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Dochez V, Chabernaud C, Schirr-Bonnans S, Riche VP, Thubert T, Winer N, Vigoureux S. Prevention of Rhesus-D Alloimmunization in the First Trimester of Pregnancy: Economic Analysis of Three Management Strategies. Transfus Med Rev 2024; 38:150778. [PMID: 37925226 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmrv.2023.150778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
Anti-D alloimmunization in the first trimester of pregnancy has long been the subject of prevention with anti-D immunoglobulins during events at risk of fetomaternal hemorrhage. Although the efficacy of preventing anti-D alloimmunization by an injection of immunoglobulin at 28 weeks of gestation (WG) is obvious, the literature provides little evidence of the effectiveness before 12+6 WG and several countries have modified their recommendations. In the presumed absence of a difference in alloimmunization risk between early and late prevention, our objective was to evaluate and compare the cost of treatment for 3 alloimmunization prevention strategies in France, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands. This was a single-center retrospective study. Our target population included all women who received anti-D immunoglobulins (Rhophylac) in the first trimester of pregnancy before 12+6 WG at Nantes University Hospital in 2018 (N = 356). Within the target population, 2 other populations were constituted based on British (N = 145) and Dutch (N = 142) clinical practice guidelines (CPG). These 3 populations were analyzed for the comparative cost of treatment for prevention from a health system perspective. The average cost of Rhophylac alloimmunization prevention for 1 episode was €117.8 from a health system perspective. The total cost attributed to prevention in 2018 at Nantes University Hospital (N = 356) was €41,931.4 according to this perspective. If the UK CPG or Dutch CPG had been applied to the Nantes target population, a saving of around 60% would have been achieved. At the national level, the cost according to the health system perspective specifically attributable to induced abortion (N estimated = 26,916) could represent a total cost of €3,170,704. This study highlighted the high cost of the French prevention strategy in the first trimester of pregnancy compared with British or Dutch strategies. The modification of our practices would allow substantial financial savings to the French health system but would also avoid the nonrecommended exposure to a blood product at this term, would allow a faster medical management and a relief of the care system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Dochez
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique, INSERM, CIC 1413, F-44000 Nantes, France; Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Movement - Interactions - Performance, MIP, EA 4334, F-44000 Nantes, France.
| | - Camille Chabernaud
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique, INSERM, CIC 1413, F-44000 Nantes, France
| | - Solène Schirr-Bonnans
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Cellule Innovation Département Partenariat et Innovation, F-44000 Nantes, France
| | - Valéry-Pierre Riche
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Cellule Innovation Département Partenariat et Innovation, F-44000 Nantes, France
| | - Thibault Thubert
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique, INSERM, CIC 1413, F-44000 Nantes, France; Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Movement - Interactions - Performance, MIP, EA 4334, F-44000 Nantes, France
| | - Norbert Winer
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique, INSERM, CIC 1413, F-44000 Nantes, France; Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, INRAE, UMR 1280, PhAN, F-44000 Nantes, France
| | - Solène Vigoureux
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique, INSERM, CIC 1413, F-44000 Nantes, France; CESP (Centre for Research in Epidemiology and Population Health), Inserm U1018, Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Villejuif, France
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Chan MC, Gill RK, Kim CR. Rhesus isoimmunisation in unsensitised RhD-negative individuals seeking abortion at less than 12 weeks' gestation: a systematic review. BMJ SEXUAL & REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 48:163-168. [PMID: 34819315 PMCID: PMC9279745 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsrh-2021-201225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
AIM The aim of this review was to systematically review the outcome of routine anti-D administration among unsensitised rhesus (RhD)-negative individuals who have an abortion. This review is registered with Prospero. METHODS A search for all published and ongoing studies, without restrictions on language or publication status, was performed using the following databases from their inception: EBM Reviews Ovid - Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE Ovid (Epub Ahead of Print, In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations and Daily), Embase.com, Popline and Google Scholar. Study types included: randomised controlled trials, controlled trials, cohort and case-control studies from 1971 onwards. The population included women who undergo an abortion (induced, incomplete, spontaneous or septic abortion), medical or surgical <12 weeks, and isoimmunisation in a subsequent pregnancy. The primary outcomes were: (1) development of a positive Kleihauer-Betke test and (2) development of Rh alloimmunisation in a subsequent pregnancy. RESULTS A total of 2652 studies were screened with 105 accessed for full-text review. Two studies have been included with high bias appreciated. Both studies