Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi. 2015 Jun;35(6):717-23.

Effects of Bushen Wenyang Huayu Recipe on TRPV1 and Sensitization Factor NGF in Experimental Endometriosis.

Chen JW, Tong RX, Yang J, Li QX, Ma HR, Du HL.

 

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To study the effect of Bushen Wenyang Huayu Recipe (BSWYHYR) on nerve growth factor (NGF) and transient receptor potential vanilloid receptor I (TRPV1) in experimental endometriosis (EMT), and to explore its mechanism for treating EMT-induced pain.

METHODS:

Totally in-bred line BALB/c 75 female mice were divided into five groups, i.e., the sham-operation group, the model group, the high dose BSWYHYR group, the low dose BSWYHYR group, the gestrinone group, 15 in each group. Writhing response was observed in each group. Serum contents of NGF were detected using ELISA. Expression levels of NGF and TRPV1 in uterus and ectopic foci were detected using immunohistochemical staining SP and Western blot. mRNA expression levels of NGF and TRPV1 in uterus and ectopic foci were detected by Real-time PCR.

RESULTS:

The serum NGF content in the model group was higher than that in the sham-operation group (P < 0.01), and there was positive correlation between NGF and the writhing frequency (r = 0.574, P < 0.01). Compared with the model group, serum levels of NGF significantly decreased in the 3 treatment groups (P < 0.05). Compared with the sham-operation group, mRNA and protein expression levels of NGF and TRPV1 increased significantly in the model group (P < 0.01). Protein expression levels of NGF and TRPV1 decreased significantly in the 3 treatment groups, when compared with the model group (P < 0.01). mRNA expression levels of NGF and TRPV1 decreased most in the high dose BSWYHYR group (P < 0.01). NGF in uterus and ectopic foci was positively correlated with protein and mRNA expression levels of TRPV1 (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS:

NGF and TRPV1 participated in the occurrence of pain in EMS. BSWYHYR played an important role in inhibiting EMT-induced pain through reducing the up-regulation of NGF on TRPV1.

 

 

J Ovarian Res. 2015 Aug 5;8:53.

Leptin, its receptor and aromatase expression in deep infiltrating endometriosis.

Gonçalves HF¹, Zendron C², Cavalcante FS³, Aiceles V³, Oliveira MA², Manaia JH⁴, Babinski MA⁴, Ramos CF³.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the leptin levels in the serum and peritoneal fluid (PF) and the protein expression in three different peritoneal ectopic implants in patients who underwent surgery for deep infiltrating endometriosis.

METHODS:

All patients had been treated at the Department of Gynecology of the Pedro Ernesto University Hospital, Rio de Janeiro. The study group consisted of 15 patients who underwent surgery for adnexal masses and infertility, while the control group consisted of ten women who underwent surgery for tubal ligation. Peritoneal fluid and samples tissues were collected during surgery. Serum samples were obtained before anesthesia. In this study, the leptin levels in the serum and peritoneal fluid (PF) were evaluated by ELISA. The protein expression of leptin and its receptors (ObR) and aromatase enzyme were evaluated by Western blot analysis of the intestine, uterosacral ligament and vaginal septum in the ectopic implants. The t-test and one-way ANOVA with Holm-Sìdak post-test were used, and p < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

RESULTS:

Compared to the controls, the serum leptin levels (control = 14.7 ng/mL ± 2.63, endometriosis = 19.2 ng/mL ± 1.84, p < 0.0001) were increased, while in PF, there was no difference (control = 6.68 ng/mL ± 0.43, endometriosis = 7.71 ng/mL ± 0.59, p = 0.18). Comparing women with and without ovarian implants, the leptin levels in both the serum and PF were significantly higher in women without ovarian implants (serum: with ovarian implant = 15.85 ± 1.99; without ovarian implant = 23.14 ± 2.60; ng/mL, p = 0.04; PF: with ovarian implant = 4.28 ± 1.30; without ovarian implant = 11.18 ± 2.98;ng/mL, p = 0.048). The leptin, ObR and aromatase protein expression levels were increased in lesions in the vaginal septum and were decreased in the intestine lesions.

CONCLUSION:

This study reports several interesting associations between the leptin levels in serum, peritoneal fluid, and tissue samples and the localization of the ectopic endometrium. Although this study does not provide a clear picture of the role of leptin in the development and progression of peritoneal implants, it contributed new data that might be useful to elucidating the enigma that is the role of leptin in endometriosis disease.

 

 

Ann Diagn Pathol. 2015 Oct;19(5):320-5.

Thoracic endometriosis: clinicopathologic updates and issues about 18 cases from a tertiary referring center.

Ghigna MR¹, Mercier O², Mussot S³, Fabre D⁴, Fadel E⁵, Dorfmuller P⁶, de Montpreville VT⁷.

Abstract

Thoracic endometriosis is defined as the ectopic presence of endometrial glands and stroma in lung or pleura and constitutes an uncommon cause of spontaneous pneumothorax in nonsmoker women in childbearing age. From 2000 to 2014, 18 (7.3%) women of 246 had a histologically proven endometriosis-related pneumothorax. The examination of thoracic samples was performed on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded hematoxylin and eosin-stained slides. Immunohistochemistry was carried out on all samples. The pathologic findings included endometriosis foci appearing as a triad of endometrial glands, stroma, and hemosiderin-laden macrophages in 8 patients. In the remaining 10 patients, minute nests of endometrial stroma were recognized at histologic examination and immunohistochemistry. One patient displayed diaphragmatic endometriosis and pulmonary lymphangioleiomyomatosis. Thoracic endometriosis is an uncommon cause of recurrent pneumothorax necessitating histologic confirmation. The histologic diagnosis of endometriosis may be challenging on small pleural or lung biopsies because endometriosis mostly appears as minute nests of endometrial stromal cells. Here, we present our experience on thoracic endometriosis: considering frequent interpretation difficulties of biopsy samples, we propose a multidisciplinary diagnostic algorithm.

 

 

 

Singapore Med J. 2015 Jul;56(7):e120-3.

Thoracic endometriosis with catamenial haemoptysis and pneumothorax: computed tomography findings and long-term follow-up after danazol treatment.

Suwatanapongched T¹, Boonsarngsuk V², Amornputtisathaporn N², Leelachaikul P³.

 

Abstract

Thoracic endometriosis (TE) is an uncommon disorder affecting women of childbearing age. We herein report clinical and thin-section computed tomography (CT) findings of two cases, in which one woman presented with catamenial haemoptysis (CH) alone and another woman presented with bilateral catamenial pneumothoraces (CP) coinciding with CH, a rare manifestation of TE. The dynamic changes demonstrated on thin-section chest CT performed during and after menses led to accurate localisation and presumptive diagnosis of TE in both patients. Following danazol treatment, the patient with CH alone had a complete cure, while the patient with CP and CH had an incomplete cure and required long-term danazol treatment. We discuss the role of imaging studies in TE, with an emphasis on the appropriate timing and scanning technique of chest CT in women presenting with CH, potential mechanisms, treatment and patient outcomes.

 

 

Mater Sociomed. 2015 Jun;27(3):185-7

Causes of Sterility in Bosnia-Herzegovina Population.

Ümit G¹, Izetbegovic S², Admir R¹, Spahovic H², Cihan G¹.

 

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:

Infertility or sterility or barrenness is defined as a state of inability to conceive after a year of unprotected intercourse. Ovulation problems, uterine tube problems, endometriosis, uterine etiology problems, chromosomal problems which are not so rare, spermatogenesis disorders and azoospermia are stated as the most common causes of infertility.

OBJECTIVE:

Main objective of this research is to present most common causes of marital infertility in Bosnia-Herzegovina population.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

Retrospective, descriptive- epidemiological study has been published at Bahceci IVF center in Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina). The research covered a time-period of two years. During the time-period in question, 826 marital couples from Bosnia and Herzegovina diagnosed with marital sterility approached the Center.

RESULTS:

Analysis of female patients as per age groups determined that the largest number of respondents belonged to the 36 – 39 age group with a total number of 293 patients, followed by 30 – 35 age group with a total number of 245 patients, and the third most frequent age group included those of ≥ 40 years of age with 179 patients in total, followed by 25-29 age group with 98 respondents. In 42% (n=350) of the couples diagnosed with marital infertility, female sterility was established as the reason, while in 36 % (n=294) of the couples, male sterility was the reason. Both marital spouses were infertile in 11% of the couples (n=92), while in remaining 11% of the couples, no diagnosis was determined and they belonged in the group of unexplainable sterility. The most common cause of sterility in women is diminished ovarian reserve (DOR), as was the case in 38.57% of respondents. This diagnosis is in direct correlation with the age of a woman. Among causes of sterility of organic and functional origin, the most common is ovarian tube problem – in 31.4% of the cases, then ovulatory problems – in 12.86% of the cases, and polycystic ovary syndrome in 6% of the cases. Other causes such as endometrioma, endometriosis and genetic factors are present in less than 2% of respondents. Regarding male sterility, problems with spermatogenesis are prevailing (decreased number and mobility of sperm cells and problems with morphology of sperm cells), oligoasthenoteratozoospermia in 81.61% of the patients. In 14.19% of the cases, azoospermia was present.

CONCLUSION:

All of this contributes to the negative demographic trend in Bosnia and Herzegovina. In 2008, European Parliament warned of importance of infertility treatment. In collaboration with ESHRE (European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology), main guidelines to alleviate this problem were provided.

 

 

 

Ann Transl Med. 2015 Jul;3(11):153.

Immunological aspects of endometriosis: a review.

Králíčková M¹, Vetvicka V¹.

