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Lin T, Allaire C, As-Sanie S, Stratton P, Vincent K, Adamson GD, Arendt-Nielsen L, Bush D, Jansen F, Longpre J, Rombauts L, Shah J, Toussaint A, Hummelshoj L, Missmer SA, Yong PJ. World Endometriosis Research Foundation Endometriosis Phenome and Biobanking Harmonization Project: V. Physical examination standards in endometriosis research. Fertil Steril 2024; 122:304-315. [PMID: 38508508 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2024.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The World Endometriosis Research Foundation established the Endometriosis Phenome and Biobanking Harmonisation Project (EPHect) to create standardized documentation tools (with common data elements) to facilitate the comparison and combination of data across different research sites and studies. In 2014, 4 data research standards were published: clinician-reported surgical data, patient-reported clinical data, and fluid and tissue biospecimen collection. Our current objective is to create an EPHect standard for the clinician-reported physical examination (EPHect-PE) for research studies. DESIGN An international consortium involving 26 clinical and academic experts and patient partners from 11 countries representing 25 institutions and organizations. Two virtual workshops, followed by the development of the physical examination standards underwent multiple rounds of iterations and revisions. SUBJECTS N/A MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): N/A RESULT(S): The EPHect-PE tool provides standardized assessment of physical examination characteristics and pain phenotyping. Data elements involve examination of back and pelvic girdle; abdomen including allodynia and trigger points; vulva including provoked vestibulodynia; pelvic floor muscle tone and tenderness; tenderness on unidigital pelvic examination; presence of pelvic nodularity; uterine size and mobility; presence of adnexal masses; presence of incisional masses; speculum examination; tenderness and allodynia at an extra-pelvic site (e.g., forearm); and recording of anthropometrics. CONCLUSION(S) The EPHect-PE standards will facilitate the standardized documentation of the physical examination, including the assessment and documentation of examination phenotyping of endometriosis-associated pelvic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tinya Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Catherine Allaire
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sawsan As-Sanie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | | - Katy Vincent
- Department of Women's & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - G David Adamson
- World Endometriosis Research Foundation (WERF); Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California
| | - Lars Arendt-Nielsen
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark; Aalborg University Hospital, Mech-Sense, Aalborg, Denmark
| | | | - Femke Jansen
- World Endometriosis Organisations (WEO); EndoHome - Endometriosis Association Belgium, Belgium
| | - Jennifer Longpre
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Université de Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Luk Rombauts
- World Endometriosis Research Foundation (WERF); Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jay Shah
- National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Abeesha Toussaint
- World Endometriosis Organisations (WEO); Trinidad and Tobago Endometriosis Association, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
| | | | - Stacey A Missmer
- World Endometriosis Research Foundation (WERF); Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan
| | - Paul J Yong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
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Lewin J, Vashisht A, Hirsch M, Al-Wattar BH, Saridogan E. Comparing the treatment of endometriosis-related pain by excision of endometriosis or hysterectomy: A multicentre prospective cohort study. BJOG 2024. [PMID: 39010306 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the effectiveness of endometriosis excision alone to excision plus hysterectomy, with and without bilateral oophorectomy, for endometriosis-related symptoms. DESIGN Multicentre prospective cohort. SETTING Eighty-six specialist endometriosis centres. POPULATION Women undergoing rectovaginal endometriosis surgery between 2009 and 2021. METHODS We performed multivariable regression with random effects for patient and centre, controlling for age, BMI, smoking, laparoscopic versus open approach and type of bowel surgery performed, with sensitivity analysis for loss to follow-up. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Pain scores, bowel symptoms and quality-of-life measures. RESULTS Compared to endometriosis excision alone, women undergoing hysterectomy with conservation of ovaries had greater improvement in non-cyclical pain (MD: 1.41/10, 95% CI: 1.03-1.78, p < 0.001), dyspareunia (MD: 1.12/10, 95% CI: 0.71-1.53, p < 0.001), back pain (MD: 1.29/10, 95% CI: 0.92-1.67, p < 0.001) and quality-of-life scores (MD: 8.77/100, 95% CI: 5.79-11.75, p < 0.001) at 24 months post-operatively. Women undergoing hysterectomy with bilateral oophorectomy also had greater improvement in non-cyclical pelvic pain (MD: 2.22/10, 95% CI: 1.80-2.63, p < 0.001), dyspareunia (MD: 1.05/10, 95% CI: 0.59-1.52, p < 0.001), back pain (MD: 1.18/10, 95% CI: 0.77-1.59, p < 0.001) and quality of life (MD: 12.41/100, 95% CI: 9.07-15.74, p < 0.001) at 24 months compared to endometriosis excision alone. Compared to hysterectomy with ovarian conservation, hysterectomy with bilateral oophorectomy was associated with greater improvement in non-cyclical pelvic pain (MD: 0.81/10, 95% CI: 0.32-1.30, p = 0.001) at 24 months and quality of life (MD: 3.74/100, 95% CI: 0.56-6.92, p = 0.021) at 12 months, although this result was sensitive to loss to follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Patients who undergo endometriosis excision plus hysterectomy experience greater improvement in pain and quality of life compared to those who have endometriosis excision alone. There are additional benefits of bilateral oophorectomy with hysterectomy, although its value is less clear due to loss of follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Lewin
- University College London Hospital, London, UK
- Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Arvind Vashisht
- University College London Hospital, London, UK
- Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Martin Hirsch
- John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford University Hospital Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Endometriosis CaRe Centre, Nuffield Department of Women's & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Bassel H Al-Wattar
- Beginnings Assisted Conception Unit, Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals, Carshalton, UK
- Comprehensive Clinical Trials Unit, Institute for Clinical Trials and Methodology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Ertan Saridogan
- University College London Hospital, London, UK
- Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
