Diagnosing adenomyosis: an integrated clinical and imaging approach

Implantation Failure in Endometriosis Patients: Etiopathogenesis

Embryo implantation requires adequate dialogue between a good quality embryo and a receptive endometrium. This implantation is still considered as the black box of reproductive medicine. Endometriosis is a highly prevalent chronic inflammatory disease, concerning about 10% of women of reproductive age and is one of the major causes of female infertility. The mechanisms involved in endometriosis-related infertility, an event not yet completely understood, are multifactorial and include anatomical changes, reduction in ovarian reserve, endocrine abnormalities, genetic profile, immunity markers, inflammatory mediators, or altered endometrial receptivity. In this article, we will focus on the impact of endometriosis on embryo quality and on endometrial receptivity. Results: Poor oocyte and embryo quality seem to promote a lower pregnancy rate, more than the endometrium itself in women with endometriosis. Other studies report the contrary. In addition, hormonal imbalance observed in the endometrium could also alter the embryo implantation. Conclusions: Controversial results in the literature add difficulties to the understanding of the mechanisms that lead to embryo implantation disorders. Furthermore, either oocyte/embryo impairment, altered endometrium, or both may cause impaired implantation. New prospective, randomized, and controlled studies are necessary to determine the origin of the defects that make conception more difficult in the case of endometriosis and adenomyosis.

Brain Morphological and Functional Changes in Adenomyosis with Pain: A Resting State Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study

The absence of clinically objective methods to evaluate adenomyosis-associated pain and the poor understanding of its pathophysiology lead to treatment limitations. We conducted a resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging study with 49 patients with pain-related adenomyosis and 30 pain-free controls to investigate brain morphological alterations and regional dysfunctions in patients with pain-related adenomyosis. These patients had significantly higher scores for anxiety and depression than the control group (p < 0.05). They also had a lower gray matter volume (GMV) in the bilateral insula, left angular gyrus, precuneus, left inferior temporal gyrus, and left postcentral gyrus (p < 0.05, AlphaSim corrected). Similarly, decreased voxel-mirrored homotopic connectivity was observed in the bilateral insula, posterior cingulate cortex, middle frontal gyrus, and postcentral gyrus in the adenomyosis patient group (p < 0.05, AlphaSim corrected). Regional homogeneity showed significant differences mainly in the bilateral cerebellum, left inferior frontal gyrus, medial prefrontal cortex, and posterior cingulate gyrus. Correlation analysis showed that the degree of depression in patients with adenomyosis was negatively correlated with the GMV of the left angular gyrus. The results show that these patients exhibited changes in multiple brain regions associated with pain as well as emotion perception and processing.

Advances in the clinical application of ultrasound elastography in uterine imaging

Changes in tissue stiffness by physiological or pathological factors in tissue structure are identified earlier than their clinical features. Pathological processes such as uterine fibrosis, adenomyosis, endometrial lesions, infertility, and premature birth can manifest as tissue elasticity changes. In clinical settings, elastography techniques based on ultrasonography, optical coherence tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging are widely used for noninvasive measurement of mechanical properties in patients, providing valuable tool and information for diagnosis and treatment. Ultrasound elastography (USE) plays a critical role in obstetrics and gynecology clinical work because of its simplicity, non-invasiveness, and repeatability. This article reviews the recent progress of USE in uterine tumor diagnosis (especially early diagnosis and treatment effect evaluation), prediction of preterm birth, and intrauterine insemination. We believe that USE, especially shear wave elastography, may serve as a potential means to assess tissue stiffness, thereby improving the diagnosis and treatment of adenomyosis, fibroids, endometrial lesions, cervical cancer, and precise management of preterm birth and intrauterine insemination monitoring.

Development of a core outcome set and outcome definitions for studies on uterus-sparing treatments of adenomyosis (COSAR): an international multistakeholder-modified Delphi consensus study

STUDY QUESTION

What outcomes should be reported in all studies investigating uterus-sparing interventions for treating uterine adenomyosis?

SUMMARY ANSWER

We identified 24 specific and 26 generic core outcomes in nine domains.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

Research reporting adenomyosis treatment is not patient-centred and shows wide variation in outcome selection, definition, reporting and measurement of quality.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

An international consensus development process was performed between March and December 2021. Participants in round one were 150 healthcare professionals, 17 researchers and 334 individuals or partners with lived experience of adenomyosis from 48 high-, middle- and low-income countries. There were 291 participants in the second round.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

Stakeholders included active researchers in the field, healthcare professionals involved in diagnosis and treatment, and people and their partners with lived experience of adenomyosis. The core component of the process was a 2-step modified Delphi electronic survey. The Steering Committee analysed the results and created the final core outcome set (COS) in a semi-structured meeting.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

A total of 241 outcomes was identified and distilled into a 'long list' of 71 potential outcomes. The final COS comprises 24 specific and 26 generic core outcomes across nine domains, including pain, uterine bleeding, reproductive outcomes, haematology, urinary system, life impact, delivery of care, adverse events and reporting items, all with definitions provided by the Steering Committee. Nineteen of these outcomes will apply only to certain study types. Although not included in the COS, the Steering Committee recommended that three health economic outcomes should be recorded.

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

Patients from continents other than Europe were under-represented in this survey. A lack of translation of the survey might have limited the active participation of people in non-English speaking countries. Only 58% of participants returned to round two, but analysis did not indicate attrition bias. There is a significant lack of scientific evidence regarding which symptoms are caused by adenomyosis and when they are related to other co-existent disorders such as endometriosis. As future research provides more clarity, the appropriate review and revision of the COS will be necessary.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

Implementing this COS in future studies on the treatment of adenomyosis will improve the quality of reporting and aid evidence synthesis.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)

No specific funding was received for this work. T.T. received a grant (grant number 2020083) from the South Eastern Norwegian Health Authority during the course of this work. T.T. receives personal fees from General Electrics and Medtronic for lectures on ultrasound. E.R.L. is the chairman of the Norwegian Endometriosis Association. M.G.M. is a consultant for Abbvie Inc and Myovant, receives research funding from AbbVie and is Chair of the Women's Health Research Collaborative. S.-W.G. is a board member of the Asian Society of Endometriosis and Adenomyosis, on the scientific advisory board of the endometriosis foundation of America, previous congress chair for the World Endometriosis Society, for none of which he received personal fees. E.S. received outside of this work grants for two multicentre trials on endometriosis from the National Institute for Health Research UK, the Rosetrees Trust, and the Barts and the London Charity, he is a member of the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), Medicines for Women's Health Expert Advisory Group, he is an ambassador for the World Endometriosis Society, and he received personal fees for lectures from Hologic, Olympus, Medtronic, Johnson & Johnson, Intuitive and Karl Storz. M.H. is member of the British Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy subcommittee. No other conflict of interest was declared.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

N/A.

Highly Cellular Leiomyoma Mixed With a Focus of Adenomyosis

The purpose of this case presentation was to highlight the importance of an adequate evaluation of images when suspicious of atypical leiomyoma and the importance of performing an extemporaneous biopsy during surgery to ensure the lesion is a benign muscular cell tumor.

Here, we present a case of a 34-year-old nulliparous woman who presented with a history of infertility and irregular menstrual cycles. A highly vascularized pelvic mass was visualized by Doppler ultrasound and a contrast MRI suggestive of uterine fibroid. Intraoperatively, the lesion was found adjacent to the uterus, with a second lesion deeper into the myometrium. The pathology reported a highly cellular leiomyoma with a focus of adenomyosis. Both lesions were extirpated without complications. The patient recuperated favorably within three months of follow-up. This case shows an example of a variety of the typical histology that can be found in uterine fibroids. Although the management of atypical leiomyomas could vary in different scenarios, conservative treatment is recommended if fertility wishes are present. In all cases, it is mandatory to exclude any possibilities of malignancy, like sarcoma, which would completely change the intraoperative management.

The Prevalence and Clinical Impact of Adenomyosis in Pregnancy-Related Hysterectomy

Background: The epidemiology of adenomyosis has been traditionally based on patients undergoing hysterectomy for gynecological indications, while its prevalence among hysterectomies performed for obstetric complications is unknown. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and clinical impact of adenomyosis diagnosed through histology among women undergoing pregnancy-related hysterectomy (PH). Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study. Women who delivered at a tertiary care regional obstetric hub in Milan between 2009 and 2020 were reviewed to identify cases of PH. Histopathological reports of surgical specimens were examined. Cases with adenomyosis were compared to those without adenomyosis for baseline characteristics, obstetric history and outcomes. Results: During the study period there were 71,061 births and a total of 130 PH, giving a PH incidence of 1.83 per 1000 deliveries. Adenomyosis cases were 18, giving a prevalence of 13.8%. Adenomyosis was associated with placenta previa (77.8 vs. 45.5%, p = 0.01), chorionamnionitis (27.8 vs. 5.4%, p = 0.008), lower gestational age at birth (32 ± 4.6 vs. 35.5 ± 3.6 weeks’ gestation, p = 0.0004), and intrauterine fetal demise among twin pregnancies (50 vs. 4.5%, p = 0.048). Conclusion: Adenomyosis entails a relevant impact on obstetric and perinatal outcomes related to PH. More evidence is needed on the clinical relevance of an ultrasonographic diagnosis of adenomyosis before conception.