 

Abstract

Endometriosis is a common and serious illness affecting women in their reproductive years. Despite the ongoing interest and intensive research of this crippling disease, the cause remains unknown since its first description over 150 years ago. The origins and genesis of endometriosis, despite numerous hypotheses, are still unclear. One of the possible causes of the development of endometriosis might be the immune system, despite the fact that endometriosis is generally considered to be a steroid-sensitive disease. Numerous aspects of the immune system has been found changed, from the different number of activated macrophages to different subtypes of lymphocytes and their activities, suggesting involvement of immunity. On the other hand, it is possible that immunological changes around the endometriotic lesion are only secondary to the establishment of endometriosis. In this review, we will summarize the current knowledge of immunological reactions in endometriosis.

 

 

Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2016 Mar;293(3):583-90

Quality of sex life in endometriosis patients with deep dyspareunia before and after laparoscopic treatment.

Lukic A¹, Di Properzio M², De Carlo S¹, Nobili F¹, Schimberni M¹, Bianchi P¹, Prestigiacomo C¹, Moscarini M¹, Caserta D¹.

 

Abstract

PURPOSE:

The present work aims at showing how dyspareunia linked to endometriosis can affect the life of fertile age women and how surgical treatment of endometriosis can relieve painful symptoms and consequently improve sex and social life.

METHODS:

From a cohort of 320 women with a clinical and instrumental diagnosis of pelvic endometriosis, 67 patients were selected. These patients had deep dyspareunia that underwent laparoscopic surgical treatment. All the patients had filled out a pre- and post-surgery questionnaire.

RESULTS:

Six months after laparoscopic treatment, a significant reduction of dyspareunia was recorded, per VAS scores. A statistically significant improvement in sex life was observed between the pre- and post-surgical condition: in particular, an increased number of coituses and of non-difficult coituses, a higher number of patients who declared that pain did not negatively affect sexual pleasure and of patients achieving orgasm.

CONCLUSIONS:

The quality of the sex life in patients with endometriosis and dyspareunia showed significant improvement 6 months after laparoscopic treatment. In view of the diagnostic delay characterizing this disease and confirmed by our results, it is essential to involve a multidisciplinary team to assess all the signs and symptoms of endometriosis that may appear in a women of fertile age. This clinical approach is able to ensure a treatment that is as personalized as possible and an appropriate follow-up also with the objective of preserving reproductive performance.

 

 

Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2016 Jan;293(1):197-202.

Measurement of oxidative stress in the follicular fluid of infertility patients with an endometrioma.

Nakagawa K¹, Hisano M², Sugiyama R³, Yamaguchi K².

 

Abstract

PURPOSE:

Follicular fluid (FF) might reflect the environment during follicle and oocyte growth, and an evaluation of oxidative stress in the FF might be useful in predicting oocyte quality. In order to measure the oxidative stress (OS) in the FF from a single follicle of patients with endometrioma (EM), we evaluated whether an EM might affect the environment of follicular growth.

METHODS:

Between December 2011 and July 2013, 26 patients with a unilateral EM (EM group) and 29 without EM (control group) were enrolled in this study. The FF was obtained during the first puncture of follicular aspiration, and was stored at -30 °C until it was assayed. A Free Radical Elective Evaluator (WISMERLL, USA) was used to perform d-ROM and BAP tests to measure oxidative stress (U.CARR) and antioxidant power (μmol/L).

RESULTS:

The d-ROM values in the EMC and control groups were 328.7 ± 97.8 and 414.9 ± 84.2, respectively, and the BAP values for the two groups were 2474.3 ± 432.0 and 2552.8 ± 435.58, respectively. These values were similar between the two groups (mean ± SD). The number of patients with a modified BAP/d-ROM ratio of <1.0 in the EM group was similar to that for the control group at 16 and 15, respectively (61.5 and 51.7 %).

CONCLUSIONS:

The oxidative stress and antioxidant potential in the FF of the patients with unilateral EM showed values similar to those without an EM. Therefore, we concluded that EMs do not affect the environment for follicle growth during ART treatment.

 

 

J Int Med Res. 2015 Oct;43(5):599-609.

Diagnostic value of serum CA125, CA19-9 and CA15-3 in endometriosis: A meta-analysis.

Shen A¹, Xu S², Ma Y², Guo H², Li C², Yang C², Zou S².

 

Abstract

AIM:

To evaluate the diagnostic value of serum cancer antigen (CA)125, CA19-9 and CA15-3 concentrations in endometriosis.

METHODS:

Case-control studies evaluating CA125, CA19-9 and CA15-3 and endometriosis, published between January 2000 and November 2014 were retrieved from PubMed(®) and Google Scholar. Standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. Subgroup analyses were carried out by ethnicity and disease stage (early, stage I/II; advanced, stage III/IV).

RESULTS:

The analysis included 12 case-control studies (963 cases, 855 controls). CA125 was associated with endometriosis in the overall population (SMD 0.82, 95% CI 0.72, 0.92), Caucasian subgroup (SMD 1.08, 95% CI 0.96, 1.19), and early (SMD 1.20, 95% CI 0.93, 1.48) or advanced disease (SMD 1.29, 95% CI 1.04, 1.55). CA19-9 was associated with endometriosis in the overall population (SMD 0.48, 95% CI 0.24, 0.72), Caucasian subgroup (SMD 0.31, 95% CI 0.07, 0.55), Asian subgroup (SMD 9.65, 95% CI 7.88, 11.42) and advanced disease (SMD 0.60, 95% CI 0.34, 0.87). CA15-3 was significantly associated with advanced disease (SMD 0.47, 95% CI 0.09, 0.84).

CONCLUSIONS:

Serum CA125 and CA19-9 may represent useful biomarkers for the noninvasive diagnosis of endometriosis.

Int J Fertil Steril. 2015 Jul-Sep;9(2):183-8.

Effect of Surgical Removal of Endometriomas on Cyclic and Non-cyclic Pelvic Pain.

Api M¹, Boza AT¹, Kayatas S¹, Eroglu M¹.

 

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Endometriosis is a complex disease with a spectrum of pain symptoms from mild dysmenorrhea to debilitating pelvic pain. There is no concrete evidence in the literature whether endometriotic cyst per se, causes pain spectrum related to the disease. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of surgical removal of endome- triomas on pain symptoms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

In this prospective, observational, before-after study, which was conducted between March 2012 and January 2013 in Training and Research Hospital,Adana, Turkey, a total of 23 patients including 16 sexually active and 7 vir- gin symptomatic women were questioned for non-cyclic pelvic pain (NCPP), intensity of the NCPP, presence of cyclic dysmenorrhea, and dyspareunia before and after the endometrioma operation. Participants who were sonographically diagnosed and later pathologically confirmed as having endometrioma without sign and symptoms of deep infiltrative endometriosis (DIE) were also questioned for pain symptoms before and after the laparoscopic removal of cyst wall. Patients with intraabdominal adhesions, history of pelvic inflammatory disease, and pathological diagnosis other than endometrioma were excluded. No ancillary procedures were applied for pain management, but if pain was present, pelvic peritoneal endometriotic lesions were ablated beside the removal of ovar- ian endometriotic cysts.

RESULTS:

Out of 23 cases with endometrioma, 91 and 78% reported to have NCPP and dysmenorrhea, respectively, before the operation, while 60 and 48%, respec- tively, after the operation (McNemar’s test, P=0.016 for both figures). Among the sexually active cases, 31% (5/16) had dyspareunia before the operation and only 1 case reported the pain relief after the operation (McNemar’s test, P=1). Intensity of NCPP were reported to be none (8.7%), moderate (21.7%), severe (56.5%) and un- bearable (13%) before the operation and decreased to none (43.5%), mild (43.5%), moderate (4.3%) and severe (8.7%) after the operation (Wilcoxon signed-rank test, P<0.001).

CONCLUSION:

In symptomatic cases with ovarian endometrioma, without sign and symptoms of DIE, laparoscopic removal of the cysts with/without ablation of the peritoneal endometriotic lesions yields relief of NCPP and cyclic dysmenorrhea, but not dyspareunia.

 

 

Biomed Res Int. 2015;2015:282301

Pregnancy Rate after Controlled Ovarian Hyperstimulation and Intrauterine Insemination for the Treatment of Endometriosis following Surgery.

Keresztúri A¹, Kozinszky Z², Daru J¹, Pásztor N¹, Sikovanyecz J¹, Zádori J³, Márton V¹, Koloszár S¹, Szöllősi J¹, Németh G¹.

 

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To compare pregnancy rate after controlled ovarian hyperstimulation and intrauterine insemination (COH-IUI) with no treatment in patients with endometriosis-associated infertility treated with laparoscopy.

DESIGN:

A clinical cohort study.

SETTING:

University-level tertiary care center.

PATIENTS:

238 women with various stages of endometriosis after laparoscopic treatment.

INTERVENTIONS:

Either COH-IUI or follow-up for 12 months.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

The primary outcome measures were clinical pregnancy and live birth rate. Predictive factors evaluated were female age, maternal BMI, and duration of infertility.

RESULTS:

The pregnancy rate attained after the integrated laparoscopy-COH-IUI approach was 53.4%, while it was significantly lower (38.5%) in the control group. Similarly, a significant difference was observed in live births (48.3% versus 34.2%). Patients with severe endometriosis were less likely to achieve pregnancy (38%) and live birth (35%) than their counterparts with milder forms (57% and 53%).

CONCLUSIONS:

In patients with endometriosis-based infertility, surgery followed by COH-IUI is more effective than surgery alone.

 

 

 

 

Biomed Res Int. 2015;2015:438790.

The Surgical Treatment of Severe Endometriosis Positively Affects the Chance of Natural or Assisted Pregnancy Postoperatively.

Nesbitt-Hawes EM¹, Campbell N¹, Maley PE², Won H¹, Hooshmand D³, Henry A¹, Ledger W¹, Abbott JA¹.