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Green I, Briggs M, Encalada Soto D, Cole K, Wygant J, Burnett T, Zhu X, Chen I, Sangaralingam LR, Thao V. Health Care Utilization by Patients With Chronic Pelvic Pain. Obstet Gynecol 2024; 144:4-11. [PMID: 38696811 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000005595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the patterns of health care utilization among patients with chronic pelvic pain. METHODS Deidentified administrative claims data from the OptumLabs Data Warehouse were used. Adult female patients who had their first medical claim for chronic pelvic pain between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2019, were included. Utilization was examined for 12 months after the index diagnosis. The greedy nearest neighbor matching method was used to identify a control group of individuals without chronic pelvic pain. Comparisons were made between those with and those without chronic pelvic pain using χ 2 tests for categorical data and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests for continuous data. RESULTS In total, 18,400 patients were analyzed in the chronic pelvic pain cohort. Patients with chronic pelvic pain had a higher rate of chronic overlapping pain conditions. Patients with chronic pelvic pain had higher rates of health care utilization across all queried indices. They had more outpatient office visits; 55.5% had 10 or more office visits. Patients with chronic pelvic pain showed higher utilization of the emergency department (ED) (6.3 visits vs 1.9 visits; P <.001). Urine culture and pelvic ultrasonography were the most utilized tests. One-third of patients with chronic pelvic pain utilized physical therapy (PT), and 13% utilized psychological or behavioral therapy. Patients with chronic pelvic pain had higher rates of hysterectomy (8.9% vs 0.6%). The average total health care costs per patient with chronic pelvic pain per year was $12,254. CONCLUSION Patients with chronic pelvic pain have higher rates of chronic overlapping pain conditions and undergo more ED visits, imaging tests, and hysterectomies than patients without chronic pelvic pain. Improving access to multidisciplinary care, increasing utilization of interventions such as PT and psychological or behavioral therapy, and reducing ED utilization may be possible targets to help reduce overall health care costs and improve patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Green
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, and Health Care Policy and Research and the Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota; the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida; and the University of Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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4
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As-Sanie S. From Dismissal to Solutions: Prioritizing Scientific Discovery and Patient-Centered Care in Chronic Pelvic Pain. Obstet Gynecol 2024; 144:1-3. [PMID: 38949540 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000005639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Sawsan As-Sanie
- Sawsan As-Sanie is from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan;
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Wright MA, Kinlaw AC, McClurg AB, Carey E, Doll KM, Vines AI, Olshan AF, Robinson WR. Appropriateness of Hysterectomy as Treatment for Benign Gynecological Conditions. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2024. [PMID: 38864118 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2024.0142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective: To assess the appropriateness of hysterectomies performed at a large tertiary health system using the 1997 RAND appropriateness classification system and an updated algorithm. Design: We abstracted structured and unstructured data from electronic medical records on patient demographics, primary indication(s) for hysterectomy, diagnosis codes associated with the hysterectomy, previous treatments, and laboratory results. Subjects: Patients aged 18-44 years. Exposure: Receipt of hysterectomy for benign and nonobstetric conditions from October 2014 to December 2017. Main Outcome Measures: Using these data, we provided a RAND-based (dichotomous: inappropriate/appropriate) and Wright-based (3-level: inappropriate/ambiguous/appropriate) appropriateness rating and characterized missing information patterns associated with inappropriate ratings. Results: We analyzed 1,829 hysterectomies across 30 nonmutually exclusive primary indications for surgery. Nearly a third (32.8%) of surgeries had only one primary indication for surgery. Using the RAND-based classifier, 31.3% of hysterectomies were rated as appropriate and 68.7% as inappropriate. Using the Wright-based algorithm, 58.1% of hysterectomies were rated as appropriate, 15.7% as ambiguous, and 26.2% as inappropriate. Missing information on diagnostic procedures was the most common characteristic related to both RAND-based (46.1%) and Wright-based (51.2%) inappropriate ratings. Conclusions: The 1997 RAND classification lacked guidance for several contemporary indications, including gender-affirming care. RAND also has an outdated requirement for diagnostic surgeries such as laparoscopies, which have decreased in practice as diagnostic imaging has improved. Sensitivity analyses suggest that inappropriate surgeries cannot all be attributed to bias from missing electronic medical record data. Accurately documenting care delivery for benign gynecological conditions is key to ensuring quality and equity in gynecological care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya A Wright
- Tanaq Support Services LLC, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- The Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Alan C Kinlaw
- The Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Division of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, University of North Carolina School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Asha B McClurg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Erin Carey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kemi M Doll
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Anissa I Vines
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Andrew F Olshan
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Whitney R Robinson
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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Peinado Molina RA, Martínez Vázquez S, Martínez Galiano JM, Rivera Izquierdo M, Khan KS, Cano-Ibáñez N. Prevalence of depression and anxiety in women with pelvic floor dysfunctions: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2024. [PMID: 38859723 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.15719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Female pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is a common condition affecting the emotional well-being of women. OBJECTIVE To estimate the prevalence of depressive and anxiety symptoms in women with PFD. SEARCH STRATEGY, SELECTION CRITERIA, DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Following prospective registration (PROSPERO CRD42022362095) we conducted a search of three electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus) from inception to April 2023 without language restriction to capture studies reporting the prevalence of depression/anxiety among women with PFD (chronic pelvic pain [CPP], urinary incontinence [UI], pelvic organ prolapse [POP], and/or fecal incontinence [FI]). Only studies with validated tools were included. Data extraction and study quality assessment were performed by two independent reviewers. Stratifying by type of PFD, rates of depression and anxiety were pooled using random effects model computing 95% confidence interval (CI) and assessing heterogeneity using the I2 statistic. Funnel plots were used to detect potential reporting biases and small-study effects. MAIN RESULTS The search yielded 767 articles, from which 54 studies containing 632 605 women were included. All the studies were high quality. The prevalence of depression was: CPP 26.8% (95% CI: 19.2-34.4, I2 = 98.7%; 12 studies, 4798 participants with 491 cases; Egger's P value = 0.009); UI 26.3% (95% CI: 19.4-33.2, I2 = 99.9%; 26 studies, a total of 346 114 participants with 25 050 cases; Egger's P value = 0.944); POP 34.9% (95% CI: 24.3-45.6, I2 = 68%; three studies, 297 participants with 104 cases; Egger's P value = 0.973); and FI 25.3% (95% CI: 0.68-49.9, I2 = 99.7%; six studies, 14 663 participants with 1773 cases; Egger's P value = 0.780). The prevalence of anxiety was: CPP 29.5% (95% CI: 16.3-42.7, I2 = 97.7%; nine studies, 2483 participants with 349 cases; Egger's P value = 0.001); UI 46.91% (95% CI: 39.1-54.6, I2 = 99.6%; 11 studies, 198 491 participants with 40 058 cases; Egger's P value = 0.337); and POP 28% (95% CI: 13.6-42.4, I2 = 89%; three studies with 355 participants with 90 cases; Egger's P value = 0.306). CONCLUSION The prevalence of mental health illness was variable in the different types of PFDs. This meta-analysis helps quantify the burden of depression and anxiety in PFD and will help inform the policies regarding screening of emotional well-being by healthcare professionals engaged in care of women with PFD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Juan Miguel Martínez Galiano
- Department of Nursing, University of Jaen, Jaén, Spain