Adenomyosis and fertility: does adenomyosis impact fertility and does treatment improve outcomes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Adenomyosis has recently been associated with infertility. Relief of bleeding and pain has been demonstrated with medical and surgical therapy. Less is known about reproductive outcomes after treatment.

RECENT FINDINGS

Imaging findings during infertility evaluation can be suggestive of adenomyosis without pathologic evaluation. Among women with infertility undergoing assisted reproductive technologies (ART), adenomyosis is associated with lower live birth rates and clinical pregnancy rates. Treatment with gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) modulators prior to frozen embryo transfer may increase the live birth rate and clinical pregnancy rate among women with adenomyosis. Pregnancy has been documented following image-guided adenomyosis ablation; however, the reproductive impact is not well established. Pregnancy following excisional procedures appears to be well tolerated, although may carry a higher risk of uterine rupture compared with pregnancy following myomectomy. It is not clear if ablative therapy or resection increases pregnancy rates.

SUMMARY

Adenomyosis is associated with lower embryo implantation rates and ongoing pregnancy rates. Adenomyotic changes in the uterus can be seen by ultrasound and MRI. GnRH modulators may be useful for women with adenomyosis undergoing ART. Additional prospective data is warranted to determine the optimal medical or surgical therapy for women with adenomyosis desiring conception.Video abstract Supplementary digital content, http://links.lww.com/COOG/A78.

Ultrasound-guided microwave ablation for symptomatic adenomyosis: More areas of concern for more uniform and promising outcomes

Adenomyosis is a common gynecological disease in reproductive women, which causes serious dysmenorrhea, menorrhagia, anemia, and infertility, and has a serious impact on the physical and mental health of women. Considering that the efficacy of the traditional medication and surgical treatment is not ideal, an increasing number of patients are searching for more effective and less invasive therapies. Ultrasound (US)-guided microwave ablation (MWA) has emerged as a new effective and minimally invasive alternative treatment for symptomatic adenomyosis, and it is widely being used in clinical settings. Several studies have proven that it is an efficient and safe treatment modality for symptomatic adenomyosis, but a significant variance in clinical outcomes reported in previous studies was also observed. Herein, we have analyzed the potential causes of this problem from the aspects of the diagnosis of adenomyosis, symptom evaluation before ablation, steps of US-guided ablation treatment, and outcome evaluation after ablation. Simultaneously, the clinical problems existing in the ablation treatment of adenomyosis are discussed, and the directions of future research are pointed out.

Clinical Efficacy of Dienogest versus Levonorgestrel-Releasing Intrauterine System for Adenomyosis

Objective

The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of dienogest versus levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) for the treatment of adenomyosis.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 85 patients with adenomyosis treated in The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from May 2019 to May 2021 were recruited and assigned, via the random number table method at a ratio of 1 : 1, to receive either dienogest (observation group, n = 41) or LNG-IUS (control group, n = 44). The patients presented with dysmenorrhea, menorrhagia, and infertility. The treatment outcome was evaluated using visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, menstrual volume, uterine volume, endometrial thickness, and adverse reactions.

Results

After treatment, the VAS score, menstrual volume, and endometrial thickness were significantly decreased in both groups (P < 0.05). After 3, 6, and 12 months of treatment, patients receiving dienogest showed significantly lower VAS scores compared to those treated with LNG-IUS (P < 0.05). After 6 and 12 months of treatment, patients receiving dienogest were also found to have a significantly better control of menstrual volume compared to those receiving LNG-IUS (P < 0.05). Irregular vaginal bleeding was mainly seen in the first 3 months of treatment with dienogest. The incidence of irregular vaginal bleeding lasting more than 6 months was lower with LNG-IUS treatment than with dienogest (P < 0.05), and it decreased in both groups as the duration of treatment increased.

Conclusion

Dienogest effectively alleviates dysmenorrhea, relieves pelvic pain, dyspareunia, and reduces menstrual flow in patients with adenomyosis, with few adverse effects and a high safety profile.

Consensus on revised definitions of Morphological Uterus Sonographic Assessment (MUSA) features of adenomyosis: results of modified Delphi procedure

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate whether the Morphological Uterus Sonographic Assessment (MUSA) features of adenomyosis need to be better defined and, if deemed necessary, to reach consensus on the updated definitions.

METHODS

A modified Delphi procedure was performed among European gynecologists with expertise in ultrasound diagnosis of adenomyosis. To identify MUSA features that might need revision, 15 two-dimensional (2D) video recordings (four recordings also included three-dimensional (3D) still images) of transvaginal ultrasound (TVS) examinations of the uterus were presented in the first Delphi round (online questionnaire). Experts were asked to confirm or refute the presence of each of the nine MUSA features of adenomyosis (described in the original MUSA consensus statement) in each of the 15 videoclips and to provide comments. In the second Delphi round (online questionnaire), the results of the first round and suggestions for revision of MUSA features were shared with the experts before they were asked to assess a new set of 2D and 3D still images of TVS examinations and to provide feedback on the proposed revisions. A third Delphi round (virtual group meeting) was conducted to discuss and reach final consensus on revised definitions of MUSA features. Consensus was predefined as at least 66.7% agreement between experts.

RESULTS

Of 18 invited experts, 16 agreed to participate in the Delphi procedure. Eleven experts completed and four experts partly finished the first round. The experts identified a need for more detailed definitions of some MUSA features. They recommended use of 3D ultrasound to optimize visualization of the junctional zone. Fifteen experts participated in the second round and reached consensus on the presence or absence of ultrasound features of adenomyosis in most of the still images. Consensus was reached for all revised definitions except those for subendometrial lines and buds and interrupted junctional zone. Thirteen experts joined the online meeting, in which they discussed and agreed on final revisions of the MUSA definitions. There was consensus on the need to distinguish between direct features of adenomyosis, i.e. features indicating presence of ectopic endometrial tissue in the myometrium, and indirect features, i.e. features reflecting changes in the myometrium secondary to presence of endometrial tissue in the myometrium. Myometrial cysts, hyperechogenic islands and echogenic subendometrial lines and buds were classified unanimously as direct features of adenomyosis. Globular uterus, asymmetrical myometrial thickening, fan-shaped shadowing, translesional vascularity, irregular junctional zone and interrupted junctional zone were classified as indirect features of adenomyosis.

CONCLUSION

Consensus between gynecologists with expertise in ultrasound diagnosis of adenomyosis was achieved regarding revised definitions of the MUSA features of adenomyosis and on the classification of MUSA features as direct or indirect signs of adenomyosis. © 2021 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Is there a relationship between adenomyosis and nabothian cyst?

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate whether there is a relationship between adenomyosis and nabothian cyst (NC) in a large patient series.

Material and methods

The patient's data were scanned retrospectively and patients with a junctional zone thickness of 12 mm and above on magnetic resonance imaging were accepted as group adenomyosis (group A). Patients with a junctional zone thickness of less than 12 mm were not admitted as adenomyosis (control group). Both groups were compared for NC.

Results

In group A, 176 (69.8%) patients had NC (n = 250), while in the control group (n = 202), 57 (28.2%) patients had NC. NC was significantly higher in group A than in the control group (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The aetiology of NC is still unclear. According to our results, similar factors may affect adenomyosis and NC aetiopathogenesis.

Conservative surgical and drug therapies for adenomyosis Medicine

Adenomyosis is a benign invasion/infiltration of endometrial glands and stroma in the uterine myometrium. The optimal choice of adenomyosis treatment remains a subject of discussion. For patients with adenomyosis without fertility requirements, hysterectomy can be performed by laparotomy or laparoscopic surgery to eliminate symptoms. However, this is an inadequate option for women who want to preserve fertility or avoid more extensive surgery. To summarize the medicine and conservative surgery treatment for adenomyosis. An extensive literature search was performed using PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Ovid Medline, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Google Scholar and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) without language restriction. The search terms were as follows: adenomyomas, adenomyosis, conservative therapy; combined therapy; medicine; surgery. The search included all titles and abstracts assessing conservative treatment for adenomyosis including medical and surgical therapy. All published papers were analyzed if considered relevant. Increasing current conservative treatments will not only improve the quality of life of the patients but also preserve fertility. Therefore, conservative treatment is extremely important for patients with fertility requirements or a strong desire to retain the uterus. Conservative treatment for adenomyosis may become a future trend in the field of gynecology.

