The impact of adding hp-hMG in r-FSH started GnRH antagonist cycles on ART outcome

While luteinizing hormone (LH) activity is believed to play a role in follicle maturation, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) might play an important role in implantation process. We aimed to investigate whether addition of human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) in recombinant-follicle-stimulating hormone (r-FSH) started GnRH antagonist controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) cycles might enhance implantation rate and improve in vitro fertilization (IVF) success. A total of 246 patients undergoing GnRH antagonist IVF cycles were analyzed. One hundred and twenty-three cycles (%50) were treated with only r-FSH and 123 cycles were treated with r-FSH plus hp-hMG combination. Total gonadotropin doses, total number of oocytes retrieved, metaphase 2 (MII) oocytes, top quality embryos, fertilization and implantation rates, clinical pregnancy rates (CPRs) and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) rates were compared between the groups. Both groups were comparable in terms of demographic details and baseline characteristics. Peak estradiol and progesterone levels in hCG trigger day, number of retrieved oocytes and top quality embryo counts, fertilization rates were similar between the groups. In r-FSH + hp-hMG group, significantly higher implantation rates (35.3% vs 24.3%, p=.017), CPRs (51.2% vs 35.8%, p=.015) and lower OHSS rates (1.6% vs 7.4%, p = .03) were observed respectively compared to r-FSH only treated patients. In conclusion, addition of hp-hMG on the day of antagonist initiation might increase CPRs. A better endometrial receptivity associated with higher implantation rates might be achieved due to hCG component in hp-hMG.

Transition memories: experiences of trans adult women with hormone therapy and their beliefs on the usage of hormone blockers to suppress puberty

PURPOSE

In recent years, an increasing number of specialized gender clinics have been prescribing gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogs to adolescents diagnosed with gender dysphoria (GD) to suppress puberty. This paper presents qualitative research on the hormone therapy (HT) experiences of older trans-people and their views on puberty suppression. The main aim of this research was to explore the psychological aspects of hormonal treatments for gender non-conforming adults, including the controversial use of puberty suppression treatments.

METHODS

Using a semi-structured interview format, ten adult trans-women were interviewed (mean age: 37.4) to explore their personal histories regarding GD onset and development, their HT experiences, and their views on the use of GnRH analogs to suppress puberty in trans-children and adolescents.

RESULTS

the interview transcripts were analyzed using the consensual qualitative research method from which several themes emerged: the onset of GD, childhood experiences, experiences with puberty and HT, views on the puberty suspension procedure, and the effects of this suspension on gender identity and sexuality.

CONCLUSIONS

The interviews showed that overall, the participants valued the new treatment protocol due to the opportunity to prevent the severe body dysphoria and social phobia trans-people experience with puberty. It seems that the risk of social isolation and psychological suffering is increased by the general lack of acceptance and stigma toward trans-identities in the Italian society. However, during gender transitions, they highlight the need to focus more on internal and psychological aspects, rather than over-emphasize physical appearance. This study gives a voice to an under-represented group regarding the use of GnRH analogs to suppress puberty in trans-individuals, and collected firsthand insights on this controversial treatment and its recommendations in professional international guidelines.

Influence of Different Gonadotropin-releasing Hormone Agonist Administration Methods on Pregnancy Outcomes of Patients Undergoing In-vitro Fertilization-embryo Transfer

This study aimed to investigate the effect of different gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH-a) administration methods on pregnancy outcomes of patients undergoing in-vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET). Clinical data of 5217 patients who underwent IVF-ET were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were divided into the long-acting GnRH-a group (n=1330) and the short-acting GnRH-a group (n=3887) based on their various treatment plans. The clinical and laboratory embryo data and clinical pregnancy outcomes were compared between the two groups. The results showed that there were no significant differences in the age, infertility, primary/secondary infertility rate, IVF rate, body mass index (BMI), antral follicle counting (AFC), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) level, and the number of transplanted embryos between the two groups (P>0.05). There were no significant differences in the oocyte numbers, MII rate, fertilization rate, cleavage rate and blastocyst formation rate (P>0.05) between the two groups. The gonadotropin (Gn) using days, Gn dose and endometrial thickness were significantly greater in the long-acting GnRH-a group than those in the short-acting GnRH-a group (P<0.01). Additionally, the estradiol (E2) levels, blastocyst freezing rate, embryo utilization rate, transplant cancellation rate and abortion rate were significantly lower in the long-acting GnRH-a group than those in the short-acting GnRH-a group (P<0.01). The clinical pregnancy rate and embryo implantation rate were significantly higher in the long-acting GnRH-a group than in the short-acting GnRH-a group (P<0.01). It was concluded that use of long-acting GnRH-a can effectively reduce the transplant cancellation rate and improve the clinical pregnancy rate of the fresh cycle.

