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Boero V, Cetera GE, Caia C, Merli CEM, Gramegna G, Pesce E, Barbara G, Ermelinda M, Vercellini P. Beyond vulvodynia: from a correct diagnosis to a multidisciplinary care program. A referral center experience. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2024; 310:1189-1195. [PMID: 38634899 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-024-07496-0] [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: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vulvodynia is a chronic pain condition without an identifiable cause. As such, it is a diagnosis of exclusion, and all other causes of vulvar pain should be excluded. Although a standard treatment for vulvodynia has not been established yet, multidisciplinary care programs appear to be effective. PUROPOSE The aim of this retrospective monocentric study was to analyze the prevalence of vulvodynia among women referred to our institution for a suspected diagnosis and to evaluate the efficacy of a multidimensional treatment plan. The primary outcome was the prevalence of vulvodynia following differential diagnosis. Secondary outcomes included: prevalence of the differential diagnoses, symptom resolution rate following treatment, and the relation between persistence of symptoms and (a) patients' age; (b) coexisting chronic overlapping pain conditions (COPCs). RESULTS After having ruled out all other causes of vulvar pain, only 40.1% of women were considered as affected by vulvodynia. The most frequent differential diagnoses included lower genital tract infections (25.3%), vulvar lichen sclerosus (17.6%) and vulvovaginal atrophy (8.2%). Following a multidisciplinary care program, resolution of symptoms was observed in 13.6% cases, improvement in 64.3% and persistence in 21.9%. We did not find a statistically significant association between persistence of symptoms and age > 38 years (OR 2.10; p = 0.30). Women with one or more COPCs other than vulvodynia had a 75% increased risk of not obtaining a resolution of symptoms (OR 1.75; p = 0.44). CONCLUSION A thorough differential diagnosis and a multidisciplinary care program may represent a first way out of the muddle in the management of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Boero
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Emily Cetera
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Academic Center for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Carlotta Caia
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
| | | | - Giada Gramegna
- Obstetric and Gynecological Emergency Unit and SVSeD (Service for Sexual and Domestic Violence), Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Pesce
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Giussy Barbara
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Academic Center for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Monti Ermelinda
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Vercellini
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Academic Center for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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Del Forno S, Raspollini A, Doglioli M, Andreotti A, Spagnolo E, Lenzi J, Borghese G, Raimondo D, Arena A, Rodriguez E, Hernandez A, Govoni F, Seracchioli R. Painful sexual intercourse, quality of life and sexual function in patients with endometriosis: not just deep dyspareunia. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2024:10.1007/s00404-024-07643-7. [PMID: 39052076 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-024-07643-7] [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: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the prevalence of deep and superficial dyspareunia in women with diagnosis of endometriosis. Secondly, to assess the temporal relation between deep and superficial dyspareunia in women reporting both symptoms (concomitant dyspareunia) and the impact on quality of life (QoL) and sexual function. METHODS This is a cross-sectional cohort study that included fertile women with diagnosis of endometriosis. Enrolled subjects reported pain symptoms including dyspareunia and its temporal onset and completed two one-time validated questionnaires regarding sexual function (Female Sexual Function Index) and QoL (International QoL Assessment SF-36). RESULTS Among the 334 enrolled patients, 75.7% (95%) reported dyspareunia. Women were divided into four groups according to the presence and type of dyspareunia: isolated superficial dyspareunia (6.3%), isolated deep dyspareunia (26.0%), concomitant dyspareunia (43.4%) and no dyspareunia (24.3%). Women with concomitant dyspareunia reported higher NRS scores than women with isolated dyspareunia or no dyspareunia (P ≤ 0.001). The majority of women with concomitant dyspareunia (56.6%) reported that deep dyspareunia developed before superficial dyspareunia. Women with concomitant dyspareunia reported worse QoL and worse sexual function than women with isolated dyspareunia or without dyspareunia (P ≤ 0.001). CONCLUSION Dyspareunia is a common symptom in women with endometriosis, with many reporting concomitant deep and superficial dyspareunia. Concomitant dyspareunia can significantly impact sexual function and quality of life (QoL). Therefore, it is crucial to investigate dyspareunia thoroughly and differentiate between its types to tailor effective therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Del Forno
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Arianna Raspollini
- Division of Gynaecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Massarenti 13, Bologna, Italy.