Prevalence of adenomyosis in women undergoing hysterectomy for abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic pain or uterine prolapse – A retrospective cohort study

Background

Adenomyosis can cause symptoms like dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, pelvic pain and bleeding disorders and is related to subfertility and obstetrical complications. The disease is probably underestimated and underdiagnosed because of difficulties in reliable clinical examination and imaging results. The age-related prevalence of adenomyosis still remains unclear. In this retrospective analysis we describe the rate of adenomyosis in two independent cohorts of patients undergoing hysterectomy for benign diseases (2011–2013 and 2015–2018) and its correlation to presurgical symptoms respectively indications for hysterectomy.

Materials and methods

All surgeries have been performed in the same department of minimally invasive gynecological surgery by a total of two experienced surgeons following a surgical internal standard for the indication bleeding disorder, dysmenorrhea. We analyzed the overall rate of patients with adenomyosis in both cohorts and related the histological presence of adenomyosis to presurgical symptoms. We also analyzed a subgroup of postmenopausal patients with uterine prolapse.

Results

In 307 patients we detected 42.0% of cases with histologically proven adenomyosis. In the group of patients with bleeding disorders and dysmenorrhea as indication for surgery we found the highest rate of adenomyosis (59.3%, cohort 1). 81,1% patients with adenomyosis (cohort 1) reported symptoms. In the subgroup of 42 postmenopausal patients, we found 23.8% of cases with adenomyosis.

Conclusion

Our data shows that a positive anamnesis regarding the symptoms bleeding disorders and dysmenorrhea is suspicious for adenomyosis. In hysterectomy specimen adenomyosis can be found in more than 40%. The role of adenomyosis-related symptoms requires further investigation, especially in adolescent and postmenopausal patients.

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In 307 patients undergoing hysterectomy we detected 42.0% of cases with adenomyosis.

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In patients with bleeding disorders and dysmenorrhea we found the highest rate of adenomyosis (59.3%).

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81,1% of patients with adenomyosis reported symptoms.

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In 58.9% of patients with adenomyosis we found additional fibroids.

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In 42 postmenopausal patients we found adenomyosis in 23.8% of cases.

Acute recurrent cerebral infarction caused by moyamoya disease complicated with adenomyosis: A case report

BACKGROUND

Moyamoya disease is essentially an ischemic cerebrovascular disease. Here, we describe a case of acute recurrent cerebral infarction caused by moyamoya disease with concurrent adenomyosis which, to our knowledge, is the first in the literature. A literature review is also presented.

CASE SUMMARY

A 38-year-old female presented to the Research and Treatment Center of Moyamoya Disease in our hospital with "left limb weakness" as the main symptom. She was diagnosed with acute cerebral infarction and moyamoya disease through magnetic resonance imaging and digital subtraction angiography. Prior to this, she had experienced a prolonged menstrual period of one-month duration. This was investigated and adenomyosis was diagnosed. After passing the acute cerebral infarction phase, the patient underwent surgery for adenomyosis followed by combined cerebral revascularization. During the postoperative follow-up, improvements of the perfusion imaging stage and modified Rankin Scale were observed. A review of the literature showed only 16 reported cases of gynecological diseases complicated with stroke. The clinical characteristics, pathogenesis, therapeutic effects, and long-term prognosis of these cases have been studied and discussed.

CONCLUSION

In patients with moyamoya disease, early management of gynecological-related bleeding disorders is essential to prevent the complications of cerebral events.

Infertility workup: identifying endometriosis

Endometriosis was classically diagnosed during diagnostic laparoscopies, which used to be routinely performed up until a decade ago or so. This practice fitted with the long-held belief that surgery was the gold standard for diagnosing endometriosis. Today, the abandon of routine diagnostic laparoscopies-in favor of assisted reproductive technology-first therapeutic approaches-has created a void for diagnosing endometriosis. Modern-day imaging techniques-ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging-when used with a systematic approach have offered a reliable replacement option for diagnosing endometriosis. In infertility, endometriosis should be identified or excluded on the basis of past history or confirmation or exclusion suspicion on the basis of history and/or physical examination.

Higher Risk of Anxiety and Depression in Women with Adenomyosis as Compared with Those with Uterine Leiomyoma

The main symptoms of adenomyosis may adversely affect physical and mental health and quality of life (QOL). However, studies are few on this topic. This study evaluated the effect of adenomyosis on anxiety, depression, and QOL. Participants with adenomyosis (n = 90) or leiomyoma (n = 59) completed questionnaires, including the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and Short Form (SF)-36. HADS anxiety and depression positive rates, physical (PCS) and mental (MCS) component summary scores, and eight subscale scores of SF-36 were compared between the two groups. Among patients with adenomyosis, the incidence of anxiety symptoms was 28.9% (control group, 10.2%; OR = 3.589, 95%CI: 1.375–9.367), with 10% of patients showing moderate-to-severe symptoms. The incidence of depressive symptoms was 14.4% (control group, 3.4%; OR = 4.812, 95%CI: 1.044–22.168). The case group had significantly lower PCS and MCS scores than the control group. In patients with adenomyosis, being employed (OR = 6.393, 95%CI: 1.153–35.440) and perianal pain (OR = 25.419, 95%CI: 2.504–258.024) were risk factors for anxiety, and perianal pain (OR = 15.208, 95%CI: 3.050–75.836) was a risk factor for depression. Compared with leiomyoma, adenomyosis is associated with a higher risk of anxiety and depression, with a poorer QOL.

Adenomyosis is an independent risk factor for complications in deep endometriosis laparoscopic surgery

Deep endometriosis (DE) occurs in 15-30% of patients with endometriosis and is associated with concomitant adenomyosis in around 25-49% of cases. There are no data about the effect of the presence of adenomyosis in terms of surgical outcomes and complications. Thus, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the impact of adenomyosis on surgical complications in women with deep endometriosis undergoing laparoscopic surgery. A retrospective cohort study including women referred to the endometriosis unit of a referral teaching hospital. Two expert sonographers preoperatively diagnosed DE and adenomyosis. DE was defined according to the criteria of the International Deep Endometriosis Analysis group. Adenomyosis was considered when 3 or more ultrasound criteria of the Morphological Uterus Sonographic Assessment group were present. Demographical variables, current medical treatment, symptoms, DE location, surgical time, hospital stay and difference in pre and post hemoglobin levels were collected. The Clavien-Dindo classification was used to assess surgical complications, and multivariate analysis was performed to compare patients with and without adenomyosis. 157 DE patients were included into the study; 77 (49.05%) had adenomyosis according to transvaginal ultrasound (TVS) and were classified in the A group, and 80 (50.95%) had no adenomyosis and were classified in the noA group. Adenomyosis was associated with a higher rate of surgical complications: 33.76% (A group) vs. 12.50% (noA group) (p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed a 4.56-fold increased risk of presenting complications in women with adenomyosis (CI 1.90-11.30; p = 0.001) independently of undergoing hysterectomy. There was a statistically significant association between the number of criteria of adenomyosis present in each patient and the proportion of patients presenting surgical complications (p < 0.001). Adenomyosis is an independent preoperative risk factor for surgical complications in DE surgery after adjustment for known demographic, clinical and surgical risk factors.

Overexpression of Human Estrogen Biosynthetic Enzyme Hydroxysteroid (17beta) Dehydrogenase Type 1 Induces Adenomyosis-like Phenotype in Transgenic Mice

Hydroxysteroid (17beta) dehydrogenase type 1 (HSD17B1) is an enzyme that converts estrone to estradiol, while adenomyosis is an estrogen-dependent disease with poorly understood pathophysiology. In the present study, we show that mice universally over-expressing human estrogen biosynthetic enzyme HSD17B1 (HSD17B1TG mice) present with adenomyosis phenotype, characterized by histological and molecular evaluation. The first adenomyotic changes with endometrial glands partially or fully infiltrated into the myometrium appeared at the age of 5.5 months in HSD17B1TG females and became more prominent with increasing age. Preceding the phenotype, increased myometrial smooth muscle actin positivity and increased amount of glandular myofibroblast cells were observed in HSD17B1TG uteri. This was accompanied by transcriptomic upregulation of inflammatory and estrogen signaling pathways. Further, the genes upregulated in the HSD17B1TG uterus were enriched with genes previously observed to be induced in the human adenomyotic uterus, including several genes of the NFKB pathway. A 6-week-long HSD17B1 inhibitor treatment reduced the occurrence of the adenomyotic changes by 5-fold, whereas no effect was observed in the vehicle-treated HSD17B1TG mice, suggesting that estrogen is the main upstream regulator of adenomyosis-induced uterine signaling pathways. HSD17B1 is considered as a promising drug target to inhibit estrogen-dependent growth of endometrial disorders. The present data indicate that HSD17B1 over-expression in TG mice results in adenomyotic changes reversed by HSD17B1 inhibitor treatment and HSD17B1 is, thus, a potential novel drug target for adenomyosis.