 

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To report reproductive outcomes following laparoscopic surgical excision of histologically confirmed r-ASRM stage III-IV endometriosis.

STUDY DESIGN:

A retrospective cohort study was performed at the Royal Hospital for Women, a university teaching hospital, Sydney, Australia. Women who had fertility-preserving laparoscopic excision of stage III-IV endometriosis from 1997 to 2009 were contacted regarding reproductive outcomes.

RESULTS:

In the study period, 355 women underwent surgery for stage III-IV endometriosis. Follow-up data are available for 253/355 (71%) women. Postoperatively, 142/253 (56%) women attempted to conceive with a conception rate of 104/142 (73%). Confidence intervals for pregnancy for women who were attempting conception (including the nonresponders) range from 104/262 (40%) to 224/262 (85%). Median time to conception was 12 months. No positive prognostic factors for pregnancy were identified on regression analyses.

CONCLUSIONS:

These data provide information to women with suspected severe disease preoperatively concerning their likely postoperative fertility outcomes. Ours is a population with severe endometriosis, rather than an infertile population with endometriosis, so caution needs to be applied when applying these data to women with fertility issues alone.

 

 

Biomed Res Int. 2015;2015:795976

Pathophysiology and Immune Dysfunction in Endometriosis.

Ahn SH¹, Monsanto SP¹, Miller C¹, Singh SS², Thomas R³, Tayade C¹.

 

Abstract

Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent, chronic, proinflammatory disease prevalent in 10% of women of reproductive age worldwide. Characterized by the growth of endometrium-like tissue in aberrant locations outside of the uterus, it is responsible for symptoms including chronic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, and subfertility that degrade quality of life of women significantly. In Canada, direct and indirect economic cost of endometriosisamounts to 1.8 billion dollars, and this is elevated to 20 billion dollars in the United States. Despite decades of research, the etiology and pathophysiology of endometriosis still remain to be elucidated. This review aims to bring together the current understanding regarding the pathogenesis of endometriosis with specific focus on mechanisms behind vascularization of the lesions and the contribution of immune factors in facilitating lesion establishment and development. The role of hormones, immune cells, and cytokine signaling is highlighted, in addition to discussing the current pharmaceutical options available for management of pain symptoms in women with endometriosis.

 

 

Biomed Res Int. 2015;2015:878517.

Reduction in Endometrioma Size with Three Months of Aromatase Inhibition and Progestin Add-Back.

Agarwal SK¹, Foster WG².

 

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of 3 months of aromatase inhibition together with progestin add-back on ovarian endometrioma size. This prospective cohort study was performed at University Medical Center (UC San Diego). Women trying to conceive were excluded. After informed consent, all women were treated with the aromatase inhibitor letrozole (5 mg/d) with norethindrone acetate (5 mg/d) add-back for 3 months. Pre- and posttreatment assessments of endometrioma sizes were performed by ultrasound. The impact of treatment on pain was determined using the patient assessed endpoints of the Biberoglu and Behrman scale. These included assessing dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and nonmenstrual pelvic pain each on a scale from 0 to 3. The primary endpoint of this study was the change in ultrasound documented endometrioma size. Fourteen endometriomas in 8 consecutive women were treated for 3 m. Mean endometrioma diameter decreased 50% from 4.6 ± 1.6 cm to 2.3 ± 1.6 cm (mean ± SD). This represents a 75% decrease in endometrioma volume. Endometriosis symptoms of dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and nonmenstrual pelvic pain also improved with treatment. In conclusion, a 3-month course of high dose aromatase inhibition with progestin add-back significantly reduces ovarian endometrioma size and warrants further investigation.

 

 

 

 

Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol. 2015 Nov;46(5):534-45.

Accuracy of transvaginal ultrasound for diagnosis of deep endometriosis in uterosacral ligaments, rectovaginal septum, vagina and bladder: systematic review and meta-analysis.

Guerriero S¹, Ajossa S¹, Minguez JA², Jurado M², Mais V¹, Melis GB¹, Alcazar JL².

 

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To review the diagnostic accuracy of transvaginal ultrasound (TVS) in the preoperative detection of endometriosis in the uterosacral ligaments (USL), rectovaginal septum (RVS), vagina and bladder in patients with clinical suspicion of deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE).

METHODS:

An extensive search was performed in MEDLINE (PubMed) and EMBASE for studies published between January 1989 and December 2014. Studies were considered eligible if they reported on the use of TVS for the preoperative detection of endometriosis in the USL, RVS, vagina and bladder in women with clinical suspicion of DIE using the surgical data as a reference standard. Study quality was assessed using the PRISMA guidelines and QUADAS-2 tool.

RESULTS:

Of the 801 citations identified, 11 studies (n = 1583) were considered eligible and were included in the meta-analysis. For detection of endometriosis in the USL, the overall pooled sensitivity and specificity of TVS were 53% (95%CI, 35-70%) and 93% (95%CI, 83-97%), respectively. The pretest probability of USL endometriosis was 54%, which increased to 90% when suspicion of endometriosis was present after TVS examination. For detection of endometriosis in the RVS, the overall pooled sensitivity and specificity were 49% (95%CI, 36-62%) and 98% (95%CI, 95-99%), respectively. The pretest probability of RVS endometriosis was 24%, which increased to 89% when suspicion of endometriosis was present after TVS examination. For detection of vaginal endometriosis, the overall pooled sensitivity and specificity were 58% (95%CI, 40-74%) and 96% (95%CI, 87-99%), respectively. The pretest probability of vaginal endometriosis was 17%, which increased to 76% when suspicion of endometriosis was present after TVS assessment. Substantial heterogeneity was found for sensitivity and specificity for all these locations. For detection of bladder endometriosis, the overall pooled sensitivity and specificity were 62% (95%CI, 40-80%) and 100% (95%CI, 97-100%), respectively. Moderate heterogeneity was found for sensitivity and specificity for bladder endometriosis. The pretest probability of bladder endometriosis was 5%, which increased to 92% when suspicion of endometriosis was present after TVS assessment.

CONCLUSION:

Overall diagnostic performance of TVS for detecting DIE in uterosacral ligaments, rectovaginal septum, vagina and bladder is fair with high specificity.

 

 

 

Semin Reprod Med. 2015 Sep;33(5):326-32.

Stem Cells in Endometrial Physiology.

Gurung S¹, Deane JA¹, Masuda H², Maruyama T², Gargett CE¹.

 

Abstract

Human endometrial mucosa is a dynamically remodeling tissue, undergoing cyclical morphologic and functional changes in response to fluctuating sex steroid hormones each menstrual cycle during a woman’s reproductive life. Postmenopausal endometrium responds similarly to exogenous estrogen. Cyclical endometrial regeneration also occurs in nonmenstruating rodents, although to a lesser extent. The recent identification of rare populations of endogenous epithelial progenitor cells, mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs), the side population (SP) cells, and label-retaining cells (LRCs) suggests these stem/progenitor cell populations may play a key role in endometrial regeneration during menstrual and estrus cycles. This review summarizes the identification of epithelial progenitors, MSC, SP, and LRC, and discusses their contribution to endometrial tissue regeneration, maintaining tissue homeostasis, decidualization, and placentation. Markers for human endometrial MSC have been identified, revealing their perivascular location in both the functionalis and basalis layers. These markers also allow their purification from biopsy tissue and menstrual blood. These findings have advanced our understanding of normal endometrial physiology and will provide new insight into endometrial proliferative disorders (endometriosis, endometrial cancer). The ability to prospectively isolate endometrial MSC will enable their utilization in cell-based therapies for reproductive tract pathologies.

 

 

Patient Prefer Adherence. 2015 Jul 29;9:1077-83

No gynecologist in town: the gynecological care of women in rural Taiwan.

Lai LJ¹, Chou CL², Su HI³, Chen TJ⁴, Chou LF⁵, Chou YC⁶, Hwang SJ⁷, Yu HC⁸.

 

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

A shortage of gynecologists exists in many countries. Even within an affluent country, gynecological clinics might not be evenly distributed. The purpose of the study was to investigate the disparity in gynecological care between adult women living in towns with and without gynecologists in Taiwan.

METHODS:

Data sources were the cohort datasets of the National Health Insurance Research Database, with claims data of 1 million beneficiaries in 2010. A woman’s residency was operationally inferred from the locations where she had most frequently visited physicians’ clinics or local community hospitals within the year.

RESULTS:

In Taiwan, 145 (39.4%) of 368 towns had no practicing gynecologist. Of 382,167 women with health care use in the datasets, 21,794 (5.7%) lived in towns without a gynecologist. The overwhelming majority of these towns lay in sparsely populated, rural areas. During the year, 132,702 women (34.7%) had sought medical help for gynecological diseases and 113,698 (29.8%) had visited gynecologists for gynecological diseases. Women in towns without a gynecologist were less likely to consult for gynecological diseases (23.8% versus 35.4%; P<0.001) and visit gynecologists (18.7% versus 30.4%; P<0.001) than women in towns with a gynecologist. The disparity existed in each age group. Among 5,189 adult women living in towns without a gynecologist and having gynecological diseases, 78.5% (number [n]=4,074) visited gynecologists out of town, especially for infertility, benign disorders of the uterus and ovaries, gynecological examinations, and contraceptive problems, and by contrast 23.3% (n=1,209) visited nongynecologists in town, most commonly for menopausal disorders, endometriosis and pelvic pain, menstrual disorders and hormonal dysfunction, and genital dysplasia.

CONCLUSION:

Gynecological care of rural women was adversely affected by the shortage of gynecologists. The consequences of accessibility in underserved areas deserve further investigation.

 

 

J Surg Case Rep. 2015 Aug 7;2015(8).

Endometriosis causing acute appendicitis complicated with hemoperitoneum.

Curbelo-Peña Y¹, Guedes-De la Puente X², Saladich-Cubero M², Molinas-Bruguera J², Molineros J³, De Caralt-Mestres E².