Impact of estradiol and progesterone levels during the late follicular stage on the outcome of GnRH antagonist protocols

The study aimed to assess the impacts and the targets of progesterone (P4) and estradiol (E2) levels on IVF outcomes in GnRH antagonist protocols. The study was retrospective and concerned patients for their first fresh embryo transfers, after stimulation by a recombinant FSH (rFSH)-GnRH antagonist protocol, between September 2012 and July 2017 in the Toulouse University Hospital. Multivariable analysis, taking into account female age and the ovarian stimulation index, showed that E2 levels had no impact on IVF outcomes, while high P4 levels (>1.10 ng/mL) were associated to low pregnancy rate. The P4 concentrations were significantly negatively correlated to the percentage of top embryos and to the implantation rate. Therefore, the deleterious effect of high levels P4 could to act mainly by impairing embryo quality, which questions the place of the freeze-all strategy in these cases.

Endocytosis and Degradation of Pegvisomant and a Potential New Mechanism That Inhibits the Nuclear Translocation of GHR

CONTEXT

Pegvisomant, a growth hormone receptor (GHR) antagonist, is a well-known drug that was designed to treat acromegaly. However, recent studies have indicated that the GHR is a "moonlighting" protein that may exhibit dual functions based on its localization in the plasma membrane and nucleus. In light of this finding, we explored whether pegvisomant is a potential "moonlighting" GHR antagonist. In addition, the mechanisms of the endocytosis, postendocytic sorting, and degradation of pegvisomant are not fully understood.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated whether pegvisomant is a "moonlighting" antagonist and explored the mechanisms of the endocytosis, postendocytic sorting, and degradation of pegvisomant.

METHODS

Indirect immunofluorescence and Western blot coupled with pharmacological inhibitors and gene silencing (small interfering RNA) were used to explore the mechanisms of the endocytosis, postendocytic sorting, and degradation of pegvisomant. Western blot, immunohistochemistry, and indirect immunofluorescence coupled with subcellular fractionation analysis were used to determine the effect of pegvisomant on GHR's nuclear localization in vitro and in vivo.

RESULTS

Here, we show that the endocytosis of pegvisomant is mainly mediated though the clathrin pathway. Further study of the postendocytic sorting of pegvisomant shows that pegvisomant enters into different types of endosomes under GHR mediation. In addition, GHR is slightly downregulated by pegvisomant; further study indicates that proteasomes and lysosomes may cooperate to regulate pegvisomant/GHR degradation. Most importantly, we show that pegvisomant inhibits the nuclear localization of GHR.

CONCLUSION

Our study showed that pegvisomant is a "moonlighting" antagonist. In addition, we revealed the mechanisms of the endocytosis, postendocytic sorting, and degradation of pegvisomant.

Decision analysis about the cost-effectiveness of different in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer protocol under considering governments, hospitals, and patient

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to explore the benefits of in vitro fertilization (IVF) for patients and hospitals under different protocols and if IVF treatment should be incorporated into health care.

PERSPECTIVE

The government should consider including IVF treatment in health insurance. Hospitals and patients could obtain the best benefit by following the hospital's recommended protocol.

SETTING

This retrospective study was conducted from January 2014 to August 2017 at an academic hospital.

METHODS

A total of 7440 patients used gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRHa) protocol, 2619 patients used, gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonists (GnRHant) protocol, and 1514 patients used GnRHa ultra-long protocol. Primary outcomes were live birth rate (LBR), cost-effectiveness, hospital revenue, and government investment.

RESULTS

The cycle times for the GnRHa protocol and the GnRHa ultra-long protocol were significantly higher than the GnRHant protocol. Patients who were ≤29 years chose the GnRHant protocol. The cost of a successful cycle was 67,579.39 ± 9,917.55 ¥ and LBR was 29.25%. Patients who were >30 years had the GnRHa protocol as the dominant strategy, as it was more effective at lower costs and higher LBR. When patients were >30 to ≤34 years, the cost of a successful cycle was 66,556.7 ± 8,448.08 ¥ and the LBR was 31.05%. When patients were >35 years, the cost of a successful cycle was 83,297.92 ± 10,918.05 ¥ and the LBR was 25.07%. The government reimbursement for a cycle ranged between 11,372.12 ± 2,147.71 ¥ and 12,753.67 ± 1,905.02 ¥.