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in the Epidemiology and Public Health Network (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Mario Rivera Izquierdo
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in the Epidemiology and Public Health Network (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria (ibs. Granada), Granada, Spain
| | - Khalid Saeed Khan
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in the Epidemiology and Public Health Network (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Naomi Cano-Ibáñez
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in the Epidemiology and Public Health Network (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria (ibs. Granada), Granada, Spain
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Cetera GE, Merli CEM, Barbara G, Caia C, Vercellini P. Questionnaires for the Assessment of Central Sensitization in Endometriosis: What Is the Available Evidence? A Systematic Review with a Narrative Synthesis. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:633-644. [PMID: 37751146 PMCID: PMC10912156 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01343-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
It has been suggested that central sensitization (CS) may be involved in the failure of standard medical and surgical treatment to relieve endometriosis-related pain. However, there is no gold standard for the diagnosis of CS, and self-reported questionnaires are used as diagnostic surrogates. The main objective of this review was to identify all CS questionnaires used in clinical endometriosis studies. The secondary objective was to qualitatively analyze strengths and weaknesses of each questionnaire. A PubMed and EMBASE systematic literature search conducted in April 2023 using the terms "endometriosis; central pain; central sensitization; questionnaire; patient-reported outcome measure; screening tool" identified 122 publications: six articles were included in the review. The Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI) is the most frequently used questionnaire for the detection of CS in patients with endometriosis. It has been validated in patients with endometriosis, in whom it appears to have good psychometric proprieties. The Fibromyalgia Survey Questionnaire (FSQ) has also been used, although it has not been specifically validated in endometriosis patients. The debate regarding these questionnaires' construct validity is still open and will be so until a gold standard diagnostic tool for CS is found. In fact, some authors argue these questionnaires are measuring psychological vulnerability and a hypervigilant state that is associated with pain, rather than CS itself. However, their use should not be discouraged as they are able to identify chronic pain patients which warrant further attention and who may benefit from broader treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Emily Cetera
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Giussy Barbara
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
- Obstetric and Gynecological Emergency Unit and SVSeD (Service for Sexual and Domestic Violence), Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
| | - Carlotta Caia
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Vercellini
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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8
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Mijatovic V, Vercellini P. Towards comprehensive management of symptomatic endometriosis: beyond the dichotomy of medical versus surgical treatment. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:464-477. [PMID: 38199787 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Except when surgery is the only option because of organ damage, the presence of suspicious lesions, or the desire to conceive, women with endometriosis-associated pain often face a choice between medical and surgical treatment. In theory, the description of the potential benefits and potential harms of the two alternatives should be standardized, unbiased, and based on strong evidence, enabling the patient to make an informed decision. However, doctor's opinion, intellectual competing interests, local availability of specific services and (mis)information obtained from social media, and online support groups can influence the type of advice given and affect patients' choices. This is compounded by the paucity of robust data from randomized controlled trials, and the anxiety of distressed women who are eager to do anything to alleviate their disabling symptoms. Vulnerable patients are more likely to accept the suggestions of their healthcare provider, which can lead to unbalanced and physician-centred decisions, whether in favour of either medical or surgical treatment. In general, treatments should be symptom-orientated rather than lesion-orientated. Medical and surgical modalities appear to be similarly effective in reducing pain symptoms, with medications generally more successful for severe dysmenorrhoea and surgery more successful for severe deep dyspareunia caused by fibrotic lesions infiltrating the posterior compartment. Oestrogen-progestogen combinations and progestogen monotherapies are generally safe and well tolerated, provided there are no major contraindications. About three-quarters of patients with superficial peritoneal and ovarian endometriosis and two-thirds of those with infiltrating fibrotic lesions are ultimately satisfied with their medical treatment although the remainder may experience side effects, which may result in non-compliance. Surgery for superficial and ovarian endometriosis is usually safe. When fibrotic infiltrating lesions are present, morbidity varies greatly depending on the skill of the individual surgeon, the need for advanced procedures, such as bowel resection and ureteral reimplantation, and the availability of expert colorectal surgeons and urologists working together in a multidisciplinary approach. The generalizability of published results is adequate for medical treatment but very limited for surgery. Moreover, on the one hand, hormonal drugs induce disease remission but do not cure endometriosis, and symptom relapse is expected when the drugs are discontinued; on the other hand, the same drugs should be used after lesion excision, which also does not cure endometriosis, to prevent an overall cumulative symptom and lesion recurrence rate of 10% per postoperative year. Therefore, the real choice may not be between medical treatment and surgery, but between medical treatment alone and surgery plus postoperative medical treatment. The experience of pain in women with endometriosis is a complex phenomenon that is not exclusively based on nociception, although the role of peripheral and central sensitization is not fully understood. In addition, trauma, and especially sexual trauma, and pelvic floor disorders can cause or contribute to symptoms in many individuals with chronic pelvic pain, and healthcare providers should never take for granted that diagnosed or suspected endometriosis is always the real, or the sole, origin of the referred complaints. Alternative treatment modalities are available that can help address most of the additional causes contributing to symptoms. Pain management in women with endometriosis may be more than a choice between medical and surgical treatment and may require comprehensive care by a multidisciplinary team including psychologists, sexologists, physiotherapists, dieticians, and pain therapists. An often missing factor in successful treatment is empathy on the part of healthcare providers. Being heard and understood, receiving simple and clear explanations and honest communication about uncertainties, being invited to share medical decisions after receiving detailed and impartial information, and being reassured that a team member will be available should a major problem arise, can greatly increase trust in doctors and transform a lonely and frustrating experience into a guided and supported journey, during which coping with this chronic disease is gradually learned and eventually accepted. Within this broader scenario, patient-centred medicine is the priority, and whether or when to resort to surgery or choose the medical option remains the prerogative of each individual woman.