 

Abstract

Endometriosis is a painful disorder characterized by endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity. It usually affects the pelvis, but in rare cases it might extend to other parts of the body. The report is based on a case of a 39-year-old woman, who presented symptoms of acute appendicitis and diagnosis confirmed with ultrasonography and a computed tomography scan procedures. Laparoscopic appendicectomy was performed. After entering the abdominal cavity, hemoperitoneum was discovered with no associated pelvic or abdominal lesions. Biopsy confirmed acute appendicitis with endometrial glands and stroma infiltrating its muscular tissue. Patient recovered without complications and was discharged 48 h after surgery. The appendix is rarely affected by endometrial infiltration. The literature describes an incidence of 0.8%, just a few cases have been associated with acute appendicitis; however, none of them are described to present hemoperitoneum, being our patient the first one reported with such complication.

 

 

 

BMC Vet Res. 2015 Aug 8;11:187.

Potential role of cervicovaginal extracellular particles in diagnosis of endometriosis.

Muth DC¹, McAlexander MA², Ostrenga LJ³, Pate NM⁴, Izzi JM⁵, Adams RJ⁶, Pate KA⁷, Beck SE⁸, Karim BO⁹, Witwer KW¹⁰.

 

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Macaques are an excellent model for many human diseases, including reproductive diseases such as endometriosis. A long-recognized need for early biomarkers of endometriosis has not yet resulted in consensus. While biomarker studies have examined many bodily fluids and targets, cervicovaginal secretions have been relatively under-investigated. Extracellular vesicles (EVs, including exosomes and microvesicles) are found in every biofluid examined, carry cargo including proteins and RNA, and may participate in intercellular signaling. Little is known about EVs in the cervicovaginal compartment, including the effects of reproductive tract disease on quantity and quality of EVs.

CASE PRESENTATION:

In September 2014, a 9-year-old rhesus macaque was diagnosed with endometriosis at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration of a cyst and subsequent laparotomy confirmed diagnosis. The animal was sent to necropsy following euthanasia for humane reasons. Perimortem vaginal swabs and cervicovaginal lavages were obtained. Using a combination of methods, including ultracentrifugation and NanoSight visualization technology, approximate numbers of EVs from each sample were calculated and compared to populations of EVs from other, reproductively normal macaques. Fewer EVs were recovered from the endometriosis samples as compared with those from reproductively healthy individuals.

CONCLUSION:

To our knowledge, this is the first examination of EVs in primate cervicovaginal secretions, including those of a macaque with endometriosis. This case study suggests that additional research is justified to determine whether quantification of EVs-or their molecular cargo-in cervicovaginal lavage and vaginal swabs may provide a novel, relatively non-invasive diagnostic for primate endometrial disease or other reproductive tract diseases.

 

 

Ginekol Pol. 2015 Jun;86(6):414-8.

Increased levels of proteins of the acute inflammatory phase in the peritoneal fluid of women with advanced stages of endometriosis.

Polak G, Barczyński B, Bednarek W, Kwaśniewski W, Wertell I, Derewianka-Polak M, Makara-Studzińska M, Kotarski J.

Abstract

OBJECTIVES:

Most investigators agree that endometriosis is associated with a state of subclinical, non-infectious peritoneal inflammation. The objective of the study was to assess concentrations of two markers of the acute inflammatory phase proteins, haptoglobin and ceruloplasmin, in peritoneal fluid of endometriotic women.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

229 women who underwent diagnostic or therapeutic laparoscopy were included in the study Minimal, mild, moderate and severe endometriosis according to ASRM was confirmed in 119 women (study groups), whereas 110 patients suffered from simple serous or dermoid ovarian cysts (reference groups). Haptoglobin and ceruloplasmin concentrations in the peritoneal fluid samples aspirated during laparoscopy were measured using commercially available radial immunodiffusion kits.

RESULTS:

The concentration of haptoglobin in the peritoneal fluid of women with endometriosis was significantly higher as compared to patients with serous and dermoid ovarian cysts. Significantly higher haptoglobin level was observed in patients with severe and moderate endometriosis as compared to women from both reference groups. No significant difference in the peritoneal fluid ceruloplasmin levels was found between patients with endometriosis and women from reference groups. However, it was noted that ceruloplasmin levels are higher in the subgroup of patients with severe endometriosis as compared to both reference groups and women with mild disease.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our results support the hypothesis that endometriosis is associated with subclinical inflammation within the peritoneal cavity It may be speculated that pro-inflammatory stimuli strong enough to cause an increase in acute inflammatory phase proteins peritoneal fluid concentrations are observed only in the advanced stages of the disease.

 

 

Expert Opin Ther Targets. 2015;19(11):1447-64.

Targeting oxidative stress to treat endometriosis.

Harlev A^1,2, Gupta S¹, Agarwal A³.

 

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:

Endometriosis affects 10% of women of reproductive age. It is defined as the presence of implanted active endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity. The exact pathophysiology of endometriosis is still uncertain, although several optional etiological theories have been suggested. Being so common, a novel treatment for endometriosis is widely quested. Recent studies addressing the pathological characteristics of endometriosis have revealed a vicious cycle in which oxidative stress (OS) is generated, which in turn facilitates the implantation of the ectopic endometrium. At the same time, the generation of high amounts of reactive oxygen species further triggers a state of OS.

AREAS COVERED:

The author examined the evidence associating OS and endometriosis. After establishing an association, a search for antioxidant agents that were investigated specifically on endometriosis patients are described including Vitamins C and E, melatonin, resveratrol, xanthohumol and epigallocatechin-3-gallate. A significant effect of all the reviewed antioxidants on endometriosis is reported.

EXPERT OPINION:

Aiming for the reduction of OS as the treatment goal for endometriosis looks promising. However, since most of the studies are either in vitro or are animal based, further studies on human subjects are deemed necessary to elucidate the impact of OS reduction on patients with endometriosis.

 

 

Iran J Nurs Midwifery Res. 2015 Jul-Aug;20(4):484-9.

Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), nitric oxide metabolite, and estradiol levels in serum and peritoneal fluid in women with endometriosis.

Kianpour M¹, Nematbakhsh M², Ahmadi SM³.

 

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Increase in nitric oxide (NO) concentration accompanied by alteration in peritoneal immune defense reactions is involved in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Asymmetric dimethylarginine is an endogenous competitive inhibitor of NO synthase. This study was designed to compare NO metabolite (nitrite), asymmetric dimethylarginine, and estradiol concentrations in serum and peritoneal fluid (PF) of patients with and without endometriosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Subjects were assigned to two groups based on their laparoscopic results. The groups consisted of women with and without endometriosis (90 and 89 participants, respectively). The serum and peritoneal levels of nitrite (stable NO metabolite), asymmetric dimethylarginine, and estradiol were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. These parameters were analyzed and compared between the groups statistically using SPSS software version 16.

RESULTS:

Both nitrite and asymmetric dimethylarginine levels were significantly higher in the serum of the participants from both groups than those in the PF group (P < 0.05). However, no significant difference in the asymmetric dimethylarginine level was detected between the two groups. In addition, the PF level of nitrite increased significantly in patients with endometriosis when compared with non-endometriosis subjects (P < 0.05). The PF levels of estradiol in both groups were significantly higher than the serum levels of estradiol (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS:

The NO metabolite level of PF implies the possible role of NO in the pathogenesis of endometriosis.

 

 

Biomed Res Int. 2015;2015:514383.

Clinical Outcome after Colonic Resection in Women with Endometriosis.

Klugsberger B¹, Shamiyeh A¹, Oppelt P², Jabkowski C³, Schimetta W⁴, Haas D².

 

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

In severe forms of endometriosis, the colon or rectum may be involved. This study evaluated the functional results and long-term outcome after laparoscopic colonic resection for endometriosis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Questionnaire survey with 24 women who had experienced typical symptoms, including pelvic pain, infertility, and endometriotic lesions in the bowel and undergone laparoscopic surgery, including low anterior resection, from 2009 to 2012, was conducted.

RESULTS:

Information about the postoperative outcome was obtained from 22 women and was analyzed statistically. Twenty-one had undergone low anterior resection; one patient required a primary Hartmann procedure due to a rectovaginal fistula. The conversion rate was 4.5%. Major complications occurred in one patient, including an anastomotic leakage, and a Hartmann procedure was carried out subsequently in this patient. The symptoms of pain during defecation, pelvic pain, dyspareunia, dysmenorrhea, and hematochezia showed clear improvement one year after the operation and at the time of the questionnaire.

CONCLUSION:

Laparoscopic low anterior resection for deeply infiltrative endometriosis is technically demanding but feasible and safe, and it improves the clinical symptoms of endometriosis in the bowel.

 

 

 

J Immunol. 2015 Sep 15;195(6):2591-600.

IL-17A Contributes to the Pathogenesis of Endometriosis by Triggering Proinflammatory Cytokines and Angiogenic Growth Factors.

Ahn SH¹, Edwards AK¹, Singh SS², Young SL³, Lessey BA⁴, Tayade C⁵.

