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Thom C, Livingstone K, Ottenhoff J, Han D, Martindale J, Moak J. Comparison of transvaginal ultrasound utilization between radiology and point of care ultrasound in first trimester pregnancy. Am J Emerg Med 2024; 80:143-148. [PMID: 38604108 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2024.03.036] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transvaginal (TVUS) and transabdominal ultrasound (TAUS) are both utilized in the evaluation of early pregnancy patients. While many practitioners using point of care ultrasound (POCUS) will generally not pursue TVUS in cases where an intrauterine pregnancy (IUP) is visualized on TAUS, this may not be true in Radiology performed ultrasound. OBJECTIVES To evaluate for differences in transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) utilization between Radiology performed (RP) ultrasound and point of care ultrasound (POCUS) by Emergency Department (ED) physicians in early pregnancy patients. Secondarily, to assess length of stay (LOS) differences and the impact of specialized emergency ultrasound training on TVUS utilization. METHODS This was a retrospective study at a single academic ED. Study population was all ED patients who underwent first trimester ultrasound during the one year period of March 1, 2021 to February 28, 2022. Variables evaluated were chief complaint, gestational age, LOS, TAUS and TVUS utilization, ultrasound findings, and ultrasound specialty training of the ED physician. RESULTS There were 133 cases of POCUS ultrasound and 254 cases of RP ultrasound. All cases had TAUS imaging performed. Median LOS for patients when POCUS was utilized was 207 min (IQR 151-294) and 258 min (IQR 208-328) for those only using RP ultrasound, p ≤ 0.001. In the POCUS cohort, 38% (95% CI 30%-46%) received TVUS, while 94% received TVUS in the RP cohort (95% CI 90%-96%), p ≤ 0.001. Patients seen by ED faculty with ultrasound specialty training had TVUS 53% of the time (95% CI 41%-65%), while those seen by other ED faculty had TVUS 79% (95% CI 74%-83%) of the time, p = 0.035. CONCLUSION POCUS in early pregnancy is associated with a significant reduction in TVUS usage. We suspect that POCUS users elect not to pursue TVUS after an IUP is identified on TAUS, while technicians perform protocol-based TVUS irrespective of TAUS findings. Patients seen by ultrasound trained ED physicians are less likely to receive TVUS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - David Han
- University of Virginia Health System, USA
| | | | - James Moak
- University of Virginia Health System, USA
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Hamel C, Amir B, Avard B, Fung-Kee-Fung K, Furey B, Garel J, Ghandehari H. Canadian Association of Radiologists Obstetrics and Gynecology Diagnostic Imaging Referral Guideline. Can Assoc Radiol J 2024; 75:261-268. [PMID: 37624360 DOI: 10.1177/08465371231185292] [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] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The Canadian Association of Radiologists (CAR) Obstetrics and Gynecology Expert Panel consists of radiologists specializing in obstetrics and gynecology, obstetrics and gynecology physicians, a patient advisor, and an epidemiologist/guideline methodologist. After developing a list of 12 clinical/diagnostic scenarios, a systematic rapid scoping review was undertaken to identify systematically produced referral guidelines that provide recommendations for one or more of these clinical/diagnostic scenarios. Recommendations from 46 guidelines and contextualization criteria in the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) for guidelines framework were used to develop 68 recommendation statements across the 12 scenarios related to the evaluation of obstetrics and gynecology clinical and diagnostic scenarios. This guideline presents the methods of development and the imaging recommendations for a variety of obstetrical and gynecological conditions including pregnancy assessment, recurrent first trimester pregnancy loss, post-partum indications, disorders of menstruation, localization of intra-uterine contraceptive device, infertility assessment, assessment of adnexal mass, pelvic pain of presumed gynecological origin, and pelvic floor evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Candyce Hamel
- Canadian Association of Radiologists, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Barb Avard
- North York General Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Beth Furey
- Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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3
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Albakri AA, Alzahrani MM, Alghamdi SH. Medical Imaging in Pregnancy: Safety, Appropriate Utilization, and Alternative Modalities for Imaging Pregnant Patients. Cureus 2024; 16:e54346. [PMID: 38500900 PMCID: PMC10945608 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.54346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
