1
|
Cioffi R, Pagliardini L, Quartucci A, Papaleo E, Vanni VS, Provenzano S, Bertulli R, Candiani M, Mangili G. Response to Controlled Ovarian Stimulation Is Not Impaired in Young Patients with a Sarcoma: Results from a Monocentric Case-Control Study. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3141. [PMID: 37370751 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15123141] [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: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Sarcomas are relatively common in the young and their treatment can impair fertility. Fertility preservation can be achieved via the cryopreservation of gametes after controlled ovarian stimulation before cancer treatment. A reduced response to hormonal stimulation in patients suffering from certain types of malignancy is reported. The purpose of this study was to assess the performance of oocyte cryopreservation in patients with sarcoma by comparing their outcomes with those of a population without cancer. Patients were matched by age with control women undergoing hormonal stimulation for isolated male factor infertility. The population included 84 women with a sarcoma and 355 controls. In the final analysis, 37 patients with sarcoma were matched in a 1:3 ratio with 109 healthy controls. Patients with sarcoma were generally younger and were stimulated with lower FSH doses. They did not perform worse than controls during stimulation, with an average retrieval of 10.6 oocytes vs. 8.1 in the controls. Linear regression on the number of retrieved mature oocytes confirmed that patients with sarcoma performed comparably to controls. In conclusion, patients with sarcoma can expect retrieval outcomes comparable to those of patients without cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Cioffi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Pagliardini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Antonio Quartucci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Enrico Papaleo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Valeria Stella Vanni
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Salvatore Provenzano
- Medical Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Rossella Bertulli
- Medical Oncology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Candiani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Giorgia Mangili
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Cioffi R, Mangili G, Sarais V, Cervini L, Longo V, Bergamini A, Stella Vanni V, Pagliardini L, Candiani M, Papaleo E. Do stage and grade of malignancy impact fertility preservation in breast cancer patients? J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2021; 50:102215. [PMID: 34482003 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2021.102215] [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: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The impact of cancer on basal fertility and ovarian response to stimulation has not yet been clarified. Evidence on this topic is scarce and conflicting. Aim of this study was to assess the impact of breast cancer stage and grade on the number of retrieved mature oocytes during controlled ovarian stimulation for fertility preservation. METHODS Retrospective cohort study evaluating data on 101 stimulation cycles of women with breast cancer undergoing oocyte cryopreservation categorized according to breast cancer stage (low-stage: I; high-stage:II-III) and grade (low-grade: G1-2; high-grade: G3) using the American Joint Committee on Cancer staging system (VIII edition). RESULTS High-stage disease was not associated with worse oocyte retrieval outcomes (median 7 vs 7, p = 0.75). High-grade disease patients showed a significantly lower antral follicle count (AFC) compared to low-grade disease patients (10 vs 13, p = 0.03), and required higher doses of FSH (2612 IU vs 2250 IU; p = 0.03) during stimulation. Median number of vitrified oocytes was 6 in low-grade disease patients and 7 in high-grade disease patients (p = 0.35). CONCLUSIONS Stage and grade of breast cancer do not impact the number of retrieved mature oocytes. However, higher grade of breast cancer is associated with lower AFC at baseline and need for higher doses of gonadotropin during ovarian stimulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Cioffi
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
| | - Giorgia Mangili
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Veronica Sarais
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Cervini
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Vito Longo
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Alice Bergamini
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Valeria Stella Vanni
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Pagliardini
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy
| | - Massimo Candiani
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Enrico Papaleo
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Fabiani C, Ferrante MG, Meneghini C, Licata E, Paciotti G, Gallo M, Schiavi M, Spina V, Guarino A, Caserta D, Rago R. Female fertility preservation: Impact of cancer on ovarian function and oocyte quality. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2021; 156:166-171. [PMID: 33837528 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.13702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the influence of cancer on ovarian response and oocyte quality in controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH). METHODS This prospective study conducted at the Physiopathology of Reproduction and Andrology Unit of Sandro Pertini Hospital enrolled 82 cancer patients undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation (COH) cycles for fertility preservation, and age- and date-matched controls undergoing COH for in vitro fertilization for male-factor infertility from June 2016 to November 2019. The interventions performed were COH, oocyte retrieval, and quality evaluation. Main outcome measures were maximal estradiol levels on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin administration, duration of stimulation, total amount of gonadotropins administered, number of oocytes retrieved, and rates of metaphase 2 oocytes and abnormal oocytes. All data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA) 22.0. RESULTS Intergroup comparisons (82 cancer patients and 180 patients in control group) showed a significant difference in ovarian response, especially for a significant higher number of abnormal oocytes in cancer patients (P < 0.0001). Regression analysis to assess the influence of the neoplastic process, regardless of the type, on ovarian response showed an effect on the main outcome measured due to cancer itself. CONCLUSION Cancer influences the ovarian response, particularly the oocyte quality, during COH performed for fertility preservation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Fabiani
- Physiopathology of Reproduction and Andrology Unit, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Giulia Ferrante
- Department of Medical and Surgical Science and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Caterina Meneghini
- Physiopathology of Reproduction and Andrology Unit, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuele Licata
- Physiopathology of Reproduction and Andrology Unit, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Gemma Paciotti
- Physiopathology of Reproduction and Andrology Unit, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Mariagrazia Gallo
- Physiopathology of Reproduction and Andrology Unit, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Michele Schiavi
- Department of Gynecological and Obstetric Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Spina
- Department of Gynecological and Obstetric Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Guarino
- Department of Medical and Surgical Science and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Donatella Caserta
- Department of Medical and Surgical Science and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rocco Rago
- Physiopathology of Reproduction and Andrology Unit, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Qu J, Li Y, Liao S, Yan J. The Effects of Negative Elements in Environment and Cancer on Female Reproductive System. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1300:283-313. [PMID: 33523439 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-33-4187-6_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