Sanders A, Sobel M. Current diagnosis and management of adenomyosis in Canada: A survey of Canadian gynaecologists

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to understand how Canadian Obstetricians/Gynaecologists (OBGYNs) diagnose and manage adenomyosis.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study was performed via an online survey distributed to 262 OBGYNs at three Canadian universities (University of Toronto, University of Calgary, and McMaster University).

Results:

A total of 137 responses were obtained out of 262 OBGYNs (52.3%) with a completion rate of 98%. Adenomyosis was a diagnosis in 6%–10% of patients seen by OBGYNs. The most common clinical symptoms included heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) (82.8%) and dysmenorrhea (91.0%). Most participants (83%) used transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) as first-line imaging for diagnosis of adenomyosis. Many respondents (35.8%) indicated that adenomyosis was not associated with infertility or recurrent miscarriage. Treatment considerations for all patients with adenomyosis included levonorgestrel intra-uterine system (LNG-IUS) (91.8%), hysterectomy (88.8%), expectant management (85.1%), combined hormonal contraceptives (CHC) (83.6%), tranexamic acid (81.3%), gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists (64.2%), depo-provera (64.2%), dienogest (57.5%), and norethisterone acetate (NETA) (40.3%). Treatments for adenomyosis in patients wishing to conceive included expectant management (85.1%), tranexamic acid (79.1%), CHC (44.8%), LNG-IUS (32.8%), and GnRH agonists (35.8%). Excision of adenomyosis would only be offered by 24% of respondents. Uterine artery embolization (UAE) would not be used in the treatment of adenomyosis by 44% of respondents. Finally, 82.8% of respondents would use improvement of clinical symptoms to follow treatment success.

Conclusion:

Practice varies across Canada despite recent emerging evidence in the diagnosis and management of adenomyosis, highlighting the need for a clinical practice guideline on adenomyosis.

Mechanisms and Pathogenesis of Adenomyosis

Purpose of the Review

The purpose of this review is to provide a synopsis of all the mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of adenomyosis. It will summarize recent advances in the field, discussing current controversies, and considering potential future directions.

Recent Findings

Adenomyosis pathogenesis is still a topic under investigation, however advancements in the understanding of disease development and mechanisms have been made. New data coming from new next generation sequencing-based studies and more-in-depth acquisitions on sex hormones imbalance, neuroangiogenesis, inflammation, fibrosis and cell proliferation have been obtained.

Summary

Adenomyosis is a uterine disorder that affects women of reproductive age, characterized by a benign invasion of the endometrium basalis (glands and stroma) within the myometrium.

So far, three theories for the pathophysiology of adenomyosis have been proposed:

In order to invade and develop, endometrial cells require a series of pathogenetic mechanisms which drive to adenomyosis. Altered sex steroids hormones receptors may be the primary event which causes increased endometrial cell proliferations and differentiation from epithelial to mesenchymal cells. Once invaded the myometrium, an inflammatory reaction is displayed, probably driven by local immune changes. The processes of neuroangiogenesis and fibrosis are also involved in the adenomyosis development and may explain some of the associated clinical symptoms (dysmenorrhea, abnormal uterine bleeding, and infertility).

The use of the myometrial-cervical ratio in the ultrasound diagnosis of adenomyosis - A validation study

BACKGROUND

Adenomyosis is a benign disorder defined by ectopic endometrial glands within the uterine myometrium. A study by Mooney et al reported the myometrial-cervical ratio (MCR), a novel ultrasound measurement that was found to improve the preoperative diagnosis of adenomyosis.

AIMS

To validate the association between sonographic MCR and adenomyosis confirmed on histopathology in an independent patient group.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Single-centre retrospective cohort study including women who underwent hysterectomy between 1 January 2016 and 31 December 2018 for a benign, non-obstetric indication with an ultrasound at the study centre prior to surgery. Clinical details and histopathology were extracted. Ultrasound images were reviewed by a gynaecology ultrasound subspecialist blinded to histological findings.

RESULTS

Eight hundred eighty-seven patients underwent hysterectomy in the study period for eligible indications; 317 had an ultrasound at the study centre and were included. There was no statistically significant association between the MCR and adenomyosis on histology when all patients were included; however, increased MCR was associated with adenomyosis when those with fibroids on ultrasound were excluded. The area under the receiver operating characteristic for this model was 0.614 (95% CI: 0.53 to 0.69). The optimal MCR cut-point in this subgroup was 1.79, which achieved 55.6% sensitivity and 62.8% specificity, with 58.5% correctly classified. There was no significant difference in MCR compared to traditional ultrasound markers of adenomyosis.

CONCLUSIONS

In a population undergoing hysterectomy for benign and non-obstetric indications, the MCR applied to preoperative ultrasound was only weakly associated with a histological diagnosis of adenomyosis.

Integrative metabolomic profiling reveals aberrations in myometrium associated with adenomyosis: a pilot study

BACKGROUND

Uterine adenomyosis is a common gynecologic disease in premenopausal women, the pathological mechanism of which remains largely unknown. The aim of this study was to identify metabolic biomarkers significantly altered in the myometrium of adenomyosis patients.

METHODS

The comprehensive metabolomic profiles of 17 myometrium specimens from adenomyosis patients and 25 control specimens were analyzed using untargeted approach by combination of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Metabolic data were filtered using orthogonal partial least square-discriminant analysis and univariate statistics.

RESULTS

We firstly demonstrated that the myometrial metabolome of women with adenomyosis is distinct from that of women without adenomyosis. A total of 106 metabolites, mainly including nucleosides, lipids (including acylcarnitines), amino acids, organic acids and carbohydrates, were found to be differentially expressed in myometrium of uteri with adenomyosis compared to the control subjects. Functional inferences of these perturbed metabolites indicated that inflammation, oxidative stress, cell proliferation and apoptosis, and energy metabolism appeared to be involved in the progress of adenomyosis.

CONCLUSION

This study firstly described the integrated metabolic signatures of the adenomyosis uterus, which provided novel insights for the pathogenesis study of this disease.

Vaginal microbiome of women with adenomyosis: A case-control study

Immune dysregulation can involve invasion and survival of endometrial glands inside the myometrium of the adenomyosis. There is limited available data concerning alterations of the bacterial microbiome in the reproductive tract of adenomyosis women. The present cross-sectional age-matched study aims to compare vaginal microbiota between women with and without adenomyosis. We recruited women with adenomyosis (N = 40) and age-matched women without adenomyosis (N = 40) from the Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ramathibodi Hospital Mahidol University, from August 2020 to January 2021. Vaginal swab samples were collected from the participants. DNA isolation and bacterial 16s rDNA gene sequencing and data analyses were then performed. Comparison of the diversity of vaginal microbiota, microbiota composition, and the operational taxonomic unit (OTU) between adenomyosis and non-adenomyosis (control) groups were undertaken. Data from 40 and 38 women with and without adenomyosis, respectively, were analyzed. Alpha-diversity analysis (Chao1 index) at the species level showed higher vaginal microbial richness in the adenomyosis group when compared with the control group (p = 0.006). The linear discriminant analysis effect size technique (LeFSe) indicated an elevated abundance of several vaginal microbial taxa in the adenomyosis group, including Alloscardovia, Oscillospirales, Ruminoccoccaceae, UCG_002, Oscillospiraceae, Enhydrobacter, Megamonas, Moraxellaceae, Subdoligranulum, Selenomonadaceae, and Faecalibacterium. On the other hand, an increase in the abundance of Megaspehera, Fastidiosipila, Hungateiclostridiaceae, and Clostridia was identified in the control group. Vaginal community state type (CST)-III and -IV were dominated in adenomyosis, while only CST-IV was dominated in the non-adenomyosis group. Lactobacillus was the most abundant vaginal microbial in both groups. In this study, the differences in vaginal microbiome profile were noted between adenomyosis and non-adenomyosis group. The increasing of microbial richness was associated with adenomyosis. Nevertheless, further investigations were required to elucidate the mechanisms and apply them for clinical implications.

