The Role of Inflammatory Hematological Markers in Predicting IVF Success.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the predictive role of inflammatory hematological markers on treatment success in in vitro fertilization (IVF) patients. METHODS: In this study, we analyzed the data from the patients who admitted to our IVF center, and we recorded demographic characteristics, medical histories, laboratory biomarkers, cycle characteristics, and IVF outcomes from the patients' files. We assessed the value of white blood cell (WBC) counts, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), monocyte/lymphocyte ratio (MLR), platelet/lymphocyte (PLR), mean platelet volume (MPV) and platelet distribution width (PDW) of the patients from their complete blood count. We compared these values in terms of predicting positive HCG test after embryo transfer (ET). RESULTS: There were 132 patients, of which 63 (47.7%) were treated for male factor, 43 (32.6%) for unexplained infertility, 19 (14.4%) for diminished ovarian reserve, 5 (3.8%) for endometriosis and 2 (1.5%) for hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. After ovarian stimulation and oocyte retrieval, 115 patients underwent embryo transfer, and 28 patients had a positive HCG test (24.3%). The positive HCG group had a statistically lower PLR when compared to the HCG (-) group (p=0.02). In the ROC analysis, PLR was significant in predicting positive HCG (p=0.028). However, when we added other factors to the model, only age and MII oocyte count were successful in predicting pregnancy outcomes in a logistic regression analysis. CONCLUSION: According our results, inflammatory hematological markers were not effective in predicting IVF success.

Impact of Syrian refugees on congenital TORCH infections screening in Turkey.

AIM: To demonstrate the effect of the Syrian refugee population on the prevalence of congenital TORCH (Toxoplasmosis, Other [syphilis, varicella-zoster, parvovirus B19], Rubella, Cytomegalovirus [CMV] and Herpes) infections and to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of population-based TORCH screening during pregnancy in Turkey. METHODS: Pregnant women (n = 9754) were enrolled. Ultrasonographic findings, immunoglobulin (Ig)M and IgG seropositivity, avidity, amniocentesis and DNA-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) results were compared. Costs were calculated based on invoice amounts from the Health Applications Communique pricing system. RESULTS: The prevalence of TORCH seropositivity in Turkey was not significantly different between all regions (P > 0.05). Overall, 1333 (13.67%) pregnant Syrian refugees were included in the study. Acute CMV, rubella and Toxoplasma gondii infections (according to low IgG avidity in IgM positive patients) were detected in 17.82%, 21.53% and 14.07% of women, respectively. Twenty-four women underwent an amniocentesis procedure and nine of them had positive DNA-PCR and reverse transcription-PCR results. All women with positive results opted to terminate the pregnancy. There was no statistical difference among groups according to the rate of low IgG avidity in IgM-positive patients and termination rates for T. gondii, rubella and CMV (P > 0.05). Total cost for screening the entire study population was presented in US dollars (USD). A total of 71 529 and prenatal diagnosis with positive invasive test results were obtained in nine women: toxoplasmosis in four, CMV in three and rubella in two women. CONCLUSION: Population-based screening for prenatal TORCH infections is not cost-effective in Turkey. Syrian refugees have a limited effect on the increasing prevalence of congenital TORCH infections.

Effects of lisinopril treatment on the pathophysiology of PCOS and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 concentrations in rats.

RESEARCH QUESTION: Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition results in a significant reduction in plasma concentrations of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1). What are the effects of lisinopril treatment on PAI-1 concentrations and the morphology and function of the ovaries in the letrozole-induced polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) rat model? DESIGN: This prospective randomized controlled animal study involved female Wistar albino rats. Twelve rats were assigned as controls (group I). In the study group (n = 48), letrozole (an aromatase inhibitor) was administered for PCOS modelling for 9 weeks. After confirming disrupted oestrous cycles, the study group was randomized into two groups: group II (n = 24; letrozole only) and group III (n = 24; letrozole + lisinopril 15 mg/kg per day). After 12 weeks, each group was divided randomly into two. Biochemical, histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses was performed in subgroups designated A, and fertilization rates were studied in subgroups designated B. RESULTS: Lisinopril treatment reduced the weight and area of the ovaries, the number and wall thickness of cystic follicles, and serum concentrations of LH and testosterone, relative to group II (P < 0.001). Circulating PAI-1 concentrations were significantly different among three groups (7.7 ± 0.9 ng/ml, 9.8 ± 0.7 ng/ml and 8.6 ± 0.7 ng/ml for groups IA, IIA and IIIA; P < 0.001). Pregnancy rates were 100%, 0% and 16.7% in groups IB, IIB and IIIB. CONCLUSIONS: In the letrozole-induced rodent PCOS model, lisinopril modifies the action of letrozole, possibly by inhibition of systemic and ovarian production of PAI-1. The use of PAI-1 inhibitors deserves further investigation in understanding the pathogenesis of PCOS.