 

Abstract

Endometriosis is a chronic, inflammatory disease characterized by the growth of endometrial tissue in aberrant locations outside the uterus. Neoangiogenesis or establishment of new blood supply is one of the fundamental requirements of endometriotic lesion survival in the peritoneal cavity. IL-17A is emerging as a potent angiogenic and proinflammatory cytokine involved in the pathophysiology of several chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis. However, sparse information is available in the context of endometriosis. In this study, we demonstrate the potential importance of IL-17A in the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of endometriosis. The data show a differential expression of IL-17A in human ectopic endometriotic lesions and matched eutopic endometrium from women with endometriosis. Importantly, surgical removal of lesions resulted in significantly reduced plasma IL-17A concentrations. Immunohistochemistry revealed localization of IL-17A primarily in the stroma of matched ectopic and eutopic tissue samples. In vitro stimulation of endometrial epithelial carcinoma cells, Ishikawa cells, and HUVECs with IL-17A revealed significant increase in angiogenic (vascular endothelial growth factor and IL-8), proinflammatory (IL-6 and IL-1β), and chemotactic cytokines (G-CSF, CXCL12, CXCL1, and CX3CL1). Furthermore, IL-17A promoted tubulogenesis of HUVECs plated on Matrigel in a dose-dependent manner. Thus, we provide the first evidence, to our knowledge, that endometriotic lesions produce IL-17A and that the removal of the lesion via laparoscopic surgery leads to the significant reduction in the systemic levels of IL-17A. Taken together, our data show a likely important role of IL-17A in promoting angiogenesis and proinflammatory environment in the peritoneal cavity for the establishment and maintenance of endometriosis lesions.

 

 

J Minim Invasive Gynecol. 2016 Jan;23(1):10-1.

Robotic Single-Site Endometriosis Resection Using Firefly Technology.

Guan X¹, Nguyen MT², Walsh TM², Kelly B².

 

Abstract

STUDY OBJECTIVE:

To demonstrate the feasibility of robotic single-site resection of advanced endometriosisusing new technology.

DESIGN:

We show a video that demonstrates our technique for accomplishing single-site laparoscopic resection of advanced endometriosis. The video is a step-by-step explanation of robotic single-site resection of endometriosis nodules overlying the ureter and rectum.

BACKGROUND:

Laparoscopic surgery has been shown to effectively improve pain and fertility in women with endometriosis [1]. Compared with traditional multiport laparoscopy, single-incision laparoscopy is associated with similar incidence rates of blood loss, conversion to open laparotomy, and wound complications, but it has superior cosmetic outcomes and high patient satisfaction [2-5]. Furthermore, robotic single-incision laparoscopy combined with robotic Firefly technology potentially increases the removal of invisible endometriosis. Without complete resection of endometriosis, patients are less likely to achieve full pain relief postoperatively.

SETTING:

University hospital.

PATIENT:

A 36 year old G1P1 female was referred for chronic pelvic pain. She described her pain as hip pain, pain with walking, dyspareunia, dyschezia and right anterior abdominal wall pain.

INTERVENTION:

To improve detection of endometriosis, we injected the patient with indocyanine green (ICG), a fluorescent dye with widespread medical applications in identifying increased vascularity of tissues. We then visualized the tissues with robotic Firefly technology, a fluorescence-detection tool built into the da Vinci SI Surgical Systems (Intuitive Surgical, Inc, Sunnyvale, CA).

MAIN RESULTS:

Because endometriosis lesions are associated with a high degree of neovascularization, the ICG turned the endometriosis tissues dark green, thereby enabling us to detect endometriosis that would not have been seen as readily with conventional single-site laparoscopy. This video demonstrates our technique for successfully accomplishing a single-site laparoscopic resection of advanced endometriosis, including ureterolysis, adhesiolysis, peritoneal stripping, and a rectal nodule excision.

CONCLUSIONS:

We found that Firefly technology and ICG facilitated identification of endometriosis in single-site robotic surgery. We were able to successfully perform single-site laparoscopic resection of advanced endometriosis nodules overlying the ureter and rectum with complete resolution of pelvic pain symptoms and excellent cosmetic results.

 

 

 

Int J Clin Exp Pathol. 2015 Jun 1;8(6):6012-8.

Association between HSD17B1 rs605059 polymorphisms and the risk of uterine diseases: a systemic review and meta-analysis.

Mu X¹, Du X², Yao K², Zhao J², Bian C², Wang Q², Ma H², Yi T², Wu Y³, Zhao X².

 

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the HSD17B1 gene polymorphisms in the risks of endometrial cancer, endometriosis and uterine leiomyoma by meta-analysis. A comprehensive electronic search was conducted in PubMed, Medline (Ovid), Embase, Weipu, Wanfang and CNKI. The pooled ORs were performed using the Revman 5.2 softerware. 8 case-control studies were included: 3 were about endometrial cancer, 4 were about endometriosis and 1 was about uterine leiomyoma. The result showed no significant association between HSD17B1 rs605059 gene polymorphisms and risks of endometrial cancer (AA vs. AG+GG: OR = 1.11, 95% CI = 0.94-1.32; AA+AG vs. GG: OR = 1.79, 95% CI = 0.42-7.52; AG vs. AA+ GG: OR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.76-1.00; AA vs. GG: OR = 1.43, 95% CI = 0.62-3.30; A vs. G: OR = 1.00, 95% CI = 0.91-1.11) or endometriosis (AA vs. AG+GG: OR = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.75-1.32; AA+AG vs. GG: OR = 1.73, 95% CI = 0.92-3.25; AG vs. AA+ GG: OR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.00-1.53; AA vs. GG: OR = 1.54, 95% CI = 0.79-2.97; A vs. G: OR = 1.23, 95% CI = 0.90-1.68). No association was found in a subgroup analysis based on Asian ethnicity for endometriosis. This meta-analysis suggested that HSD17B1 rs605059 polymorphisms were not associated with the risks of endometrial cancer and endometriosis. Further studies are needed to validate the conclusion and clarify the relationship between HSD17B1 rs605059 polymorphisms and the risk of uterine leiomyoma.

 

 

Vet Res Forum. 2015 Spring;6(2):101-10.

Comparing protective effect of grape seed extract versus atorvastatin on endometriosis in rat model: Evidence for immunohistochemical and biochemical alterations.

Kakaiy A¹, Ayen E¹, Sadrkhanlou R², Sarrafzadeh Rezaei F³.

 

Abstract

Thirty six Wistar albino rats with implant induced endometriosis were randomly divided into six groups of six animals each. The rats in the first group received nothing and were euthanized at day 21. In the second group, rats received nothing and were euthanized at day 36. The third group received atorvastatin (ATV; 5 mg kg(-1) per day, orally) until 21 days from induction of endometriosis, and the fourth group received ATV from the 15(th) day after induction of endometriosis for 21 days. The fifth group received grape seed extract (GET; 450 mg kg(-1) per day, orally) until 21 days from induction of endometriosis. In the sixth group, GET was administered from the 15(th) day after induction of endometriosis for 21 days. The estrogen receptor positive cells (ER+) distribution and angiogenesis were assessed using immunohistochemical and immunoflourescent analyzes, respectively. The active cells with intracytoplasmic carbohydrate content were analyzed. Erα mRNA expression was assessed using semiquantitative real time-PCR and the tissue levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-px) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were evaluated. The GET and ATV-treated animals showed significant reduction in endometriosis-increased ER+ cells distribution as well as significant decrease in Erα mRNA levels (p < 0.05(. Our data suggests that GET exerts a potent inhibitory effect on development of endometriotic implants similar to ATV.

 

 

Adv Anat Pathol. 2015 Sep;22(5):331-4

Selected Case From the Arkadi M. Rywlin International Pathology Slide Club: Polypoid Endometriosis in the Pouch of Douglas in a Perimenopausal Woman.

Gunawardane DN¹, Allen PW.

 

Abstract

A 50-year-old female had a hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy for adenomyosis, uterine leiomyomas, ovarian and cervical endometriosis. Nine months later, organ imaging revealed a 43×74×52 mm, apparently malignant extraperitoneal mass lying between the vagina and rectum. The patient had been receiving a progestogen. Preoperative needle biopsies were interpreted as recurrent endometriosis. The mass was easily excised and sections were interpreted as polypoid endometriosis with a decidual reaction and foci of necrosis. Slides circulated to the club were from the excised specimen. The majority agreed with this diagnosis although a minority favored a Mullerian adenosarcoma. One club member commented that pseudosarcomatous change, including periglandular stromal cuffing and condensation, may occur in patients on hormones, especially tamoxifen. The patient was well with no recurrence 15 months after surgery.

 

 

J Clin Diagn Res. 2015 Jun;9(6):QC01-3.

Prevalence; Characteristics and Management of Endometriosis Amongst Infertile Women: A One Year Retrospective Study.

Mishra VV¹, Gaddagi RA², Aggarwal R³, Choudhary S⁴, Sharma U², Patel U².

 

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Endometriosis appears to affect every aspect of a women’s reproductive system resulting in infertility and spontaneous pregnancy loss. This study aims to find out the prevalence & clinical characteristics of endometriosis amongst infertile women.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN:

A Hospital based retrospective study over a period of one year.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

It is a retrospective study conducted in the gynaecology department in Institute of Kidney Diseases & Research Centre; Ahmedabad from April 2012 to March 2013 amongst women with a primary complaint of infertility (Primary/Secondary).A total of 372 patients underwent diagnostic hysterolaparoscopy and of these 180 patients who had laparoscopic evidence of endometriosis was included in the study. All of these patients and their findings were analysed with respect to the clinical signs and symptoms. The outcome after appropriate management was analysed in subsequent follow up.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS:

All collected data was entered into the SPSS version 20. Categorical data are expressed in frequency or percentage. Chi-Square test and Fisher-Exact test has been performed to carry out p-value for categorical data. P-value <0.05 shows statistically significant difference.

RESULTS:

The frequency of endometriosis among women with infertility subjected to diagnostic hysterolaparoscopy was found to be 48.38%. Statistical significant association with severity of disease was associated with symptoms like dysmenorrhea, chronic pelvic pain, restricted uterine mobility and adnexal tenderness. (p <0.01) Ultrasound finding of endometrioma with ground glas appearance also had statistical significant association with staging of disease (p <0.01).