Menstruation-Related Disorders—Dysmenorrhea and Heavy Bleeding—as Significant Epiphenomena in Women With Rheumatic Diseases

Background: In women with rheumatic diseases (RDs) menstruation-related disorders have never been investigated. The aim of this study was to evaluate gynecological symptoms/disorders in fertile age women with RDs.

Materials and methods: All patients (n = 200) filled up a self-administered questionnaire on their gynecological history, menstrual cycle pattern, menstrual-related symptoms, and quality of life (QoL). The RD group was then compared to a control group of 305 age-matched fertile age women.

Results: Among patients with RDs, 58% had arthritis, 40% connective tissue diseases (CTDs), and 1.5% systemic vasculitis. No differences were observed between CTDs and arthritis, except for a family history of HMB which was more common among women with CTDs (p < .01). When compared to controls, women with RDs reported more frequent heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) during adolescence (51.7 and 25.4%, respectively; p = .0001) and adult life (37.7 and 25.9%, respectively; p = .0065). Also, dysmenorrhea in adolescence was significantly more common among cases (55.6 and 45.4%, respectively; p = .0338). Gynecological pain (dysmenorrhea, non-menstrual pelvic pain, dyspareunia, dysuria, and dyschezia) in patients with RDs was more frequent than in controls (p = .0001, .0001, .0001, .0001, .0002, respectively). Considering women who reported moderate and severe symptoms in RDs, dysmenorrhea and dyspareunia remain significantly more frequent in women with RDs than in controls (p = .0001; p = .0022; respectively). QoL scores were significantly reduced in women with RDs, either in physical (p = .0001) and mental domains (p = .0014) of short-form 12.

Conclusion: Women affected by RDs frequently presented menstruation-related disorders; thus, female patients with RDs should be questioned about gynecological symptoms and referred to the gynecologist for an accurate evaluation.

Establishment of Adenomyosis Organoids as a Preclinical Model to Study Infertility

Adenomyosis is related to infertility and miscarriages, but so far there are no robust in vitro models that reproduce its pathological features to study the molecular mechanisms involved in this disease. Endometrial organoids are in vitro 3D models that recapitulate the native microenvironment and reproduce tissue characteristics that would allow the study of adenomyosis pathogenesis and related infertility disorders. In our study, human endometrial biopsies from adenomyosis (n = 6) and healthy women (n = 6) were recruited. Organoids were established and hormonally differentiated to recapitulate midsecretory and gestational endometrial phases. Physiological and pathological characteristics were evaluated by immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, qRT-PCR, and ELISA. Secretory and gestational organoids recapitulated in vivo glandular epithelial phenotype (pan-cytokeratin, Muc-1, PAS, Laminin, and Ki67) and secretory and gestational features (α-tubulin, SOX9, SPP1, PAEP, LIF, and 17βHSD2 expression and SPP1 secretion). Adenomyosis organoids showed higher expression of TGF-β2 and SMAD3 and increased gene expression of SPP1, PAEP, LIF, and 17βHSD2 compared with control organoids. Our results demonstrate that organoids derived from endometria of adenomyosis patients and differentiated to secretory and gestational phases recapitulate native endometrial-tissue-specific features and disease-specific traits. Adenomyosis-derived organoids are a promising in vitro preclinical model to study impaired implantation and pregnancy disorders in adenomyosis and enable personalized drug screening.

The Effect of Uterine Adenomyosis on IVF Outcomes: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

To investigate the impact of uterine adenomyosis on in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) clinical outcomes and also to evaluate the impact of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) and surgical treatments. Infertile women with adenomyosis undergoing conventional IVF or ICSI were compared with women without adenomyosis. Fertility outcomes were evaluated in two patients with adenomyosis untreated and treated surgically or medically therapy. The review protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42020214586). We consider the live birth rate (LBR) as the primary outcome. The analysis showed that women with adenomyosis had lower LBR (OR 0.59, 95% CI 0.37-0.92, p = 0.02), clinical pregnancy rate (OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.48-0.90), and ongoing pregnancy rate (OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.21-0.88) compared to those without adenomyosis, and miscarriage rate was higher in women with adenomyosis (OR 2.11, 95% CI 1.33-3.33). Surgical treatment increases natural conception in women with adenomyosis although the paucity of data (only two studies), and conversely, treatment with GnRHa does not increase the IVF outcomes. Women with adenomyosis have decreased IVF clinical outcomes. Pretreatment with the use of long-term GnRHa could not be beneficial, even though only three studies were included in the meta-analysis. The major part of the studies has not divided focal and diffuse adenomyosis, and this represents a relevant source of bias: studies conducted with standardized diagnostic criteria for adenomyosis are still needed to determine if the different clinical presentations of such condition could compromise IVF outcomes.

Transcriptomics of receptive endometrium in women with sonographic features of adenomyosis

BACKGROUND

Women with uterine adenomyosis seeking assisted reproduction have been associated with compromised endometrial receptivity to embryo implantation. To understand the mechanisms involved in this process, we aimed to compare endometrial transcriptome profiles during the window of implantation (WOI) between women with and without adenomyosis.

METHODS

We obtained endometrial biopsies LH-timed to the WOI from women with sonographic features of adenomyosis (n=10) and controls (n=10). Isolated RNA samples were subjected to RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) by the Illumina NovaSeq 6000 platform and endometrial receptivity classification with a molecular tool for menstrual cycle phase dating (beREADY®, CCHT). The program language R and Bioconductor packages were applied to analyse RNA-seq data in the setting of the result of accurate endometrial dating. To suggest robust candidate pathways, the identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with the adenomyosis group in the receptive phase were further integrated with 151, 173 and 42 extracted genes from published studies that were related to endometrial receptivity in healthy uterus, endometriosis and adenomyosis, respectively. Enrichment analyses were performed using Cytoscape ClueGO and CluePedia apps.

RESULTS

Out of 20 endometrial samples, 2 were dated to the early receptive phase, 13 to the receptive phase and 5 to the late receptive phase. Comparison of the transcriptomics data from all 20 samples provided 909 DEGs (p<0.05; nonsignificant after adjusted p value) in the adenomyosis group but only 4 enriched pathways (Bonferroni p value < 0.05). The analysis of 13 samples only dated to the receptive phase provided suggestive 382 DEGs (p<0.05; nonsignificant after adjusted p value) in the adenomyosis group, leading to 33 enriched pathways (Bonferroni p value < 0.05). These included pathways were already associated with endometrial biology, such as "Expression of interferon (IFN)-induced genes" and "Response to IFN-alpha". Data integration revealed pathways indicating a unique effect of adenomyosis on endometrial molecular organization (e.g., "Expression of IFN-induced genes") and its interference with endometrial receptivity establishment (e.g., "Extracellular matrix organization" and "Tumour necrosis factor production").

CONCLUSIONS

Accurate endometrial dating and RNA-seq analysis resulted in the identification of altered response to IFN signalling as the most promising candidate of impaired uterine receptivity in adenomyosis.

Decreased intracellular IL-33 impairs endometrial receptivity in women with adenomyosis

Adenomyosis is a common benign uterine lesion that is associated with female infertility, reduced clinical pregnancy rate and high miscarriage risk. While it has been known that the impaired endometrial receptivity is implicated in infertility in patients with adenomyosis, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In the present study, we showed that intracellular protein level of IL-33 was downregulated in the endometrium of patients with adenomyosis, and IL-33 expression status was shown to be positively correlated with that of HOXA10, an endometrial receptivity marker. The subsequent analysis indicated IL-33 overexpression led to the increase of HOXA10 expression and enhancement of embryo implantation in vitro, which was accompanied with induction of STAT3 phosphorylation. Meanwhile, cryptotanshinone, a potent STAT3 inhibitor, was found to significantly suppress the increase of HOXA10 expression and embryo implantation caused by IL-33 overexpression in vitro, revealing the critical role of STAT3 activity. Consistently, the positive relationship between IL33 and HOXA10 expression in the endometrium was verified in the analysis of adenomyosis mouse model.

Reproductive Outcomes of In Vitro Fertilization and Fresh Embryo Transfer in Infertile Women With Adenomyosis: A Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Adenomyosis is commonly encountered in infertile women; however, it is still unclear whether adenomyosis has a detrimental effect on in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) outcomes.