found few women to be sensitised in forming antibodies after an abortion. The limited studies available and heterogeneity prevent the conduction of a meta-analysis. CONCLUSIONS Rh immunoglobulin has well-documented safety. However, it is not without risks and costs, is a possible barrier to delivering efficient services, and may have limited availability in some countries. The evidence base and quality of studies are currently limited. There is unclear benefit from the recommendation for Rh testing and immunoglobulin administration in early pregnancy. More research is needed as clinical practice guidelines are varied, based on expert opinions and moving away from testing and administration at time of abortion. IMPLICATIONS There is limited evidence surrounding medical benefit of Rh testing and immunoglobulin administration in early pregnancy. Further research is needed to define alloimmunisation and immunoglobulin benefit to update standards of care. Additionally, other factors should be considered in forming clinical policies and guidelines such as costs, feasibility and impact on access to care for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle C Chan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Roopan Kaur Gill
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Caron Rahn Kim
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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Lord J. Time to re-evaluate rhesus testing and anti-D prophylaxis in abortion care. BMJ SEXUAL & REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2021; 47:81-83. [PMID: 33153982 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsrh-2020-200815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 10/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Lord
- Marie Stopes International (UK), London, UK
- Department of Gynaecology, Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, Truro, UK
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Narciso TARM, Hoshida MS, Costa PR, Niquirilo A, Biancolin SE, Lin LH, Francisco RPV, Brizot ML. Fetal-Maternal Hemorrhage in First-Trimester Intrauterine Hematoma. Fetal Diagn Ther 2021; 48:227-234. [PMID: 33706316 DOI: 10.1159/000513747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to compare the frequency and percentage of fetal hemoglobin (HbF%) by flow cytometry of (1) first-trimester asymptomatic patients with intrauterine hematoma (IUH), (2) first-trimester pregnant patients with vaginal bleeding (VB), and (3) first-trimester asymptomatic pregnant women without hematoma. METHODS Prospective study involving pregnant women in the first trimester of pregnancy. Patients with ultrasound findings of asymptomatic hematoma and with VB were paired with asymptomatic pregnant women of same gestational age without hematoma (control group [CG]). Maternal blood HbF% was evaluated by flow cytometry. The groups were compared in terms of circulating fetal hemoglobin and HbF%. RESULTS Sixty-six patients were selected, 22 with hematoma, 17 with bleeding, and 27 in the CG. Fetal hemoglobin was detected in 15 patients with hematoma (68.2%) and 13 with bleeding (76.5%) and in 20 of the control (74.1%) (p = 0.830). The mean HbF% of each group was 0.054, 0.012, and 0.042 for hematoma, bleeding, and control, respectively, and differences were not significant (p = 0.141). There was a moderate negative correlation between the volume of hematoma and HbF% (rSpearman = -0.527; p = 0.012). CONCLUSIONS The fetal-maternal hemorrhage expressed by Hbf% in first-trimester pregnancies did not seem to differ between patients with and without ultrasound findings of IUH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaisa A R M Narciso
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology/Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP/Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mara S Hoshida
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology/Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP/Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Priscilla R Costa
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy/Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Andrea Niquirilo
- Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy/Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sckarlet E Biancolin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology/Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP/Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lawrence H Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology/Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP/Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rossana P V Francisco
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology/Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP/Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria L Brizot
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology/Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP/Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil,