With the development of human society, factors that contribute to the impairment of female fertility is accumulating. Lifestyle-related risk factors, occupational risk factors, and iatrogenic factors, including cancer and anti-cancer treatments, have been recognized with their negative effects on the function of female reproductive system. However, the exact influences and their possible mechanism have not been elucidated yet. It is impossible to accurately estimate the indexes of female fertility, but many researchers have put forward that the general fertility has inclined through the past decades. Thus the demand for fertility preservation has increased more and more dramatically. Here we described some of the factors which may influence female reproductive system and methods for fertility preservation in response to female infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiangxue Qu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yuehan Li
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Cancer Biology Research Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Shujie Liao
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Cancer Biology Research Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| | - Jie Yan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Malacarne E, Devesa M, Martinez F, Rodriguez I, Coroleu B. COH outcomes in breast cancer patients for fertility preservation: a comparison with the expected response by age. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:3069-3076. [PMID: 32945994 PMCID: PMC7714818 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01944-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed during childbearing age, and fertility preservation is becoming increasingly more essential. However, recent studies indicate a possible poorer response to controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) in cancer patients than in non-cancer controls and a negative impact of BRCA mutations on female fertility. This study aims to evaluate ovarian response and the number of mature oocytes (MII) vitrified in women with breast cancer, with or without BRCA mutation, comparing them to the expected response according to an age-related nomogram. METHODS This is a retrospective observational study involving sixty-one breast cancer patients who underwent COH for oocyte cryopreservation. The age-specific nomogram was built using 3871 patients who underwent COH due to oocyte donation, fertility preservation for non-medical reasons, or FIVET for male factor exclusively. RESULTS The mean number of oocytes retrieved was 13.03, whereas the mean number of MII oocytes was 10.00. After the application of the z-score, no statistically significant differences were found compared with the expected response in the general population, neither by dividing patients according to the presence or absence of BRCA mutation nor according to the phase in which they initiated stimulation. CONCLUSION The results obtained do not support the notion of a negative impact of the BRCA mutation on the ovarian response of women with breast cancer. Women with breast cancer undergoing COH for fertility preservation can expect the ovarian response predicted for their age.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Malacarne
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pisa, Via Roma, 67, 56126, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Marta Devesa
- Human Reproduction Service, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, University Hospital Dexeus, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francisca Martinez
- Human Reproduction Service, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, University Hospital Dexeus, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ignacio Rodriguez
- Human Reproduction Service, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, University Hospital Dexeus, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Buenaventura Coroleu
- Human Reproduction Service, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, University Hospital Dexeus, Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Impact of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations on ovarian reserve and fertility preservation outcomes in young women with breast cancer. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 37:709-715. [PMID: 31872386 PMCID: PMC7125060 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01658-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To determine the impact of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations on ovarian reserve and fertility preservation outcome. The main purpose and research question of the study is to determine the impact of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations on ovarian reserve and fertility preservation outcomes. Methods Prospective study: 67 breast cancer patients between 18 and 40 years old, undergoing a fertility preservation by means of oocyte storage were considered. Inclusions criteria for the study were age between 18 and 40 years old, BMI between 18 and 28, breast cancer neoplasm stage I and II according to American Joint Committee on Cancer classification (2017) and no metastasis. Exclusion criteria: age over 40 years old, BMI < 18 and > 28, breast cancer neoplasm stage III and IV and do not performed the BRCA test. A total of 21 patients had not performed the test and were excluded. Patients were divided into four groups: Group A was composed by 11 breast cancer patients with BRCA 1 mutations, Group B was composed by 11 breast cancer patients with BRCA 2 mutations, Group C was composed by 24 women with breast cancer without BRCA mutations, and Group D (control) was composed by 181 normal women. Results Group A showed significant lower AMH levels compared to Group C and D (1.2 ± 1.1 vs 4.5 ± 4.1 p < 0.05 and 1.2 ± 1.1 vs 3.8 ± 2.5 p < 0.05). BRCA1 mutated patients showed a significant lower rate of mature oocytes (MII) compared to Group C (3.1 ± 2.3 vs 7.2 ± 4.4 p < 0,05) and Group D (3.1 ± 2.3 vs 7.3 ± 3.4; p < 0,05). Breast cancer patients needed a higher dose of gonadotropins compared to controls (Group A 2206 ± 1392 Group B2047.5 ± 829.9 Group C 2106 ± 1336 Group D 1597 ± 709 p < 0,05). No significant differences were found among the groups considering basal FSH levels, duration of stimulation, number of developed follicles, and number of total retrieved oocytes. Regarding BRCA2 mutation, no effect on fertility was shown in this study. Conclusions The study showed that BRCA1 patients had a higher risk of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) confirmed by a diminished ovarian reserve and a lower number of mature oocytes suitable for cryopreservation.
Collapse
|
7
|
Garg D, Johnstone EB, Fair DB, Carrell DT, Berga S, Letourneau JM. Oncofertility conundrum: discrepancy between anti-Mϋllerian hormone and mature oocyte yield in a peripubertal girl with Hodgkin lymphoma. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 36:1753-1756. [PMID: 31313012 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01516-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- D Garg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA.
| | - E B Johnstone
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
| | - D B Fair
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
| | - D T Carrell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
| | - S Berga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
| | - J M Letourneau
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Palinska-Rudzka KE, Ghobara T, Parsons N, Milner J, Lockwood G, Hartshorne GM. Five-year study assessing the clinical utility of anti-Müllerian hormone measurements in reproductive-age women with cancer. Reprod Biomed Online 2019; 39:712-720. [PMID: 31471141 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2019.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Revised: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION An important discussion point before chemotherapy is ovarian toxicity, a side-effect that profoundly affects young women with cancer. Their quality of life after successful treatment, including the ability to conceive, is a major concern. We asked whether serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) measurements before chemotherapy for two most common malignancies are predictive of long-term changes in ovarian reserve? DESIGN A prospective cohort study measured serum AMH in 66 young women with lymphoma and breast cancer, before and at 1 year and 5 years after chemotherapy, compared with 124 healthy volunteers of the same age range (18-43 years). Contemporaneously, patients reported their menses and live births during 5-year follow-up. RESULTS After adjustment for age, serum AMH was 1.4 times higher (95% CI 1.1 to 1.9; P < 0.02) in healthy volunteers than in cancer patients before chemotherapy. A strong correlation was observed between baseline and 5-year AMH in the breast cancer group (P < 0.001, regression coefficient = 0.58, 95% CI 0.29 to 0.89). No significant association was found between presence of menses at 5 years and serum AMH at baseline (likelihood ratio test from logistics regression analysis). CONCLUSIONS Reproductive-age women with malignancy have lower serum AMH than healthy controls even before starting chemotherapy. Pre-chemotherapy AMH was significantly associated with long-term ovarian function in women with breast cancer. At key time points, AMH measurements could be used as a reproductive health advisory tool for young women with cancer. Our results highlight the unsuitability of return of menstruation as a clinical indicator of ovarian reserve after chemotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K E Palinska-Rudzka