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Affiliation(s)
- Velja Mijatovic
- Department of Gynaecology & Reproductive Medicine, Academic Endometriosis Center, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Paolo Vercellini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi and Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
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9
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Clauw DJ. Why don't we use a body map in every chronic pain patient yet? Pain 2024:00006396-990000000-00518. [PMID: 38358934 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000003184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Clauw
- Anesthesiology, Medicine (Rheumatology) and Psychiatry, Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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10
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Vermeulen CKM, Tunnissen W, Coolen ALWM, Veen J, Dietz V, van Leijsen SAL, Bongers MY. Central Sensitisation Syndrome: A Frequent Finding in Women with Pelvic Floor Symptoms Without Evident Urogenital Prolapse. Int Urogynecol J 2024; 35:227-236. [PMID: 38165443 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-023-05697-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS Women with central sensitisation syndrome (CSS) experience poorer subjective post-operative outcomes even after successful pelvic floor reconstruction. This study tests the hypothesis that women with pelvic floor symptoms (PFS) without relevant pelvic organ prolapse (POP), are more likely to have CSS. METHODS A questionnaire was sent to women who participated in the POP-UP study in 2017. The POP-UP study evaluated POP in 247 women 16 years after laparoscopic or vaginal hysterectomy. POP-Q data and Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20) results were used and supplemented with CSS-specific questionnaires. A Central Sensitisation Inventory (CSI) score above 40 implicates CSS. Women were divided into groups based on POP beyond the hymen in relation to the PFDI-20 score. Outcomes of women with PFS and without POP (called 'group 1') were compared with the rest of the cohort (groups 2-4; women without PFS and/or with POP). RESULTS A total of 136 women were included in the analysis. A CSI score above 40 was present in 16 out of 42 women of group 1 (37%) versus 11 out of 93 women of groups 2-4 (12%), p < 0.0001. Passive coping was more prevalent in group 1 (p = 0.039), and more deviations in somatisation, depression, anxiety and distress were found in group 1 (p values of < 0.0001, 0.018, 0.003 and 0.002 respectively). CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that CSS might be more prevalent in women with PFS without relevant POP. More awareness of CSS and valid individual counselling may overcome unnecessary surgery for POP and help in setting realistic expectations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolien K M Vermeulen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Máxima Medical Centre, De Run 4600, 5500 MB, Veldhoven, The Netherlands.
- GROW, Research School of Oncology and Reproduction, University of Maastricht, Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Catharina Ziekenhuis, Michelangelolaan 2, 5623 EJ, Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
| | - Willemijn Tunnissen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Máxima Medical Centre, De Run 4600, 5500 MB, Veldhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Anne-Lotte W M Coolen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Zuyderland Medical Centre, P.O. Box 5500, 6130 MB, Sittard-Geleen, The Netherlands
| | - Joggem Veen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Máxima Medical Centre, De Run 4600, 5500 MB, Veldhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Viviane Dietz
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Catharina Ziekenhuis, Michelangelolaan 2, 5623 EJ, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Sanne A L van Leijsen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Máxima Medical Centre, De Run 4600, 5500 MB, Veldhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Marlies Y Bongers
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Máxima Medical Centre, De Run 4600, 5500 MB, Veldhoven, The Netherlands
- GROW, Research School of Oncology and Reproduction, University of Maastricht, Universiteitssingel 40, 6229 ER, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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11
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Paspulati RM. Chronic Pelvic Pain: Role of Imaging in the Diagnosis and Management. Semin Ultrasound CT MR 2023; 44:501-510. [PMID: 37879545 DOI: 10.1053/j.sult.2023.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) in women is not uncommon, and it may be difficult to identify the exact cause difficult to manage. It is major health problem for women that affects the quality of their daily lives. The etiology of chronic pelvic pain may be of gynecological or non-gynecological origin and associated with several predisposing and precipitating factors. Psychological and social factors also contribute to the syndrome of CPP and must be evaluated before managing these patients. Due to multifactorial etiology, CPP needs a multidisciplinary approach for diagnosis and management. A detailed history and physical examination supported by appropriate laboratory tests and imaging are the keys to diagnosis. In this paper, the role of imaging in diagnosis and management of CPP is reviewed. Imaging findings should be correlated with detailed clinical examination findings as there are imaging findings that may be unrelated and not the cause of CPP in a particular patient, imaging findings should be correlated with the clinical circumstances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raj Mohan Paspulati
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida; Department of Medical Oncology, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida.