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Marisol Doglioli
- Division of Gynaecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Massarenti 13, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Anna Andreotti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Emanuela Spagnolo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jacopo Lenzi
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giulia Borghese
- Division of Gynaecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Massarenti 13, Bologna, Italy
| | - Diego Raimondo
- Division of Gynaecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Massarenti 13, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessandro Arena
- Division of Gynaecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Massarenti 13, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elena Rodriguez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alicia Hernandez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francesca Govoni
- Division of Gynaecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Massarenti 13, Bologna, Italy
| | - Renato Seracchioli
- Division of Gynaecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Massarenti 13, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Wang Z, Zhan C, Liao L, Luo Y, Lin S, Yan S. Bidirectional causality between the levels of blood lipids and endometriosis: a two-sample mendelian randomization study. BMC Womens Health 2024; 24:387. [PMID: 38965508 PMCID: PMC11223312 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-024-03213-w] [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: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Observational studies have found a correlation between the levels of blood lipids and the development and progression of endometriosis (EM). However, the causality and direction of this correlation is unclear. This study aimed to examine the bidirectional connection between lipid profiles and the risk of EM using publicly available genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary statistics. METHODS Eligible exposure variables such as levels of triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) were selected using a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis method following a series of quality control procedures. Data on EM were obtained from the publicly available Finnish database of European patients. Inverse variance weighted (IVW), MR Egger, weighted median, and weighted mode methods were used to analyze the causal relationship between lipid exposure and EM, exclude confounders, perform sensitivity analyses, and assess the stability of the results. Reverse MR analyses were performed with EM as exposure and lipid results as study outcomes. RESULTS IVW analysis results identified HDL as a protective factor for EM, while TG was shown to be a risk factor for EM. Subgroup analyses based on the site of the EM lesion identified HDL as a protective factor for EM of the uterus, while TG was identified a risk factor for the EM of the fallopian tube, ovary, and pelvic peritoneum. Reverse analysis did not reveal any effect of EM on the levels of lipids. CONCLUSION Blood lipids, such as HDL and TG, may play an important role in the development and progression of EM. However, EM does not lead to dyslipidemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenna Wang
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics , Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, No.18, Daoshan Road, Gulou District, Fuzhou City, Fujian Province, China
| | - Chunxian Zhan
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics , Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, No.18, Daoshan Road, Gulou District, Fuzhou City, Fujian Province, China
| | - Linghua Liao
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics , Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, No.18, Daoshan Road, Gulou District, Fuzhou City, Fujian Province, China
| | - Ye Luo
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics , Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, No.18, Daoshan Road, Gulou District, Fuzhou City, Fujian Province, China
| | - Shunhe Lin
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics , Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, No.18, Daoshan Road, Gulou District, Fuzhou City, Fujian Province, China.
| | - Shihan Yan
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics , Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, No.18, Daoshan Road, Gulou District, Fuzhou City, Fujian Province, China
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Chaichian S, Mehdizadehkashi A, Haghgoo A, Ajdary M, Derakhshan R, Rokhgireh S, Sarhadi S, Nikfar B. Sleep disorders in patients with endometriosis; a cross-sectional study. BMC Womens Health 2024; 24:340. [PMID: 38877485 PMCID: PMC11177365 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-024-03185-x] [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: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis affects 10-15% of women of reproductive age and is considered a critical gynecological problem. Endometriosis causes pain and infertility, both of which can impair the patient's quality of life. Sleep disorders account for the most bothersome presentation of impaired quality of life. This study investigated the frequency and severity of sleep disorders in women with endometriosis. METHODS In this analytical cross-sectional study, 665 women referred to three hospitals in Tehran, Rasool-e-Akram, Pars, and Nikan, were included (463 patients with endometriosis and 202 women without endometriosis). All of them were informed about the study design and the aim of the research, and then they were asked to sign the consent form and complete the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). After data gathering and entering, they were analyzed by SPSS version 22 and were considered significant with P < 0.05. RESULTS The study population's mean age was 35.4 ± 7.9 years. The mean global PSQI score in the case group (endometriosis patients) was higher than in the control group (non-endometriosis patients) (10.6 vs. 7.1; P < 0.001). Patients with dyspareunia, dysuria, pelvic pain, and dyschezia had a significantly higher PSQI score (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION According to the findings of the present study, the sleep quality in endometriosis patients is low, and there is a need to pay greater attention to these patients. This may result in some changes in the therapeutic strategies for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahla Chaichian
- Endometriosis Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Pars Advanced and Minimally Invasive Medical Manners Research Center, Pars Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Mehdizadehkashi
- Endometriosis Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Iranian Scientific Society of Minimally Invasive Gynecology, Tehran, Iran.