This article reviews the existing literature on diagnostic and medical imaging of pregnant women, the risks and safety measures of different medical imaging modalities, and alternative modalities for imaging pregnant patients. Different medical imaging modalities such as MRI, CT scan, ultrasound, nuclear medicine, and X-ray imaging help to evaluate women with recognized or unrecognized pregnancies and identify any underlying complications among pregnant patients. Fetuses are more sensitive to radiation and the effects of medical imaging as compared to adults since they have a rapidly developing cell system. During cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation, fetuses suffer greatly from imaging radiation since they are developing under a dynamic system. To ensure safety, pregnant women should discuss the benefits and risks of medical imaging with their physicians. In addition, radiologists should not perform any medical imaging procedure without the patient's consent, unless the patient cannot make any sound decision. Fetal risks of medical imaging include slow growth and development of the fetus, abortion, malformations, impaired brain function, abnormal childhood growth, and neurological development. Diagnostic imaging procedures are necessary when a condition that needs medical evaluation arises during pregnancy such as appendicitis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Saeed H Alghamdi
- Interventional Radiology, King Fahad General Hospital, Al Baha, SAU
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Wojcicki J, Wawrysiuk S, Sochacki-Wojcicka N, Podlinska O, Pietrych L, Szpotanska-Sikorska M. More than a hundred thousand respondents within 48 h: How the power of social media helped to understand pregnancy loss in Poland - A retrospective population-based cohort study. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2023; 289:29-35. [PMID: 37625286 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2023.08.008] [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: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Miscarriage is defined as the loss of pregnancy before 20-24 weeks of gestation, and it is the most common complication of early pregnancy. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors of spontaneous abortion in the population of Polish females to provide a reference for clinical work. METHODS A cross-sectional self-administered on-line survey was distributed between 4th and 5th of October 2019 in the social media across Poland. A total of 100,026 recipients responded to the questionnaire and 93,636 valid respondents were included in the analyses. RESULTS Among respondents who had ever been pregnant, 31.2% reported at least one spontaneous abortion. The prevalence of miscarriage varied based on age, parity, place of residence and the education level. The first symptom of miscarriage was a vaginal bleeding (56.2%) and abdominal cramps (25.8%), while 43% of respondents had no symptoms and found out during doctor's visit. No medical assistance was required after complete spontaneous abortion in 39.2% of cases. CONCLUSIONS Miscarriage is a common complication of pregnancy, but it is not yet fully understood. The goal of future medicine is to minimize the medicalization of spontaneous abortion and excessive medical intervention by raising awareness about natural miscarriage route.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Wojcicki
- Ernest Foundation - The Prenatal Medicine Foundation, Algierska 19W, 03-977 Warszawa, Poland
| | - Sara Wawrysiuk
- 2nd Department of Gynaecology, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8, 20-954 Lublin, Poland.
| | - Nicole Sochacki-Wojcicka
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Warsaw, pl. S. Starynkiewicza 1/3, 02-015 Warszawa, Poland
| | - Olga Podlinska
- Ernest Foundation - The Prenatal Medicine Foundation, Algierska 19W, 03-977 Warszawa, Poland
| | - Lukasz Pietrych
- Department of Econometrics and Statistics, Warsaw University of Life Sciences - SGGW, Nowoursynowska 166, 02-787 Warszawa, Poland
| | - Monika Szpotanska-Sikorska
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Warsaw, pl. S. Starynkiewicza 1/3, 02-015 Warszawa, Poland
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Bonito G, Masselli G, Gigli S, Ricci P. Imaging of Acute Abdominopelvic Pain in Pregnancy and Puerperium-Part I: Obstetric (Non-Fetal) Complications. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2890. [PMID: 37761257 PMCID: PMC10528445 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13182890] [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: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute abdominopelvic pain in pregnant and postpartum patients presents clinical and therapeutic challenges, often requiring quick and accurate imaging diagnosis. Ultrasound remains the primary imaging investigation. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been shown to be a powerful diagnostic tool in the setting of acute abdominal pain during pregnancy and puerperium. MRI overcomes some drawbacks of US, avoiding the ionizing radiation exposure of a computed tomography (CT) scan. Although CT is not usually appropriate in pregnant patients, it is crucial in the emergency evaluation of postpartum complications. The aim of this article is to provide radiologists with a thorough familiarity with the common and uncommon pregnancy and puerperium abdominal emergencies by illustrating their imaging appearances. The present first section will review and discuss the imaging findings for acute abdominopelvic pain of obstetric (non-fetal) etiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Bonito
- Department of Emergency Radiology, Policlinico Umberto I Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy; (G.B.); (P.R.)
| | - Gabriele Masselli
- Department of Emergency Radiology, Policlinico Umberto I Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy; (G.B.); (P.R.)
| | - Silvia Gigli
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Via dei Monti Tiburtini 385, 00157 Rome, Italy;
| | - Paolo Ricci
- Department of Emergency Radiology, Policlinico Umberto I Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy; (G.B.); (P.R.)
