18.
Cureus ; 15(10): e47910, 2023 Oct.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38034134

ABSTRACT

The survival rates for cancer patients have been steadily improving in recent years due to the improved efficacy of contemporary oncological care, including radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Modern technology makes it feasible to maintain fertility in cancer patients, and this practice needs to be included in oncological care. In many instances, it is impossible to avoid the harm that cancer treatments can cause to a patient's fertility; hence, research in fertility preservation techniques is being conducted to allow cancer patients to have future children biologically related to them. The development of fertility preservation approaches has grown in importance in the field of research over the past few years to increase patient's quality of life and survival. Oncologists must be aware of circumstances in which cancer patients' fertility will be impacted by their therapy and the avenues open for procedures like cryopreservation of the gametes or embryos. When cancer therapy is scheduled, all patients should receive prompt and thorough information on the fertility-related side effects of treatment and the prospects for fertility preservation. The article analyzes the literature, enlisting the factors that contribute to cancer and their effects on fertility, followed by a list of available and newly developed strategies for maintaining fertility in patients. The efficiency of the various fertility preservation techniques following cancer therapy is also discussed.

19.
Cureus ; 15(10): e47898, 2023 Oct.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38034246

ABSTRACT

Impetigo herpetiformis (IH) is a rare dermatosis that can manifest during the last trimester of pregnancy. It has the potential to cause fatality to both the mother and the fetus. After birth, it often vanishes spontaneously and rapidly. Clinically and histologically, it resembles pustular psoriasis, leading some authors to call it "the pustular psoriasis of pregnancy." Steroids were previously the treatment of choice, but treatment remains challenging. A dermatologist with experience in skin conditions during pregnancy should assess any generalized pustular psoriasis instances. There is a danger of stillbirth when a systemic sickness develops, so both the mother and fetus should be properly watched. A well-known side effect of pregnancy-related generalized pustular psoriasis is maternal sepsis. We report our own experience with a case of a 26-year-old pregnant woman who presented with IH that resolved postpartum.

20.
Cureus ; 15(10): e46819, 2023 Oct.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37954702

ABSTRACT

This review delves into the intricate relationship between Vitamin D and patient outcomes in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU). Vitamin D, known for its multifaceted roles in immune modulation, inflammation regulation, and maintenance of calcium homeostasis, emerges as a pivotal factor in the care of critically ill patients. Our exploration reveals a high prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency in the SICU, primarily attributable to limited sunlight exposure, comorbidities, and medication use. Importantly, Vitamin D status impacts infection rates, mortality, and length of stay in the SICU, making it a clinically relevant consideration. Mechanistic insights into the immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects of Vitamin D shed light on its potential benefits in critical care. However, challenges, including accurate assessment, individualised supplementation, and ethical considerations regarding sunlight exposure, are evident. The prospect of personalised Vitamin D supplementation strategies offers promise for optimising patient care. In conclusion, the Sunlight-Vitamin D Connection holds significant potential to improve outcomes in the SICU, emphasising the importance of further research and tailored approaches for the well-being of critically ill individuals.

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