CONCLUSION:

Endometriosis amongst infertile women is increasingly being detected due to greater use of laparoscopy in evaluation of infertility.Though most signs do not correlate with severity of disease however the presence of restricted uterine mobility, adnexal tenderness & chronic pelvic pain should always raise the suspicion of endometriosis. Laparoscopy remains the gold standard for diagnosing and staging endometriosis.

 

 

 

Zhonghua Fu Chan Ke Za Zhi. 2015 Mar;50(3):188-93.

Randomized, blind, parallel-controlled and multiple-centre clinical trial on the effectiveness and safety of leuprolide acetate in the treatment of endometriosis.

Bian M¹, Huang S, Deng W, Song J, Liang Z, Zhang Y, Jin Y, Zhu H, Liu M, Wang Q, Yang Y, Chen Q².

 

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of leuprolide acetate in the treatment of endometriosis.

METHODS:

From Nov. 2007 to Oct. 2012, the patients who confirmed to be endometriosis were randomly divided into test group of 113 cases and control group of 116 cases. The test drug was the sustained-release agent of leuprolide acetate. The control drug was Enantone. The drugs were used for 3 times in total. After treatment, the ovarian mass volumes measured with type-B ultrasound, the scores of the patient’s subjective symptoms during non-menstrual and menstruation days, the pelvic signs during non-menstrual days, the changes of hormones [estradiol (E2), FSH, LH], and adverse events were observed.

RESULTS:

After the treatment, the rate of changes of ovarian mass volume (among them, at 12 weeks after the first injection, the median was -55.83% in the test group, -68.22% in the control group, P = 0.336), the distinct improvement rate of symptom scores and pelvic signs during non-menstrual days [among them, at 12 weeks after the first injection, the rate of lower abdomen pain was 47.5% (48/101) in the test group, 44.0% (44/100) in the control group, P = 0.881], the hormone (E2, FSH, LH) levels [among them, at 12 weeks after the first injection, the serum level of E2, was (33±38) pmol/L in the test group, (38±40) pmol/L in the control group, P = 0.414; the serum level of FSH, was (5.1±2.8) U/L in the test group, (5.3±2.3) U/L in the control group, P = 0.666; the serum level of LH, was (0.6±0.8) U/L in the test group, (0.6±0.9) U/L in the control group, P = 0.907], had no statistically significant difference between the two groups (all P > 0.05). The distinct improvement rate and improvement rate of symptom (lower abdomen pain, low back pain) scores during menstruation days at 12 weeks after the first injection, the rates of lower abdomen pain were 73.9% (34/46), 15.2% (7/46) respectively in the test group, 72.3% (34/47), 2.1% (1/47) respectively in the control group, had statistically significant difference between the two groups (P = 0.026). There was no serious adverse event occurred in both two groups. The incidence rate of adverse event was 33.6% (38/113) in test group, 23.2% (27/116) in control group, there was no significant difference between the two groups (P = 0.082).

CONCLUSION:

Leuprolide acetate is effective and safe in the treatment of endometriosis.

 

 

 

Zhonghua Fu Chan Ke Za Zhi. 2015 Mar;50(3):194-7.

Association of the H770H of PR gene polymorphism with susceptibility to endometriosis.

Mao T¹, Luo X, Tan X, Jiang X, Wang Y, Huang Y, Zhao X, Fu Y, Rao X, Zong L².

 

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To investigate the association of PR gene exon 5 region H770H (rs1042839) single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) with the genetic susceptibility to endometriosis (EM) in southern Han Chinese women.

METHODS:

Totally 431 EM patients and 499 non-EM women were collected and separated into EM group and control group, that all cases were confirmed by operation and pathology. A case-control study was performed in EM and control groups to evaluate the association of these SNP with the susceptibility to EM by using a fluorescent quantitative PCR-based high resolution melting (HRM) method.

RESULTS:

The C and T of PR H770H allele frequencies among the EM and control groups were 97.9% (844/862), 2.1% (18/862) and 99.4% (992/998), 0.6% (6/998), respectively. The CC, CT and TT of PR H770H genotype frequencies among the EM and control groups were 95.8% (413/431), 4.2% (18/431), 0 and 98.8% (493/499), 1.2% (6/499), 0, respectively. There were statistical significances in the PR H770H alleles and genotypes distributions between the two groups (χ(2)=7.386, P=0.007; χ(2)=8.135, P=0.004). Carrying allele C reduced the risk of EM (OR=0.986, 95%CI: 0.976-0.996), while carrying allele T enhanced the risk of EM (OR=3.319, 95% CI: 1.323-8.325); carrying genotype CC reduced the risk of EM 0.970 time (OR=0.970, 95% CI: 0.949-0.991), whereas carrying genotype CT enhanced the risk of EM 3.473 times (OR=3.473, 95%CI: 1.391-8.671).

CONCLUSION:

There is significant association between the polymorphism of PR H770H and genetic susceptibility to EM in southern Han Chinese women.

 

 

Hum Reprod. 2015 Oct;30(10):2427-38.

Pain typology and incident endometriosis.

Schliep KC¹, Mumford SL², Peterson CM³, Chen Z², Johnstone EB³, Sharp HT³, Stanford JB⁴, Hammoud AO³, Sun L², Buck Louis GM².

 

Abstract

STUDY QUESTION:

What are the pain characteristics among women, with no prior endometriosis diagnosis, undergoing laparoscopy or laparotomy regardless of clinical indication?

SUMMARY ANSWER:

Women with surgically visualized endometriosis reported the highest chronic/cyclic pain and significantly greater dyspareunia, dysmenorrhea, and dyschezia compared with women with other gynecologic pathology (including uterine fibroids, pelvic adhesions, benign ovarian cysts, neoplasms and congenital Müllerian anomalies) or a normal pelvis.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY:

Prior research has shown that various treatments for pain associated with endometriosis can be effective, making identification of specific pain characteristics in relation to endometriosisnecessary for informing disease diagnosis and management.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION:

The study population for these analyses includes the ENDO Study (2007-2009) operative cohort: 473 women, ages 18-44 years, who underwent a diagnostic and/or therapeutic laparoscopy or laparotomy at one of 14 surgical centers located in Salt Lake City, UT or San Francisco, CA. Women with a history of surgically confirmed endometriosis were excluded.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING AND METHODS:

Endometriosis was defined as surgically visualized disease; staging was based on revised American Society for Reproductive Medicine (rASRM) criteria. All women completed a computer-assisted personal interview at baseline specifying 17 types of pain (rating severity via 11-point visual analog scale) and identifying any of 35 perineal and 60 full-body front and 60 full-body back sites for which they experienced pain in the last 6 months.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE:

There was a high prevalence (≥30%) of chronic and cyclic pelvic pain reported by the entire study cohort regardless of post-operative diagnosis. However, women with a post-operative endometriosis diagnosis, compared with women diagnosed with other gynecologic disorders or a normal pelvis, reported more cyclic pelvic pain (49.5% versus 31.0% and 33.1%, P < 0.001). Additionally, women with endometriosis compared with women with a normal pelvis experienced more chronic pain (44.2 versus 30.2%, P = 0.04). Deep pain with intercourse, cramping with periods, and pain with bowel elimination were much more likely reported in women with versus without endometriosis (all P < 0.002). A higher percentage of women diagnosed with endometriosis compared with women with a normal pelvis reported vaginal (22.6 versus 10.3%, P < 0.01), right labial (18.4 versus 8.1%, P < 0.05) and left labial pain (15.3 versus 3.7%, P < 0.01) along with pain in the right/left hypogastric and umbilical abdominopelvic regions (P < 0.05 for all). Among women with endometriosis, no clear and consistent patterns emerged regarding pain characteristics and endometriosisstaging or anatomic location.

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION:

Interpretation of our findings requires caution given that we were limited in our assessment of pain characteristics by endometriosis staging and anatomic location due to the majority of women having minimal (stage I) disease (56%) and lesions in peritoneum-only location (51%). Significance tests for pain topology related to gynecologic pathology were not corrected for multiple comparisons.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS:

Results of our research suggest that while women with endometriosisappear to have higher pelvic pain, particularly dyspareunia, dysmenorrhea, dyschezia and pain in the vaginal and abdominopelvic area than women with other gynecologic disorders or a normal pelvis, pelvic pain is commonly reported among women undergoing laparoscopy, even among women with no identified gynecologic pathology. Future research should explore causes of pelvic pain among women who seek out gynecologic care but with no apparent gynecologic pathology. Given our and other’s research showing little correlation between pelvic pain and rASRM staging among women with endometriosis, further development and use of a classification system that can better predict outcomes for endometriosis patients with pelvic pain for both surgical and nonsurgical treatment is needed.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS:

Supported by the Intramural Research Program, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (contracts NO1-DK-6-3428, NO1-DK-6-3427, and 10001406-02). The authors have no potential competing interests.

 

 

Cir Cir. 2016 May-Jun;84(3):245-9.

Clear cell adenocarcinoma arising from abdominal wall endometriosis.

Sosa-Durán EE¹, Aboharp-Hasan Z², Mendoza-Morales RC³, García-Rodríguez FM², Jiménez-Villanueva X², Peñavera-Hernández JR³.

 

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Clear cell carcinoma originating in the abdominal wall is a rare event. It is generally associated with endometrial tissue implants left behind after a caesarean section or other gynaecological operations. Its pathophysiology is complex and controversial.

CLINICAL CASE:

The case is presented of a 45 year-old female with history of three caesarean sections, who was seen due to having a tumour mass of 6 months onset in the anterior abdominal wall. Imaging studies confirmed its location, and due to measuring 9 by 7 cm it was suspected to be an urachal tumour. A resection with wide margins was performed. The histopathology report was of a clear cell adenocarcinoma originated in ectopic endometrial tissue, with negative margins.

CONCLUSION:

This is a very rare case, with few cases reported in the literature. This diagnosis should be included in tumours of the abdominal wall.