The impact of vaginal cone therapy on stress urinary incontinence compared with transobturator tape.

OBJECTIVE: To emphasize the efficiency of vaginal cone (VC) therapy in stress urinary incontinence (SUI) through a comparison with transobturator tape (TOT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective randomized controlled study was conducted at the Etlik Zübeyde Hanim Maternity and Women Hospital during a one year study period. Forty women were allocated into two equal groups; those treated with VCs for a 3 month period, and women who underwent TOT procedures. These women were followed up at 6 weeks and 6 months after the treatments. Subjective cure was assessed using Wagner's Quality of Life Questionnaire. Objective cure was evaluated through a cough stress and pad test results. RESULTS: Maternal demographic features were comparable among groups. We observed improvement in pad weight test among groups when compared with the pretreatment state (p=0.015, p=0.005). Although the subjective cure rate was similar in both groups at the 6th week and 6th month follow up (65% vs. 75%; 75% vs. 80%) (p>0.05), the objective cure rate was significantly higher in the TOT group than in the VC group, as expected (10% vs. 80%; 30% vs. 75%) (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: The main treatment of SUI is surgery; however, VC could be offered as an alternative treatment for women who refuse surgery, those at high risk for surgery or it could be used temporarily before surgery.

Major problems, current characteristics and future career plans of obstetrics and gynecology residents in Turkey.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the current problems and future career plans of obstetrics and gynecology residents in Turkey. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, a survey was conducted with 143 trainees from 25 cities in different regions of Turkey. The questionnaire, which was sent via e-mail to all available trainees, consisted of four parts: information on hospitals, number and variety of surgical interventions, scientific activities, and current problems. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze participants' responses. RESULTS: The mean number of trainees in each hospital was 24 in education and research hospitals and 15 in university hospitals (p<0.001). Perinatology, oncology, and infertility clinics were present in about 70% of the hospitals, and there was no difference in this regard between public and university hospitals. Most trainees (68.5%) complained about being alone in an outpatient clinic. Third-year trainees from training and research hospitals performed a significantly higher number of vaginal births than those at universities (p=0.035). Most trainees complained about their workload during their residency in both training and research hospitals (74.4%) and university hospitals (66%). The three most common plans for the future were to attend a subspecialty program in the field of obstetrics and gynecology (28%), to pursue an academic career (23.1%), and to work in a private hospital (21%). CONCLUSION: Extremely long work hours, excessive workload, many monthly duties, and lack of supervision at outpatient clinics were found to be the major problems of the obstetrics and gynecology residents in Turkey. The most common future plan of the residents was to attend a subspecialty program in the field of obstetrics and gynecology.

The feasibility of the platelet count and mean platelet volume as markers of endometriosis and adenomyosis: A case control study.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of the study is to investigate the role of platelet count (PC) and mean platelet volume (MPV) in determining adenomyosis and endometriosis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This was a retrospective case control study that included adenomyosis, endometriosis and control groups. The adenomyosis group included 84 women diagnosed between January 2013 and January 2015 based on hysterectomy specimen. The endometriosis group included 102 patients underwent diagnostic laparoscopy and confirmed by histopathologic examination. Lastly, the control group included 88 women had no medical problem and underwent tubal ligation. RESULTS: MPV (fl) was significantly lower in adenomyosis group (8.5) compared to endometriosis (9, p<0.05) and control groups (9, p<0.01). Modified platelet activity (MPV/PC) was significantly lower in adenomyosis group compared to control group (p<0.01). Bivariate logistic regression model was used to assess the odds ratio of risk factors and serum markers related to endometriosis and adenomyosis. Variables showing significant differences based on post-hoc Bonferroni test were included in the logistic regression model for comparison of each disease with the control group. MPV was not found to be a risk factor both for presence of endometriosis and adenomyosis after adjusting for demographic and clinical characteristics. DISCUSSION: Our study suggested that PC and MPV were not useful diagnostic markers for endometriosis or adenomyosis. Further research on how platelet indices and other inflammatory markers are related to inflammation might help better understand their potential as markers for these diseases.