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Pathological Sciences, Policlinico Umberto I Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161 Rome, Italy
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Thom C, Kongkatong M, Moak J. The Utility of Transvaginal Ultrasound After Intrauterine Pregnancy Identification on Transabdominal Ultrasound in Emergency Department Patients. Open Access Emerg Med 2023; 15:207-216. [PMID: 37274422 PMCID: PMC10237201 DOI: 10.2147/oaem.s409920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Ultrasonography has an important role in the evaluation of Emergency Department (ED) patients presenting with early pregnancy complaints. Both transabdominal (TAUS) and transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) can be utilized. While TVUS generally allows for greater detail, it is unclear how much added benefit exists in performing TVUS once an intrauterine pregnancy (IUP) has been identified on TAUS. Methods This was a retrospective study utilizing Radiology Department ultrasound examinations obtained in first trimester pregnancy ED patients during a consecutive four month period in 2019. Studies wherein both TAUS and TVUS were both performed were included. Two ED physicians with specialized training in point of care ultrasound reviewed only the TAUS images from these studies. Their findings were compared to the Radiologist interpretation, which was inclusive of both TAUS and TVUS components of the study. Results 108 studies met inclusion criteria. Amongst these, 82 had IUP's identified on the radiologist report. 69 studies had an IUP identified by ED physician review of the TAUS images, with 1 false positive. Each case of intrauterine fetal demise (IUFD) was identified on ED physician review of TAUS. Two ectopic pregnancies were present, neither of which was mistaken for IUP on ED physician TAUS review. There were 15 studies with subchorionic hemorrhage and 3 studies with an ovarian cyst noted on the radiologist report. Conclusion Following the identification of an IUP on TAUS, the added diagnostic value of TVUS amongst this cohort of ED patients was low. Given the added time and cost of TVUS, selective instead of routine usage should be encouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Thom
- Emergency Medicine, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Matthew Kongkatong
- Emergency Medicine, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - James Moak
- Emergency Medicine, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA, USA
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King SA, Salerno A, Sommerkamp S. Ultrasound in Pregnancy. Emerg Med Clin North Am 2023; 41:337-353. [PMID: 37024168 DOI: 10.1016/j.emc.2022.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
This article reviews the use of ultrasound in pregnancy pertinent to the emergency physician. The techniques for transabdominal and transvaginal studies are detailed including approaches to gestational dating. Diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy is reviewed focusing on the potential pitfalls: reliance on beta-human chorionic gonadotropin, pseudogestational sac, interstitial pregnancy, and heterotopic pregnancy. Techniques for the identification of placental issues and presenting parts during the second and third trimesters are reviewed. Ultrasound is a safe and effective tool for the experienced emergency physician and is integral to providing high-quality care to pregnant women.
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Self-Reported Depression among Chinese Women with Recurrent Pregnancy Loss: Focusing on Associated Risk Factors. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11247474. [PMID: 36556090 PMCID: PMC9785000 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11247474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: To investigate whether women suffering from recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) have a higher prevalence of self-reported depression than healthy controls and to assess the associated risk factors for RPL women self-reporting the symptom of depression. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional study investigating 247 women with histories of RPL and 193 healthy women was performed in Southwest China. The Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) was used to measure self-reported depression, and the prevalence of self-reported depression was compared between the two groups. Sociodemographic data for the two groups and clinical information for the RPL group were collected by questionnaires. (3) Results: The prevalence of self-reported depression was higher in the RPL group than in the control group (45.3% vs. 30.1%, p < 0.01). Subgroup analyses indicated that the statistical difference in the prevalence of self-reported depression was significant in the subgroups of women in the first trimester of gestation, age ≥ 36 years, BMI ≥ 18.5 kg/m2, working hours ≤ 8 h/day, university and higher education, and urban residence. Multivariable logistic analysis indicated that age ≥ 36 years, >2 times of spontaneous miscarriages, and no history of live birth were independent risk factors for RPL women self-reporting depression. (4) Conclusions: A higher prevalence of self-reported depression was observed in RPL patients than in healthy women. The psychological status for RPL patients with age ≥ 36 years, >2 times of spontaneous miscarriages, or without a history of a live birth needs to be further addressed.