METHOD

We enrolled 1146 patients with adenomyosis and 1146 frequency-matched control women in a 1:1 ratio based on age, BMI, and basal follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) level. After controlling for other factors, the rates of clinical pregnancy, miscarriage, live birth, and obstetric complications were compared between two groups.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in clinical pregnancy rate between the two groups (38.1% vs. 41.6%; P=0.088). The implantation rate (25.6% versus 28.6%, P=0.027) and live birth rate (26% versus 31.5%, P=0.004) were significantly lower in the women with adenomyosis than in the controls. The miscarriage rate in the adenomyosis group was higher than that in the control group (29.1% versus 17.2%, P=0.001). After adjusting for confounding factors, multivariate analysis showed the clinical pregnancy rate was not statistically different between the two groups (OR: 0.852, P=0.070). In the adenomyosis group, the rate of miscarriage(OR: 1.877, P=0.000), placenta previa (OR: 2.996, P=0.042)and preeclampsia (OR: 2.287, P=0.042)were increased significantly, while live birth rate (OR: 0.541, P=0.000) was reduced significantly than control group.

CONCLUSION

Adenomyosis has negative effect on IVF-ET outcomes in which miscarriage risk increased, live birth rate reduced and obstetric complications increased.

A Validated Model for Individualized Prediction of Live Birth in Patients With Adenomyosis Undergoing Frozen-Thawed Embryo Transfer

PURPOSE

This study aimed to develop a predictive tool for live birth in women with adenomyosis undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatment.

METHODS

A total of 424 patients with adenomyosis who underwent frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) from January 2013 to December 2019 at a public university hospital were included. The patients were randomly divided into training (n = 265) and validation (n = 159) samples for the building and testing of the nomogram, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression (MLR) was developed on the basis of clinical covariates assessed for their association with live birth.

RESULTS

In total, 183 (43.16%) patients became pregnant, and 114 (26.88%) had a live birth. The MLR showed that the probability of live birth was significantly correlated with age [odds ratio (OR), 3.465; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.215-9.885, P = 0.020], uterine volume (OR, 8.141; 95% CI, 2.170-10.542; P = 0.002), blastocyst transfer (OR, 3.231; 95% CI, 1.065-8.819, P = 0.023), twin pregnancy (OR, 0.328; 95% CI, 0.104-0.344, P = 0.005), and protocol in FET (P < 0.001). The statistical nomogram was built based on age, uterine volume, twin pregnancy, stage of the transferred embryo, and protocol of FET, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.837 (95% CI: 0.741-0.910) for the training cohort. The AUC for the validation cohort was 0.737 (95% CI: 0.661-0.813), presenting a well-pleasing goodness-of-fit and stability in this model.

CONCLUSIONS

This visual and easily applied nomogram built on the risk factors of live birth in patients with adenomyosis provides useful and precise information for physicians on individualized decision-making during the IVF/ICSI procedure.

Endometriosis increases the rate of spontaneous early miscarriage in women who have adenomyosis lesions

RESEARCH QUESTION

In women with radiologically diagnosed adenomyosis, is the presence of endometriosis associated with a higher rate of miscarriage?

DESIGN

An observational cohort study of women who received medical care for benign gynaecological conditions between May 2005 and May 2018. Women who had adenomyosis lesions visualized by uterine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were included. Women who had never been pregnant were excluded. Women with adenomyosis identified by MRI but who did not have endometriosis lesions (control group) were compared with women with adenomyosis and endometriosis lesions (study group). Primary outcome was rate of a previous history of early miscarriage.

RESULTS

A total of 214 pregnancies in the study group and 53 pregnancies in the control group were analysed. The rate of a previous miscarriage was significantly higher among women with adenomyosis and endometriosis lesions compared with women in the control group (61/214 [28.5%] versus 6/53 [11.3%], respectively, P = 0.009). A multivariable generalized estimating equation logistic regression model, adjusted for adenomyosis and endometriosis phenotypes, found that the association between endometriosis and adenomyosis significantly increased the risk of miscarriage (OR 3.2, 95% CI 1.1 to 9.65). The risk was significantly higher with deep infiltrating endometriosis (OR 4.37, 95% CI 1.32 to 14.53).

CONCLUSIONS

Women affected by endometriosis had a significantly higher rate of previous spontaneous miscarriage than women without endometriosis with adenomyosis lesions identified by MRI. Mechanistic studies are needed to establish the complex link between the presence of endometriosis and adenomyosis and the rate of spontaneous miscarriage.

A Comparison of Shear Wave Elastography between Normal Myometrium, Uterine Fibroids, and Adenomyosis: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background

The differential diagnosis between uterine fibroid and adenomyosis is sometimes difficult; a precise diagnosis is required in women with infertility because of the different choice of treatments. Ultrasound elastography (UE) is a novel technique to evaluate the elasticity or the stiffness of the tissue of interest. The present study aims to compare UE shear wave velocity (SWV) among normal uterine myometrium, uterine fibroid, and adenomyosis, and assess the accuracy of shear wave elastography in the diagnosis of adenomyosis.

Materials and Methods

This cross-sectional study recruited 25 subjects for each group (control, adenomyosis, and fibroid) from April 2019 to April 2020. Transvaginal UE using an Aplio 500 (Toshiba Medical Systems, Japan) with ultrasound mapping for point of tissue biopsy was performed for all subjects. The diagnosis was confirmed by histology. Masson’s trichrome staining for collagen was performed and quantified

Results

The mean ± standard deviation (SD) for SWV was 3.44 ± 0.95 m/seconds (control group), 4.63 ± 1.45 m/seconds (adenomyosis group), and 4.53 ± 1.07 m/seconds (fibroid group). The mean SWV differed when comparing normal myometrium and adenomyosis after adjustments for age and endometrial pathology (P=0.019). The cut-off point of SWV at 3.465 m/seconds could differentiate adenomyosis from the normal uterus with an 80% sensitivity, 80% specificity, and an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.80 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.68-0.93) (P<0.001). No significant difference in SWV between the adenomyosis and fibroid groups was detected.

Conclusion

Shear wave elastography could be an alternative tool to distinguish between normal myometrium and adenomyosis; however, it could not differentiate adenomyosis from uterine fibroid or uterine fibroid from normal myometrium.

Uterine Adenomyosis Treated by Linzagolix, an Oral Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Receptor Antagonist: A Pilot Study with a New 'Hit Hard First and then Maintain' Regimen of Administration

(1) Background: The aim of the present pilot study was to study the effect of a new oral gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist on adenomyosis. (2) Methods: Eight premenopausal women, aged between 37 and 45 years, presenting with heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and dysmenorrhea due to diffuse and disseminated uterine adenomyosis, confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), received 200 mg linzagolix once daily for a period of 12 weeks, after which they were switched to 100 mg linzagolix once daily for another 12 weeks. The primary efficacy endpoint was the change in volume of the adenomyotic uterus from baseline to 24 weeks, evaluated by MRI. Secondary efficacy endpoints included the change in uterine volume from baseline to 12 and 36 weeks by MRI, and also weeks 12, 24, and 36 assessed by transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS). Other endpoints were overall pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, non-menstrual pelvic pain, dyspareunia, amenorrhea, quality of life measures, bone mineral density (BMD), junctional zone thickness, and serum estradiol values. (3) Results: Median serum estradiol was suppressed below 20 pg/mL during the 12 weeks on linzagolix 200 mg, and maintained below 60 pg/mL during the second 12 weeks on linzagolix 100 mg. At baseline, the mean ± SD uterine volume was 333 ± 250 cm³. After 24 weeks of treatment, it was 204 ± 126 cm³, a reduction of 32% (p = 0.0057). After 12 weeks, the mean uterine volume was 159 ± 95 cm³, a reduction of 55% from baseline (p = 0.0001). A similar pattern was observed when uterine volume was assessed by TVUS. Improvements in overall pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, non-menstrual pelvic pain, dyspareunia, and dyschezia, as well as quality of life measured using the EHP-30 were also observed. Mean percentage BMD loss at 24 weeks was, respectively, -2.4%, -1.3%, and -4.1% for the spine, femoral neck, and total hip. The most common adverse events were hot flushes, which occurred in 6/8 women during the first 12 weeks, and 1/8 women between 12 and 24 weeks. (4) Conclusions: Linzagolix at a dose of 200 mg/day reduced uterine volume, and improved clinically relevant symptoms. Treatment with 100 mg thereafter retains the therapeutic benefits of the starting dose while minimizing side effects. This 'hit hard first and then maintain' approach may be the optimal way to treat women with symptomatic adenomyosis.

Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MEDI-Q): a new tool to assess menstruation-related distress

RESEARCH QUESTION

Menstruation is a physiological event often associated with subjective distress. Is there a tool that assesses and objectively evaluates the global distress experienced by women during their period?