The ratio of anterior anogenital distance to posterior anogenital distance: A novel-biomarker for polycystic ovary syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders in women of reproductive age. The etiopathogenesis of the disease remains uncertain. Additionally, a full consensus has not been reached regarding PCOS diagnostic criteria. Several attempts have been made to diagnose PCOS with a simple clinical biomarker, but most of them failed. This study aims to investigate the possible association between PCOS and anogenital distance (AGD), which is an important sign of intrauterine androgen exposure. METHODS: A prospective cohort study was conducted on 130 women. The study group contained 65 women with PCOS whereas 65 healthy women were recruited for the control group, all between 18 and 40 years in age. The groups were compared in terms of demographics and clinical and laboratory parameters. Both anterior and posterior AGDs and associated ratios were recorded for each woman. RESULTS: The mean ratio of anterior AGD to posterior AGD for the PCOS and control group were 4.4 ± 1.0 and 4.9 ± 1.0, respectively (p = 0.003). Regression analysis demonstrated that this ratio significantly and positively correlated with the waist to hip ratio and negatively correlated with the free androgen index. CONCLUSION: AGD was initially used to define sexual differentiation of animals. Subsequent human studies showed that boys have longer AGDs than girls. Recent studies supporting the hypothesis that extreme prenatal androgen exposure contributes to PCOS found that AGD in adult PCOS patients was longer than control PCOS patients. However, a novel biomarker other than AGD needs to be identified to standardize these measurements. This work represents the first study to evaluate the ratio of anterior AGD to posterior AGD in PCOS patients. In this study, AGD anterior and posterior measurements were longer in PCOS patients than in controls. However, the strongest predictor of PCOS is the ratio of anterior to posterior AGD.

The role of anti-Mullerian hormone in predicting the response to clomiphene citrate in unexplained infertility.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the role of anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels in predicting the response to clomiphene citrate (CC) therapy for ovulation induction in women with unexplained infertility. MATERIALS AND METHODS: For this retrospective study, fifty consecutive patients who responded to CC were taken as Group 1, while fifty consecutive patients who failed to show adequate ovulatory response with CC were taken as Group 2. We compared the AMH levels of the two groups and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to determine the threshold for AMH in predicting the ovulatory response to CC therapy. RESULTS: Mean age, body mass index, luteinizing hormone, prolactin, and thyroid-stimulating hormone values were similar in the two groups. AMH and antral follicle count (AFC) values were higher in Group 1 than in Group 2 (p = 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively). There was a statistically significant negative correlation between FSH and AFC (r = -0.339, p = 0.001), while AFC and AMH displayed a statistically significant positive correlation (r = 0.713 and p = 0.001). AMH values and AFC were found to be predictors of the adequate ovulatory response to CC. The area under the ROC curve was 0.86 vs 0.80, respectively. At an AFC cutoff value of 14, the sensitivity and specificity for prediction of ovulation were 68% and 80%, respectively. CONCLUSION: The AMH and AFC cut-off values for the prediction of positive ovarian response to CC in patients with unexplained infertility were 2.78 ng/mL and 14, respectively. If further prospective and randomized studies confirm our results, these thresholds may be useful to predict successful ovulation induction and reduce the unresponsive cycles.

The impact of concurrent pelvic organ prolapse reconstructive surgery on midurethral sling procedure outcome.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effect of concurrent pelvic organ prolapse (POP) reconstructive surgery on midurethral sling (MUS) procedure outcome. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The present retrospective study included 300 women with urodynamically diagnosed stress urinary incontinence that underwent MUS procedures with or without concurrent POP reconstructive surgery. Patients were divided into four groups according to the performed surgery; 1) transobturator tape (TOT), 2) TOT with POP surgery (anterior colporrhaphy, posterior colporrhaphy and vaginal hysterectomy), 3) tension free vaginal tape (TVT), 4) TVT with POP surgery. Outcomes of surgeries for each group were evaluated postoperatively at the end of the first and sixth month by performing a cough stress test and also using the Incontinence Impact Questionnaire-7 (IIQ-7) and Urogenital Distress Inventory (UDI-6) questionnaires. Presence of a negative cough stress test was defined as "Cure". Multivariate regression was used to identify the parameters for surgical failure. RESULTS: Forty-two, 70, 49 and 139 women underwent isolated TOT, concurrent TOT and POP, isolated TVT and concurrent TVT and POP surgery, respectively. Postoperative UDI-6 score and postoperative cure rate were significantly higher in the only TOT group as compared to the TOT + POP group. However, in multiple regression analysis, women's age, parity, body mass index, menopausal status, preoperative urodynamic parameters, MUS types and presence of any concomitant POP reconstructive surgery were found to have no significant effect on surgical outcome. CONCLUSIONS: Concurrent POP reconstructive surgery including anterior colporrhaphy, posterior colporrhaphy and vaginal hysterectomy have no affect MUS procedure outcomes.