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12
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Sluka KA, Wager TD, Sutherland SP, Labosky PA, Balach T, Bayman EO, Berardi G, Brummett CM, Burns J, Buvanendran A, Caffo B, Calhoun VD, Clauw D, Chang A, Coffey CS, Dailey DL, Ecklund D, Fiehn O, Fisch KM, Frey Law LA, Harris RE, Harte SE, Howard TD, Jacobs J, Jacobs JM, Jepsen K, Johnston N, Langefeld CD, Laurent LC, Lenzi R, Lindquist MA, Lokshin A, Kahn A, McCarthy RJ, Olivier M, Porter L, Qian WJ, Sankar CA, Satterlee J, Swensen AC, Vance CG, Waljee J, Wandner LD, Williams DA, Wixson RL, Zhou XJ. Predicting chronic postsurgical pain: current evidence and a novel program to develop predictive biomarker signatures. Pain 2023; 164:1912-1926. [PMID: 37326643 PMCID: PMC10436361 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Chronic pain affects more than 50 million Americans. Treatments remain inadequate, in large part, because the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the development of chronic pain remain poorly understood. Pain biomarkers could potentially identify and measure biological pathways and phenotypical expressions that are altered by pain, provide insight into biological treatment targets, and help identify at-risk patients who might benefit from early intervention. Biomarkers are used to diagnose, track, and treat other diseases, but no validated clinical biomarkers exist yet for chronic pain. To address this problem, the National Institutes of Health Common Fund launched the Acute to Chronic Pain Signatures (A2CPS) program to evaluate candidate biomarkers, develop them into biosignatures, and discover novel biomarkers for chronification of pain after surgery. This article discusses candidate biomarkers identified by A2CPS for evaluation, including genomic, proteomic, metabolomic, lipidomic, neuroimaging, psychophysical, psychological, and behavioral measures. Acute to Chronic Pain Signatures will provide the most comprehensive investigation of biomarkers for the transition to chronic postsurgical pain undertaken to date. Data and analytic resources generatedby A2CPS will be shared with the scientific community in hopes that other investigators will extract valuable insights beyond A2CPS's initial findings. This article will review the identified biomarkers and rationale for including them, the current state of the science on biomarkers of the transition from acute to chronic pain, gaps in the literature, and how A2CPS will address these gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen A. Sluka
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Tor D. Wager
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH
| | - Stephani P. Sutherland
- Department of Biostatistics, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg Schools of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Patricia A. Labosky
- Office of Strategic Coordination, Division of Program Coordination, Planning and Strategic Initiatives, Office of the Director, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Tessa Balach
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Emine O. Bayman
- Clinical Trials and Data Management Center, Department of Biostatistics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Giovanni Berardi
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Chad M. Brummett
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - John Burns
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, Rush Medical College, Chicago, IL
| | | | - Brian Caffo
- Department of Biostatistics, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg Schools of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Vince D. Calhoun
- Tri-Institutional Center for Translational Research in Neuroimaging and Data Science (TReNDS), Georgia State, Georgia Tech, and Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Daniel Clauw
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Andrew Chang
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Christopher S. Coffey
- Clinical Trials and Data Management Center, Department of Biostatistics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Dana L. Dailey
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Dixie Ecklund
- Clinical Trials and Data Management Center, Department of Biostatistics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Oliver Fiehn
- University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Kathleen M. Fisch
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
- Center for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Laura A. Frey Law
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Richard E. Harris
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Steven E. Harte
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Timothy D. Howard
- Department of Biochemistry, Center for Precision Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winstom-Salem, NC
- Center for Precision Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winstom-Salem, NC
| | - Joshua Jacobs
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Rush Medical College, CHicago, IL
| | - Jon M. Jacobs
- Environmental and Molecular Sciences Laboratory, Biological Sciences Division, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA
| | | | | | - Carl D. Langefeld
- Center for Precision Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winstom-Salem, NC
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, Center for Precision Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winstom-Salem, NC
| | - Louise C. Laurent
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Rebecca Lenzi
- Office of Strategic Coordination, Division of Program Coordination, Planning and Strategic Initiatives, Office of the Director, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Martin A. Lindquist
- Department of Biostatistics, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg Schools of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | | | - Ari Kahn
- Texas Advanced Computing Center, University of Texas, AUstin, TX
| | | | - Michael Olivier
- Center for Precision Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winstom-Salem, NC
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Precision Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winstom-Salem, NC
| | - Linda Porter
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD
- Office of Pain Policy and Planning National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Wei-Jun Qian
- Environmental and Molecular Sciences Laboratory, Biological Sciences Division, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA
| | - Cheryse A. Sankar
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD
| | | | - Adam C. Swensen
- Environmental and Molecular Sciences Laboratory, Biological Sciences Division, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA
| | - Carol G.T. Vance
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Jennifer Waljee
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Laura D. Wandner
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD
| | - David A. Williams
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
| | | | - Xiaohong Joe Zhou
- Center for MR Research and Departments of Radiology, Neurosurgery, and Bioengineering, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
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13
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Yu J, Berga SL, Zou E, Schrepf AD, Clauw DJ, As-Sanie S, Taylor RN. Neurotrophins and Their Receptors, Novel Therapeutic Targets for Pelvic Pain in Endometriosis, Are Coordinately Regulated by IL-1β via the JNK Signaling Pathway. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2023; 193:1046-1058. [PMID: 37164275 PMCID: PMC10433690 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2023.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Pelvic pain in women with endometriosis is attributed to neuroinflammation and afferent nociceptor nerves in ectopic and eutopic endometrium. The hypothesis that uterine nociception is activated by IL-1β, a prominent cytokine in endometriosis, was tested herein. Immunofluorescence histochemistry confirmed the presence of neurons in human endometrial tissue. Expression of nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and their receptors in endometrial tissue and cells was validated by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. Isolated endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) were subjected to dose-response and time-course experiments with IL-1β and kinase inhibitors to characterize in vitro biomarkers. Neural biomarkers were co-localized in endometrial nerve fibers. NGF, BDNF, and their receptors tropomyosin receptor kinase (Trk) A, TrkB, and p75 neurotrophin receptor were all expressed in primary ESCs. IL-1β stimulated higher TrkA/B expression in ESCs derived from endometriosis cases (2.8- ± 0.2-fold) than cells from controls (1.5- ± 0.3-fold, t-test, P < 0.01), effects that were mediated via the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway. BDNF concentrations trended higher in peritoneal fluid of endometriosis cases but were not statistically different from controls (P = 0.16). The results support the hypothesis that NGF and BDNF and their corresponding receptors orchestrate innervation of the endometrium, which is augmented by IL-1β. We postulate that JNK inhibitors, such as SP600125, have the potential to reduce neuroinflammation in women with endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Yu
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pathology and Anatomical Sciences, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Sarah L Berga
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pathology and Anatomical Sciences, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
| | - Eric Zou
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pathology and Anatomical Sciences, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
| | - Andrew D Schrepf
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Daniel J Clauw