| | | | - Marziyeh Ajdary
- Endometriosis Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Roya Derakhshan
- Endometriosis Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samaneh Rokhgireh
- Endometriosis Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeedeh Sarhadi
- Health Promotion Research Center, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
- Department of Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Banafsheh Nikfar
- Pars Advanced and Minimally Invasive Medical Manners Research Center, Pars Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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5
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Peng L, Luo X, Cao B, Wang X. Exploring the link: Systemic immune-inflammation index as a marker in endometriosis-Insights from the NHANES 2001-2006 cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304591. [PMID: 38843259 PMCID: PMC11156273 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The systemic immuno-inflammatory index (SII), a novel immune marker of inflammation, has not been previously associated with endometriosis. The objective of this research is to explore the link between SII and the occurrence of endometriosis. METHODS Utilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning 2001 to 2006, we screened and extracted relevant information from the population. Participants missing data on either SII or endometriosis were excluded. We divided the remaining cohort into quartiles based on SII levels: Q1 (SII < 249, n = 848), Q2 (249 ≤ SII < 604.55, n = 847), Q3 (604.55 ≤ SII < 825.35, n = 847), and Q4 (SII ≥ 852.35, n = 848). Multiple linear regression and smooth curve fitting techniques, were to evaluate the non-linear association between SII and endometriosis. RESULTS The study included 3,390 adults aged 20 to 55. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between SII and endometriosis [3.14, 95% CI (2.22, 4.45), P < 0.01]. This correlation was consistent across subgroups defined by marital status, poverty income ratio, BMI, alcohol consumption, and age at first menstrual period. However, the relationship between SII and endometriosis was significantly modified by age, education, and history of pregnancy in the stratified analyses. The curve fitting indicated an S-shaped curve, with an inflection point at SII = 1105.76. CONCLUSION The SII may serve as a predictive marker for endometriosis risk among women in the United States, offering a potentially simple and cost-effective approach. However, given the cross-sectional design of this investigation, further validation in prospective studies is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Peng
- The Second People’s Hospital of Jingdezhen, Jingdezhen, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xiaohan Luo
- The Second People’s Hospital of Jingdezhen, Jingdezhen, Jiangxi, China
| | - Baodi Cao
- The Second People’s Hospital of Jingdezhen, Jingdezhen, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- The Second People’s Hospital of Jingdezhen, Jingdezhen, Jiangxi, China
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6
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Bayu P, Wibisono JJ. Vitamin C and E antioxidant supplementation may significantly reduce pain symptoms in endometriosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301867. [PMID: 38820340 PMCID: PMC11142610 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301867] [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: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The primary challenge encountered by individuals diagnosed with endometriosis is the experience of pain. Emerging research indicates that oxidative stress is implicated in the initiation of pain associated with endometriosis. Vitamins C and E are known for their antioxidative properties. The primary objective of this study is to assess the efficacy of antioxidant supplementation, consisting of these vitamins, in the management of pain associated with endometriosis. METHODS A comprehensive search was conducted on the ClinicalTrials.gov, Scopus, Europe PMC, and Medline databases up until August 23rd, 2023, utilizing a combination of relevant keywords. This review incorporates literature that examines the relationship between antioxidant supplementation and pain in endometriosis. We employed fixed-effect models to analyze the risk ratio (RR) and present the outcomes together with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS A total of five RCTs were incorporated. The results of our meta-analysis indicated that antioxidant supplementation with vitamin C and E combination was associated with higher proportion of endometriosis patients reporting reduced chronic pelvic pain (RR 7.30; 95%CI: 3.27-16.31, p<0.00001, I2 = 0%), alleviations of dysmenorrhea (RR 1.96; 95%CI: 1.25-3.07, p = 0.003, I2 = 39%), and dyspareunia (RR 5.08; 95%CI: 2.10-12.26, p = 0.0003, I2 = 0%) than patients only receiving placebo. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests the potential ability of vitamin C and E in alleviating pain symptoms experienced by individuals with endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Bayu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Pelita Harapan University, Tangerang, Banten, Indonesia
| | - Jacobus Jeno Wibisono
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Pelita Harapan University, Tangerang, Banten, Indonesia
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7
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Borghese G, Doglioli M, Orsini B, Raffone A, Neola D, Travaglino A, Rovero G, Del Forno S, de Meis L, Locci M, Guida M, Lenzi J, Seracchioli R, Raimondo D. Progression of adenomyosis: Rate and associated factors. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2024. [PMID: 38738458 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.15572] [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: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the rate of disease progression and the factors associated with such progression in patients with an ultrasound diagnosis of adenomyosis. METHODS This was a single center, prospective, observational, cohort study performed at a tertiary referral center. Patients who obtained an ultrasound diagnosis of adenomyosis from May 2022 to August 2022 were recruited. Demographic, clinical and ultrasound data were recorded at the first visit (T0) and after 12 months (T1) for enrolled patients and compared between T0 and T1. The study population was divided in two groups according to progression (increase in uterine volume >20%) or stability/regression (decrease or increase in uterine volume ≤20%) of adenomyosis at T1. Primary study outcome was the rate of adenomyosis progression, while secondary study outcome was the association of adenomyosis progression with demographic and clinical factors. Post hoc subgroups analyses for primary and secondary study outcomes were performed based on hormonal therapy (untreated and treated). RESULTS A total of 221 patients were enrolled in the study, with no significant difference in terms of baseline data among the two study groups and no patients were lost to follow-up. The overall rate of adenomyosis progression was 21.3% (47/221 patients). The rate was 30.77% in hormonally untreated women, and 18.34% in hormonally treated women. Progression was associated with the presence of focal adenomyosis of the outer myometrium (P = 0.037), moderate to severe dysmenorrhea (P = 0.001), chronic pelvic pain (P = 0.05), dyschezia (P = 0.05), and worsening of chronic pelvic pain (P = 0.04) at T1. CONCLUSION Adenomyosis showed a rate of disease progression of 21.3% at the 12-month follow-up (30.77% in hormonally untreated women, and 18.34% in hormonally treated women). The presence and/or worsening of painful symptoms, such as severe dysmenorrhea, dyschezia and chronic pelvic pain, as well as the presence focal adenomyosis of the outer myometrium, might help identify patients at higher risk of disease progression and tailor their follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Borghese
- Division of Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, IRCCS Azienza Ospedaliero Universitaria, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marisol Doglioli
- Division of Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, IRCCS Azienza Ospedaliero Universitaria, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, DIMEC, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Benedetta Orsini