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Horvath S, Tsao P, Huang ZY, Zhao L, Du Y, Sammel MD, Prak ETL, Schreiber CA. The concentration of fetal red blood cells in first-trimester pregnant women undergoing uterine aspiration is below the calculated threshold for Rh sensitization. Contraception 2020; 102:1-6. [PMID: 32135125 PMCID: PMC7272297 DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2020.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2019] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To calculate the minimum fetal red blood cell concentration required to cause maternal Rh sensitization; validate the use of a flow cytometry protocol below that concentration; preliminarily assess the concentrations of fetal red blood cells in pregnant women before and after uterine aspiration. STUDY DESIGN Using pre-existing literature, we calculated the lowest concentration of fetal red blood cells found to cause sensitization within adult female circulation. We validated a two-color flow cytometry protocol using fluorescently labeled antibodies to Hemoglobin F (expressed by fetal red blood cells and adult F cells) and Carbonic Anhydrase (expressed in red blood cells during the third trimester and postnatally) by titrating second trimester cord blood into non-pregnant adult blood. We applied this flow cytometry protocol in a prospective cohort study of 42 pregnant women at 5-12 weeks gestational age undergoing uterine aspiration for induced or spontaneous abortion. RESULTS The calculated threshold for causing Rh sensitization was 250 fetal red blood cells per 10 million total red blood cells. We showed a linear relationship between observed and expected fetal red blood cell fractions in titrated samples. Fetal red blood cell counts were more reliable when samples acquired by flow cytometry contained at least 1 million red blood cells. All 37 subjects with evaluable paired samples demonstrated fetal red blood cell concentrations below the calculated threshold for Rh sensitization both pre- and post-procedure. The fetal RBC concentrations increased from a mean of 4.5 (median 0, range 0-57) fetal RBCS pre- to a mean of 8.6 (median 2, range 0-32) fetal RBCs post- per 10 million total RBCs (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Flow cytometry was capable of separately quantifying fetal red blood cells and maternal F cells to very dilute concentrations. Fetal red blood cell exposure in the first trimester was well below the calculated threshold for maternal Rh sensitization in our cohort. Larger studies are warranted to confirm our pilot study findings, fill this evidence gap and inform universal guidelines for administering Rh immunoglobulin after first trimester uterine aspiration. IMPLICATIONS Fetal red blood cell exposure following first trimester uterine aspiration is well below the calculated threshold for maternal Rh sensitization in our cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Horvath
- Division of Family Planning, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States.
| | - Patricia Tsao
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States.
| | - Zhen-Yu Huang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States.
| | - Ling Zhao
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States.
| | - Yangzhu Du
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States.
| | - Mary D Sammel
- Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States.
| | - Eline T Luning Prak
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States.
| | - Courtney A Schreiber
- Division of Family Planning, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States.
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Schmidt-Hansen M, Lord J, Hawkins J, Cameron S, Pandey A, Hasler E, Regan F. Anti-D prophylaxis for rhesus D (RhD)-negative women having an abortion of a pregnancy up to 13 +6 weeks' gestation: a systematic review and new NICE consensus guidelines. BMJ SEXUAL & REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2020; 47:bmjsrh-2019-200536. [PMID: 31959599 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsrh-2019-200536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In order to develop the 2019 National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) national guideline on abortion care for the National Health Service1 we undertook a systematic review comparing anti-D prophylaxis to no prophylaxis in rhesus D (RhD)-negative women undergoing medical or surgical abortion of pregnancy at ≤13+6 weeks' gestation METHODS: We searched Embase, Medline and the Cochrane Library on 19 October 2018. We also consulted experts and checked reference lists for any missed trials. Eligible studies were randomised controlled trials and non-randomised comparative studies, published in English from 1985 onwards, comparing anti-D prophylaxis to no anti-D prophylaxis in RhD-negative women undergoing medical or surgical abortion at ≤13+6 weeks' gestation, and reporting subsequent anti-D isoimmunisation/sensitisation or subsequent affected pregnancy. These outcomes were to be analysed as risk ratios in Review Manager 5.3 using the Mantel-Haenszel statistical method and a fixed or random effect model. The overall quality of the evidence was planned to be assessed using GRADE. RESULTS The search identified 426 potentially relevant studies of which none met the inclusion criteria. Recommendations for practice were therefore based on the clinical expertise of the guideline committee. CONCLUSIONS (1) Offer anti-D prophylaxis to women who are Rhesus D negative who are having an abortion after 10+0 weeks' gestation. (2) Do not offer anti-D prophylaxis to women who are having a medical abortion up to and including 10+0 weeks' gestation. (3) Consider anti-D prophylaxis for women who are rhesus D negative and are having a surgical abortion up to and including 10+0 weeks' gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mia Schmidt-Hansen
- National Guideline Alliance, Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists, London, UK
| | - Jonathan Lord
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, Truro, Cornwall, UK
| | - James Hawkins
- National Guideline Alliance, Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists, London, UK
| | - Sharon Cameron
- Sexual and Reproductive Health Services, NHS Lothian, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Anuja Pandey
- National Guideline Alliance, Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists, London, UK