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Sawsan As-Sanie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Robert N Taylor
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pathology and Anatomical Sciences, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
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14
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Till SR, Schrepf A, Clauw DJ, Harte SE, Williams DA, As-Sanie S. Association Between Nociplastic Pain and Pain Severity and Impact in Women With Chronic Pelvic Pain. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2023; 24:1406-1414. [PMID: 36958459 PMCID: PMC10511662 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2023.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
Exploring the relationship between nociplastic pain and the severity and impact of pelvic pain symptoms could lend insight into the heterogeneous symptom presentation and treatment response that complicates management of chronic pelvic pain. In this prospective cross-sectional study, we sought to evaluate relationships between degree of nociplastic pain, measured by the Fibromyalgia (FM) Survey Score, and multiple aspects of the chronic pelvic pain (CPP) experience, including severity, frequency, tenderness during pelvic myofascial exam, interference with daily life, and high-impact pain. The study included 303 women who presented to a tertiary referral clinic for chronic pelvic pain and endometriosis. Multiple measures of pelvic pain, including pain severity, frequency, interference, pelvic myofascial pain, and high-impact pain were examined in General Linear Models with FM Survey Score as the primary predictor of interest in models controlling for endometriosis, surgical history, use of opioids, body mass index, and patient age. Higher level of nociplastic pain was associated with greater pelvic pain severity, frequency, interference, and pelvic myofascial pain (all P < .05). For all models, degree of nociplastic pain was more strongly associated with pain outcomes than the presence of endometriosis, and use of opioids was the only stronger predictor of worse pain outcomes. The likelihood of high impact pain increased 7% for each additional point on the FM Survey Score. Degree of nociplastic pain was robustly associated with severity, frequency, and impact of pelvic pain, and was independent of the presence of endometriosis, history of surgical procedures for pelvic pain, age, and BMI. Trial registration: not applicable PERSPECTIVE: This article evaluates the impact of nociplastic pain on symptoms and functional status in chronic pelvic pain. These findings raise the possibility that a simple screening tool for nociplastic pain might provide clinically actionable information without the need for deep neurobiological phenotyping and may inform development of personalized management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara R Till
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan..
| | - Andrew Schrepf
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Daniel J Clauw
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Steven E Harte
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - David A Williams
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Sawsan As-Sanie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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15
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Asencio FDA, Fins RJP, Mitie CK, Ussia A, Wattiez A, Ribeiro HS, Ribeiro PA, Koninckx PR. Segmental Rectum Resection for Deep Endometriosis and Excision Similarly Improve Sexual Function and Pain. Clin Pract 2023; 13:780-790. [PMID: 37489420 PMCID: PMC10366930 DOI: 10.3390/clinpract13040071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Segmental rectum resections for indications other than endometriosis were reported to result in up to 40% sexual dysfunctions. We, therefore, evaluated sexual function after low bowel resection (n = 33) for deep endometriosis in comparison with conservative excision (n = 23). Sexual function was evaluated with the FSFI-19 (Female Sexuality Functioning Index) and EHP 30 (Endometriosis Health Profile). The pain was evaluated with visual analogue scales. Linear excision and bowel resections improved FSFI, EHP 30, and postoperative pain comparably. By univariate analysis, a decreased sexual function was strongly associated with pain both before (p < 0.0001) and after surgery (p = 0.0012), age (p = 0.05), and duration of surgery (p = 0.023). By multivariate analysis (proc logistic), the FSFI after surgery was predicted only by FSFI before or EHP after surgery. No differences were found between low bowel segmental resection and a more conservative excision. In conclusion, improving pain after surgery can explain the improvement in sexual function. A deleterious effect of a bowel resection on sexual function was not observed for endometriosis. Sexual function in women with endometriosis can be evaluated using a simplified questionnaire such as FSFI-6.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Carolina Kami Mitie
- Medicine College, University of Santa Casa de São Paulo, São Paulo 01224-001, Brazil
| | - Anastasia Ussia
- Gemelli Hospital, Universtità Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Arnauld Wattiez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Strasbourg, 67081 Strasbourg, France
- Latifa Hospital, Dubai P.O. Box 9115, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Paulo Ayrosa Ribeiro
- Department of Gynaecology Endoscopy, Santa Casa de São Paulo Hospital, São Paulo 01221-010, Brazil
| | - Philippe Robert Koninckx
- Latifa Hospital, Dubai P.O. Box 9115, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, Catholic University Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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16
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Kuisell C, Ploutz-Snyder R, Williams DA, Voepel-Lewis T, Hutchinson R, Dudding KM, Bridges C, Smith EML. Adolescents and Young Adults With Sickle Cell Disease: Nociplastic Pain and Pain Catastrophizing as Predictors of Pain Interference and Opioid Consumption. Clin J Pain 2023; 39:326-333. [PMID: 37083638 PMCID: PMC10330104 DOI: 10.1097/ajp.0000000000001119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Some patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) have features of nociplastic pain. While research suggests that many patients with nociplastic pain consume more opioids due to opioid nonresponsiveness, little is known about the impact of nociplastic pain and pain catastrophizing on opioid consumption and pain interference among adolescents and young adults (AYA) with SCD. The purpose of this study was to (1) characterize nociplastic pain and pain catastrophizing among AYA with SCD, and (2) determine whether these characterizations are associated with subsequent opioid consumption and pain interference 1 month after characterization. METHODS Participants completed surveys characterizing nociplastic pain and catastrophizing at a routine clinic visit (baseline). Thereafter, participants received weekly text messages that included pain interference and opioid consumption surveys. Multipredictor 2-part models were used to evaluate the predictive relationships between baseline characterizations and subsequent pain interference, and opioid consumption. RESULTS Forty-eight AYA aged 14 to 35 completed baseline measures. Twenty-five percent of participants had scores suggestive of nociplastic pain. Greater nociplastic pain features significantly increased the odds of consuming opioids (odds ratio=1.2) and having greater interference from pain (odds ratio=1.46). Regression analyses found that greater baseline nociplastic pain characteristics were significantly associated with opioid consumption (β=0.13) and pain interference (β=0.061); whereas higher pain catastrophizing scores predicted less opioid consumption (β=-0.03) and less pain interference (β=-0.0007). DISCUSSION In this sample of AYA with SCD, features of nociplastic pain predicted higher subsequent opioid consumption and pain interference. Being aware of nociplastic pain features in patients with SCD may better guide individualized pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Celia Bridges
- University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Nursing, Birmingham, AL
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17
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Dedes I, Kolovos G, Fruscalzo A, Toub D, Vaineau C, Lanz S, Imboden S, Feki A, Mueller MD. Radiofrequency Ablation for Adenomyosis. J Clin Med 2023; 12:3069. [PMID: 37176514 PMCID: PMC10179480 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12093069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Adenomyosis is a common benign gynecologic condition characterized by ectopic endometrial glands and stroma in the myometrium causing pain (dysmenorrhea) and abnormal uterine bleeding. New interventional techniques have been introduced over recent years. This study evaluates the treatment success and side effects of radiofrequency ablation. An electronic literature search in the PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect databases was carried out on the outcomes of pain reduction and, secondarily, on abnormal uterine bleeding, reintervention, reproductive outcome, imaging outcome, and complications. There was a mean decrease in dysmenorrhea pain scores by -63.4 ± 9.0% at 12 months. Data on other outcome parameters were sparse. No major complications were reported. Radiofrequency ablation represents a promising minimally invasive and organ-preserving treatment in patients with symptomatic adenomyosis. It is associated with clinically meaningful improvement of adenomyosis-related pain in the short term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Dedes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Bern, University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland; (G.K.); (C.V.); (S.L.); (S.I.); (M.D.M.)