CONCLUSIONS

The government should consider including IVF treatment in health insurance. Hospitals recommend the GnRHant protocol for patients <29 years old and the GnRHa protocol for patients >30 years old, to obtain the best benefits. Patients could obtain the best benefit by using the protocol recommended by the hospital.

Acute kidney injury induces dramatic p21 upregulation via a novel, glucocorticoid-activated, pathway

The cyclin kinase inhibitor p21 is acutely upregulated during acute kidney injury (AKI) and exerts cytoprotective effects. A proposed mechanism is oxidant stress-induced activation of p53, the dominant p21 transcription factor. Glycerol-induced rhabdomyolysis induces profound renal oxidant stress. Hence, we studied this AKI model to determine whether p53 activation corresponds with p21 gene induction and/or whether alternative mechanism(s) might be involved. CD-1 mice were subjected to glycerol-induced AKI. After 4 or 18 h, plasma, urinary, and renal cortical p21 protein and mRNA levels were assessed. Renal p53 activation was gauged by measurement of both total and activated (Ser15-phosphorylated) p53 and p53 mRNA levels. Glycerol evoked acute, progressive increases in renal cortical p21 mRNA and protein levels. Corresponding plasma (~25-fold) and urinary (~75-fold) p21 elevations were also observed. Renal cortical ratio of total to phosphorylated (Ser15) p53 rose three- to fourfold. However, the p53 inhibitor pifithrin-α failed to block glycerol-induced p21 gene induction, suggesting that an alternative p21 activator might also be at play. To this end, it was established that glycerol-induced AKI 1) dramatically increased plasma (~5-fold) and urinary (~75-fold) cortisol levels, 2) the glucocorticoid receptor antagonist mifepristone blocked glycerol-induced p21 mRNA and protein accumulation, and 3) dexamethasone or cortisol injections markedly increased p21 protein and mRNA in both normal and glycerol-treated mice, although no discernible p53 protein or mRNA increases were observed. We conclude that AKI-induced "systemic stress" markedly increases plasma and urinary cortisol, which can then activate renal p21 gene expression, at least in part, via a glucocorticoid receptor-dependent signaling pathway. Discernible renal cortical p53 increases are not required for this dexamethasone-mediated p21 response.

Pasireotide Responsiveness in Acromegaly Is Mainly Driven by Somatostatin Receptor Subtype 2 Expression

BACKGROUND

The response to first-generation somatostatin receptor ligands (SRLs) treatment in acromegaly correlates with expression of somatostatin receptor subtype 2 (SSTR2). However, pasireotide shows the highest binding affinity for SSTR subtype 5 (SSTR5). It has been suggested that in acromegaly, SSTR5 expression is better at predicting the response to pasireotide long-acting release (PAS-LAR) treatment than SSTR2 expression.

AIM

To investigate in patients with active acromegaly whether response to SRL treatment correlates to PAS-LAR treatment and to what extent SSTR2 and SSTR5 expression are correlated to the response to PAS-LAR treatment.

METHODS

We included 52 patients from a cohort that initially received SRL treatment, followed by SRL and pegvisomant combination treatment, and finally PAS-LAR treatment. The long-term response to PAS-LAR was evaluated using a PAS-LAR score. In 14 out of 52 patients, somatotroph adenoma tissue samples were available to evaluate SSTR2 and SSTR5 expression using a previously validated immunoreactivity score (IRS).

RESULTS

The percentage IGF-I (times the upper limit of normal) reduction, which was observed after SRL treatment, correlated with PAS-LAR response score during follow-up (r = 0.40; P = 0.003; n = 52). After exclusion of SRL-pretreated patients, SSTR2 IRS was positively correlated to PAS-LAR score (r = 0.58; P = 0.039; n = 9), whereas SSTR5 IRS showed no relation (r = 0.35; P = 0.36; n = 9).

CONCLUSIONS

In a cohort of patients partially responsive to SRLs, the IGF-I-lowering effects of PAS-LAR treatment correlated with the effect of SRL treatment and seemed to be mainly driven by SSTR2 expression instead of SSTR5.