| | - Elise Hasler
- National Guideline Alliance, Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists, London, UK
| | - Fiona Regan
- Department of Haematology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust and NHS Blood & Transplant, London, UK
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7
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Hollenbach SJ, Cochran M, Harrington A. "Provoked" feto-maternal hemorrhage may represent insensible cell exchange in pregnancies from 6 to 22 weeks gestational age. Contraception 2019; 100:142-146. [PMID: 30980826 DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2019.03.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To quantify spontaneous and provoked fetal to maternal cell exchange in the first half of pregnancy. Transfer of fetal red blood cells (FRBCs) into the maternal circulation during the first half of pregnancy is poorly characterized but of clinical relevance for miscarriage management and invasive procedures. STUDY DESIGN Prospective, descriptive cohort study of women presenting for surgical termination of pregnancy with sonographically confirmed gestational age (GA). Pre-procedural and post-procedural blood samples were collected to characterize both spontaneous (pre) and provoked (post) cell exchange with analysis via flow cytometry to quantify FRBC count. RESULTS A total of 100 patients at 6-22 weeks GA contributed 200 matched pre- and post-procedural samples. FRBCs were identified in 69 patients including 4 who exhibited FRBCs pre-procedure only and 9 post-procedure only, for a total of 65 patients having post-procedural FRBCs. Of patients with FRBCs following their procedure, the majority (n=56, 86%) also exhibited evidence of cells before the procedure with just 9 patients (14%) exhibiting FRBCs only after. No dose-response relationship was appreciable between GA and FRBC count. CONCLUSION After experiencing disruption of the placenta with instrumentation, roughly two thirds of patients had detectable FRBCs in maternal circulation following their procedure but-among those that did-the majority also exhibited cell presence prior to the procedure. This leads to further questions regarding the relationship between risk events and alloimmunization potential in previable pregnancies as the rate of spontaneous transplacental cell exchange may be underappreciated and the magnitude of provoked transfer may be overestimated. IMPLICATIONS The relationship between feto-maternal hemorrhage risk events and alloimmunization potential in previable pregnancies has previously been poorly characterized but these data reveal spontaneous transplacental cell exchange may be underappreciated and the magnitude of provoked transfer may be overestimated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Amy Harrington
- The University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
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Abstract
Early in pregnancy women frequently experience nausea, vomiting, and vaginal bleeding. Nausea and vomiting can be mild, managed by dietary modifications and medications, or severe, requiring intravenous fluids and medications. Care should be used when selecting medications for nausea to avoid additional side effects or potential harm to the developing fetus. When evaluating vaginal bleeding in early pregnancy, ectopic pregnancy must be ruled out. If an intrauterine pregnancy is seen, threatened miscarriage should be considered and the patient appropriately counseled. If neither intrauterine pregnancy nor ectopic pregnancy can be established, a management algorithm for pregnancy of unknown location is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Pontius
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Georgetown University School of Medicine, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, 110 Irving Street, Northwest, NA 1177, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Julie T Vieth
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Canton-Potsdam Hospital, 50 Leroy Street, Potsdam, NY 13676, USA.
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Mark A, Foster AM, Grossman D, Prager SW, Reeves M, Velásquez CV, Winikoff B. Foregoing Rh testing and anti-D immunoglobulin for women presenting for early abortion: a recommendation from the National Abortion Federation's Clinical Policies Committee. Contraception 2019; 99:265-266. [PMID: 30867121 DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2019.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/15/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alice Mark
- National Abortion Federation, 1090 Vermont Ave NW Suite 1000, Washington DC, 20005, USA.
| | - Angel M Foster
- National Abortion Federation, Clinical Policies Committee, Washington, DC, USA; University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Daniel Grossman
- National Abortion Federation, Clinical Policies Committee, Washington, DC, USA; University of California San Francisco and Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health Care (ANSIRH), San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Sarah W Prager
- National Abortion Federation, Clinical Policies Committee, Washington, DC, USA; University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Matthew Reeves
- National Abortion Federation, Clinical Policies Committee, Washington, DC, USA; Dupont Clinic, Washington DC, USA.
| | - Cristina Villarreal Velásquez
- National Abortion Federation, Clinical Policies Committee, Washington, DC, USA; Fundación Oriéntame and ESAR, Bogotá, Colombia.
| | - Beverly Winikoff
- National Abortion Federation, Clinical Policies Committee, Washington, DC, USA; Gynuity Health Projects, New York City, NY, USA.