| | - Georgios Kolovos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Bern, University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland; (G.K.); (C.V.); (S.L.); (S.I.); (M.D.M.)
| | - Arrigo Fruscalzo
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital of Fribourg, 1752 Fribourg, Switzerland; (A.F.); (A.F.)
| | - David Toub
- Gynesonics, Redwood City, CA 94063, USA;
| | - Cloé Vaineau
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Bern, University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland; (G.K.); (C.V.); (S.L.); (S.I.); (M.D.M.)
| | - Susanne Lanz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Bern, University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland; (G.K.); (C.V.); (S.L.); (S.I.); (M.D.M.)
| | - Sara Imboden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Bern, University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland; (G.K.); (C.V.); (S.L.); (S.I.); (M.D.M.)
| | - Anis Feki
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital of Fribourg, 1752 Fribourg, Switzerland; (A.F.); (A.F.)
| | - Michael D. Mueller
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Bern, University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland; (G.K.); (C.V.); (S.L.); (S.I.); (M.D.M.)
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18
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Orr NL, Huang AJ, Liu YD, Noga H, Bedaiwy MA, Williams C, Allaire C, Yong PJ. Association of Central Sensitization Inventory Scores With Pain Outcomes After Endometriosis Surgery. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e230780. [PMID: 36848090 PMCID: PMC9972194 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.0780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/01/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE A subset of people who undergo surgery for endometriosis have persistent pain, suggesting that other factors besides the endometriosis, such as central sensitization, may play a role in this pain. The Central Sensitization Inventory, a validated self-reported questionnaire of central sensitization symptoms, may identify individuals with endometriosis who have more pain after surgery due to pain sensitization. OBJECTIVE To examine whether greater baseline Central Sensitization Inventory scores are associated with postsurgical pain outcomes. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This prospective, longitudinal cohort study performed at a tertiary center for endometriosis and pelvic pain in British Columbia, Canada, included all patients aged 18 to 50 years with diagnosed or suspected endometriosis and a baseline visit between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2019, who underwent surgery after the baseline visit. Individuals who were menopausal, had a prior hysterectomy, or were missing data for outcomes or measures were excluded. Data analysis was performed from July 2021 to June 2022. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The primary outcome was chronic pelvic pain at follow-up measured on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 to 3 indicating no pain or mild pain, 4 to 6 indicating moderate pain, and 7 to 10 indicating severe pain. Secondary outcomes were deep dyspareunia, dysmenorrhea, dyschezia, and back pain at follow-up. The main variable of interest was baseline Central Sensitization Inventory score (measured from 0 to 100, consisting of 25 self-reported questions rated from 0 to 4 [never, rarely, sometimes, often, and always, respectively]). RESULTS A total of 239 patients (mean [SD] age, 34 [7] years; 189 [79.1%] White [11 (5.8%) identified as White mixed with another ethnicity], 1 [0.4%] Black or African American, 29 [12.1%] Asian, 2 [0.8%] Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, 16 [6.7%] other, and 2 [0.8%] mixed race or ethnicity) with follow-up data at more than 4 months after surgery were included in this study (71.0% follow-up rate). The mean (SD) baseline Central Sensitization Inventory score was 43.8 (18.2), and the mean (SD) follow-up was 16.1 (6.1) months. Higher baseline Central Sensitization Inventory scores were significantly associated with higher chronic pelvic pain (odds ratio [OR], 1.02; 95% CI, 1.00-1.03; P = .02), deep dyspareunia (OR, 1.03; 95% CI, 1.01-1.04; P = .004), dyschezia (OR, 1.03; 95% CI, 1.01-1.04; P < .001), and back pain (OR, 1.02; 95% CI, 1.00-1.03; P = .02) at follow-up, when controlling for baseline pain scores. The Central Sensitization Inventory scores themselves decreased slightly from baseline to follow-up (mean [SD] score, 43.8 [18.2] vs 41.7 [18.9]; P = .05); however, individuals with high baseline Central Sensitization Inventory scores still had high scores at follow-up. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE In this cohort study of 239 patients with endometriosis, higher Central Sensitization Inventory scores at baseline were associated with worse pain outcomes after endometriosis surgery, when controlling for baseline pain scores. The Central Sensitization Inventory could be used to counsel patients with endometriosis on their expected outcomes after surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha L. Orr
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- University of British Columbia Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Laboratory, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Alice J. Huang
- University of British Columbia Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Laboratory, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Yang Doris Liu
- University of British Columbia Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Laboratory, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Heather Noga
- University of British Columbia Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Laboratory, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Women’s Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Mohamed A. Bedaiwy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- University of British Columbia Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Laboratory, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Women’s Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Christina Williams
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- University of British Columbia Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Laboratory, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Women’s Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Catherine Allaire
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- University of British Columbia Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Laboratory, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Women’s Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Paul J. Yong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- University of British Columbia Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Laboratory, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Women’s Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Guan Q, Velho RV, Sehouli J, Mechsner S. Endometriosis and Opioid Receptors: Are Opioids a Possible/Promising Treatment for Endometriosis? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021633. [PMID: 36675147 PMCID: PMC9864914 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis (EM), defined as the presence of endometrial-like tissue with surrounding smooth muscle cells outside the uterus, is a disregarded gynecological disease reported to affect 6-10% of women of reproductive age, with 30-50% of them suffering from chronic pelvic pain and infertility. Since the exact pathogenic mechanisms of EM are still unclear, no curative therapy is available. As pain is an important factor in EM, optimal analgesia should be sought, which to date has been treated primarily with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), metamizole or, in extreme cases, opioids. Here, we review the pain therapy options, the mechanisms of pain development in EM, the endogenous opioid system and pain, as well as the opioid receptors and EM-associated pain. We also explore the drug abuse and addiction to opioids and the possible use of NOP receptors in terms of analgesia and improved tolerability as a target for EM-associated pain treatment. Emerging evidence has shown a promising functional profile of bifunctional NOP/MOP partial agonists as safe and nonaddictive analgesics. However, until now, the role of NOP receptors in EM has not been investigated. This review offers a thought which still needs further investigation but may provide potential options for relieving EM-associated pain.