 

 

 

BMC Cancer. 2015 Aug 14;15:587.

Knowledge and attitudes regarding medical research studies among patients with breast cancer and gynecological diseases.

Lux MP¹, Hildebrandt T², Knetzger SM³, Schrauder MG⁴, Jud SM⁵, Hein A⁶, Rauh C⁷, Fasching PA⁸, Beckmann MW⁹, Thiel FC¹⁰.

 

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Medical research studies are becoming increasingly important for optimizing the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of illnesses. Participation in research studies can have many benefits for patients. In randomized and controlled clinical studies, they can receive the best possible medical care currently available. However, only a small proportion of patients nowadays are treated within the framework of medical research. The primary endpoint of this study was to discover what level of knowledge patients have about clinical studies and how they currently perceive them, in order to identify ways of optimizing the information provided about studies from the patients’ point of view.

METHODS:

The study included 2546 patients (breast cancer 21.6%, gynecological cancer 8.3%, obstetrics 32.7%, endometriosis 7.8%, fertility treatment 3.2%, other benign gynecological illnesses 19.2%, no information for 7.2%) in the outpatient clinic (45.2%) and in the in-patient sector (54.8%) at the Department of Gynecology at Erlangen University Hospital and associated centers. In the single-center study, conducted between January 2011 and January 2012, the patients were asked about their level of knowledge regarding the background to medical research studies and the ways in which they are carried out and used. The patients were also asked how they perceived medical studies and how they thought study conditions might be optimized. The three-page questionnaire was included in the feedback sheet received by patients as part of the hospital’s quality management system.

RESULTS:

As a whole, the group only had moderate knowledge about clinical studies. A majority of the respondents considered that studies were valuable (91.6%), but only a few were also willing to take part in them (58.4%). Knowledge and willingness to participate strongly depended on age (P < 0.001), educational level (P < 0.001) and patient group (P < 0.001). Most patients would prefer to decide about participating in studies through a discussion with their outpatient physicians.

CONCLUSIONS:

The information that patients have about clinical studies affects whether they participate in them. It is therefore extremely important for patients to be well informed, for their anxieties about participation to be relieved, and for the benefits of participation to be explained to them.

 

 

BMC Womens Health. 2015 Aug 13;15:59.

Gastrointestinal symptoms among endometriosis patients–A case-cohort study.

Ek M¹, Roth B², Ekström P³, Valentin L⁴, Bengtsson M⁵, Ohlsson B⁶.

 

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Women with endometriosis often experience gastrointestinal symptoms. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogs are used to treat endometriosis; however, some patients develop gastrointestinal dysmotility following this treatment. The aims of the present study were to investigate gastrointestinal symptoms among patients with endometriosis and to examine whether symptoms were associated with menstruation, localization of endometriosis lesions, or treatment with either opioids or GnRH analogs, and if hormonal treatment affected the symptoms.

METHODS:

All patients with diagnosed endometriosis at the Department of Gynecology were invited to participate in the study. Gastrointestinal symptoms were registered using the Visual Analogue Scale for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (VAS-IBS); socioeconomic and medical histories were compiled using a clinical data survey. Data were compared to a control group from the general population.

RESULTS:

A total of 109 patients and 65 controls were investigated. Compared to controls, patients with endometriosis experienced significantly aggravated abdominal pain (P = 0.001), constipation (P = 0.009), bloating and flatulence (P = 0.000), defecation urgency (P = 0.010), and sensation of incomplete evacuation (P = 0.050), with impaired psychological well-being (P = 0.005) and greater intestinal symptom influence on their daily lives (P = 0.001). The symptoms were not associated with menstruation or localization of endometriosis lesions, except increased nausea and vomiting (P = 0.010) in patients with bowel-associated lesions. Half of the patients were able to differentiate between abdominal pain from endometriosis and from the gastrointestinal tract. Patients using opioids experienced more severe symptoms than patients not using opioids, and patients with current or previous use of GnRH analogs had more severe abdominal pain than the other patients (P = 0.024). Initiation of either combined oral contraceptives or progesterone for endometriosis had no effect on gastrointestinal symptoms when the patients were followed prospectively.

CONCLUSIONS:

The majority of endometriosis patients experience more severe gastrointestinal symptoms than controls. A poor association between symptoms and lesion localization was found, indicating existing comorbidity between endometriosis and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Treatment with opioids or GnRH analogs is associated with aggravated gastrointestinal symptoms.

 

 

J Reprod Immunol. 2015 Nov;112:63-7.

COX-2 gene promoter DNA methylation status in eutopic and ectopic endometrium of Egyptian women with endometriosis.

Zidan HE¹, Rezk NA², Alnemr AA³, Abd El Ghany AM³.

 

Abstract

The pathophysiology of COX-2 expression in endometriosis is a matter of debate. The aim was to investigate the role of DNA methylation of the NF-IL6 site within the promoter of COX-2 gene in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. The endometrial tissues (ectopic and eutopic) were collected from 60 women with endometriosisand 30 women without endometriosis (control group). The methylation status of COX-2 was examined by methylation-specific PCR. Quantitative real-time PCR (RT-PCR) was performed to measure COX-2 mRNA levels in endometrial tissues. We found significantly higher levels of COX-2 in ectopic endometriotic tissue compared with eutopic tissue. Also, we found that the frequencies of methylation status of the NF-IL6 site within the COX-2 promoter in the eutopic and ectopic endometrial tissues of endometriosis groups were significantly decreased in comparison to controls (P=0.002, P=0.000 respectively). Our study demonstrated that DNA hypomethylation of the NF-IL6 site within the promoter of COX-2 gene could be a key mechanism for its elevated expression in the eutopic and ectopic tissues of endometriosis.

 

 

 

Am J Clin Pathol. 2015 Sep;144(3):452-63.

Distinct β-catenin and PIK3CA mutation profiles in endometriosis-associated ovarian endometrioid and clear cell carcinomas.

Matsumoto T¹, Yamazaki M¹, Takahashi H¹, Kajita S¹, Suzuki E¹, Tsuruta T¹, Saegusa M².

 

Abstract

OBJECTIVES:

We focused on the differences in molecular mechanisms in the early stages of endometriosis-associated ovarian endometrioid carcinoma (OEMCa) and ovarian clear cell carcinoma (OCCCa).

METHODS:

Alterations in the β-catenin and PIK3CA genes, as well as expression of their associated markers, were investigated.

RESULTS:

Mutations in exon 3 of the β-catenin gene were identified in 21 (60%) of 35 OEMCas. The mutations were also detected in the coexisting nonatypical (52.4%) and atypical (73.3%) endometriosis, and the single-nucleotide substitutions were identical in most cases. In contrast, the mutations were not identified in any of the OCCCas and their coexisting endometriosis. PIK3CA mutations were observed in 11 (31.4%) of 35 OEMCas and 10 (35.7%) of 28 OCCCas. Ten of 11 OEMCas had PIK3CA mutations in exon 9, and eight of 10 OCCCas had them in exon 20. The same mutations were also detected in the coexisting nonatypical and/or atypical endometriosis in three OEMCas and four OCCCas. In addition, significant differences in the expression of pAkt, hepatocyte nuclear factor 1β, hypoxia-inducible factor 1α, p65, and inducible nitric oxide synthase were evident between the two types of tumors and their coexisting endometriosis.

CONCLUSIONS:

Distinct molecular events may occur in relatively early stages of tumorigenesis of endometriosis-associated OEMCas and OCCCas.

 

 

Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 2015 Oct;131(1):78-81.

Validation of a score to guide endometriosis therapy for the non-specialized gynecologist.

Lasmar RB¹, Lasmar BP², Celeste RK³, Larbig A⁴, De Wilde RL⁵.

 

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To validate a tool-the ECO system-developed to guide non-specialized gynecologists in the treatment of patients with suspected endometriosis in outpatient clinics.

METHODS:

In a retrospective study, data were assessed from patients presenting to a center in Brazil or a center in Germany with suspected endometriosis and pelvic pain between July 2012 and June 2013. Data reviewed included patient complaints, clinical extent of disease, patient goals, recent use of medication, previous pelvic surgeries, visual analog pain scale, treatment provided, and histopathology after surgery. Data were transformed into a score according to the ECO system (0-6) indicating the suggested management, which was compared with the approach used in the study hospitals.

RESULTS:

Among 166 patients, 78 (47.0%) were medically treated and 88 (53.0%) underwent therapeutic laparoscopy. All 3 patients scoring 2 had undergone hormonal treatment. Among 51 patients scoring 3, 49 (96.1%) were clinically managed and 2 (3.9%) underwent surgery. Among 52 patients scoring 4, 26 (50.0%) had undergone medical treatment and 26 (50.0%) surgical treatment. All 56 patients who scored 5 and the four patients who scored 6 underwent surgery.

CONCLUSION:

The ECO system seems to effectively represent the management of patients with endometriosisin specialized services.

 

 

BJOG. 2016 Jun;123(7):1184-91

The risk of ureteric injury associated with hysterectomy: a 10-year retrospective cohort study.

Kiran A^1,2, Hilton P³, Cromwell DA^1,2.

 

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the rates of ureteric injury among women undergoing hysterectomy.

DESIGN:

Retrospective cohort.

SETTING:

English National Health Service hospitals.

POPULATION:

Women undergoing hysterectomy in 2001-2010.

METHODS:

Unadjusted rates of ureteric injury, within 1 year of hysterectomy, calculated by indication and type of procedure. Multivariable logistic regression used to assess the risk of ureteric injury with year of surgery.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

Ureteric injury within a year of the hysterectomy.