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick Coventry CV4 7AL, UK; University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Clifford Bridge Road Coventry CV2 2DX, UK
| | - T Ghobara
- University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Clifford Bridge Road Coventry CV2 2DX, UK
| | - N Parsons
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
| | - J Milner
- CARE Fertility Tamworth House, Ventura Park Road, Tamworth B78 3HL, UK
| | - G Lockwood
- CARE Fertility Tamworth House, Ventura Park Road, Tamworth B78 3HL, UK
| | - G M Hartshorne
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick Coventry CV4 7AL, UK; University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Clifford Bridge Road Coventry CV2 2DX, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Alvarez RM, Ramanathan P. Fertility preservation in female oncology patients: the influence of the type of cancer on ovarian stimulation response. Hum Reprod 2019; 33:2051-2059. [PMID: 27370358 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2015] [Accepted: 06/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does the type of cancer influence on the ovarian response to stimulation for fertility preservation (FP) in female oncology patients? SUMMARY ANSWER Patients with gynaecological cancer have less number of retrieved mature oocytes compared with haematological and breast cancer patients. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Concerns about the impact of cancer therapy on future fertility have been raised and FP has become an important component in cancer management. Previous studies analysing FP results in cancer patients have shown conflicting findings. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This was a retrospective analytical study performed in the Centre for Reproductive Medicine, at St Bartholomew's Hospital, between January 2000 and December 2014. The aim of this study was to analyse the response to ovarian stimulation in cancer patients before undergoing cancer treatment and to determine whether any difference can be attributed to underlying cancer diagnosis. We also report the pregnancy outcomes. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS A total of 531 female patients recently diagnosed with cancer were referred for counselling on FP. A total of 306 patients underwent ovarian stimulation for oocyte or embryo cryopreservation. We compared the baseline characteristics and ovarian response in five main subgroups: breast cancer, haematological cancer, gynaecological cancer, gastrointestinal cancer and others. The primary outcome was the total number of mature oocytes retrieved and pregnancy outcomes. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The main cancer diagnosis was breast cancer with 145 patients (47.4%); 79 patients (25.8%) had haematological malignancies; 42 (13.7%) had gynaecological malignancies; 20 (6.5%) had gastrointestinal cancer and 20 (6.5%) had other types of cancer. Patients with breast cancer were older (P < 0.001). Patients with haematological malignancies had higher number of mature oocytes retrieved (P = 0.003). The number of mature oocytes retrieved was lower in patients with gynaecological malignancy compared with haematological and breast cancer patients (P = 0.005 and P = 0.045, respectively). The fertilization rate and the number of cycles cancelled were comparable between all the groups. Thirty-two embryo transfer cycles have been done in 22 patients who have returned to attempt pregnancy. Pregnancy rate per transfer cycle was 43.75%, and cumulative pregnancy rate per patient was 54.5%. Live birth rate per patient was 22.72%. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Apart from the retrospective nature of the study, patients were included over the period of 15 years, and over that time technology has changed and protocols have evolved. The results obtained from subcategory analyses should be interpreted with caution, as in each subgroup there are different types of malignancies with different number of patients in different age groups. Different ovarian stimulation protocols were applied. Only a few patients have come back to attempt pregnancy after being cured from their disease. We do not have follow-up data on these patients; as a result, we are not able to report the survival rate and the reason for non-return for embryo transfer. In addition, we cannot report information on spontaneous conceptions and births. Slow freezing used for embryo cryopreservation, high miscarriage rate and low live birth rate per transfer are other limitations of this study. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The current study is the largest series analysing each group of cancer separately and showing pregnancy outcomes in oncology patients undergoing FP. These results provide valuable information about the success of this technique in oncology patients. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The authors have not received any funding to support this study. There are no conflicts of interest to declare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R M Alvarez
- The Centre for Reproductive Medicine, St Bartholomew's Hospital, West Smithfield, London, UK.,Department of Gynaecological Oncology, The Royal Marsden Hospital, Fulham Road, London, UK
| | - P Ramanathan
- The Centre for Reproductive Medicine, St Bartholomew's Hospital, West Smithfield, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Turan V, Quinn MM, Dayioglu N, Rosen MP, Oktay K. The impact of malignancy on response to ovarian stimulation for fertility preservation: a meta-analysis. Fertil Steril 2019; 110:1347-1355. [PMID: 30503134 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Revised: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the impact of cancer diagnosis on response to ovarian stimulation for fertility preservation. DESIGN Meta-analysis. SETTING Not applicable. PATIENT(S) An electronic-based search was performed with the use of PubMed until May 2018 limited to English-language articles. In the final analysis, 10 case-controlled retrospective cohort studies were included, comparing ovarian response to stimulation between women with cancer and age-matched healthy women (control group). INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Number of total oocytes retrieved, number of mature oocytes, fertilization rate and two pronuclei embryos obtained. RESULT(S) Ten studies that included a total of 713 women with cancer were analyzed in the cancer group (722 cycles), and 1,830 healthy women (1,835 cycles) qualified as controls for the meta-analysis. The pooled results showed no impact of cancer diagnosis on the mean number of total oocytes (P=.517; 95% CI -0.23 to 0.12), mature oocytes (P=.104; 95% CI -0.23 to 0.01), and two pronuclei embryos (P=.136; 95% CI -0.32 to 0.04) and fertilization rates (P=.273; 95% CI -0.29 to 0.183). When the analysis was limited to women with breast cancer diagnosis, there was also no difference in the mean number of total oocytes (P=.812; 95% CI -0.28 to 0.36) and mature oocytes (P=.993; 95% CI -0.16 to 0.16) between the two groups. CONCLUSION(S) This meta-analysis indicates that cancer diagnosis is not associated with reduced response to ovarian stimulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Volkan Turan
- Yeni Yuzyil University School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Molly M Quinn
- University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, San Francisco, California
| | - Nurten Dayioglu
- Yeni Yuzyil University School of Medicine, Department of Biostatistics, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mitchell P Rosen
- University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, San Francisco, California
| | - Kutluk Oktay