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Çelik A, Yazıcı MM, Oktay M. The impact of high-frequency linear transducer on the accuracy of pelvic ultrasound in early pregnancy pelvic pain and bleeding. Am J Emerg Med 2022; 61:105-110. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2022.08.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
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Lee IT, Rubin ES, Wu J, Koelper N, Barnhart KT. The incidence and importance of the pseudogestational sac revisited. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2022; 226:537.e1-537.e7. [PMID: 34736913 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2021.10.033] [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: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In a pregnancy of unknown location, an intrauterine fluid collection may represent either the early gestational sac of an intrauterine pregnancy, or as reported in previous literature, the pseudogestational sac of an ectopic pregnancy. Various sonographic features have been used to distinguish these 2 entities, but the clinical relevance of the pseudogestational sac remains unclear. OBJECTIVE To establish the incidence and relative rate of intrauterine fluid collection among ectopic and intrauterine pregnancies and to determine if the size of the collection differs between ectopic and intrauterine pregnancies STUDY DESIGN: We performed a retrospective cohort study of women with pregnancies of unknown location and pelvic or abdominal pain or bleeding. We calculated the incidences of intrauterine fluid collections among ectopic and intrauterine pregnancies, including both ongoing pregnancies and spontaneous abortions, given that that our focus was location and not viability. We calculated the relative risk of ectopic pregnancy if an intrauterine fluid collection was present, adjusting for age and vaginal bleeding. We compared the incidences of ectopic and intrauterine pregnancies among those with and without intrauterine fluid collections. Among those with collections, we compared the mean sac diameter between ectopic and intrauterine pregnancies in continuous and categorical fashions. RESULTS We evaluated 1236 women presenting with a pregnancy of unknown location. The rates of ectopic and intrauterine pregnancies (including spontaneous abortions) were 13.1% and 63.9%, respectively, with the remainder lost to follow-up. On ultrasound, 452 women (36.6%) had an intrauterine fluid collection. Eight of 162 ectopic pregnancies (4.9%) had a collection, compared with 363 of 789 intrauterine pregnancies (46.0%) (P=.01). Of the ectopics with a fluid collection, 5 had an adnexal mass. The presence of intrauterine fluid collection decreased the risk of ectopic pregnancy (adjusted relative risk, 0.09; 95% confidence interval, 0.05-0.19) after adjusting for age and the presence of bleeding. Among those with an intrauterine fluid collection, the rate of ectopic pregnancy was 2.2%, and the rate of intrauterine pregnancy was 97.8%; among those without a collection, the rate of ectopic pregnancy was 26.7%, and the rate of intrauterine pregnancy was 73.3%. The mean sac diameter did not differ between ectopic and intrauterine pregnancies, whether analyzed continuously or categorically. CONCLUSION In the presence of an intrauterine fluid collection, the rate of ectopic pregnancy is very low. The size of the intrauterine fluid collection in a woman with a pregnancy of unknown location cannot be used to distinguish between a gestational sac and a pseudogestational sac. Pseudogestational sacs are uncommon and of little clinical consequence. In assessing pregnancies of unknown location, clinicians should incorporate the entire clinical picture, including other sonographic findings, to avoid incorrect or delayed diagnoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris T Lee
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA.
| | - Elizabeth S Rubin
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Jessica Wu
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Nathanael Koelper
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Kurt T Barnhart
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
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Serum calponin 2 is a novel biomarker of tubal ectopic pregnancy. Fertil Steril 2021; 116:1020-1027. [PMID: 34217487 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.05.101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate serum protein calponin 2 (CNN2) as a candidate biomarker for tubal ectopic pregnancy (EP). DESIGN Retrospective study. SETTING Single University affiliated tertiary hospital. PATIENT(S) Serum samples were obtained from 84 patients with EP, 39 with viable intrauterine pregnancy (vIUP), and 42 with miscarriage. Moreover, 10 fallopian tube and corresponding villous tissue samples from patients with EP, 6 villous tissue samples from patients with vIUP, and 10 villous tissue samples from patients with miscarriage were collected. INTERVENTION(S) Serum CNN2 concentrations were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay; CNN2 expression in tissues was evaluated via immunohistochemistry and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The diagnostic performance of serum CNN2 to discriminate an EP from vIUP and miscarriage. RESULT(S) CNN2 was highly expressed in villous stromal cells isolated from patients with EP, and CNN2 messenger ribonucleic acid expression was upregulated in villous tissues from women with EP compared with that in women with vIUPs and miscarriages. Serum CNN2 concentration was higher in women with EP than that in women with vIUP and miscarriage. The serum CNN2 predicted EP from vIUP and miscarriage with areas under the curve (AUCs) of 0.931 (95% confidence interval: 0.889-0.975). For discriminating EP from miscarriage only, the AUC was 0.906 (95% confidence interval: 0.835-0.977). In contrast, the AUCs for serum human chorionic gonadotropin were 0.809 and 0.637, respectively. CONCLUSION(S) Our data highlight the possibility of serum CNN2 as a single biomarker for the diagnosis of EP. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ChiCTR 1900020483.