GnRH antagonist treatment of malignant adrenocortical tumors

Aberrantly expressed G protein-coupled receptors in tumors are considered as potential therapeutic targets. We analyzed the expressions of receptors of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GNRHR), luteinizing hormone/chorionic gonadotropin (LHCGR) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSHR) in human adrenocortical carcinomas and assessed their response to GnRH antagonist therapy. We further studied the effects of the GnRH antagonist cetrorelix acetate (CTX) on cultured adrenocortical tumor (ACT) cells (mouse Cα1 and Y-1, and human H295R), and in vivo in transgenic mice (SV40 T-antigen expression under inhibin α promoter) bearing Lhcgr and Gnrhr in ACT. Both models were treated with control (CT), CTX, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) or CTX+hCG, and their growth and transcriptional changes were analyzed. In situ hybridization and qPCR analysis of human adrenocortical carcinomas (n = 11-13) showed expression of GNRHR in 54/73%, LHCGR in 77/100% and FSHR in 0%, respectively. CTX treatment in vitro decreased cell viability and proliferation, and increased caspase 3/7 activity in all treated cells. In vivo, CTX and CTX+hCG (but not hCG alone) decreased ACT weights and serum LH and progesterone concentrations. CTX treatment downregulated the tumor markers Lhcgr and Gata4. Upregulated genes included Grb10, Rerg, Nfatc and Gnas, all recently found to be abundantly expressed in healthy adrenal vs ACT. Our data suggest that CTX treatment may improve the therapy of human adrenocortical carcinomas by direct action on GNRHR-positive cancer cells inducing apoptosis and/or reducing gonadotropin release, directing tumor cells towards a healthy adrenal gene expression profile.

Could polymorphisms of some hormonal receptor genes, involved in folliculogenesis help in predicting patient response to controlled ovarian stimulation?

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate whether single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in selected genes, responsible for hormonal regulation of folliculogenesis, are associated with response to controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) and clinical characteristics of women enrolled in in vitro fertilization (IVF) programs.

METHODS

In a cross-sectional study, 60 (IVF) patients underwent COH by using gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist and recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone (rFSH) protocol. Patients were classified into three groups: poor-responders (according to Bologna criteria), normo-responders (≤ 15 oocytes), and hyper-responders (> 15 oocytes). Genotyping of SNPs AMH rs10407022, AMHR rs3741664, FSHR rs1394205 and rs6166, and ESR1 rs2234693 was performed using high-resolution melting analysis (HRMA). Basal FSH (bFSH), estradiol (E2), and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

Patients with GG genotype of FSHR rs1394205 had significantly lower AMH level (P = 0.016) and required higher rFSH dose per oocyte compared to women with AA or AG genotype (P = 0.036). We also found higher frequency of GG genotype of FSHR rs1394205 in poor- (76.5%) than in hyper-responders (37.5%, P = 0.002). Patients with AA genotype of FSHR rs6166 had higher level of measured bFSH compared to those with AG or GG genotypes (P = 0.043). Women with GG genotype of AMHR rs3741664 required higher rFSH dose in comparison with patients carrying genotypes AA or AG (P = 0.028).

CONCLUSIONS

The GG genotype at position rs1394205 is associated with poor ovarian response to COH. Patients with this genotype may require higher doses of rFSH for ovulation induction.

A New Highly Thyrotropin Receptor-Selective Small-Molecule Antagonist with Potential for the Treatment of Graves' Orbitopathy

BACKGROUND

The thyrotropin receptor (TSHR) is the target for autoimmune thyroid stimulating antibodies (TSAb) triggering hyperthyroidism. Whereas elevated thyroid hormone synthesis by the thyroid in Graves' disease can be treated by antithyroid agents, for the pathogenic activation of TSHR in retro-orbital fibroblasts of the eye, leading to Graves' orbitopathy (GO), no causal TSHR directed therapy is available.

METHODS

Due to the therapeutic gap for severe GO, TSHR inhibitors were identified by high-throughput screening in Chinese hamster ovary cells expressing the TSHR. Stereo-selective synthesis of the screening hits led to the molecule S37, which contains seven chiral centers. Enantiomeric separation of the molecule S37 resulted in the enantiopure molecule S37a-a micro-molar antagonist of thyrotropin-induced cyclic adenosine monophosphate accumulation in HEK 293 cells expressing the TSHR.