DESIGN

An observational cross-sectional study conducted between June 2019 and May 2020 at Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy. A new questionnaire, The Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MEDI-Q), was developed and administered to a group of healthy women (n = 418) of fertile age (18-50 years), without known uterine, psychiatric disorders, or both. The MEDI-Q investigated 25 items, covering the following areas: pain, discomfort, psychic or cognitive changes, gastrointestinal symptoms and changes in physiological functions. MEDI-Q Total Score and the three sub-scales, Menstrual Symptoms (MS), Menstrual Symptoms Distress (MSD) and Menstrual Specificity Index (MESI) were evaluated. The validation of MEDI-Q was achieved by testing test-retest reliability and internal consistency, convergent and concurrent validity.

RESULTS

The MEDI-Q produced reliable results with good internal consistency, convergent and concurrent validity. MEDI-Q Total Score, MS and MSD all positively correlated with general psychopathology and premenstrual symptoms. A receiver operating characteristic analysis was used to determine the cut-off value of 20 (inclusive) and to identify the women with clinically relevant menstrual distress (area under the curve 0.90, 95% CI 0.86 to 0.93; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

MEDI-Q is a new tool for evaluating menstruation-related distress, and provides a representative score of stress perception. MEDI-Q may be added to routine women's healthcare to help identify and adequately monitor menstruation-related disorders, and their effect on wellbeing, promptly.

An International Terminology for Endometriosis, 2021

OBJECTIVE

Different classification systems have been developed for endometriosis, using different definitions for the disease, the different subtypes, symptoms and treatments. In addition, an International Glossary on Infertility and Fertility Care has been published in 2017 by the International Committee for Monitoring Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ICMART) in collaboration with other organisations. An international working group convened over the development of a classification or descriptive system for endometriosis. As a basis for such system, a terminology for endometriosis was considered a condition sine qua non. The aim of the current study was to develop a set of terms and definitions be prepared on endometriosis that would be the basis for standardization in disease description, classification and research.

DATA SOURCES

The working group listed a number of terms relevant to be included in the terminology, documented currently used and published definitions, and discussed and adapted them until consensus was reached within the working group. Following stakeholder review, further terms were added, and definitions further clarified. Although definitions were collected through published literature, the final set of terms and definitions is to be considered consensus-based. After finalization of the first draft, the members of the international societies and other stakeholders were consulted for feedback and comments, which lead to further adaptations.

METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION

na TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS: A list of 49 terms and definitions in the field of endometriosis is presented, including a definition for endometriosis and its subtypes, different locations, interventions, symptoms and outcomes. Endometriosis is defined as a disease characterized by the presence of endometrium-like epithelium and/or stroma outside the endometrium and myometrium, usually with an associated inflammatory process.

CONCLUSION

The current paper outlines a list of 49 terms and definitions in the field of endometriosis. The application of the defined terms aims to facilitate harmonization in endometriosis research and clinical practice. Future research may require further refinement of the presented definitions.

An international terminology for endometriosis, 2021. Hum Reprod Open 2021;2021:hoab029. [PMID: 34693033 PMCID: PMC8530702 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoab029]

STUDY QUESTION

Can a set of terms and definitions be prepared on endometriosis that would be the basis for standardization in disease description, classification and research?

SUMMARY ANSWER

The current paper outlines a list of 49 terms and definitions in the field of endometriosis.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

Different classification systems have been developed for endometriosis, using different definitions for the disease, the different subtypes, symptoms and treatments. In addition, an International Glossary on Infertility and Fertility Care was published in 2017 by the International Committee for Monitoring Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ICMART) in collaboration with other organisations.

STUDY DESIGN SIZE DURATION

An international working group convened over the development of a classification or descriptive system for endometriosis. As a basis for such a system, a terminology for endometriosis was considered a condition sine qua non. The working group listed a number of terms relevant to be included in the terminology, documented currently used and published definitions, and discussed and adapted them until consensus was reached within the working group. Following stakeholder review, further terms were added, and definitions further clarified.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS SETTING METHODS

Although definitions were collected through published literature, the final set of terms and definitions is to be considered consensus-based. After finalization of the first draft, the members of the international societies and other stakeholders were consulted for feedback and comments, which led to further adaptations.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

A list of 49 terms and definitions in the field of endometriosis is presented, including a definition for endometriosis and its subtypes, different locations, interventions, symptoms and outcomes. Endometriosis is defined as a disease characterized by the presence of endometrium-like epithelium and/or stroma outside the endometrium and myometrium, usually with an associated inflammatory process.

LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION

Future research may require further refinement of the presented definitions.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

The application of the defined terms aims to facilitate harmonization in endometriosis research and clinical practice.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS

The meetings and activities of the working group were funded by the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists, European Society for Gynecological Endoscopy, European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology and World Endometriosis Society. A.W.H. reports grant funding from the MRC, NIHR, CSO, Wellbeing of Women, Roche Diagnostics, Astra Zeneca, Ferring, Charles Wolfson Charitable Trust, Standard Life, Consultancy fees from Roche Diagnostics, AbbVie, Nordic Pharma and Ferring, outside the submitted work. In addition, A.W.H. has a patent Serum biomarker for endometriosis pending. N.P.J. reports personal fees from Abbott, Guerbet, Myovant Sciences, Vifor Pharma, Roche Diagnostics outside the submitted work; he is also President of the World Endometriosis Society and chair of the trust board. S.M. reports grants and personal fees from AbbVie, and personal fees from Roche outside the submitted work. C.T. reports grants, non-financial support and other from Merck SA, non-financial support and other from Gedeon Richter, non-financial support from Ferring Pharmaceuticals, outside the submitted work and without private revenue. K.T.Z. reports grants from Bayer Healthcare, MDNA Life Sciences, Roche Diagnostics Inc, Volition Rx, outside the submitted work; she is also a Board member (Secretary) of the World Endometriosis Society and World Endometriosis Research Foundation, Research Advisory Board member of Wellbeing of Women, UK (research charity), and Chair, Research Directions Working Group, World Endometriosis Society. J.P reports personal fees from Hologic, Inc., outside the submitted work; he is also a member of the executive boards of ASRM and SRS. The other authors had nothing to disclose.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

N/A.

An International Terminology for Endometriosis, 2021

Background

Different classification systems have been developed for endometriosis, using different definitions for the disease, the different subtypes, symptoms and treatments. In addition, an International Glossary on Infertility and Fertility Care was published in 2017 by the International Committee for Monitoring Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ICMART) in collaboration with other organisations. An international working group convened over the development of a classification or descriptive system for endometriosis. As a basis for such system, a terminology for endometriosis was considered a condition sine qua non.

Objectives

The aim of the current paper is to develop a set of terms and definitions on endometriosis that would be the basis for standardisation in disease description, classification and research.

Materials and Methods

The working group listed a number of terms relevant to be included in the terminology, documented currently used and published definitions, and discussed and adapted them until consensus was reached within the working group. Following stakeholder review, further terms were added, and definitions further clarified. Although definitions were collected through published literature, the final set of terms and definitions is to be considered consensus-based. After finalisation of the first draft, the members of the international societies and other stakeholders were consulted for feedback and comments, which led to further adaptations.

Results

A list of 49 terms and definitions in the field of endometriosis is presented, including a definition for endometriosis and its subtypes, different locations, interventions, symptoms and outcomes. Endometriosis is defined as a disease characterised by the presence of endometrium-like epithelium and/or stroma outside the endometrium and myometrium, usually with an associated inflammatory process.

Conclusions

The current paper outlines a list of 49 terms and definitions in the field of endometriosis. The application of the defined terms aims to facilitate harmonisation in endometriosis research and clinical practice. Future research may require further refinement of the presented definitions.

What is new?

A consensus based international terminology for endometriosis for clinical and research use.

[Adenomyosis pathophysiology: An unresolved enigma]

Adenomyosis is a chronic benign uterine disease characterized by the presence of endometrial glands and stroma within the myometrium. It is a heterogeneous disease, presenting various clinical forms, depending on the location of the ectopic lesions within the myometrium. Adenomyosis can be responsible for several symptoms such as dysmenorrhea, abnormal uterine bleeding and/or infertility. Its pathophysiology is a real conundrum and several theories have been proposed: development of adenomyosis lesion could initiate de novo from Mullerian rests or from stem cells. Moreover, multiple factors could be involved in initiating lesions, including specific hormonal, immune and/or genetic changes. The objective of this review is to provide an update on adenomyosis pathophysiology, in particular on the various theories proposed concerning the invasion of the myometrium by endometrial cells and the inducing mechanisms, and to study the link between the physiopathology, the symptoms and the medical treatments.