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; Innovation Fertility Preservation and IVF, New York, New York.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Panner Selvam MK, Agarwal A, Pushparaj PN. A quantitative global proteomics approach to understanding the functional pathways dysregulated in the spermatozoa of asthenozoospermic testicular cancer patients. Andrology 2019; 7:454-462. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2018] [Revised: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - A. Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine Cleveland Clinic Cleveland OH USA
| | - P. N. Pushparaj
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research King Abdulaziz University Jeddah Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Panner Selvam MK, Agarwal A, Pushparaj PN. Altered Molecular Pathways in the Proteome of Cryopreserved Sperm in Testicular Cancer Patients before Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E677. [PMID: 30764484 PMCID: PMC6387327 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20030677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2018] [Revised: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Testicular cancer (TC) represents the most common cancer affecting men within the reproductive age and is often accompanied by major disturbances in semen parameters. Cryopreservation is recommended in these patients before initiating cancer treatment. Currently, there are no studies reporting the molecular mechanisms associated with altered semen quality in these men. The main objective of this study was to compare the sperm proteome of normozoospermic (motility >40%) and asthenozoospermic (motility <40%) TC patients with normozoospermic infertile men without cancer (control group). Pooled sperm samples from normozoospermic (n = 20), asthenozoospermic (n = 11) TC, and a control group (n = 9) were used for quantitative global proteomic profiling using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. A total of 1085, 846, and 982 proteins were identified in normozoospermic TC, asthenozoospermic TC, and control groups, respectively. Functional analysis revealed mitochondrial dysfunction and altered cellular pathways in both normozoospermic and asthenozoospermic TC patients. Comparison of pathway analysis showed no significant difference in fertility-associated proteins/mechanism between the normozoospermic TC patients and infertile men. Western blot analysis revealed under-expression of NDUFS1 associated with mitochondrial dysfunction and overexpression of CD63 involved in sperm maturation in both normozoospermic and asthenozoospermic TC patients. Our proteomic results confirm that defective cellular pathways are associated with reproductive functions in both normozoospermic and asthenozoospermic TC patients before the start of cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
| | - Peter N Pushparaj
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Lefebvre T, Mirallié S, Leperlier F, Reignier A, Barrière P, Fréour T. Ovarian reserve and response to stimulation in women undergoing fertility preservation according to malignancy type. Reprod Biomed Online 2018; 37:201-207. [PMID: 29784618 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2018.04.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2017] [Revised: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 04/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Does ovarian reserve and ovarian response to ovarian stimulation in women with cancer undergoing oocyte vitrification for fertility preservation vary according to the type of malignancy? DESIGN Retrospective cohort study including 105 women aged between 18 and 40 years, who were referred for fertility preservation (oocyte vitrification) between 2013 and 2016. The women were divided into three groups: breast cancer, lymphoma or other cancer. All of them had been recently diagnosed with cancer, with gonadotoxic treatment scheduled, and had oocyte vitrification after ovarian stimulation with antagonist protocol. RESULTS Baseline antral follicle count and anti-Müllerian hormone were no different between women with breast cancer, lymphoma or other cancer. The number of cancelled cycles for poor ovarian response was similar between the groups. The number of FSH units per mature oocyte, the number of mature oocytes (metaphase II) retrieved, and the oocyte maturity rate were not significantly different between the three groups. CONCLUSIONS As the type of cancer does not seem to significantly affect ovarian reserve and ovarian response to ovarian stimulation, our results do not support the relevance of integrating this parameter when establishing ovarian stimulation protocol for oocyte vitrification cycle in women with cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tiphaine Lefebvre
- Service de biologie et médecine de la reproduction, CHU de Nantes, 38 boulevard Jean Monnet, 44093 Nantes cedex, France; Faculté de médecine, Université de Nantes, 1 rue Gaston Veil, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Sophie Mirallié
- Service de biologie et médecine de la reproduction, CHU de Nantes, 38 boulevard Jean Monnet, 44093 Nantes cedex, France
| | - Florence Leperlier
- Service de biologie et médecine de la reproduction, CHU de Nantes, 38 boulevard Jean Monnet, 44093 Nantes cedex, France
| | - Arnaud Reignier
- Service de biologie et médecine de la reproduction, CHU de Nantes, 38 boulevard Jean Monnet, 44093 Nantes cedex, France; Faculté de médecine, Université de Nantes, 1 rue Gaston Veil, 44000 Nantes, France; Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie UMR 1064, INSERM, Université de Nantes, 30 boulevard Jean Monnet, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Paul Barrière
- Service de biologie et médecine de la reproduction, CHU de Nantes, 38 boulevard Jean Monnet, 44093 Nantes cedex, France; Faculté de médecine, Université de Nantes, 1 rue Gaston Veil, 44000 Nantes, France; Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie UMR 1064, INSERM, Université de Nantes, 30 boulevard Jean Monnet, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Thomas Fréour
- Service de biologie et médecine de la reproduction, CHU de Nantes, 38 boulevard Jean Monnet, 44093 Nantes cedex, France; Faculté de médecine, Université de Nantes, 1 rue Gaston Veil, 44000 Nantes, France; Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie UMR 1064, INSERM, Université de Nantes, 30 boulevard Jean Monnet, 44000 Nantes, France.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Quinn MM, Cakmak H, Letourneau JM, Cedars MI, Rosen MP. Response to ovarian stimulation is not impacted by a breast cancer diagnosis. Hum Reprod 2018; 32:568-574. [PMID: 28122888 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2016] [Accepted: 12/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does a breast cancer diagnosis impact ovarian function in the setting of fertility preservation? SUMMARY ANSWER Ovarian reserve and ovarian stimulation outcomes are similar in patients with a new diagnosis of breast cancer and patients undergoing elective fertility preservation. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Prior studies, with small study populations, lack of controlling for individual differences in ovarian reserve and infertile controls, have reported conflicting outcomes for cancer patients undergoing ovarian stimulation for fertility preservation. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This retrospective cohort analysis included 589 patients undergoing ovarian stimulation for fertility preservation between 2009 and 2015. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Women with a recent breast cancer diagnosis (n = 191) and women desiring elective fertility preservation (n = 398) underwent ovarian stimulation with an antagonist protocol at an academic medical center. The aromatase inhibitor letrozole was administered to breast cancer patients with estrogen-sensitive disease. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Baseline antral follicle count (AFC) was not different between the breast cancer patients and controls (15.4 ± 10.4 [mean ± SD] vs 15.4 ± 10.0, P = NS), even after categorization by age. Total (19.4 ± 0.9 [mean ± SEM] vs 17.0 ± 0.5, P = NS) and mature (MII) oocytes retrieved (13.7 ± 0.7 vs 13.2 ± 0.4, P = NS), adjusted for age, BMI and total gonadotropin dose, were also similar between the two groups. Letrozole use was associated with a decreased maturity rate (MII/total oocytes retrieved) compared to elective cryopreservation (0.71 ± 0.01 vs 0.77 ± 0.01, P < 0.001), although the mature oocyte yield [MII/AFC] was comparable (1.01 ± 0.06 vs 0.93 ± 0.03, P = NS). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The single center design may impact generalizability. Additionally, the lack of subsequent embryo and pregnancy data is an inherent weakness. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS In females, a breast cancer diagnosis does not impact gonadal function as measured by AFC or ovarian stimulation outcomes. Breast cancer patients should be counseled that their response to ovarian stimulation for fertility preservation is similar to that of patients undergoing elective oocyte cryopreservation. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) None. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Molly M Quinn