Maternal and perinatal outcomes of dichorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies diagnosed with vanishing twin syndrome: a retrospective analysis from a single clinical center.

OBJECTIVES: Multiple pregnancies are known to be associated with adverse maternal and perinatal complications. How-ever, data regarding the outcomes of spontaneously reduced twin pregnancies are limited. In the current study we aimed to evaluate the consequences of the vanishing twin syndrome (VTS) in dichorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies for both mother and baby in our perinatal center. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 711 pregnancies were included into the study. 51 cases of vanishing twin syndrome constituted Group 1, 235 cases of normal twins constituted Group 2, and 425 singleton pregnancies formed Group 3. The pregnancies that had multifetal reduction and monochorionic twinning were excluded from both study group and twin control group. The collected data were as follows: age, gravidity, parity, gestational week at birth, delivery route, birth weight, obstetric complications, and maternal and perinatal outcomes. RESULTS: No significant difference was observed between the groups regarding mean maternal age (p > 0.05). Mean birth weight, gestational age at birth and preterm birth ratio were significantly lower in the Group 2 when compared with Group 1 and Group 3 (all p < 0.001). Adverse perinatal outcomes including very low birth weight (VLBV) and low Apgar scores were more common in Group 1 (p < 0.05), but no significant difference was found between the groups in terms of neona-tal intensive care unit admission and perinatal mortality ratios (p > 0.05). Obstetric complications such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes and intrauterine growth restriction were significantly higher in Group 2 than in Group 1 and Group 3 (all p < 0.05). However, severe maternal morbidities were similar among three groups (p = 0.141). CONCLUSIONS: VTS is seems to be associated with VLBV and low Apgar scores. However, the incidence of severe maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality in pregnancies with VTS is similar to other pregnancies.

Prediction of maternal near-miss in placenta previa: a retrospective analysis from a tertiary center in Ankara, Turkey.

AIM: To determine risk factors for severe complications during and after cesarean delivery (CD) in placenta previa (PP). METHODS: We reviewed retrospectively collected data from women with PP who underwent CD during a 6-year study period. We identified the complicated group based on the modified WHO near-miss criteria. Complicated and noncomplicated groups were compared considering clinical, laboratory, and sonographic features. RESULTS: Thirty-seven of 256 cases classified as near miss consisting of 14 peripartum hysterectomies, 12 uterine balloon placements, 10 great artery ligations, and four B-lynch suture placement procedures without maternal mortality. Perioperative complications included surgical wound infections (n = 5), bladder injury (n = 4), pelvic abscess (n = 1), and uterine rupture (n = 1). Logistic regression analyses demonstrated following features to be associated with maternal near miss in PP: (1) coexistent abruption (aOR 13.2, 95% CI 5.8-75.3), (2) morbidly adherent placenta (aOR 11.92, 95% CI 3.24-43.82), (3) number of hospitalizations for vaginal bleeding (≥3) (aOR 8.88, 95% CI 3.32-26.69), and (4) transvaginal cervical length (CL) measurement <10th percentile (aOR 5.5, 95% CI 2.1-15.4). CONCLUSION: Short cervical length, recurrent vaginal bleeding, morbidly adherent placenta, and concurrent placental abruption are independent predictors for subsequent severe maternal morbidity in PP cases. Early identification of these risk factors during PP follow-up may improve maternal outcome.

Are there any differences between antagonist administration on days <6 and ≥6 of Controlled Ovarian Hyperstimulation on assisted reproductive technique outcomes?