RESULTS

The unique rigid bent shape of molecule S37a may mediate the observed high TSHR selectivity. Most importantly, the closely related follitropin and lutropin receptors were not affected by this compound. S37a not only inhibits the TSHR activation by thyrotropin itself but also activation by monoclonal TSAb M22 (human), KSAb1 (murine), and the allosteric small-molecule agonist C2. Disease-related ex vivo studies in HEK 293 cells expressing the TSHR showed that S37a also inhibits cyclic adenosine monophosphate formation by oligoclonal TSAb, which are highly enriched in GO patients' sera. Initial in vivo pharmacokinetic studies revealed no toxicity of S37a and a remarkable 53% oral bioavailability in mice.

CONCLUSION

In summary, a novel highly selective inhibitor for the TSHR is presented, which has promising potential for further development for the treatment of GO.

Efficacy of dienogest treatment of clinical symptoms of rectovaginal endometriosis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this prospective, unicentric, cohort study was to evaluate the effect of dienogest use in the therapy of symptomatic endometriosis of rectovaginal septum in patients of fertile age.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective, unicentric, cohort study.

SETTING

Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Brno University Hospital and Masaryk University Medical School, Brno.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Prospective analysis of the group of 32 patients in reproductive age who have previously been diagnosed with endometriosis of rectovaginal septum. These patients were treated conservatively with dienogest 2 mg per day during a 24-week period. Through questionnaires and clinical assessment, we have studied the presence of symptoms like dyspareunia, diffuse pelvic pain, Biberoglu-Behrman(B-B) score assessment and subjective pain perception using Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) of pain. Data were collected at the beginning of therapy, after 4, 12 and 24 weeks of dienogest use.

RESULTS

Continual use of dienogest during the 24-week period diminishes symptoms of dyspareunia by 62% (p.

Guidelines for Gender Affirming Healthcare for Gender Diverse and Transgender Children, Young People and Adults in Aotearoa, New Zealand

Internationally and within Aotearoa, New Zealand, there has been a substantial increase in the demand for gender affirming healthcare over the past decade. It is likely that this level of referrals to health services will continue in the foreseeable future. The Guidelines for Gender Affirming Healthcare for Gender Diverse and Transgender Children, Young People and Adults in Aotearoa, New Zealand were developed following the recognition that the previous good practice guide required updating to be in step with current practice and international standards. This article presents a summary of the guideline focusing on puberty blockers, hormonal therapies, access to surgery and other gender affirming healthcare. We hope these guidelines will support the development and provision of services providing gender affirming healthcare around the country and provide helpful guidance to all health professionals involved in the care of trans people.

Efficacy and Safety of switching to Pasireotide in Acromegaly Patients controlled with Pegvisomant and Somatostatin Analogues: PAPE extension study

OBJECTIVE

to assess the efficacy and safety after 48 weeks of treatment with pasireotide long-acting-release (PAS-LAR) alone or in combination with pegvisomant in patients with acromegaly. In addition, we assessed the relation between insulin secretion and pasireotide-induced hyperglycemia.

DESIGN

The PAPE extension study is a prospective follow-up study until 48 weeks after the core study of 24 weeks.

METHODS

59 out of 61 patients entered the extension study. Efficacy was defined as the percentage of patients achieving IGF-I normalization (≤ 1.2 x the Upper Limit of Normal (ULN)) at 48-weeks through protocol-based adjustment of pegvisomant and PAS-LAR doses. At baseline, insulin secretion was assessed by an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).

RESULTS

At the end of the study median IGF-I was 0.98 x ULN, and 77% of patients achieved normal IGF-I levels with a mean pegvisomant dose of 64 mg/week, and an overall cumulative pegvisomant dose reduction of 52%. Frequency of diabetes mellitus increased from 68% at 24 weeks to 77% at 48 weeks, and 9 patients discontinued PAS-LAR treatment, mainly because of severe hyperglycemia. Pasireotide-induced hyperglycemia was inversely correlated with baseline insulin secretion (r = -0.37, P < 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

PAS-LAR normalizes IGF-I levels in most acromegaly patients, with a fifty percent pegvisomant-sparing effect. However, PAS-LAR treatment coincided with a high incidence of diabetes mellitus. The risk for developing diabetes during PAS-LAR treatment seems inversely related to insulin secretion at baseline.