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA94143, USA
| | - Hakan Cakmak
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA94143, USA
| | - Joseph M Letourneau
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA94143, USA
| | - Marcelle I Cedars
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA94143, USA
| | - Mitchell P Rosen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA94143, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Nistal M, Paniagua R, González-Peramato P, Reyes-Múgica M. Perspectives in Pediatric Pathology, Chapter 23. Testicular Pathology Secondary to Physical and Chemical Injury. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2017; 19:452-459. [PMID: 27163438 DOI: 10.2350/16-04-1811-pb.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Testicles can be damaged by a variety of physical and chemical agents, ranging from trauma suffered in accidents or athletic activities, to diverse drugs or radiation used in cancer treatment. The immediate and long-term effects of these damaging agents at the testicular morphologic and functional levels are quite varied and may have significant impact on the fertility of the pediatric patient once reproductive age is reached.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Nistal
- 1 Department of Pathology, Hospital La Paz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Ricardo Paniagua
- 2 Department of Cell Biology, Universidad de Alcala, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar González-Peramato
- 1 Department of Pathology, Hospital La Paz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Miguel Reyes-Múgica
- 3 Department of Pathology, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Bénard J, Duros S, El Hachem H, Sonigo C, Sifer C, Grynberg M. Freezing oocytes or embryos after controlled ovarian hyperstimulation in cancer patients: the state of the art. Future Oncol 2016; 12:1731-41. [PMID: 27184037 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2016-0095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Quality of life of young cancer survivors has become a major issue. However, anticancer therapies can have a detrimental impact on fertility. It is now well-established that all patients should receive information about the fertility risks associated with their cancer treatment and the fertility preservation options available. Currently, oocyte or embryo banking after controlled ovarian hyperstimulation represents the most effective method for preserving female fertility. Over the past years innovative protocols of ovarian stimulation have been developed to enable cancer patients to undergo oocyte or embryo cryopreservation irrespective of the phase of the cycle or without exogenous follicle-stimulating hormone-related increase in serum estradiol levels. The present article reviews the different protocols of ovarian hyperstimulation for cancer patients, candidates for fertility preservation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julie Bénard
- Department of Reproductive Medicine & Fertility Preservation, Hôpital Jean Verdier, Avenue du 14 Juillet, 93140 Bondy, France.,University Paris XIII, 93000 Bobigny, France
| | - Solène Duros
- Department of Reproductive Medicine & Fertility Preservation, Hôpital Jean Verdier, Avenue du 14 Juillet, 93140 Bondy, France
| | - Hady El Hachem
- Department of Reproductive Medicine & Fertility Preservation, Hôpital Jean Verdier, Avenue du 14 Juillet, 93140 Bondy, France
| | - Charlotte Sonigo
- Department of Reproductive Medicine & Fertility Preservation, Hôpital Jean Verdier, Avenue du 14 Juillet, 93140 Bondy, France
| | - Christophe Sifer
- Department of Cytogenetic & Reproductive Biology, Hôpital Jean Verdier, Avenue du 14 Juillet, 93140 Bondy, France
| | - Michaël Grynberg
- Department of Reproductive Medicine & Fertility Preservation, Hôpital Jean Verdier, Avenue du 14 Juillet, 93140 Bondy, France.,University Paris XIII, 93000 Bobigny, France.,Unité Inserm U1133, University Paris-Diderot, 75013 Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Dabaja AA, Wosnitzer MS, Bolyakov A, Schlegel PN, Paduch DA. When to ask male adolescents to provide semen sample for fertility preservation? Transl Androl Urol 2016; 3:2-8. [PMID: 26813354 PMCID: PMC4708290 DOI: 10.3978/j.issn.2223-4683.2014.02.01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Fertility preservation in adolescents undergoing sterilizing radiation and/or chemotherapy is the standard of care in oncology. The opportunity for patients to provide a semen sample by ejaculation is a critical issue in adolescent fertility preservation. Methods Fifty males with no medical or sexual developmental abnormalities were evaluated. The subjects were screened for evidence of orgasmic, erectile, and ejaculatory dysfunction. A detailed sexual development history was obtained under an Institutional Review Board (IRB)-approved protocol. Results Fifty males, aged 18-65 years (mean 39±16.03 years) volunteered to be part of this study. The mean reported age for the onset of puberty was 12.39 years (95% CI, 11.99-12.80 years), 13.59 years (95% CI, 13.05-14.12 years) for the first ejaculation, 12.56 years (95% CI, 11.80-13.32 years) for the start of masturbation, and 17.26 years (95% CI, 16.18-18.33 years) for the first experienced intercourse. Seventy-five percent of the cohort reached puberty by the age of 13.33, experienced masturbation by 14.5, first ejaculated by the age of 14.83, and had intercourse at age of 19.15 years. The first experienced ejaculation fell 1.5 years after the onset of puberty in 80% present of the cohort, and 84% starts masturbation 1.5 years after the onset of puberty. The mean response between the younger and the older subject was not statistical significance. Conclusions It is appropriate to consider a request for semen specimens by masturbation from teenagers at one year and six months after the onset of puberty; the onset age of puberty plus 1.5 years is an important predictor of ejaculation and sample collection for cryopreservation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ali A Dabaja
- Department of Urology and Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Matthew S Wosnitzer
- Department of Urology and Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Alexander Bolyakov
- Department of Urology and Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Peter N Schlegel
- Department of Urology and Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Darius A Paduch
- Department of Urology and Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
IVF for fertility preservation in breast cancer patients--efficacy and safety issues. J Assist Reprod Genet 2015; 32:1171-8. [PMID: 26126877 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-015-0519-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2015] [Accepted: 06/17/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Potential risks on future fertility have become a dominant issue in consultation and management of newly diagnosed young cancer patients. Several fertility preservation strategies are currently available. Of those, ovarian stimulation followed by IVF and embryo cryopreservation is the most established one and is especially applicable in reproductive aged breast cancer patients. AIM The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive review on ovarian stimulation and IVF for fertility preservation in newly diagnosed breast cancer patients. METHODS Review of relevant literature is available through PubMed and Google scholar. RESULTS The use of IVF for fertility preservation in breast cancer patients raises dilemmas regarding efficacy and safety of controlled ovarian stimulation. Among these are the suggested role of malignancy and BRCA mutation in reducing ovarian response to stimulation, strategies designated to protect against hyper-estrogenic state associated with stimulation (co-treatment with tamoxifen or letrozole), and possible adjustments to accommodate oncologic-related time constraints. CONCLUSION Ovarian stimulation followed by IVF forms an important fertility preservation strategy for newly diagnosed young breast cancer patients, though live born rates following thawed embryo transfer in these patients are still lacking. Recent advances in controlled ovarian stimulation protocols provide practical options for some of the challenges that breast cancer patients present.