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to investigate the cost-effectiveness of antagonist administration on stimulation on days <6 and ≥6 of COH on assisted reproductive technique (ART) outcomes. METHODS: In this retrospective cohort study, 412 patients who were admitted to the ART Department were evaluated. In group 1 (203 patients), antagonist administration was provided on days <6 of COH. For group 2 (209 patients), antagonist administration was provided on days ≥6 of COH. We preferred a flexible antagonist protocol in clinical practice and added an antagonist treatment regimen when dominant follicles were enlarged to 13 mm or the serum blood E2 was >300 pg/mL. RESULTS: There were no differences between antagonist administration on days <6 and days ≥6 of COH in terms of age, BMI, duration and etiology of infertility, AFC, serum FSH, LH, peak E2 levels, the number of MII oocytes, 2PN, FR, the number of transferred embryos, and CPR per woman. However, there were statistically significant differences between the duration of stimulation, the total gonadotropin dose required, and progesterone levels on day hCG [8.26 ± 1.83 vs 9.56 ± 1.51 (p = 0.001); 2173.71 ± 860.00 vs 2749.17 ± 1079.51 (p = 0.001); 0.75 ± 0.44 vs 0.92 ± 0.59 (p = 0.002), respectively]. CONCLUSION: Our results have demonstrated that there was no effect of antagonist administration on days <6 and ≥6 of COH on ART outcomes. However, taking cost-effectiveness into consideration, we suggest an antagonist administration on days <6 of COH since the necessary gonadotropin dose is lower.

Analysis of two different luteal phase support regimes and evaluation of in vitro fertilization-intra cytoplasmic sperm injection outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate clinical pregnancy rates, miscarriage rates, ongoing pregnancy rates, and in vitro fertilization-intra cytoplasmic sperm injection outcomes of gonadotropin releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) administration compared with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) application for luteal phase support. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 456 patients were included in the study. The patients were divided into two groups according to luteal phase support type: in group 1 (n=158), single-dose triptorelin acetate 0.1 mg was given on the sixth day after the oocyte pick-up (OPU). In group 2 (n=298), hCG 1500 IU was given on day 4, 7 and 10 after the OPU. RESULTS: Both groups were homogeneous in relation with age and antral follicle count. The number of stimulation days and endometrial thickness on hCG day (mm) were found to be significantly higher in group 2 than in group 1 (p<0.001). The clinical pregnancy rate was slightly higher in the GnRHa group, but this difference was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: Although there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups, luteal phase support with single-dose GnRHa might be as efficient as three doses of hCG. Large prospective, randomized-controlled studies are required comparing GnRHa and hCG for luteal phase support.

Evaluation of Probably Benign Adnexal Masses in Postmenopausal Women / Avaliação de massas anexiais benignas em mulheres pós-menopáusicas

Abstract Background Preoperatively identification of malignancy potential of a postmenopausal adnexal masses is important. Aim To evaluate the effectiveness of the Risk of Malignancy Index-2 in presumably benign adnexal masses in postmenopausal women. Study Design Retrospective, observational study. Methods 119 women with postmenopausal adnexal masses with a preliminary diagnosis of benign tumors according to the Risk of Malignancy Index-2 were included. Age, duration of menopause, ultrasonographic findings, and serum CA-125 levels were recorded preoperatively. The definitive diagnosis was based on postoperative histopathological examination. Results Of 119 adnexal mass, 10 were malignant and 109 were benign. There was no statistically significant difference with regard to age and tumor size between the groups. The two significant ultrasonographic parameter between groups were the presence of solid area in the mass and bilaterality. Moreover, if the cut off point for serum CA-125 was adjusted to 14.75 IU/mL according to ROC curve, a sensitivity value of 80% and a specificity value of 72% could be achieved to discriminate benign and malign cysts. Conclusion In the differential diagnosis of benign and malignant adnexal masses in postmenopausal women, the presence of a solid component, bilaterallity based on ultrasonography and high CA-125 values may be used as discriminative criteria. There is no direct relation between the size of the adnexal mass and malignancy potential. Therefore, in the malignancy indexes of postmenopausal women, we recommend lower cut-off values of CA-125 to increase the sensitivity of preoperative evaluation tests without having a great impact on negative predictive values.