Complete remission of cerebral endometriosis with dienogest: a case report

The most recent evidences suggest the use of progesterone mimicking drugs for the treatment of endometriosis. Particularly, dienogest has been largely tested. However, the standard treatment of extra-pelvic endometriosis is debated. Particularly, cerebral localization of endometriosis is a very rare clinical condition. The surgical approach for such a particular disorder would consist in difficult procedures, thus leading to prefer the medical treatment. We hereby report the clinical case of a cerebral localization of endometriosis treated with dienogest who experienced a complete remission of the disease.

Does the type of GnRH analogue used, affect live birth rates in women with endometriosis undergoing IVF/ICSI treatment, according to the rAFS stage?

Since the introduction of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists, an extensive amount of literature investigating the role of the downregulation protocols on pregnancy outcomes has been published. However, these studies were mainly performed in the general infertile population where patients with endometriosis were often excluded or underrepresented. This study is a large retrospective cohort study including 386 endometriosis patients undergoing IVF/ICSI, who had been previously classified according to the rAFS system. Patients were stimulated either a long GnRH agonist or GnRH antagonist protocol. Depending on endometriosis stage, patients were divided into two groups: endometriosis stage I-II and endometriosis stage III-IV. Each group was subdivided, based on the type GnRH analog used. When comparing the GnRH agonist and antagonist groups, patients with endometriosis stage I-II, had a tendency toward higher β-hCG positive, clinical pregnancy, and live birth rates (42.8% vs. 26.7%; p = .07) in favor of GnRH agonist use. In endometriosis stage III-IV, no differences were observed between agonist and antagonist cycle in any of the pregnancy outcomes. Multivariate regression analysis did not reveal any significant predictor of live birth after adjusting for relevant confounders. Based on our findings, the chance to have a liveborn in endometriosis population seems not to be affected by the type of GnRH analog used, at least in advanced stages. Findings from stage I-II endometriosis cases merit consideration and further evaluation in a larger sample size is warranted.

Modulation of naturalistic maladaptive memories using behavioural and pharmacological reconsolidation-interfering strategies: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical and 'sub-clinical' studies

BACKGROUND

Consolidated memories can undergo enduring modification through retrieval-dependent treatments that modulate reconsolidation. This represents a potentially transformative strategy for weakening or overwriting the maladaptive memories that underlie substance use and anxiety/trauma-related disorders. However, modulation of naturalistic maladaptive memories may be limited by 'boundary conditions' imposed on the reconsolidation process by the nature of these memories.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analyses of behavioural and pharmacological studies examining retrieval-dependent modulation of reward- and threat-related memories in (sub) clinical substance use and anxiety/trauma, respectively.

RESULTS

Of 4938 publications assessed for eligibility, 8 studies of substance use and 10 of anxiety (phobia)- and trauma-related symptoms were included in the meta-analyses. Overall, the findings were in the predicted direction, with most studies favouring the 'retrieval + treatment' condition. However, the magnitude of effects was dependent upon the nature of treatment, with pharmacological interventions showing a medium-sized effect (g = 0.59, p = 0.03) and behavioural treatments, a relatively small effect (g = 0.32, p = 0.10) in studies of phobia/trauma. Among studies of substance use, post-retrieval behavioural interventions yielded a larger effect (g = 0.60, p < 0.001) relative to pharmacological treatments (g = - 0.03, p = 0.91), with treatment type being a statistically significant moderator (χ2(1) = 4.20, p = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

Modification of naturalistic maladaptive memories during reconsolidation appears to be a viable treatment strategy for substance use and phobias/trauma disorders. However, high levels of heterogeneity and methodological variation limit the strength of conclusions that can be drawn from the reviewed studies at this stage.

When and How to Use Somatostatin Analogues

Long-acting depot formulations of the currently available somatostatin analogues are considered the first-line treatment for control of hormonal excess by hormone-producing neuroendocrine tumors of the gastrointestinal tract and pancreas. These drugs are currently also considered the first-line treatment for tumor control of both hormone-producing and non-hormone-producing neuroendocrine tumors of the gastrointestinal tract and pancreas. These drugs need coupling and interaction with specific somatostatin receptor subtypes, which are expressed on the cells of neuroendocrine tumors of the gastrointestinal tract and pancreas.

Evaluation of pretreatment with Cetrotide in an antagonist protocol for patients with PCOS undergoing IVF/ICSI cycles: a randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of three days of GnRH antagonist pretreatment on the pregnancy outcomes of women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) on GnRH antagonist protocols for IVF/ICSI.