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Wiebe ER, Campbell M, Aiken AR, Albert A. Can we safely stop testing for Rh status and immunizing Rh-negative women having early abortions? A comparison of Rh alloimmunization in Canada and the Netherlands. Contracept X 2019. [PMCID: PMC7286179 DOI: 10.1016/j.conx.2018.100001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The objective of this study was to compare Rh alloimmunization rates in two countries (Canada and the Netherlands) with completely different policies regarding abortion-related use of anti-D immunoglobulin to ultimately determine any benefit in use. In the Netherlands, the policy is to offer anti-D immunoglobulin to Rh-negative women having spontaneous abortions over 10 weeks 0 days gestation and induced abortions over 7 weeks 0 days. In Canada, it is recommended to offer all Rh-negative women having induced or spontaneous abortions anti-D immunoglobulin. Methods We used public databases to obtain the population data, the number of births, the abortion rates (the percentage of women having induced abortions in one year) and the Rh-negativity rates (percentage of Rh negative women) in Canada and the Netherlands. Both countries do routine prenatal blood screening and we obtained the rates of clinically significant antibodies from public databases. Results In nearly 2 million blood samples from pregnant women in both Canada and the Netherlands, the prevalence of clinically significant antibodies was statistically lower in the Netherlands: 4.21 (95% CI: 4.12 to 4.30) and 4.03 (95% CI: 3.93 to 4.12) per 1000, respectively. Canada and the Netherlands had small differences in rates of abortion (1.9 per 100 vs 1.2 per 100) and of Rh negativity (13.0% vs 14.5%). Conclusion Despite different anti-D Ig treatment policies, we found a similar prevalence of clinically significant perinatal antibodies among women in Canada and the Netherlands. Implications Our findings suggest that The Dutch policy of not treating Rh-negative women having spontaneous abortions under 10 weeks’ or induced abortions under 7 weeks’ gestation can be safely adopted by other countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen R. Wiebe
- Department of Family Practice, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Corresponding author. Tel.: + 1 604 709 5611; fax: + 1 604 873 8304.
| | | | - Abigail R.A. Aiken
- Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs & Population Research Center, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, United States of America
| | - Arianne Albert
- Women’s Health Research Institute, BC Women’s Hospital and Health Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Zipursky A, Bhutani VK, Odame I. Rhesus disease: a global prevention strategy. THE LANCET CHILD & ADOLESCENT HEALTH 2018; 2:536-542. [PMID: 30169325 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-4642(18)30071-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2017] [Revised: 01/29/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
After nearly five decades of effective prophylaxis in high-income countries, the incidence of rhesus haemolytic disease (also known as haemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn) has substantially decreased, and as a result, clinical experience of the disease among health-care providers is insufficient. By contrast, a worldwide study found that rhesus haemolytic disease continues to be a public health problem in low-income and middle-income countries, affecting annually in more than 150 000 children, and causing thousands of stillbirths, neonatal deaths, and cases of hyperbilirubinaemia with its sequelae (kernicterus and bilirubin-induced neurological dysfunction). Solutions to this problem will require the combined and integrated effort of physicians and other health-care workers, international agencies, manufacturers of the prophylactic agent (rhesus immunoglobulin), health policy makers, and governments of low-income and middle-income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvin Zipursky
- Department of Paediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Vinod K Bhutani
- Department of Peadiatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Isaac Odame
- Department of Paediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
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12
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Linet T. Interruption volontaire de grossesse instrumentale. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 45:1515-1535. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jgyn.2016.09.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2016] [Accepted: 09/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Faucher P. [Complications of termination of pregnancy]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 45:1536-1551. [PMID: 27816250 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgyn.2016.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2016] [Revised: 09/20/2016] [Accepted: 09/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The legalization of abortion in France allowed to disappear almost maternal deaths caused by induced abortions. Nevertheless, the practice of abortion in a medical framework is encumbered with a number of immediate complications. Similarly, the late consequences of the practice of surgical abortion have generated an abundant literature, which it is important to analyse, both to meet the legitimate concerns of patients as to prevent any spread of false ideas under the influence of movements opposed to abortion.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Faucher
- Unité fonctionnelle d'orthogénie, hôpital Trousseau, 26, rue du Dr-Arnold-Netter, 75571 Paris cedex 12, France.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE This guideline reviews the evidence relating to the provision of first-trimester medical induced abortion, including patient eligibility, counselling, and consent; evidence-based regimens; and special considerations for clinicians providing medical abortion care. INTENDED USERS Gynaecologists, family physicians, registered nurses, midwives, residents, and other healthcare providers who currently or intend to provide pregnancy options counselling, medical abortion care, or family planning services. TARGET POPULATION Women with an unintended first trimester pregnancy. EVIDENCE Published literature was retrieved through searches of PubMed, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Library between July 2015 and November 2015 using appropriately controlled vocabulary (MeSH search terms: Induced Abortion, Medical Abortion, Mifepristone, Misoprostol, Methotrexate). Results were restricted to systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials, clinical trials, and observational studies published from June 1986 to November 2015 in English. Additionally, existing guidelines from other countries were consulted for review. A grey literature search was not required. VALUES The quality of evidence in this document was rated using the criteria described in the Report of the Canadian Task Force for Preventive Medicine rating scale (Table 1). BENEFITS, HARMS AND/OR COSTS Medical abortion is safe and effective. Complications from medical abortion are rare. Access and costs will be dependent on provincial and territorial funding for combination mifepristone/misoprostol and provider availability. SUMMARY STATEMENTS Introduction Pre-procedure care Medical abortion regimens Providing medical abortion Post-abortion care RECOMMENDATIONS Introduction Pre-procedure care Medical abortion regimens Providing medical abortion Post-abortion care.