RESULTS:

In 2001-2010, 377 073 women underwent hysterectomy, of whom 1792 (0.5%) experienced a ureteric injury. In both benign and malignant groups the rate of injury was higher in 2006-2010 than 2001-2005. After 2006, ureteric injuries were most common for abdominal radical hysterectomy for uterine cancer (10.7%; 95% CI 7.3-15.1%). The proportion of women having a ureteric injury was similar for ovarian and cervical cancer (1.9-4.0% depending on type of procedure). For benign conditions, the rate of injury tended to be lower, typically <1%. Women with endometriosis had the highest risk among this group (1.7% following total abdominal hysterectomy; 95% CI 1.4-2.0%).

CONCLUSION:

The risk of ureteric injury within 1 year of hysterectomy varied by type of hysterectomy for benign and malignant conditions. The rates of injury have increased between 2001 and 2010.

TWEETABLE ABSTRACT:

Ten-year study shows ureteric injury rates have increased.

 

 

Eur J Radiol. 2015 Nov;84(11):2071-9.

Endometriosis: Does the menstrual cycle affect magnetic resonance (MR) imaging evaluation?

Botterill EM¹, Esler SJ², McIlwaine KT³, Jagasia N⁴, Ellett L⁵, Maher PJ⁶, Yang N⁷.

 

Abstract

PURPOSE:

To determine if the menstrual cycle affects MR interpretation in patients with pelvic endometriosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Thirty-one patients with either laparoscopically proven endometriosis, or a high clinical suspicion of deep infiltrative endometriosis, were prospectively recruited from May 2008 to October 2009 and January to June 2012. Two pelvic MR scans were performed for pre-operative planning; during menses and the other mid-cycle. Two experienced radiologists independently assessed image quality and disease extent. Both were blinded to patient identity, previous imaging and menstrual status. Interobserver agreement was assessed using the Kappa (k) test. Descriptive statistics were prepared using chi-squared (or Fishers’ exact) tests and Mann-Whitney (rank sum) tests to assess for significant differences between menstrual and non-menstrual imaging.

RESULTS:

Interobserver agreement for image quality was moderate for T2 weighted imaging (k=0.475, p-value <0.001) and substantial for T1 fat saturated imaging (k=0.733, p-value<0.001), with no significant difference in image quality between menstrual and non-menstrual scans (all p-values>0.255). Readers demonstrated at least moderate interobserver agreement for certainty level of endometriosis at site-specific locations, with median k 0.599 (IQR 0.488-0.807). No significant difference in disease extent was observed between menstruating and non-menstruating scans (all p-values>0.05).

CONCLUSION:

Findings suggest no significant differences in image quality, disease extent or disease severity between menstruating and non-menstruating MR; thus, timing of pelvic MR for assessment of endometriosisneed not be influenced by the menstrual cycle.

 

 

BMC Med Genet. 2015 Aug 19;16:60

Genetic variations of MUC17 are associated with endometriosis development and related infertility.

Yang CW^1,2, Chang CY^3,4, Lai MT⁵, Chang HW⁶, Lu CC^7,8, Chen Y⁹, Chen CM¹⁰, Lee SC¹¹, Tsai PW¹², Yang SH¹³, Lin CH¹⁴, Sheu JJ^15,16,17,18, Tsai FJ^19,20.

 

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Genetic alterations of mucin genes, such as MUC2 and MUC4, were previously identified to be associated with endometriosis and related infertility. Additionally, gene expression profiling has confirmed MUC17 to be overexpressed in mucinous ovarian carcinoma; however, its associated risk for endometriosis remains unclear. This study was focused on the potential impact of genetic variations in MUC17 on endometriosisdevelopment and associated clinical features.

METHODS:

The study subjects included 189 female Taiwanese patients with pathology-proven endometriosisand 191 healthy Taiwanese women as controls. Five single-nucleotide polymorphisms (rs4729645, rs10953316, rs74974199, rs4729655, and rs4729656) within the MUC17 gene were selected and genotyped using the Taqman genotyping assay to examine the allele frequency and genotype distributions of MUC17 polymorphisms.

RESULTS:

Genotyping revealed that the A allele at rs10953316 in MUC17 was a protective genetic factor in endometriosis development (p = 0.008; OR = 0.53; 95% CI: 0.36-0.79). Genetic variation of rs4729655 protected patients against endometriosis-induced infertility, but was associated with a higher cancer antigen 125 (CA125) level. Base-pairing analysis, called MaxExpect, predicted an additional loop in the mRNA structure caused by rs10953316 polymorphism, possibly influencing ribosome sliding and translation efficiency. Such predictions were confirmed by immunohistochemistry that patients with AA genotype at rs10953316 showed low MUC17 levels in their endometrium, patients with GA genotype showed moderate levels, and strong staining could be found in patients with GG genotype.

CONCLUSIONS:

MUC17 polymorphisms are involved in endometriosis development and the associated infertility in the Taiwanese population.

 

 

Reprod Biol Endocrinol. 2015 Aug 20;13:95.

The involvement of osteopontin and matrix metalloproteinase- 9 in the migration of endometrial epithelial cells in patients with endometriosis.

Yang M^1,2, Jiang C³, Chen H⁴, Nian Y⁵, Bai Z⁶, Ha C⁷.

 

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Endometriosis, which shares certain characteristics with cancers, may cause abnormal expression of proteins involved in cell migration. Endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) are believed to play an important role in endometriotic migration. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the expression of osteopontin (OPN) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in endometriotic migration.

METHODS:

We performed primary culture of EECs and investigated the expression of OPN and MMP-9 in EECs regulated by 17beta-estradiol (E2). OPN-specific siRNA interference was used to down-regulate OPN and to explore the corresponding change in MMP-9 expression. Real-time RT-PCR, western blot analysis and flow cytometry were used to determine the expression levels of OPN and MMP-9. Gelatin zymography was performed to observe the enzymatic activity of MMP-9 in conditioned media. Transwell and wound scratch assays were performed to investigate the migration ability of EECs.

RESULTS:

The expression levels of OPN and MMP-9 in normal EECs (NEECs) were inferior to those in EECs from patients with endometriosis (EEECs). The expression levels of OPN and MMP-9 from stage III/IV EEECs and secretory-phase EECs were higher than those of stage I/II EEECs or proliferative-phase EECs. The expression levels of OPN and MMP-9 in EEECs were increased by E2 treatment and remarkably decreased by siRNA interference. Active MMP-9 expression increased with E2 treatment and decreased with siRNA treatment in EEECs compared with the same treatments in NEECs. The migratory abilities of EEECs were enhanced after cells were treated with E2; in contrast, these abilities were reduced by siRNA interference. In NEECs, active MMP-9 and cellular migration abilities were only minimally influenced by E2 and siRNA treatment.

CONCLUSIONS:

The present study suggests that the up-regulation of MMP-9 via activation of OPN induced by estrogen may correlate with the migration of endometrial epithelial cells in patients with endometriosis.

 

 

Acta Med Okayama. 2015;69(4):227-35.

Reactivity of CA19-9 and CA125 in histological subtypes of epithelial ovarian tumors and ovarian endometriosis.

Nakagawa N¹, Koda H, Nitta N, Nakahara Y, Uno J, Hashimoto T, Nakahori T, Hasegawa M, Kataoka M.

 

Abstract

Previous reports have shown that some ovarian endometrioid adenocarcinomas and ovarian clear cell adenocarcinomas derive from ovarian endometriosis (OE), and that endocervical-like mucinous borderline ovarian tumors are associated with OE. We examined the relationship between the staging and histological subtypes of OE or epithelial ovarian tumors (EOT) and the serum levels of carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) and carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125) to evaluate the potential of these markers for preoperative diagnosis. First, we analyzed the preoperative serum levels of CA19-9 and CA125 in 195 patients who were histopathologically diagnosed with OE or EOT. We then performed a case-control study in which 308 women were enrolled, the 195 women described above and 113 healthy women as control subjects. Serum CA19-9 and CA125 levels were found to be useful in differentiating between OE and serous adenocarcinoma, but not between OE and other EOT. Moreover, serum CA19-9 levels were useful for preoperative assessment between OE and stage I mucinous borderline ovarian tumors, with or without the interstitial infiltration. In addition, considering that the serum CA19-9 levels in stage I mucinous borderline ovarian tumors were elevated via the interstitial infiltration of leukocytes and that precancerous lesions are associated with a cancerous glycosylation disorder in the process of inflammatory carcinogenesis, the CA19-9 level may be considered a suitable biomarker for estimating drug susceptibility.

 

 

 

Gynecol Endocrinol. 2015;31(8):643-6.

Outcomes of treatment with cyclic administration of dienogest after ovarian endometriotic cystectomy.

Yanase T¹, Ishida M¹, Nishijima S¹, Morikawa K¹, Yokoo T¹, Takaki Y¹, Tsuneki I¹, Tamura M¹, Kurabayashi T¹.

 

Abstract

To evaluate the outcomes of patients treated with cyclic administration of dienogest after ovarian endometriotic cystectomy, following the completion of treatment. We retrospectively evaluated 26 patients treated with dienogest (2 mg/day) after cystectomy (revised American Society for Reproductive Medicine [r-ASRM] stage III-IV) in a pilot study. Dienogest was administered cyclically, for a total of six cycles, each comprising three weeks on and one week off. Outcomes of interest included severity of menstrual pain and recurrence of cysts at baseline, during the immediate post-treatment period and at the final outpatient follow-up. The mean outpatient follow-up period was 45.0 months. The visual analog scale score for menstrual pain following 6 cycles of dienogest treatment was significantly lower than that at baseline; it remained low at the final follow-up. The recurrence rates of cysts were 4% and 21% at 24 and 48 months after the completion of dienogest treatment, respectively. Six patients with recurrent disease were all classified as having r-ASRM stage IV. Our results suggest that cyclic dienogest for six months after cystectomy could relieve menstrual pain and reduce the recurrence of cysts, for approximately four years. The necessary treatment period for patients with r-ASRM stage IV disease requires further study.