METHODS

Fifty women with PCOS in the control group received conventional antagonist protocols, starting on day 2 of the cycle. In the pretreatment group (n=38), a GnRH antagonist was administered from day 2 of the menstrual cycle for three days.

RESULTS

Controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) duration and gonadotropin dosages were similar in both groups. The number of metaphase II (MII) oocytes, 2PN oocytes, embryos, along with implantation and clinical pregnancy rates, were higher in the pretreatment group when compared with controls, although the increment was not significant (P value ≥0.05). The chemical pregnancy rate was significantly higher in the pretreatment group. The rate of OHSS was significantly lower in the pretreatment than in the control group.

CONCLUSION

Women with PCOS offered early follicular phase GnRH antagonist pretreatment for three consecutive days had significantly fewer cases of OHSS and higher chemical pregnancy rates. There were trends toward greater numbers of MII oocytes, 2PN oocytes, and embryos, and higher clinical pregnancy rates in the pretreatment group.

Giant pituitary adenoma: histological types, clinical features and therapeutic approaches

Giant pituitary adenomas comprise about 6-10% of all pituitary tumors. They are mostly clinically non-functioning adenomas and occur predominantly in males. The presenting symptoms are usually secondary to compression of neighboring structures, but also due to partial or total hypopituitarism. Functioning adenomas give rise to specific symptoms of hormonal hypersecretion. The use of dopamine agonists is considered a first-line treatment in patients with giant macroprolactinomas. Somatostatin analogs can also be used as primary treatment in cases of growth hormone and thyrotropin producing giant adenomas, although remission of the disease is not achieved in the vast majority of these patients. Neurosurgical treatment, either through transsphenoidal or transcranial surgery, continues to be the treatment of choice in the majority of patients with giant pituitary adenomas. The intrinsic complexity of these tumors requires the use of different therapies in a combined or sequential way. A multimodal approach and a therapeutic strategy involving a multidisciplinary team of expert professionals form the basis of the therapeutic success in these patients.

ANNIVERSARY REVIEW: 50 years since the discovery of bromocriptine

Ergotism is the long-term ergot poisoning by ingestion of rye or other grains infected with the fungus Claviceps purpurea and more recently by excessive intake of ergot drugs. It has either neuropsychiatric or vascular manifestations. In the Middle Ages, the gangrenous poisoning was known as St. Anthony's fire, after the order of the Monks of St. Anthony who were particularly skilled at treating the condition. In 1917, Prof. Arthur Stoll returned home to Switzerland from Germany, to lead the development of a new pharmaceutical department at Sandoz Chemical Company. Stoll, using the special methods of extraction learned from his work with his mentor Willstetter, started his industrial research work with ergot. He succeeded in isolating, from the ergot of rye, ergotamine as an active principle of an old popular remedy for excessive post-partum bleeding. The success of this discovery occurred in 1918 and was translated into a pharmaceutical product in 1921 under the trade name Gynergen. In subsequent work, Stoll and his team were leaders in identifying the structure of the many other alkaloids and amines produced by Claviceps purpurea This was the cultural background and scientific foundation on which bromocriptine was discovered.

Medical Treatments for Acromegaly: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Acromegaly results from the hypersecretion of growth hormone. Because of the low incidence rates of this disease worldwide, few clinical trials evaluating drug treatments have been conducted.

OBJECTIVES

To conduct the first network meta-analysis simultaneously comparing all available drugs used in acromegaly treatment so as to provide more robust evidence in this field.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses and Cochrane Collaboration recommendations (PROSPERO database under the registration number CRD42017059880). The electronic searches were conducted in PubMed (MEDLINE), Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Randomized controlled trials comparing any drug for the treatment of acromegaly head-to-head or versus placebo were included. Outcomes concerning the efficacy and safety of treatments were evaluated. The statistical analyses were performed using Aggregate Data Drug Information System version 1.16.8 (drugis.org, Groningen, The Netherlands).

RESULTS

The initial search retrieved 2059 articles. Of these, 10 randomized controlled trials were included in a qualitative analysis and 7 in a quantitative analysis. The network meta-analysis for the efficacy outcome (number of patients achieving insulinlike growth factor 1 control) showed that pegvisomant and lanreotide autogel were statistically superior to placebo (odds ratio [95% credible interval] 0.06 [0.00-0.55] and 0.09 [0.01-0.88]). No further differences were found. The probability rank indicated that pegvisomant and pasireotide have the highest probabilities (33% and 34%, respectively) of being the best therapeutic options. No major side effects were noted.