- Division of Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, IRCCS Azienza Ospedaliero Universitaria, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, DIMEC, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Antonio Raffone
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, DIMEC, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Daniele Neola
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Travaglino
- Unit of Pathology, Department of Medicine and Technological Innovation, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Giulia Rovero
- Division of Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, IRCCS Azienza Ospedaliero Universitaria, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, DIMEC, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Simona Del Forno
- Division of Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, IRCCS Azienza Ospedaliero Universitaria, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lucia de Meis
- Division of Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, IRCCS Azienza Ospedaliero Universitaria, Bologna, Italy
| | - Mariavittoria Locci
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Maurizio Guida
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Jacopo Lenzi
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Renato Seracchioli
- Division of Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, IRCCS Azienza Ospedaliero Universitaria, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, DIMEC, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Diego Raimondo
- Division of Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, IRCCS Azienza Ospedaliero Universitaria, Bologna, Italy
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8
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Hellman KM, Tu FF. Hal, how many types of pelvic pain are there? Pain 2024:00006396-990000000-00550. [PMID: 38564003 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000003219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M Hellman
- Department of Ob/Gyn, Endeavor Health, Evanston, IL, United States
- Department of Ob/Gyn, The University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Frank F Tu
- Department of Ob/Gyn, Endeavor Health, Evanston, IL, United States
- Department of Ob/Gyn, The University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
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9
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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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Cetera GE, Facchin F, Viganò P, Merli CEM, Frassineti A, Fiorini J, Somigliana E, Vercellini P. "SO FAR AWAY" How Doctors Can Contribute to Making Endometriosis Hell on Earth. A Call for Humanistic Medicine and Empathetic Practice for Genuine Person-Centered Care. A Narrative Review. Int J Womens Health 2024; 16:273-287. [PMID: 38405184 PMCID: PMC10894706 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s440542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
"SO FAR AWAY" * How Doctors Can Contribute to Making Endometriosis Hell on Earth [* by Knopfler M. In Dire Straits. Brothers in Arms. Vertigo Records, U.K., 1985]. Abstract The distance physicians may create within the relationship with their patients by not having a humanistic approach to their practice may strongly influence clinical outcomes. The purpose of this paper is to convey the well-known narrative of patient dissatisfaction into pro-action by discussing the aspects of dehumanization, which may occur in the relationship between physicians and women with endometriosis. Eight dimensions of dehumanization are examined and related to everyday scenarios occurring in endometriosis care settings and the possible downstream consequences on patients' clinical outcomes are described. Objectification, which may come across as minimization of pain, may not only increase patients' perception of pain but also lead to undertreatment of unrecognized forms of endometriosis, especially among adolescents. Passivity, that is not favoring shared decision-making nor self-management, may compromise adherence to treatment, reducing patients' trust in physicians and quality of life. The same consequences may result from homogenization, that is giving for granted that all patients have the same access to care. Both isolation, ie not practicing therapeutic empathy, and loss of meaning, ie not supporting patients in the re-definition of their life plans, may affect women's psychological wellbeing and further increase pain perception. Ignoring women's personal journey by not providing clear information on the consequences endometriosis may have on their lives may favor women's self-silencing. Not promoting an un-biased communication and not setting aside scientific polarization are the main features of dislocation, which may jeopardize patient empowerment. Lastly, having a reductionist approach to the body may contribute to chronicization of pain, thus compromising quality of life. This considered, taking time to listen to women with endometriosis and tailoring decisions on the basis of their individual needs should be fostered as a moral duty. Physicians should always keep in mind that they are not only deliverers of treatment; they are a form of treatment themselves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Emily Cetera
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Academic Center for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Facchin
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Viganò
- Academic Center for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Infertility Center, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Annalisa Frassineti
- Associazione Progetto Endometriosi Organizzazione di Volontariato, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Jessica Fiorini
- Associazione Progetto Endometriosi Organizzazione di Volontariato, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Edgardo Somigliana
- Academic Center for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Infertility Center, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Vercellini
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Academic Center for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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Martire FG, Giorgi M, D’Abate C, Colombi I, Ginetti A, Cannoni A, Fedele F, Exacoustos C, Centini G, Zupi E, Lazzeri L. Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis in Adolescence: Early Diagnosis and Possible Prevention of Disease Progression. J Clin Med 2024; 13:550. [PMID: 38256683 PMCID: PMC10816815 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13020550] [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: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis has a prevalence of 10% worldwide in premenopausal women. Probably, endometriosis begins early in the life of young girls, and it is commonly diagnosed later in life. The prevalence of deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) in adolescence is currently unknown due to diagnostic limits and underestimation of clinical symptoms. Dysmenorrhea is a common symptom in adolescents affected by DIE, often accompanied by dyspareunia and chronic acyclic pelvic pain. Ultrasonography-either performed transabdominal, transvaginal or transrectal-should be considered the first-line imaging technique despite the potential for missed diagnosis due to early-stage disease. Magnetic resonance imaging should be preferred in the case of virgo patients or when ultrasonographic exam is not accepted. Diagnostic laparoscopy is deemed acceptable in the case of suspected DIE not responding to conventional hormonal therapy. An early medical and/or surgical treatment may reduce disease progression with an immediate improvement in quality of life and fertility, but at the same time, painful symptoms may persist or even recur due to the surgery itself. The aim of this narrative review is to report the prevalence of DIE in adolescents, describe the pathogenetic theories and discuss the management in adolescent women, including the challenging road to diagnosis and the treatment alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Giuseppe Martire
- Gynecological Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (F.G.M.); (C.E.)