Resumo Introdução É fundamental identificar o potencial maligno de massas anexiais pósmenopáusicas no período pré-operatório. Objetivo Avaliar a efetividade do risco de malignidade (risk of malignancy index-2, RMI2) em massas anexiais benignas presumíveis em mulheres na pós-menopausa. Desenho do Estudo Estudo observacional retrospectivo. Métodos Este estudo foi conduzido em nossa clínica de cirurgia de endoscopia e endoscopia de nosso hospital entre janeiro de 2013 e setembro de 2015. Um total de 119 mulheres com massas anexiais pós-menopausa com diagnóstico preliminar de tumores benignos de acordo com o RMI-2. A idade, a duração da menopausa, os achados ultrassonográficos e os níveis séricos de CA-125 foram registados no préoperatório. O diagnóstico definitivo foi baseado no exame histopatológico pósoperatório. Resultados A média de idade dos pacientes foi de 55,4 6,71 anos. O exame histopatológico revelou que 8,4% das massas anexiais eram tumores malignos ou limítrofes, enquanto 91,6% eram benignos. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significante quanto ao tamanho do tumor e do tamanho das lesões entre patologias malignas e benignas. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa entre pacientes benignos e malignos quanto à idade e tamanho do tumor. Os dois parâmetros ultrasonográficos estatisticamente significativos entre os grupos foram a presença de área sólida na massa e bilateralidade. Além disso, se o ponto de corte para CA-125 sérico fosse ajustado para 14,75 UI/mL de acordo com a curva receiver operating characteristic (ROC), um valor de sensibilidade de 80% e um valor de especificidade de 72% poderiam ser conseguidos para discriminar cistos benignos e malignos (área sob a curva [ASC]: 0,89). Conclusão No diagnóstico diferencial de massas anexiais benignas e malignas em mulheres pós-menopáusicas, a presença de um componente sólido, bilaterais com base na ultra-sonografia e valores elevados de CA-125 podem ser utilizados como critério discriminatório. Parece que não há relação direta entre o tamanho da massa anexial eo potencial maligno. Portanto, nos índices de malignidade de mulheres pósmenopáusicas, recomendamos valores de corte mais baixos de CA-125 para aumentar a sensibilidade dos testes de avaliação pré-operatória sem ter grande impacto em valores preditivos negativos.

Evaluation of Probably Benign Adnexal Masses in Postmenopausal Women.

Background Preoperatively identification of malignancy potential of a postmenopausal adnexal masses is important. Aim To evaluate the effectiveness of the Risk of Malignancy Index-2 in presumably benign adnexal masses in postmenopausal women. Study Design Retrospective, observational study. Methods 119 women with postmenopausal adnexal masses with a preliminary diagnosis of benign tumors according to the Risk of Malignancy Index-2 were included. Age, duration of menopause, ultrasonographic findings, and serum CA-125 levels were recorded preoperatively. The definitive diagnosis was based on postoperative histopathological examination. Results Of 119 adnexal mass, 10 were malignant and 109 were benign. There was no statistically significant difference with regard to age and tumor size between the groups. The two significant ultrasonographic parameter between groups were the presence of solid area in the mass and bilaterality. Moreover, if the cut off point for serum CA-125 was adjusted to 14.75 IU/mL according to ROC curve, a sensitivity value of 80% and a specificity value of 72% could be achieved to discriminate benign and malign cysts. Conclusion In the differential diagnosis of benign and malignant adnexal masses in postmenopausal women, the presence of a solid component, bilaterallity based on ultrasonography and high CA-125 values may be used as discriminative criteria. There is no direct relation between the size of the adnexal mass and malignancy potential. Therefore, in the malignancy indexes of postmenopausal women, we recommend lower cut-off values of CA-125 to increase the sensitivity of preoperative evaluation tests without having a great impact on negative predictive values.