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Abstract
Medical abortion is a safe, convenient, and effective method for terminating an early unintended pregnancy. Medical abortion can be performed up to 63 days from the last menstrual period and may even be used up to 70 days for women who prefer medical abortion over surgical abortion. Counseling on the adverse effects and expectations for medical abortion is critical to success. Medical abortion can be performed in a clinic without special equipment, and it is perceived as more "natural" than a surgical abortion by many women. Follow-up for medical abortion can be simplified to include only serum human chorionic gonadotropin measurements when necessary, although obtaining an ultrasound remains the criterion standard. Pain associated with medical abortion is best treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, possibly in combination with opioid analgesics. Medical abortion can contribute to continuity of care for women who wish to remain with their primary care providers for management of their abortion.
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Murtaza UI, Ortmann MJ, Mando-Vandrick J, Lee ASD. Management of first-trimester complications in the emergency department. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2013; 70:99-111. [DOI: 10.2146/ajhp120069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Umbreen I. Murtaza
- Emergency Medicine, Department of Pharmacy, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD
| | - Melinda J. Ortmann
- Emergency Medicine, Department of Pharmacy, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD
| | | | - Amy S. D. Lee
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore
- Emergency Medicine, Department of Pharmacy, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD
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Abstract
Physicians not used to caring for pregnant patients may feel uncomfortable dealing with the many routine problems that can occur during a pregnancy. Other than true obstetric emergencies, which are usually cared for by obstetricians and family physicians, and the common problems of pregnancy can often be cared for by any primary care physician. Given the litigious nature of our society, especially in the realm of obstetrics, it does behoove the physician caring for pregnant women to be aware of the standards of care. When in doubt, it would be prudent to consult with a physician that routinely provides care to pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin S Ferentz
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 29 South Paca Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
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von Hertzen H, Baird D. Frequently asked questions about medical abortion. Contraception 2006; 74:3-10. [PMID: 16781252 DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2006.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2006] [Accepted: 03/29/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The development of methods of inducing abortion medically (nonsurgically) has created alternative options to make abortion available to women in a variety of health-care settings. Medical abortion is induced with a regimen of mifepristone followed by a prostaglandin analogue. Since its first introduction in the late 1980s, the regimen has undergone some modifications based on research evidence, and, in many countries, clinicians are using regimens that may differ from the one that has been licensed. This causes confusion among providers, also because only a few countries have developed national guidelines for the provision of medical abortion. We approached health care personnel providing abortion services in various countries and asked them to send us questions that they, or their colleagues, might have concerning the clinical practice of medical abortion in the early first trimester (up to 63 days since the first day of the last menstrual period). These questions were sent to experts representing the fields of biomedical and clinical research, clinical practice and family planning, who conducted literature reviews so that, whenever possible, the answers could be based on existing evidence. A consensus meeting was held in Bellagio, Italy, between November 1 and 5, 2004, to review the questions and to discuss the answers. The aim of this article is to provide a brief overview of some of the questions asked and the answers discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena von Hertzen
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, CH-1211 Geneva 27, Switzerland.