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.G.); (C.D.); (I.C.); (A.G.); (A.C.); (G.C.); (L.L.)
| | - Matteo Giorgi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.G.); (C.D.); (I.C.); (A.G.); (A.C.); (G.C.); (L.L.)
| | - Claudia D’Abate
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.G.); (C.D.); (I.C.); (A.G.); (A.C.); (G.C.); (L.L.)
| | - Irene Colombi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.G.); (C.D.); (I.C.); (A.G.); (A.C.); (G.C.); (L.L.)
| | - Alessandro Ginetti
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.G.); (C.D.); (I.C.); (A.G.); (A.C.); (G.C.); (L.L.)
| | - Alberto Cannoni
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.G.); (C.D.); (I.C.); (A.G.); (A.C.); (G.C.); (L.L.)
| | - Francesco Fedele
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione “Policlinico-Mangiagalli-Regina Elena” University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy;
| | - Caterina Exacoustos
- Gynecological Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (F.G.M.); (C.E.)
| | - Gabriele Centini
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.G.); (C.D.); (I.C.); (A.G.); (A.C.); (G.C.); (L.L.)
| | - Errico Zupi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.G.); (C.D.); (I.C.); (A.G.); (A.C.); (G.C.); (L.L.)
| | - Lucia Lazzeri
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.G.); (C.D.); (I.C.); (A.G.); (A.C.); (G.C.); (L.L.)
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Vercellini P, Bandini V, Viganò P, Ambruoso D, Cetera GE, Somigliana E. Proposal for targeted, neo-evolutionary-oriented secondary prevention of early-onset endometriosis and adenomyosis. Part II: medical interventions. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:18-34. [PMID: 37951241 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2024] [Indexed: 11/13/2023] Open
Abstract
According to consistent epidemiological data, the slope of the incidence curve of endometriosis rises rapidly and sharply around the age of 25 years. The delay in diagnosis is generally reported to be between 5 and 8 years in adult women, but it appears to be over 10 years in adolescents. If this is true, the actual onset of endometriosis in many young women would be chronologically placed in the early postmenarchal years. Ovulation and menstruation are inflammatory events that, when occurring repeatedly for years, may theoretically favour the early development of endometriosis and adenomyosis. Moreover, repeated acute dysmenorrhoea episodes after menarche may not only be an indicator of ensuing endometriosis or adenomyosis, but may also promote the transition from acute to chronic pelvic pain through central sensitization mechanisms, as well as the onset of chronic overlapping pain conditions. Therefore, secondary prevention aimed at reducing suffering, limiting lesion progression, and preserving future reproductive potential should be focused on the age group that could benefit most from the intervention, i.e. severely symptomatic adolescents. Early-onset endometriosis and adenomyosis should be promptly suspected even when physical and ultrasound findings are negative, and long-term ovulatory suppression may be established until conception seeking. As nowadays this could mean using hormonal therapies for several years, drug safety evaluation is crucial. In adolescents without recognized major contraindications to oestrogens, the use of very low-dose combined oral contraceptives is associated with a marginal increase in the individual absolute risk of thromboembolic events. Oral contraceptives containing oestradiol instead of ethinyl oestradiol may further limit such risk. Oral, subcutaneous, and intramuscular progestogens do not increase the thromboembolic risk, but may interfere with attainment of peak bone mass in young women. Levonorgestrel-releasing intra-uterine devices may be a safe alternative for adolescents, as amenorrhoea is frequently induced without suppression of the ovarian activity. With regard to oncological risk, the net effect of long-term oestrogen-progestogen combinations use is a small reduction in overall cancer risk. Whether surgery should be considered the first-line approach in young women with chronic pelvic pain symptoms seems questionable. Especially when large endometriomas or infiltrating lesions are not detected at pelvic imaging, laparoscopy should be reserved to adolescents who refuse hormonal treatments or in whom first-line medications are not effective, not tolerated, or contraindicated. Diagnostic and therapeutic algorithms, including self-reported outcome measures, for young individuals with a clinical suspicion of early-onset endometriosis or adenomyosis are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Vercellini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Veronica Bandini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
| | - Paola Viganò
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Deborah Ambruoso
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
| | - Giulia Emily Cetera
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Edgardo Somigliana
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
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Bartley EJ, Alappattu MJ, Manko K, Lewis H, Vasilopoulos T, Lamvu G. Presence of endometriosis and chronic overlapping pain conditions negatively impacts the pain experience in women with chronic pelvic-abdominal pain: A cross-sectional survey. WOMEN'S HEALTH (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2024; 20:17455057241248017. [PMID: 38682290 PMCID: PMC11057341 DOI: 10.1177/17455057241248017] [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: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence of overlap between endometriosis and chronic pain conditions is emerging; however, little is known about how the pain experience differs based on the presence or absence of endometriosis. OBJECTIVES In a sample of women reporting chronic pelvic-abdominal pain (CPP), the aim of this study was to characterize differences in pain symptomatology between women with and without endometriosis and to examine the influence of chronic overlapping pain conditions (COPCs) on pain among these two groups. DESIGN This was a cross-sectional study, based on an online survey. METHODS Participants (aged 18+ years) completed a survey collecting pain diagnoses and symptoms assessing