Introdução É fundamental identificar o potencial maligno de massas anexiais pós-menopáusicas no período pré-operatório. Objetivo Avaliar a efetividade do risco de malignidade (risk of malignancy index-2, RMI2) em massas anexiais benignas presumíveis em mulheres na pós-menopausa. Desenho do Estudo Estudo observacional retrospectivo. Métodos Este estudo foi conduzido em nossa clínica de cirurgia de endoscopia e endoscopia de nosso hospital entre janeiro de 2013 e setembro de 2015. Um total de 119 mulheres com massas anexiais pós-menopausa com diagnóstico preliminar de tumores benignos de acordo com o RMI-2. A idade, a duração da menopausa, os achados ultrassonográficos e os níveis séricos de CA-125 foram registados no pré-operatório. O diagnóstico definitivo foi baseado no exame histopatológico pós-operatório. Resultados A média de idade dos pacientes foi de 55,4 ± 6,71 anos. O exame histopatológico revelou que 8,4% das massas anexiais eram tumores malignos ou limítrofes, enquanto 91,6% eram benignos. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significante quanto ao tamanho do tumor e do tamanho das lesões entre patologias malignas e benignas. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa entre pacientes benignos e malignos quanto à idade e tamanho do tumor. Os dois parâmetros ultra-sonográficos estatisticamente significativos entre os grupos foram a presença de área sólida na massa e bilateralidade. Além disso, se o ponto de corte para CA-125 sérico fosse ajustado para 14,75 UI/mL de acordo com a curva receiver operating characteristic (ROC), um valor de sensibilidade de 80% e um valor de especificidade de 72% poderiam ser conseguidos para discriminar cistos benignos e malignos (área sob a curva [ASC]: 0,89). Conclusão No diagnóstico diferencial de massas anexiais benignas e malignas em mulheres pós-menopáusicas, a presença de um componente sólido, bilaterais com base na ultra-sonografia e valores elevados de CA-125 podem ser utilizados como critério discriminatório. Parece que não há relação direta entre o tamanho da massa anexial eo potencial maligno. Portanto, nos índices de malignidade de mulheres pós-menopáusicas, recomendamos valores de corte mais baixos de CA-125 para aumentar a sensibilidade dos testes de avaliação pré-operatória sem ter grande impacto em valores preditivos negativos.

Protective effect of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) on ischemia­ reperfusion injury in rat ovary / Efecto protector de ester feniletílico de ácido cafeico (CAPE) en la lesión por isquemia-reperfusión en ovario de rata

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) as a prophylactic agent on ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in the rat ovary. A total of 28 Wistar rats were divided into 4 equal groups: (I) sham, (II) ischemia, (III) ischemia + reperfusion, and (IV) IR + CAPE. In groups I and II, ovary torsion was not performed and no drug was administered. In group III, 1 hour of ischemia and 2 hours of reperfusion were performed and no drug was given. Ovarian tissue concentrations of malondialdehyde were significantly higher in the torsion and detorsion groups compared with the sham and Cape groups (P<0.005). The detorsion group showed preantral ovarian follicles and luteal folicules around the blood vessels and positive expression of CD34. In the CAPE group the stromal vascular endothelium with weak expression of CD34 was detected in small areas, and the ovarian follicles and the corpus luteum showed negative expression of CD34. In the study, Biochemical and histopathological results of CAPE treatment was considered to torsion-detorsioned the model showed a protective effect against tissue damage.

El objetivo de este trabajo consistió en investigar los efectos del éster fenetílico del ácido cafeico (EFAC) como agente profiláctico en la lesión por isquemia/reperfusión (I / R) en el ovario de rata. Un total de 28 ratas Wistar se dividieron en 4 grupos iguales: (I) control, (II) isquemia, (III) isquemia + reperfusión, y (IV) IR + EFAC. En los grupos I y II, no se realizó torsión ovárica y no se administró ningún fármaco. En el grupo III, se provocó una hora de isquemia, dos horas de reperfusión y no se administró ningún fármaco. Las concentraciones de malondialdehído en los tejidos ováricos fueron significativamente mayores en los grupos de torsión y de destorsión, en comparación con los grupos sham y de EFAC (P <0,005). El grupo de destorsión mostró folículos ováricos preantrales y folículos lúteos alrededor de los vasos sanguíneos y expresión positiva de CD34. En el grupo EFAC el endotelio vascular estromal con expresión débil de CD34 se detectó en áreas pequeñas, y los folículos ováricos y el cuerpo lúteo mostraron expresión negativa de CD34. En el estudio, fueron considerados los resultados bioquímicos e histopatológicos del tratamiento EFAC en relación a la torsión-destorsión, desarrollando un modelo que mostró un efecto protector contra el daño tisular.