ART Outcomes After Hysteroscopic Proximal Tubal Occlusion Versus Laparoscopic Salpingectomy for Hydrosalpinx Management in Endometriosis Patients

The objective of this paper is to compare assisted reproductive technology (ART) cumulative live birth rates after hysteroscopic proximal tubal occlusion and laparoscopic salpingectomy in endometriosis patients, for management of hydrosalpinx. This is an observational cohort study at a university hospital, including all endometriosis patients with hydrosalpinges undergoing ART, between January 2013 and December 2018. The patients underwent either laparoscopic salpingectomy or hysteroscopic proximal tubal occlusion with Essure® when laparoscopy was not an option (extensive pelvic adhesions at exploratory laparoscopy or a history of multiple abdominal surgeries with frozen pelvis). The diagnosis of endometriosis was based on published imaging criteria using transvaginal sonography (TVUS) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Endometriosis patients with hydrosalpinges diagnosed by hysterosalpingography and/or TVUS and/or MRI were included. The primary outcome was the cumulative live birth rate. A total of 104 patients were included in the study; 74 underwent laparoscopic salpingectomy and 30 underwent proximal tubal occlusion with Essure®. The Essure® group had longer infertility durations (58.9 ± 30.0 months vs. 39.5 ± 19.1 months, p = 0.002) and a higher incidence of associated adenomyosis (76.7% vs. 39.1%, p < 0.001) than the salpingectomy group. The cumulative live birth rate was 56.6% after 44 ART cycles in the Essure® group and 40.5% after 99 ART cycles in the salpingectomy group (p = 0.13). In a population of endometriosis patients undergoing ART, women treated by Essure® for management of hydrosalpinx have similar cumulative live birth rates as women treated by laparoscopic salpingectomy.

Clinicopathological characteristics and imaging findings to identify adenomyosis-related symptoms

PURPOSE

The study aims to identify the clinicopathological risk factors and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging findings for adenomyosis-related symptoms, including menorrhagia, dysmenorrhea, and infertility.

METHODS

This was an observation-based cross-sectional study using data from the adenomyosis cohort study. The authors evaluated the clinicopathological variables and various MR imaging findings.

RESULTS

Two hundred twenty patients with histologically confirmed adenomyosis were included in this study. Multivariate analysis showed that a middle/retroflexed uterus and adenomyosis lesions of 21 mm or more were significant independent predictors of dysmenorrhea. The history of dysmenorrhea and the maximum length from the cervix to the uterine fundus ≥103 mm were independent risk factors of menorrhagia. One of the key factors associated with non-infertility included the absence of deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) and/or superficial peritoneal disease (SUP).

CONCLUSIONS

This study identified clinicopathological risk factors and imaging findings associated with adenomyosis-related symptoms. The maximum length from the cervix to the uterine fundus and adenomyosis lesion thickness are independent predictors for the presence of menorrhagia and dysmenorrhea, respectively. Infertility may be associated with the coexistence of endometriosis rather than adenomyosis itself. This result is from an analysis of a small number of infertility patients and requires further study.

Clinical Characteristics of Patients with Endometrial Cancer and Adenomyosis

Simple Summary

Endometrial cancer (EC) reportedly have a better prognosis in patients with coexistent adenomyosis. It is possible to hypothesize that this difference may be attributable to different clinical profiles. On this account, we aimed to define the clinical profile of endometrial cancer (EC) patients with and without adenomyosis through a systematic review and meta-analysis. We included 8 studies with 5681 patients and found that EC women with adenomyosis were less likely to be nulliparous than EC women without adenomyosis, while no significant differences were found with regard to age, BMI, and premenopausal status.

Abstract

A better endometrial cancer (EC) prognosis in patients with coexistent adenomyosis has been reported. Unfortunately, it is still unclear if this better prognosis is related to a more favorable clinical profile of adenomyosis patients. We aimed to evaluate differences in the clinical profiles of EC patients with and without adenomyosis. A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed by searching seven electronics databases for all studies that allowed extraction of data about clinical characteristics in EC patients with and without adenomyosis. Clinical characteristics assessed were: age, Body Mass Index (BMI), premenopausal status, and nulliparity. Mean difference in mean ± standard deviation (SD) or odds ratio (OR) for clinical characteristics between EC patients with and without adenomyosis were calculated for each included study and as a pooled estimate, and graphically reported on forest plots with a 95% confidence interval (CI). The Z test was used for assessing the overall effect by considering a p value < 0.05 as significant. Overall, eight studies with 5681 patients were included in the qualitative analysis, and seven studies with 4366 patients in the quantitative analysis. Pooled mean difference in mean ± SD between EC women with and without adenomyosis was −1.19 (95% CI: −3.18 to 0.80; p = 0.24) for age, and 0.23 (95% CI: −0.62 to 1.07; p = 0.60) for BMI. When compared to EC women without adenomyosis, EC women with adenomyosis showed a pooled OR of 1.53 (95% CI: 0.92 to 2.54; p = 0.10) for premenopausal status, and of 0.60 (95% CI: 0.41 to 0.87; p = 0.007) for nulliparity. In conclusion, there are not significant differences in clinical characteristics between EC patients with and without adenomyosis, with the exception for nulliparity. Clinical features seem to not underlie the better EC prognosis of patients with adenomyosis compared to patients without adenomyosis.

Immune cells and Notch1 signaling appear to drive the epithelial to mesenchymal transition in the development of adenomyosis in mice

The epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been implicated in the development of adenomyosis, along with dysregulated immune responses. Inflammation potentially induces Notch signaling, which could promote this EMT. The objective of this study was to investigate the involvement of immune cells and Notch1-mediated EMT in the development of adenomyosis. Adenomyosis was induced in 18 CD-1 mice by neonatal oral administration of tamoxifen (TAM group), while 18 neonates received vehicle only (Control group). Their uteri were sampled at 30, 60 or 90 days of age. Immune cell markers (Cd45, Ly6c1, Cd86, Arginine1, Cd19, Cd4, Cd8), Notch1 and its target genes (Hey1, Hey2, Hes1, Hes5) and biomarkers of EMT (E-Cadherin, Vimentin, Tgfb, Snail1, Slug, Snail3) were analyzed by quantitative RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. Activated-Notch1 protein was measured by western blot. Aberrant expression of immune cell markers was observed in the uteri of mice as they developed adenomyosis. The expression of inflammatory cell markers, notably M1 macrophages and natural killer cells, was increased from Day 30 in the TAM group compared to controls, followed by an increase in the Cd4 marker (T cells) at Day 60. Conversely, expression of the Cd19 marker (B cells) was significantly reduced at all of the stages studied. Notch1 signaling was also highly activated compared to controls at Day 30 and Day 60. Concomitantly, the levels of several markers for EMT were also higher. Therefore, the activation of Notch1 coincides with aberrant expression of immune and EMT markers in the early development of adenomyosis.

Uterine Adenomyosis: From Disease Pathogenesis to a New Medical Approach Using GnRH Antagonists

Uterine adenomyosis is a common chronic disorder frequently encountered in reproductive-age women, causing heavy menstrual bleeding, intense pelvic pain, and infertility. Despite its high prevalence, its etiopathogenesis is not yet fully understood, so there are currently no specific drugs to treat the disease. A number of dysregulated mechanisms are believed to contribute to adenomyosis development and symptoms, including sex steroid signaling, endometrial proliferation and invasiveness, and aberrant immune response. Abnormal sex steroid signaling, particularly hyperestrogenism and subsequent progesterone resistance, are known to play a pivotal role in its pathogenesis, which is why various antiestrogenic agents have been used to manage adenomyosis-related symptoms. Among them, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists are swiftly gaining ground, with recent studies reporting efficient lesion regression and symptom alleviation. The aim of the present review is to compile available information on the pathogenesis of adenomyosis, explore the etiology and mechanisms of hyperestrogenism, and discuss the potential of antiestrogenic therapies for treating the disease and improving patient quality of life.

Adenomyosis: An update regarding its diagnosis and clinical features

Adenomyosis is a common gynecologic disease characterized by invasion of endometrial glands and stroma within the myometrium. Clinically, it can result in abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic pain, and infertility. Adenomyosis has historically been diagnosed by histology of hysterectomy specimens. As a result of the development of imaging techniques, the diagnosis is nowadays possible by means of transvaginal pelvic ultrasound or pelvic magnetic resonance imaging. The use of pelvic imaging has demonstrated the existence of different forms of adenomyosis, notably allowing distinction between lesions of the external myometrium and those of the internal myometrium. The epidemiological and clinical characteristics may depend on the anatomical location of the adenomyosis lesions. In order to provide the best management for women with adenomyosis, the objective of this review is to provide an update regarding the diagnosis of adenomyosis and its clinical features according to the different adenomyosis phenotypes.