pelvic pain severity, pain interference, and pain impact. Independent sample t-tests, chi-square, and multiple linear regression models were employed to analyze group differences in pain symptomatology and COPCs. RESULTS Of the 525 respondents with CPP, 25% (n = 133) reported having endometriosis. Women with endometriosis were younger at the onset of pelvic pain, relative to women without endometriosis (p = 0.04). There were no differences in age, race, ethnicity, or duration of pelvic pain between women with and without endometriosis. Women with endometriosis reported higher pelvic pain severity (+0.8, 95% CI = 0.4-1.1), pain interference (+5.9, 95% CI = 2.4-9.3), and pain impact (+1.9, 95% CI = 0.8-2.9). Endometriosis was associated with a higher number of COPCs (p = 0.003), with 25% (n = 33) of women reporting ⩾3 overlapping pain conditions compared with 12% (n = 45) of those without endometriosis. Women with endometriosis had a higher frequency of fibromyalgia (p < 0.001), chronic fatigue syndrome (p < 0.001), and temporomandibular disorder (p = 0.001). The number of COPCs was associated with higher pain severity, interference, and impact, independently of endometriosis. CONCLUSION Women with endometriosis experienced higher levels of pain-related burden and COPCs compared with those without endometriosis. Pain intensity, interference, and impact increased with a higher number of pain conditions regardless of endometriosis presence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J Bartley
- College of Dentistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Meryl J Alappattu
- College of Public Health & Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Kelsey Manko
- College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Hannah Lewis
- Gynecology Section, Division of Surgery, Orlando Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Orlando, FL, USA
| | | | - Georgine Lamvu
- College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
- Gynecology Section, Division of Surgery, Orlando Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Orlando, FL, USA
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14
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Biasioli A, Zermano S, Previtera F, Arcieri M, Della Martina M, Raimondo D, Raffone A, Restaino S, Vizzielli G, Driul L. Does Sexual Function and Quality of Life Improve after Medical Therapy in Women with Endometriosis? A Single-Institution Retrospective Analysis. J Pers Med 2023; 13:1646. [PMID: 38138873 PMCID: PMC10745063 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13121646] [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: 10/08/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis is a gynecological condition affecting up to 10% of women of reproductive age and characterized by chronic pain. Pain is the major cause of the impairment of quality of life in all aspects of these patients. Previous studies have shown that endometriosis treatment, hormonal or surgical, has proven effective not only in controlling the disease but also in improving symptoms, and we can assume also effective in improving quality of life. METHODS This study evaluates quality of life and sexual function in patients with endometriosis at the time of diagnosis and after 6 months of medical therapy, to assess the impact of treatment on these aspects. We evaluated retrospectively patients with a diagnosis of endometriosis between 2018 and 2020. All patients underwent gynecological examination and transvaginal ultrasound and filled in three questionnaires. The same evaluation was provided after taking medical hormonal therapy. RESULTS The improvement of dysmenorrhea, chronic pelvic pain, and dyspareunia after medical treatment were statistically significant. Instead, items concerning arousal, lubrication, and sexual satisfaction showed a statistically significant worsening after therapy. CONCLUSIONS We can state that hormone therapy alone is not sufficient to achieve an improvement in the patient's quality of life and sexual function. Emerging evidence suggests that most of these patients showed a central sensibilization phenomenon characterized by an amplification of the response to a peripheral and/or neuropathic nociceptive trigger, which is expressed by hyperalgesia and allodynia. For this reason, in these patients, it is better to adopt a multimodal and multidisciplinary approach, including other professional figures, that acts on pain and also intervenes in all those conditions that contribute to worsening quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Biasioli
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, “Santa Maria della Misericordia” University Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale (ASUFC), 33100 Udine, Italy; (M.A.); (M.D.M.); (S.R.); (L.D.)
| | - Silvia Zermano
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, “Santa Maria della Misericordia” University Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale (ASUFC), 33100 Udine, Italy; (M.A.); (M.D.M.); (S.R.); (L.D.)
| | - Francesca Previtera
- Department of Medicine (DAME), Università degli Studi di Udine, Via delle Scienze, 206, 33100 Udine, Italy;
| | - Martina Arcieri
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, “Santa Maria della Misericordia” University Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale (ASUFC), 33100 Udine, Italy; (M.A.); (M.D.M.); (S.R.); (L.D.)
| | - Monica Della Martina
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, “Santa Maria della Misericordia” University Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale (ASUFC), 33100 Udine, Italy; (M.A.); (M.D.M.); (S.R.); (L.D.)
| | - Diego Raimondo
- Division of Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40133 Bologna, Italy
| | - Antonio Raffone
- Division of Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40133 Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefano Restaino
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, “Santa Maria della Misericordia” University Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale (ASUFC), 33100 Udine, Italy; (M.A.); (M.D.M.); (S.R.); (L.D.)
| | - Giuseppe Vizzielli
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, “Santa Maria della Misericordia” University Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale (ASUFC), 33100 Udine, Italy; (M.A.); (M.D.M.); (S.R.); (L.D.)