CONCLUSIONS

Pegvisomant is still a good option for acromegaly treatment, but pasireotide seems to be a promising alternative. Nevertheless, other important key factors such as drug costs and effectiveness (real-world results) should be taken into account when selecting acromegaly treatment.

The impact of luteinizing hormone supplementation in gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist cycles: a retrospective cohort study

The impact of exogenous luteinizing hormone (LH) supplementation to patients undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists on cycle outcomes is controversial. Here, we present a retrospective cohort study including cycles from December 2015 to December 2016. Totally 320 cycles were divided into two groups according to with or without exogenous LH supplementation. No significant differences regarding the number of retrieved oocytes, the number of good-quality embryos, and clinical pregnancy rate between the two groups were found. The logistic regression analysis revealed that LH supplementation was not independently associated with clinical pregnancy rate (OR = 0.577, 95% CI: 0.272-1.222, p = .58) or a biochemical pregnancy rate (OR = 0.922, 95% CI: 0.444-1.916, p = .83). When patients were divided into subgroups based on age, more retrieved oocytes (5.60 vs. 3.97, p = .04) and good-quality embryos (3.07 vs. 1.93, p = .01) were achieved in cycles with exogenous LH supplementation for 40 years and over group. We conclude that for aged women (40 years old and over), LH supplementation has a positive impact on the number of retrieved oocytes and good-quality embryos in GnRH antagonist cycles.

Ovarian response to controlled ovarian stimulation in women with different polycystic ovary syndrome phenotypes

Controlled ovarian stimulation (COH) in PCOS is a challenge for fertility expert both ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and oocytes immaturity are the two major complication. Ovarian response to COH vary widely among POCS patients and while some patients are more likely to show resistance to COH, other experienced an exaggerated response. The aim of our study is to investigate a possible correlation between PCOS phenotypes and the variety of ovarian response to COH and ART outcomes in patients with different PCOS phenotypes. We retrospectively analyzed a total of 71 cycles performed in 44 PCOS infertile patients attending ART at Centre of Infertility and Assisted Reproduction of Pisa University between January 2013 and January 2016. Patientsundergoing IVF with GnRH-antagonist protocol and 150-225 UI/days of recombinant FSH; triggering was carried out using 250 mg of recombinant hCG or a GnRH analogous on the basis of the risk to OHSS. We observed that Phenotype B had a tendency to have a greater doses of gonadotropins used respect to all phenotypes. Phenotype A group showed a greater serum estrogen levels compared to all phenotypes groups, a greater number of follicles of diameter between 8-12 mm found by ultrasound on the day of triggering and a greater mean number of freeze embryo. Additionally serum AMH and antral follicles count (AFC) follow the same trend in the different phenotypes ad they were significantly higher in phenotype A and in phenotype D. In conclusion this study shows that the features of PCOS phenotypes reflect the variety of ovarian response to COH as well as the risks to develop OHSS. Serum AMH and AFC are related to the degree of ovulatory dysfunction making these 'added values' in identifying the different PCOS phenotypes. Phenotype A seems to be the phenotype with the higher risk to develop OHSS and the use of GnRH as a trigger seems to improve oocyte quality. To classify PCOS phenotype at diagnosis might help clinicians to identify patients at greater risk of OHSS, customize therapy and subsequently plan the trigger agent.

Effect of laparoscopy combined with mifepristone in the treatment of endometriosis and drug reaction analysis

Endometriosis is a common benign disease of Gynecology, which often causes symptoms of dysmenorrhea, pelvic pain and infertility. In this paper, we analyzed the effect of laparoscopy combined with mifepristone in the treatment of endometriosis. By observing the clinical efficacy and side effects of small dose mifepristone, we explored the feasibility of small dose mifepristone in the treatment of recurrent endometriosis. The results showed that the clinical symptoms of small dose mifepristone group and danazol group were improved to varying degrees. The improvement rate of mifepristone group was 96.7% for dysmenorrhea and 61.1% for non menstrual lower abdominal pain, respectively. In conclusion, small dose mifepristone is an effective treatment for recurrent endometriosis with high remission and good curative effect.