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Abstract
Recurrent pregnancy loss is a distressing pregnancy disorder experienced by ~2.5% of women trying to conceive. Recurrent pregnancy loss is defined as the failure of two or more clinically recognized pregnancies before 20-24 weeks of gestation and includes embryonic and fetal losses. The diagnosis of an early pregnancy loss is relatively straightforward, although progress in predicting and preventing recurrent pregnancy loss has been hampered by a lack of standardized definitions, the uncertainties surrounding the pathogenesis and the highly variable clinical presentation. The prognosis for couples with recurrent pregnancy loss is generally good, although the likelihood of a successful pregnancy depends on maternal age and the number of previous losses. Recurrent pregnancy loss can be caused by chromosomal errors, anatomical uterine defects, autoimmune disorders and endometrial dysfunction. Available treatments target the putative risk factors of pregnancy loss, although the effectiveness of many medical interventions is controversial. Regardless of the underlying aetiology, couples require accurate information on their chances of having a baby and appropriate support should be offered to reduce the psychological burden associated with multiple miscarriages. Future research must investigate the pathogenesis of recurrent pregnancy loss and evaluate novel diagnostic tests and treatments in adequately powered clinical trials.
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Robbins JB, Sadowski EA, Maturen KE, Akin EA, Ascher SM, Brook OR, Cassella CR, Dassel M, Henrichsen TL, Learman LA, Patlas MN, Saphier C, Wasnik AP, Glanc P. ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Abnormal Uterine Bleeding. J Am Coll Radiol 2020; 17:S336-S345. [PMID: 33153547 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacr.2020.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
This publication summarizes the relevant literature for the imaging of patients with symptoms of abnormal uterine bleeding, including initial imaging, follow-up imaging when the original ultrasound is inconclusive, and follow-up imaging when surveillance is appropriate. For patients with abnormal uterine bleeding, combined transabdominal and transvaginal ultrasound of the pelvis with Doppler is the most appropriate initial imaging study. If the uterus is incompletely visualized with the initial ultrasou2nd, MRI of the pelvis without and with contrast is the next appropriate imaging study, unless a polyp is suspected on the original ultrasound, then sonohysterography can be performed. If the patient continues to experience abnormal uterine bleeding, assessment with ultrasound of the pelvis, sonohysterography, and MRI of the pelvis without and with contrast would be appropriate. The American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed annually by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and revision include an extensive analysis of current medical literature from peer reviewed journals and the application of well-established methodologies (RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation or GRADE) to rate the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures for specific clinical scenarios. In those instances where evidence is lacking or equivocal, expert opinion may supplement the available evidence to recommend imaging or treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Esma A Akin
- George Washington University Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Susan M Ascher
- Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Olga R Brook
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Courtney R Cassella
- Reading Hospital, Reading, Pennsylvania; American College of Emergency Physicians
| | - Mark Dassel
- Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio; American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
| | | | - Lee A Learman
- Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, Virginia; American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
| | | | - Carl Saphier
- Women's Ultrasound, LLC, Englewood, New Jersey; American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
| | | | - Phyllis Glanc
- Specialty Chair, University of Toronto and Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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14