Collapse
|
19
|
Cardozo ER, Thomson AP, Karmon AE, Dickinson KA, Wright DL, Sabatini ME. Ovarian stimulation and in-vitro fertilization outcomes of cancer patients undergoing fertility preservation compared to age matched controls: a 17-year experience. J Assist Reprod Genet 2015; 32:587-96. [PMID: 25595540 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-015-0428-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2014] [Accepted: 01/02/2015] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare the in-vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes of cancer patients who underwent oocyte retrieval and embryo/oocyte cryopreservation prior to gonadotoxic therapy to those of age and time-matched controls with tubal factor infertility. METHODS All cancer patients who underwent embryo/oocyte cryopreservation at our institution from 1997 to 2014 were reviewed. Primary outcomes were total dose of gonadotropins used, number of oocytes retrieved, and number of 2pn embryos obtained. Outcomes were compared to age-matched controls with tubal-factor infertility who underwent a fresh embryo transfer within the same relative time period as the IVF cycle of the cancer patient. RESULTS Sixty-three cancer patients underwent 65 IVF cycles, and 21 returned for frozen embryo transfer. One hundred twenty-two age-matched controls underwent IVF cycles with fresh transfer, and 23 returned for frozen embryo transfer. No difference was seen between cancer patients and controls with respect to total ampules of gonadotropin used (38.0 vs. 35.6 respectively; p = 0.28), number of oocytes retrieved (12.4 vs. 10.9 respectively; p = 0.36) and number of 2pn embryos obtained (6.6 vs. 7.1 respectively; p = 0.11). Cumulative pregnancy rate per transfer for cancer patients compared to controls was 37 vs. 43 % respectively (p = 0.49) and cumulative live birth rate per transfer was 30 vs. 32 % respectively (p = 0.85). Cancer patients had a higher likelihood of live birth resulting in twins (44 vs. 14 %; p = 0.035). CONCLUSIONS Most IVF outcomes appear comparable for cancer patients and age-matched controls. Higher twin pregnancy rates in cancer patients may reflect lack of underlying infertility or need for cancer-specific transfer guidelines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eden R Cardozo
- Vincent Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Coyne K, Purdy M, O'Leary K, Yaklic JL, Lindheim SR, Appiah LA. Challenges and considerations in optimizing ovarian stimulation protocols in oncofertility patients. Front Public Health 2014; 2:246. [PMID: 25538933 PMCID: PMC4256952 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2014.00246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2014] [Accepted: 11/06/2014] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The scope of cancer treatment in women of childbearing age has changed in the last decade. Fertility preservation is no longer an afterthought but central to multi-disciplinary cancer treatment planning and should be addressed due to the cytotoxic effects of cancer therapy. However, oncology patients present as a unique treatment challenge as the physician must balance the urgency of fertility preservation with the risks of delaying cancer therapy. Controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) is routinely applied in assisted reproductive technology but can be contraindicated in women with estrogen-receptor-positive tumors. This paper reviews some of the challenges to consider when using COS and newer stimulation protocols to minimize risks and optimize outcomes in oncofertility patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Coyne
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Wright State University , Dayton, OH , USA
| | - MacKenzie Purdy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kentucky College of Medicine , Lexington, KY , USA
| | | | - Jerome L Yaklic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Wright State University , Dayton, OH , USA
| | - Steven R Lindheim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Wright State University , Dayton, OH , USA
| | - Leslie A Appiah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kentucky College of Medicine , Lexington, KY , USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Courbiere B, Decanter C, Bringer-Deutsch S, Rives N, Mirallié S, Pech JC, De Ziegler D, Carré-Pigeon F, May-Panloup P, Sifer C, Amice V, Schweitzer T, Porcu-Buisson G, Poirot C. Emergency IVF for embryo freezing to preserve female fertility: a French multicentre cohort study. Hum Reprod 2013; 28:2381-8. [PMID: 23832792 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/det268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What are the outcomes of French emergency IVF procedures involving embryo freezing for fertility preservation before gonadotoxic treatment? SUMMARY ANSWER Pregnancy rates after emergency IVF, cryopreservation of embryos, storage, thawing and embryo transfer (embryo transfer), in the specific context of the preservation of female fertility, seem to be similar to those reported for infertile couples undergoing ART. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A French retrospective multicentre cohort study initiated by the GRECOT network-the French Study Group for Ovarian and Testicular Cryopreservation. We sent an e-mail survey to the 97 French centres performing the assisted reproduction technique in 2011, asking whether the centre performed emergency IVF and requesting information about the patients' characteristics, indications, IVF cycles and laboratory and follow-up data. The response rate was 53.6% (52/97). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Fourteen French centres reported that they performed emergency IVF (56 cycles in total) before gonadotoxic treatment, between 1999 and July 2011, in 52 patients. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The patients had a mean age of 28.9 ± 4.3 years, and a median length of relationship of 3 years (1 month-15 years). Emergency IVF was indicated for haematological cancer (42%), brain tumour (23%), sarcoma (3.8%), mesothelioma (n = 1) and bowel cancer (n = 1). Gynaecological problems accounted for 17% of indications. In 7.7% of cases, emergency IVF was performed for autoimmune diseases. Among the 52 patients concerned, 28% (n = 14) had undergone previous courses of chemotherapy before beginning controlled ovarian stimulation (COS). The initiation of gonadotoxic treatment had to be delayed in 34% of the patients (n = 19). In total, 56 cycles were initiated. The mean duration of stimulation was 11.2 ± 2.5 days, with a mean peak estradiol concentration on the day on which ovulation was triggered of 1640 ± 1028 pg/ml. Three cycles were cancelled due to ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (n = 1), poor response (n = 1) and treatment error (n = 1). A mean of 8.2 ± 4.8 oocytes were retrieved, with 6.1 ± 4.2 mature oocytes and 4.4 ± 3.3 pronuclear-stage embryos per cycle. The mean number of embryos frozen per cycle was 4.2 ± 3.1. During follow-up, three patients died from the consequences of their disease. For the 49 surviving patients, 22.5% of the couples concerned (n = 11) requested embryo replacement. A total of 33 embryos were thawed with a post-thawing survival rate of 76%. Embryo replacement was finally performed for 10 couples with a total of 25 embryos transferred, leading to one biochemical pregnancy, one miscarriage and three live births. Clinical pregnancy rate and live birth per couple who wanted a pregnancy after cancer were, respectively, 36% (95% CI = 10.9-69.2%) and 27% (95% CI = 6.0-61%). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The overall response rate for clinics was 53.6%. Therefore, it is not only that patients may not have been included, but also that those that were included were biased towards the University sector with a response rate of 83% (25/30) for a small number of patients. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS According to literature, malignant disease is a risk factor for a poor response to COS. However, patients having emergency IVF before gonadotoxic treatment have a reasonable chance of pregnancy after embryo replacement. Embryo freezing is a valuable approach that should be included among the strategies used to preserve fertility. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) No external funding was sought for this study. None of the authors has any conflict of interest to declare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B Courbiere
- Department of Gynaecology, Obstetrics, and Reproduction, AP-HM La Conception, 13 005 Marseille, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Cakmak H, Rosen MP. Ovarian stimulation in cancer patients. Fertil Steril 2013; 99:1476-84. [PMID: 23635348 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2013] [Revised: 03/16/2013] [Accepted: 03/18/2013] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The patients referred for fertility preservation owing to a malignant disease do not represent the typical population of subfertile patients treated in IVF units. Cancer may affect multiple tissues throughout the body and can result in a variety of complications during controlled ovarian stimulation. Determination of the controlled ovarian stimulation protocol and gonadotropin dose for oocyte/embryo cryopreservation requires an individualized assessment. This review highlights the new protocols that are emerging to reduce time constraints and emphasizes management considerations to decrease complications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hakan Cakmak
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Furuhashi K, Ishikawa T, Hashimoto H, Yamada S, Ogata S, Mizusawa Y, Matsumoto Y, Okamoto E, Kokeguchi S, Shiotani M. Onco-testicular sperm extraction: testicular sperm extraction in azoospermic and very severely oligozoospermic cancer patients. Andrologia 2012; 45:107-10. [PMID: 22690948 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2012.01319.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/14/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
An increased risk of testicular cancer in men with infertility and poor semen quality has been reported. In view of the high cure rates for testicular germ cell tumours, increasing clinical importance is being placed on the protection of fertility. High-dose cytostatic therapy may be expected to cause long-term infertility. Thus, the standard procedure for fertility protection is the cryopreservation of ejaculated spermatozoa or testicular tissue before therapy. Four male patients with azoospermia and two patients with very severe oligozoospermia underwent onco-testicular sperm extraction (TESE). We attempted onco-TESE in patients with azoospermia and very severe oligozoospermia after orchiectomy. Of the patients with testicular germ cell tumours, four had spermatozoa in their testicular tissues. Sertoli cell-only syndrome was found in one patient, and one patient showed maturation arrest without the detection of spermatozoa. Three of six showed seminomatous germ cell tumour, two of six had nonseminomatous germ cell tumour and one patient showed no malignancy. Two patients achieved clinical pregnancy. Fertility challenges in men with cancer are the most straightforward because of the relative ease of obtaining and cryopreserving sperm. Testicular sperm extraction is a useful technique for obtaining spermatozoa before cytotoxic therapy in azoospermic and very severely oligozoospermic cancer patients.
Collapse
|
24
|
Ovarian response to stimulation for fertility preservation in women with malignant disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Fertil Steril 2011; 97:125-33. [PMID: 22078784 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2011.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2011] [Revised: 09/28/2011] [Accepted: 10/12/2011] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the current available data regarding ovarian performance of patients diagnosed with malignant disease undergoing controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) for fertility preservation, before radio/chemotherapy, compared with age-matched, healthy patients undergoing COH for in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF-ICSI). DESIGN Meta-analysis of the data available from a systematic review of the literature. SETTING Academic centers of infertility and IVF. PATIENT(S) Patients with malignant disease, before radio/chemotherapy, undergoing COH for fertility preservation within comparative studies with healthy, age-matched controls. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Peak estradiol levels on day of human chorionic gonadotropin administration, number of oocytes retrieved, fertilization rate, incidence of low ovarian response, and cycle cancellation. RESULT(S) Only seven retrospective, case-controlled studies were found to match our objective. Overall, the results of the meta-analysis indicate that the number of retrieved oocytes rate was statistically significantly lower compared with age-matched healthy IVF patients. The incidence of poor ovarian performance and risk of cycle cancellation as well as the calculated number of two pronuclei zygotes achieved among patients with cancer were comparable with their age-matched controls. CONCLUSION(S) Women with malignant disease should expect a lower number of oocytes retrieved after COH for fertility preservation, compared with healthy, age-matched patients. Presently, there is paucity of evidence to assess the effect of a specific malignant disease on ovarian response to COH before IVF for fertility preservation. Multicentric studies should be conducted to resolve these important issues.