- Department of Medicine (DAME), Università degli Studi di Udine, Via delle Scienze, 206, 33100 Udine, Italy;
| | - Lorenza Driul
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, “Santa Maria della Misericordia” University Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale (ASUFC), 33100 Udine, Italy; (M.A.); (M.D.M.); (S.R.); (L.D.)
- Department of Medicine (DAME), Università degli Studi di Udine, Via delle Scienze, 206, 33100 Udine, Italy;
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Song SY, Jung YW, Shin W, Park M, Lee GW, Jeong S, An S, Kim K, Ko YB, Lee KH, Kang BH, Lee M, Yoo HJ. Endometriosis-Related Chronic Pelvic Pain. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2868. [PMID: 37893241 PMCID: PMC10603876 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11102868] [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: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis, which is the presence of endometrial stroma and glands outside the uterus, is one of the most frequently diagnosed gynecologic diseases in reproductive women. Patients with endometriosis suffer from various pain symptoms such as dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and chronic pelvic pain. The pathophysiology for chronic pain in patients with endometriosis has not been fully understood. Altered inflammatory responses have been shown to contribute to pain symptoms. Increased secretion of cytokines, angiogenic factors, and nerve growth factors has been suggested to increase pain. Also, altered distribution of nerve fibers may also contribute to chronic pain. Aside from local contributing factors, sensitization of the nervous system is also important in understanding persistent pain in endometriosis. Peripheral sensitization as well as central sensitization have been identified in patients with endometriosis. These sensitizations of the nervous system can also explain increased incidence of comorbidities related to pain such as irritable bowel disease, bladder pain syndrome, and vulvodynia in patients with endometriosis. In conclusion, there are various possible mechanisms behind pain in patients with endometriosis, and understanding these mechanisms can help clinicians understand the nature of the pain symptoms and decide on treatments for endometriosis-related pain symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo Youn Song
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Sejong Hospital, 20, Bodeum 7 ro, Sejong 30099, Republic of Korea; (S.Y.S.); (Y.W.J.); (W.S.)
| | - Ye Won Jung
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Sejong Hospital, 20, Bodeum 7 ro, Sejong 30099, Republic of Korea; (S.Y.S.); (Y.W.J.); (W.S.)
| | - WonKyo Shin
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Sejong Hospital, 20, Bodeum 7 ro, Sejong 30099, Republic of Korea; (S.Y.S.); (Y.W.J.); (W.S.)
| | - Mia Park
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, 33, Munhwa-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon 2868, Republic of Korea; (M.P.); (G.W.L.); (S.J.); (S.A.); (K.K.); (Y.B.K.); (K.H.L.); (B.H.K.); (M.L.)
| | - Geon Woo Lee
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, 33, Munhwa-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon 2868, Republic of Korea; (M.P.); (G.W.L.); (S.J.); (S.A.); (K.K.); (Y.B.K.); (K.H.L.); (B.H.K.); (M.L.)
| | - Soohwa Jeong
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, 33, Munhwa-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon 2868, Republic of Korea; (M.P.); (G.W.L.); (S.J.); (S.A.); (K.K.); (Y.B.K.); (K.H.L.); (B.H.K.); (M.L.)
| | - Sukjeong An
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, 33, Munhwa-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon 2868, Republic of Korea; (M.P.); (G.W.L.); (S.J.); (S.A.); (K.K.); (Y.B.K.); (K.H.L.); (B.H.K.); (M.L.)
| | - Kyoungmin Kim
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, 33, Munhwa-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon 2868, Republic of Korea; (M.P.); (G.W.L.); (S.J.); (S.A.); (K.K.); (Y.B.K.); (K.H.L.); (B.H.K.); (M.L.)
| | - Young Bok Ko
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, 33, Munhwa-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon 2868, Republic of Korea; (M.P.); (G.W.L.); (S.J.); (S.A.); (K.K.); (Y.B.K.); (K.H.L.); (B.H.K.); (M.L.)
| | - Ki Hwan Lee
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, 33, Munhwa-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon 2868, Republic of Korea; (M.P.); (G.W.L.); (S.J.); (S.A.); (K.K.); (Y.B.K.); (K.H.L.); (B.H.K.); (M.L.)
| | - Byung Hun Kang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, 33, Munhwa-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon 2868, Republic of Korea; (M.P.); (G.W.L.); (S.J.); (S.A.); (K.K.); (Y.B.K.); (K.H.L.); (B.H.K.); (M.L.)
| | - Mina Lee
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, 33, Munhwa-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon 2868, Republic of Korea; (M.P.); (G.W.L.); (S.J.); (S.A.); (K.K.); (Y.B.K.); (K.H.L.); (B.H.K.); (M.L.)
| | - Heon Jong Yoo
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Chungnam National University Sejong Hospital, 20, Bodeum 7 ro, Sejong 30099, Republic of Korea; (S.Y.S.); (Y.W.J.); (W.S.)