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Cohen-Steiner C, Ouldamer L. [Practices' evaluation of missed miscarriage diagnosis in gynecologic emergency service in Tours CHU]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 48:671-678. [PMID: 32247856 DOI: 10.1016/j.gofs.2020.03.021] [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: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In the gynecology emergency departments, a pregnancy of uncertain viability is diagnosed in 29% of all first-trimester pregnancy medical consultations that require an ultrasound. The question of pregnancy viability is therefore common in our medical practice and comes along with human implications. In 2014, the French National College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (CNGOF) promulgated clear guidelines regarding missed early miscarriage diagnosis and treatment. We wanted to evaluate our level of compliance with the diagnosis dimension of those guidelines and assess their optimization level since they were published. MATERIALS AND METHODS This retrospective and descriptive study is based on all missed early miscarriage that were taken care of within the gynecology emergency department at the CHU in Tours (France) over the course of three non-consecutive years. The year 2013 has been considered - before the guidelines were promulgated, 2015 - just after the guidelines were promulgated and lastly, 2018 in order to have the necessary distance for the interpretation. The following criteria was assessed for each year: the diagnostic ultrasound criteria; when relevant, the monitoring ultrasound deadlines; and the details regarding any patient management errors if errors were made. Secondarily, the uterine evacuation treatment procedures were examined. RESULTS The study population includes 297 women. The non-compliance with the guidelines affected 20% of the women in 2013, 12% in 2015 and 15% in 2018 (p = 0.25 when comparing the pre-guideline and post-guideline periods). An ultrasound performed too early is the most common error made each year even though its frequency has decreased (p = 0.03). The least experienced sonographers tend to be rather cautious, performing additional unnecessary examinations and scheduling excessive additional monitoring ultrasound deadlines. Only 13% of the medication-based therapies made uterine evacuation successful. If the initial use of prostaglandin substances was not successful, no additional dose of medication enabled any women patient to avoid surgery. CONCLUSION The compliance with the guidelines regarding pregnancies of uncertain viability is not optimal. Partial improvements in our own patient care management have been made since the publication of the guidelines; however, the main risk at stake is to terminate the evolution of a normal pregnancy due to some remaining medical misjudgments. The introduction of quality scores for clinical ultrasound images would be an interesting topic to discuss.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Cohen-Steiner
- Service de gynécologie-obstérique, maternité Olympe-de-Gouges, CHU de Tours, 2, boulevard Tonnellé, 37000 Tours, France.
| | - L Ouldamer
- Service de gynécologie-obstérique, maternité Olympe-de-Gouges, CHU de Tours, 2, boulevard Tonnellé, 37000 Tours, France
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Investigation of clinical utility of contrast-enhanced MRI in the diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy. Clin Radiol 2020; 75:543-551. [PMID: 32209236 DOI: 10.1016/j.crad.2020.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
AIM To investigate whether contrast-enhanced (CE)-magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) improves identification of implantation site of ectopic pregnancy. MATERIALS AND METHODS This retrospective study enrolled 63 patients in whom implantation sites had been confirmed at histopathology. Two expert radiologists for gynaecological imaging and two inexpert radiologists independently reviewed non-CE MRI and a combination of non-CE and CE-MRI (non-CE+CE-MRI), then determined implantation site with a confidence level. The following MRI features were also evaluated: extrauterine gestational sac (GS)-like structure (shape, signal intensities at T1-weighted imaging [WI], T2WI, and diffusion-weighted imaging [DWI], presence of the three rings appearance, and distinct low intensity areas at T2WI, presence of tree or dot-like components, degree of contrast enhancement), fallopian tube (dilatation, dilatation with haematoma, degree of contrast enhancement, enhanced components within the tube), and ascites. These findings were compared for non-CE and non-CE+CE-MRI data, and for expert and inexpert groups. RESULTS The expert group identified implantation sites correctly in 58/63 (92%) cases for non-CE and non-CE+CE-MRI. In the inexpert group, the correct identification was improved from 54/63 (86%) using non-CE MRI to 58/63 (92%) using non-CE+CE-MRI, but was not significant (p=0.29). In comparison between non-CE and non-CE+CE-MRI, dilation of the fallopian tubes was observed more frequently (p=0.004) and the confidence level was elevated significantly in the non-CE+CE-MRI (p<0.0001) in the inexpert group. Intergroup comparison revealed that confidence level was significantly higher in the expert group than in the inexpert group using non-CE MRI (p<0.0001), although the difference was not significant at non-CE+CE MRI (p=0.49). CONCLUSION CE-MRI did not significantly improve correct identification of ectopic pregnancy implantation sites, although the addition of contrast enhancement did enable inexpert radiologists to diagnose confidently.
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