Collapse
|
25
|
Bringer-Deutsch S, Belaisch-Allart J, Delvigne A. Préservation de la fertilité en cas de traitement stérilisant. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 39:S53-66. [DOI: 10.1016/s0368-2315(10)70031-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
|
26
|
Anchan RM, Ginsburg ES. Fertility concerns and preservation in younger women with breast cancer. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2010; 74:175-92. [DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2009.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2006] [Revised: 09/12/2009] [Accepted: 09/24/2009] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
|
27
|
Said TM, Tellez S, Evenson DP, Del Valle AP. Assessment of sperm quality, DNA integrity and cryopreservation protocols in men diagnosed with testicular and systemic malignancies. Andrologia 2009; 41:377-82. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2009.00941.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
|
28
|
Quintero RB, Helmer A, Huang JQ, Westphal LM. Ovarian stimulation for fertility preservation in patients with cancer. Fertil Steril 2008; 93:865-8. [PMID: 19013563 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2008.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2008] [Revised: 09/30/2008] [Accepted: 10/03/2008] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) in women with cancer compared with healthy women. DESIGN A retrospective cohort study. SETTING Academic assisted reproductive technology (ART) program. PATIENT(S) Fifty women undergoing oocyte retrieval before cancer treatment and 50 age-matched controls. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Number of oocytes and matured oocytes retrieved, number of fertilized oocytes, days of stimulation, dose of gonadotropins. RESULT(S) There were no significant differences in the number of oocytes retrieved (13 vs. 11.5), the number of matured oocytes retrieved (9.7 vs. 9.6), and the number of oocytes fertilized (7.4 vs. 6.8). However, the patients with cancer had a longer duration of stimulation (10.5 vs. 9.0 days) and higher total dose of gonadotropins (4,174 IU vs. 3,416 IU). CONCLUSION(S) In our study, reasonable ovarian response was achieved by women with cancer with increased doses of gonadotropins and a longer duration of stimulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rudolpho B Quintero
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94304, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Pregnancy and Assisted Reproduction Techniques in Men and Women after Cancer Treatment. Placenta 2008; 29 Suppl B:152-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2008.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2008] [Revised: 07/15/2008] [Accepted: 07/17/2008] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
|
30
|
Revel A, Revel-Vilk S. Pediatric fertility preservation: is it time to offer testicular tissue cryopreservation? Mol Cell Endocrinol 2008; 282:143-9. [PMID: 18249486 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2007.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
As the effectiveness of cancer treatments has improved, children diagnosed with cancer can enjoy a longer life free of the disease. However, chemotherapeutic regimens alone or in combination with radiation therapy frequently result in azoospermia or infertility. This paper reviews currently and potentially available methods to maintain fertility in boys undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Whenever possible, chemotherapeutic agents that are less likely to cause azoospermia, should be considered. Hormonal suppression applied prior to and during chemotherapy may protect future male fertility. Cryopreservation of sperm enables men to reproduce in the future. New techniques, such as in vitro fertilization with intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection offer a more promising future for male cancer sufferers. These techniques however, are not applicable to pre-puberty cancer patients. The use of spermatogonial and embryonic stem cells open new possibilities for boys diagnosed with cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ariel Revel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Medical Center and Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel.
| | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Criopreservación de semen en pacientes con cáncer: criterios determinados según la medicina basada en la evidencia. Rev Int Androl 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/s1698-031x(07)74087-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
32
|
Gat Y, Gornish M, Navon U, Chakraborty J, Bachar GN, Ben-Shlomo I. Right varicocele and hypoxia, crucial factors in male infertility: fluid mechanics analysis of the impaired testicular drainage system. Reprod Biomed Online 2006; 13:510-5. [PMID: 17007671 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60638-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Varicocele is considered a predominantly unilateral left-sided disease. However, since male fertility is preserved with only one healthy testis, infertility perforce represents bilateral testicular dysfunction. It was hypothesized that: (i) right varicocele cannot be diagnosed by palpation and therefore has not been treated in the past by the traditional treatment, and (ii) right varicocele causes impaired oxygen supply in the right testicular microcirculation, leading to germ cell degeneration. This study performed venographies of both right and left internal spermatic veins during the treatment of 840 infertile men with varicocele and analysed the results using tools of fluid mechanics. Histopathology of the right testis revealed stagnation of blood flow and degenerative changes attributed to lack of adequate oxygenation in all testicular cell types. Right varicocele was found in the vast majority of the patients. We found that due to the destruction of one-way valves, pathologic hydrostatic pressure is produced in the testicular venous microcirculatory system about five times higher than normal, exceeding arteriolar pressure. The pressure gradient between the arterioles and venules in the testicular tissue is therefore reversed, leading to persistent hypoxia. Right varicocele, although undetected, is prevalent in infertile men with varicocele, hence only bilateral occlusion of the internal spermatic veins, including the associated bypasses, eliminating the pathologic hydrostatic pressure will lead to resumption of arterial blood flow in the testicular microcirculation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yigal Gat
- Andrology Unit, Maynei HaYeshua Hospital and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rabin Medical Center, Beilinson Campus, Petah Tiqva and Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Maltaris T, Koelbl H, Seufert R, Kiesewetter F, Beckmann MW, Mueller A, Dittrich R. Gonadal damage and options for fertility preservation in female and male cancer survivors. Asian J Androl 2006; 8:515-33. [PMID: 16847527 DOI: 10.1111/j.1745-7262.2006.00206.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
It is estimated that in 2010, 1 in every 250 adults will be a childhood cancer survivor. Today, oncological surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy achieve relatively high rates of remission and long-term survival, yet are often detrimental to fertility. Quality of life is increasingly important to long-term survivors of cancer, and one of the major quality-of-life issues is the ability to produce and raise normal children. Developments in the near future in the emerging field of fertility preservation in cancer survivors promise to be very exciting. This article reviews the published literature, discusses the effects of cancer treatment on fertility and presents the options available today thanks to advances in assisted-reproduction technology for maintaining fertility in male and female patients undergoing this type of treatment. The various diagnostic methods of assessing the fertility potential and the efficacy of in vitro fertilization (IVF) after cancer treatment are also presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Theodoros Maltaris
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Johannes Gutenburg University, Mainz, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Garolla A, Pizzato C, Ferlin A, Carli MO, Selice R, Foresta C. Progress in the development of childhood cancer therapy. Reprod Toxicol 2006; 22:126-32. [PMID: 16781110 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2006.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2006] [Revised: 04/19/2006] [Accepted: 04/19/2006] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Despite the continuous improvement of cancer treatment protocols, altered testicular function and infertility frequently represent major adverse effects of oncologic treatments. Thus, strong efforts are needed to avoid or at least to reduce these complications that are particularly relevant in young men without offspring. Furthermore in the last years, concerns have been raised about the possible mutagenic effect of chemotherapy on sperm. Alkylating agents are frequently and successfully used in the treatment of paediatric tumors despite their well-known gonadotoxic effect. While gonadal toxicity of cyclophosphamide has been well demonstrated, little and conflicting data are reported about the effects on testicular function of ifosfamide. The aim of this study was to compare long-term effects of ifosfamide versus cyclophosphamide based therapies, on testicular function, fertility and sperm aneuploidies in a group of 33 young males survivors of childhood cancer. Patients who had received cyclophosphamide showed a severe gonadal failure characterized by reduced testicular size, very low sperm count and some degree of Leydig cell impairment. On the contrary, in subjects who had received ifosfamide all parameters of testicular function including sperm aneuploidies were in the normal range, despite of different dose, protocol of infusion and pubertal stage at treatment. In conclusion, our results confirm data of literature reporting the high gonadal toxicity of cyclophosphamide and suggest that ifosfamide treatment seems to be safer for testicular function and fertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Garolla
- Department of Histology, Microbiology and Medical Biotechnologies, Centre for Male Gamete Cryopreservation, University of Padova, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Bibliography. Current world literature. Fertility. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2006; 18:344-53. [PMID: 16735837 DOI: 10.1097/01.gco.0000193023.28556.e2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|