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Joyce E, Carr G, Wang S, Brummett CM, Kidwell KM, Henry NL. Association between nociplastic pain and premature endocrine therapy discontinuation in breast cancer patients. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2023; 197:397-404. [PMID: 36371776 PMCID: PMC9825644 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-022-06806-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE At least 5 years of adjuvant endocrine therapy (ET) is recommended for patients with hormone receptor-positive invasive breast cancer to reduce cancer recurrence risk. Up to half of patients prematurely discontinue ET, often due to musculoskeletal pain. Nociplastic pain is abnormal central nervous system pain processing without evidence of tissue or neuronal damage. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between baseline nociplastic pain and ET discontinuation. METHODS This was a retrospective, single center, cohort study. Included patients were female, had stage 0-III invasive breast cancer, did not receive neoadjuvant therapy, and completed quality of life questionnaires prior to breast surgery, including Fibromyalgia Survey for nociplastic pain. Clinical data including duration of ET were abstracted from the medical record. Patient characteristics were analyzed with t-tests and Chi-squared tests, as appropriate. Univariate and multivariable regressions were performed with Cox proportional hazard models. RESULTS Six hundred eighty-one patients diagnosed between 2012 and 2019 met inclusion criteria; 480 initiated ET and were included in the analysis. Of these 480 patients, 203 (42.3%) prematurely discontinued initial ET therapy. On univariate analysis, tamoxifen use (hazard ratio [HR] 0.70, p = 0.021) and premenopausal status (HR 0.73, p = 0.04) were inversely associated with ET discontinuation, while Fibromyalgia Score was positively associated (HR 1.04, p = 0.043). On multivariable analysis, baseline Fibromyalgia Score remained associated with ET discontinuation. CONCLUSION Nociplastic pain present prior to surgery was associated with premature ET discontinuation. Fibromyalgia Score screening may be useful for evaluating ET discontinuation risk. Treatments targeting nociplastic pain may be more effective for treating ET-emergent pain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Grant Carr
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sidi Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Chad M Brummett
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Kelley M Kidwell
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - N Lynn Henry
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, 1500 East Medical Center Dr. Room 7322, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
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Abstract
Endometriosis affects approximately 190 million women and people assigned female at birth worldwide. It is a chronic, inflammatory, gynecologic disease marked by the presence of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus, which in many patients is associated with debilitating painful symptoms. Patients with endometriosis are also at greater risk of infertility, emergence of fatigue, multisite pain, and other comorbidities. Thus, endometriosis is best understood as a condition with variable presentation and effects at multiple life stages. A long diagnostic delay after symptom onset is common, and persistence and recurrence of symptoms despite treatment is common. This review discusses the potential genetic, hormonal, and immunologic factors that lead to endometriosis, with a focus on current diagnostic and management strategies for gynecologists, general practitioners, and clinicians specializing in conditions for which patients with endometriosis are at higher risk. It examines evidence supporting the different surgical, pharmacologic, and non-pharmacologic approaches to treating patients with endometriosis and presents an easy to adopt step-by-step management strategy. As endometriosis is a multisystem disease, patients with the condition should ideally be offered a personalized, multimodal, interdisciplinary treatment approach. A priority for future discovery is determining clinically informative sub-classifications of endometriosis that predict prognosis and enhance treatment prioritization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew W Horne
- EXPPECT Edinburgh and MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Stacey A Missmer
- Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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22
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Cockrum R, Tu F. Hysterectomy for Chronic Pelvic Pain. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am 2022; 49:257-271. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ogc.2022.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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23
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Poli-Neto OB, Hallak JEC, Rosa-E-Silva JC, Crippa JADS. Is it the Ideal Time to Start Prescribing Cannabis Derivatives to Treat Endometriosis-associated Pain? REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE GINECOLOGIA E OBSTETRICIA : REVISTA DA FEDERACAO BRASILEIRA DAS SOCIEDADES DE GINECOLOGIA E OBSTETRICIA 2022; 44:449-451. [PMID: 35697067 PMCID: PMC9948061 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1749430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Omero Benedicto Poli-Neto
- Gynecological and Obstetrics Department, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Jaime Eduardo Cecílio Hallak
- Neurosciences and Behavioral Sciences Department, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Julio Cesar Rosa-E-Silva
- Gynecological and Obstetrics Department, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - José Alexandre de Souza Crippa
- Neurosciences and Behavioral Sciences Department, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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