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Hannafin B, Lovecchio F, Blackburn P. Do Rh-negative women with first trimester spontaneous abortions need Rh immune globulin? Am J Emerg Med 2006; 24:487-9. [PMID: 16787810 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2006.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2006] [Accepted: 01/26/2006] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine whether literature supports the use of Rh immune globulin in Rh-negative women with first trimester spontaneous abortions to prevent maternal sensitization to the fetal Rh antigen and subsequent fetal morbidity and mortality. METHODS We searched MEDLINE (1966-2005), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, EMBASE (1990 to 2005), and the reference sections of the articles found. The search is considered updated to December of 2005. Search terms included vaginal bleeding, Rh negative, Rh immune globulin, RhoGAM, isoimmunization, sensitization, first trimester pregnancy, threatened, and spontaneous abortion. RESULTS The evidence to support the use of Rh immune globulin for a diagnosis of first trimester spontaneous abortion is minimal. There is a paucity of well-designed research that examines maternal sensitization or hemolytic disease of the newborn as an outcome in patients receiving, versus not receiving, Rh immune globulin in first trimester bleeding. There is significant evidence to demonstrate fetomaternal hemorrhage in first trimester spontaneous abortions; yet, no studies demonstrate subsequent maternal sensitization or development hemolytic disease in the fetus as a result of this hemorrhage. CONCLUSION In summary, there is minimal evidence that administering Rh immune globulin for first trimester vaginal bleeding prevents maternal sensitization or development of hemolytic disease of the newborn. The practice of administering Rh immune globulin to Rh-negative women with a first trimester spontaneous abortion is based on expert opinion and extrapolation from experience with fetomaternal hemorrhage in late pregnancy. Its use for first trimester bleeding is not evidence-based.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blaine Hannafin
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Maricopa Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ 85006, USA.
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Fiala C, Gemzel-Danielsson K. Review of medical abortion using mifepristone in combination with a prostaglandin analogue. Contraception 2006; 74:66-86. [PMID: 16781264 DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2006.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2006] [Revised: 03/29/2006] [Accepted: 03/31/2006] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Induced abortion is still a major health problem in the world and the most frequently performed intervention in obstetrics and gynecology with an estimated total of 46 million worldwide each year. Medical abortion with mifepristone and prostaglandin was first introduced in 1988 and is now approved in 31 countries. This combination of drugs has recently been included in the List of Essential Medicines by the World Health Organisation. The present review summarizes the development, physiology and the development of the currently used regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Fiala
- Gynmed Clinic, Mariahilferguertel 37, A-1150 Vienna, Austria.
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Wataganara T, Chen AY, LeShane ES, Sullivan LM, Borgatta L, Bianchi DW, Johnson KL. Changes of cell-free fetal DNA in maternal plasma after elective termination of pregnancy. Clin Chem 2004; 51:217-9. [PMID: 15528293 DOI: 10.1373/clinchem.2004.042135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tuangsit Wataganara
- Division of Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Tufts-New England Medical Center, Boston, MA 02111, USA
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Wataganara T, Chen AY, LeShane ES, Sullivan LM, Borgatta L, Bianchi DW, Johnson KL. Cell-free fetal DNA levels in maternal plasma after elective first-trimester termination of pregnancy. Fertil Steril 2004; 81:638-44. [PMID: 15037414 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2003.07.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2003] [Revised: 07/22/2003] [Accepted: 07/22/2003] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine if first-trimester elective termination of pregnancy affects cell-free fetal DNA (fDNA) levels in maternal plasma. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING Clinical and academic research centers. PATIENT(S) One hundred thirty-four women who underwent first-trimester elective termination procedures. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and measurement of DYS1, a Y-chromosome sequence, was used as a marker of fDNA. RESULT(S) We detected fDNA in pretermination samples from 27 out of 71 patients in the surgical arm, and 29 out of 63 patients in the medical arm. Based on confirmation of male gender in placental tissue, the sensitivity of fDNA detection is 92.6%. We detected fDNA as early as 32 days of gestation, which increased 4.2 genome equivalents/mL/week. In the surgical arm, the mean level of posttermination fDNA, adjusted for the clearance of fDNA in maternal blood, was higher than projected based on an expected increase with gestational age. In the medical arm, six patients had increased fDNA levels up to 11 days following termination. CONCLUSION(S) We found that fDNA can be reliably quantified in the early first trimester; fDNA elevation that occurs shortly after surgical termination may reflect fetomaternal hemorrhage or destruction of trophoblastic villi. Continued elevation of fDNA for several days may occur following medical termination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuangsit Wataganara
- Department of Pediatrics, Tufts-New England Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts 02111, USA
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