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16
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De Hoyos G, Ramos-Sostre D, Torres-Reverón A, Barros-Cartagena B, López-Rodríguez V, Nieves-Vázquez C, Santiago-Saavedra F, Appleyard CB, Castro EM, Flores I. Efficacy of an environmental enrichment intervention for endometriosis: a pilot study. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1225790. [PMID: 37885745 PMCID: PMC10598732 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1225790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction We have previously shown that Environmental Enrichment (EE), a multi-modal psychosocial intervention consisting of increased social interaction, novelty, and open spaces, improved disease presentation, anxiety, and immune-related disturbances in the rat model of endometriosis. However, there is a knowledge gap regarding the effects of EE interventions in patients with this painful, inflammatory chronic disease. Aim To adapt and test the efficacy of an EE intervention on pelvic pain, mental health, perceived stress, quality of life, and systemic inflammation in endometriosis patients through a randomized clinical trial (RCT). Materials and methods A multidisciplinary team with expertise in physiology, neuroscience, psychology, and women's health adapted and implemented a two-arm RCT comparing an EE intervention with a wait-list control group. Six EE modules administered on alternate weeks were provided to patients in the intervention (N = 29); controls received education only. Survey data and biospecimens were collected at baseline, end-of-study, and 3-months post-intervention to assess pain (Brief Pain Inventory, BPI), endometriosis-related quality of life-QoL (Endometriosis Health Profile-30, EHP30), anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7, GAD7), depression (Patient Health Questionnaire for Depression 8, PHQ8), pain catastrophizing (Pain Catastrophizing Score, PCS), stress (Perceived Stress Scale-14, PSS14), and saliva cortisol levels (AM, PM). Results Compared to the wait-list controls, participants in the EE intervention showed significantly decreased GAD-7 scores at the end of the intervention and 3-month follow-up. Depression, perceived stress, and QoL improved at the 3-month follow-up compared to baseline. While pain levels did not improve, they significantly correlated with anxiety, depression, QoL and pain catastrophizing scores. Conclusion This pilot RCT demonstrated significant improvements in anxiety and depressive symptoms, QoL, and perceived stress, supporting enriched environments as an integrative psychosocial intervention to be used as adjuvant to the standard of care for endometriosis pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace De Hoyos
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, Puerto Rico
| | - Darlenne Ramos-Sostre
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, Puerto Rico
| | - Annelyn Torres-Reverón
- Department of Basic Sciences, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, Puerto Rico
- Sur180 Therapeutics, Inc., McAllen, TX, United States
| | | | | | - Cristina Nieves-Vázquez
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, Puerto Rico
| | - Fanny Santiago-Saavedra
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, Puerto Rico
| | - Caroline B. Appleyard
- Department of Basic Sciences, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, Puerto Rico
- Sur180 Therapeutics, Inc., McAllen, TX, United States
| | - Eida M. Castro
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, Puerto Rico
| | - Idhaliz Flores
- Department of Basic Sciences, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, Puerto Rico
- Sur180 Therapeutics, Inc., McAllen, TX, United States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ponce Health Sciences University, Ponce, Puerto Rico
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Cetera GE, Merli CEM, Facchin F, Viganò P, Pesce E, Caprara F, Vercellini P. Non-response to first-line hormonal treatment for symptomatic endometriosis: overcoming tunnel vision. A narrative review. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:347. [PMID: 37391793 PMCID: PMC10311799 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02490-1] [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: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023] Open
Abstract
One-fourth to one-third of women with endometriosis receiving first-line hormonal treatment lacks an adequate response in terms of resolution of painful symptoms. This phenomenon has been ascribed to "progesterone resistance", an entity that was theorized to explain the gap between the ubiquity of retrograde menstruation and the 10% prevalence of endometriosis among women of reproductive age.Nevertheless, the hypothesis of progesterone resistance is not free of controversies. As our understanding of endometriosis is increasing, authors are starting to set aside the traditionally accepted tunnel vision of endometriosis as a strictly pelvic disease, opening to a more comprehensive perspective of the condition. The question is: are patients not responding to first-line treatment because they have an altered signaling pathway for such treatment, or have we been overlooking a series of other pain contributors which may not be resolved by hormonal therapy?Finding an answer to this question is evermore impelling, for two reasons mainly. Firstly, because not recognizing the presence of further pain contributors adds a delay in treatment to the already existing delay in diagnosis of endometriosis. This may lead to chronicity of the untreated pain contributors as well as causing adverse consequences on quality of life and psychological health. Secondly, misinterpreting the consequences of untreated pain contributors as a non-response to standard first-line treatment may imply the adoption of second-line medical therapies or of surgery, which may entail non-negligible side effects and may not be free of physical, psychological and socioeconomic repercussions.The current narrative review aims at providing an overview of all the possible pain contributors in endometriosis, ranging from those strictly organic to those with a greater neuro-psychological component. Including these aspects in a broader psychobiological approach may provide useful suggestions for treating those patients who report persistent pain symptoms despite receiving first-line hormonal medical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Emily Cetera
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Federica Facchin
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Viganò
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Pesce
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Caprara
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- 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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