Histopathological and immunohistochemical changes in the amniotic membrane of gestational diabetic mothers / Cambios histopatológicos e inmunohistoquímicos de la membrana amniótica de madres diabéticas gestacionales

The aim of this study is to examine the changes in the amniotic membrane diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus. In this study, as a control group human amnion membrane from normotensive pregnancies was collected from diabetic women at 28­35 weeks of gestation. Gestational diabetes (n= 6) and normal amnion membrane (n= 6) for a total of 12 units were received. Amniotic membrane thickness was measured (p<0.0001) and it was significantly higher in GDM groups compared to control group. The diameter of the amniotic epithelial cell nuclei was measured (p=0.0022). Gestational diabetes results show that there was weakening between amniotic epithelial cell-cell junction. This study showed that structural changes in epithelial cells of amniotic membrane were formed due to diabetes. The membrane thickness has led to structural changes in diameter and in diabetes group cause extracellular matrix to increase, thus leading to MMP-9 expression increase eventually disrupting matrix balance. In addition, with cd44 increase angiogenesis has been induced and thought to influence material pass between fetus and mother.

El objetivo de este estudio fue examinar los cambios en la membrana amniótica diagnosticada con diabetes mellitus gestacional (DMG). En este estudio, como grupo control, se recogió la membrana amniótica de embarazos normotensos de mujeres diabéticas a las 28 y 35 semanas de gestación. La muestra consistió en 6 casos con diabetes gestacional (n = 6) y 6 casos de membrana amniótica normal (n = 6), para un total de 12 casos. El espesor de la membrana amniótica se midió (p <0,0001) y fue significativamente mayor en los grupos de DMG en comparación con el grupo control. Se midió el diámetro de los núcleos de las células epiteliales amnióticas (p = 0,0022). Los resultados demostraron que en la DMG hubo debilitamiento entre la célula epitelial amniótica-célula de unión. Este estudio mostró que los cambios estructurales en las células epiteliales de la membrana amniótica se presentaron debido a la DMG. El espesor de la membrana ha dado lugar a cambios estructurales en el diámetro y en el grupo de DMG debido a un aumento de la matriz extracelular, lo que condujo al aumento de la expresión de MMP-9, eventualmente interrumpiendo el equilibrio de la matriz. Además, el aumento de cd44 indujo la angiogénesis y se cree que también influye en el material que se comparte entre el feto y la madre.

Perinatal outcomes and cost-effectivity of the assisted reproduction pregnancies with advanced age: A retrospective analysis.

We demonstrated the IVF-ICSI results, perinatal outcomes and cost-effectivity of the patients with advanced age at a tertiary centre. A total of 456 patients categorised into two groups according to age: group 1 (n = 158) (≥39years) and group 2 (n = 298) (<39years) were analysed retrospectively. In addition, subgroup analysis was performed according to the 40 years cut-off. Clinical pregnancy rate was significantly different between the groups (p< .001). Preterm delivery (< 37 gestational week) and low birth weight (< 2500 g) were significantly higher in advanced aged women than youngsters (p< .001). Mean expense per cycle for hormonal stimulation of IVF-ICSI was 1058.9 and 723.5 USD in groups 1 and 2, respectively (p< .001). Mean expense per pregnancy was 9294.7 and 1874.8 USD in groups 1 and 2, respectively (p< .001). Our study showed that perinatal outcomes and cost-effectivity might be adversely affected with increasing age.

Effect of Familial Mediterranean Fever on Ivf Outcome: A Retrospective Case Series.

Although the in vitro fertilization-intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF-ICSI) has been utilized widely, the management in patients with an autoimmune disease is still a challenge. The aim of this study was to demonstrate IVF-ICSI outcomes in infertile women with familial Mediterranean fever (FMF). Patient data were collected from the cases registered from January 2006 until January 2014. A total of 6152 assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles were analyzed retrospectively in the Ankara Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Education and Research Hospital. Ten infertile women with FMF were included in the study. Baseline clinical and laboratory characteristics were collected and perinatal outcomes evaluated. T e mean age (years), duration of infertility (years) and body mass index (kg/m2) were 29.9±5.3, 5.7±5.3 and 27.9±5.7, respectively. The mean baseline follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH; IU/L), estradiol (E2; pg/mL) and antral follicle count were 7.0±2.4, 48.1±15.8 and 7.9±2.9, respectively. The distribution of ovarian response was heterogeneous. Fourteen cycles in ten patients were evaluated. Embryo transfer could be achieved in only ten cycles. Three out of ten patients became pregnant. No adverse perinatal outcome was observed. Our findings indicate that FMF might have no impact on ART cycles.