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Dong P, Qu X, Yang Y, Li X, Wang C. Effect of oxycodone versus fentanyl for patient-controlled intravenous analgesia after laparoscopic hysteromyomectomy: a single-blind, randomized controlled trial. Sci Rep 2024; 14:20478. [PMID: 39227695 PMCID: PMC11372148 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-71708-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 08/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024] Open
Abstract
A single-blind, randomized controlled trial comparing oxycodone and fentanyl for patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA) after laparoscopic hysteromyomectomy found comparable pain relief between the two groups. The study included 60 participants, with NRS scores for pain at rest and when moving showing no significant differences between oxycodone and fentanyl groups at various time points postoperatively. Self-rating depression scale scores were also similar between the groups at 48 h. However, patients' satisfaction with PCIA was higher in the oxycodone group, with 73.3% reporting being very satisfied compared to 36.7% in the fentanyl group. Additionally, the oxycodone group had fewer incidences of headaches within 48 h postoperatively compared to the fentanyl group. These findings suggest that oxycodone may offer comparable pain relief, higher patient satisfaction, and fewer headaches for patients undergoing laparoscopic hysteromyomectomy compared to fentanyl, making it a suitable option for postoperative pain management in this population.Clinical trial registration number The study was registered with CHICTR.org, ChiCTR2100051924.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Dong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xiaoli Qu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Zibo 148 Hospital, Zibo, 255399, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yue Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xiao Li
- General Department, Laixi Municipal Health Service Center, Qingdao, 266600, Shandong Province, China
| | - Chunling Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong Province, China.
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Applebaum J, Kim EK, Ewy J, Humphries LA, Shah DK. Operative Time and Accrual of Postoperative Complications in Minimally Invasive Versus Open Myomectomy. J Minim Invasive Gynecol 2024; 31:747-755. [PMID: 38740130 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmig.2024.05.010] [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: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE To compare the prevalence and accrual of 30-day postoperative complications by operative time for open myomectomy (OM) and minimally invasive myomectomy (MIM). DESIGN Retrospective cohort study SETTING: Hospitals participating in the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database from January 2015 to December 2021. PATIENTS Female patients aged ≥18 years undergoing OM or MIM. INTERVENTIONS Patients were categorized into OM and MIM cohorts. Covariates associated with operative time and composite complications were identified using general linear model and chi-square or Fisher's exact test as appropriate. Adjusted spline regression was performed as a test of linearity between operative time and composite complications. Adjusted risk ratios of 30-day postoperative individual, minor, major, and composite complications by 60-minute operative time increments were estimated using Poisson regression with robust error variance. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Of 27 728 patients, 11 071 underwent MIM and 16 657 underwent OM. Mean operative times (SD) were 164.6 (82.0) for MIM and 129.2 (67.0) for OM. Raw composite complication rates were 5.5% for MIM and 15.8% for OM. Adjusted spline regression demonstrated linearity between operative time and relative risk of composite postoperative complications for both MIM and OM. MIM had higher adjusted relative risk (aRR, 95% CI) compared to OM of blood transfusion (1.55, 1.45-1.64 versus 1.29, 1.25-1.34), overall minor complications (1.13, 1.03-1.23 versus 1.01, 0.92-1.10), and overall major complications (1.43, 1.35-1.51 versus 1.27, 1.12-1.32). Operative time had greater impact on risk of composite complications for MIM than OM, reaching aRR 2.0 at 296 minutes versus 461 minutes for OM. CONCLUSION OM has a higher overall rate of composite, minor, and major complications compared to MIM. While operative time is independently and linearly associated with postoperative complications with myomectomy regardless of approach, optimizing surgical efficiency for MIM may be more critical than for OM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy Applebaum
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (Drs. Applebaum and Ewy), Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
| | - Edward K Kim
- Division of Urogynecology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital (Dr. Kim), Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Joshua Ewy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (Drs. Applebaum and Ewy), Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Leigh A Humphries
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (Drs. Humphries and Shah), Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Divya K Shah
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (Drs. Humphries and Shah), Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Slotman DJ, Bartels LW, Nijholt IM, Huirne JAF, Moonen CTW, Boomsma MF. Development and validation of a deep learning-based method for automatic measurement of uterus, fibroid, and ablated volume in MRI after MR-HIFU treatment of uterine fibroids. Eur J Radiol 2024; 178:111602. [PMID: 38991285 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2024.111602] [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: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The non-perfused volume divided by total fibroid load (NPV/TFL) is a predictive outcome parameter for MRI-guided high-intensity focused ultrasound (MR-HIFU) treatments of uterine fibroids, which is related to long-term symptom relief. In current clinical practice, the MR-HIFU outcome parameters are typically determined by visual inspection, so an automated computer-aided method could facilitate objective outcome quantification. The objective of this study was to develop and evaluate a deep learning-based segmentation algorithm for volume measurements of the uterus, uterine fibroids, and NPVs in MRI in order to automatically quantify the NPV/TFL. MATERIALS AND METHODS A segmentation pipeline was developed and evaluated using expert manual segmentations of MRI scans of 115 uterine fibroid patients, screened for and/or undergoing MR-HIFU treatment. The pipeline contained three separate neural networks, one per target structure. The first step in the pipeline was uterus segmentation from contrast-enhanced (CE)-T1w scans. This segmentation was subsequently used to remove non-uterus background tissue for NPV and fibroid segmentation. In the following step, NPVs were segmented from uterus-only CE-T1w scans. Finally, fibroids were segmented from uterus-only T2w scans. The segmentations were used to calculate the volume for each structure. Reliability and agreement between manual and automatic segmentations, volumes, and NPV/TFLs were assessed. RESULTS For treatment scans, the Dice similarity coefficients (DSC) between the manually and automatically obtained segmentations were 0.90 (uterus), 0.84 (NPV) and 0.74 (fibroid). Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were 1.00 [0.99, 1.00] (uterus), 0.99 [0.98, 1.00] (NPV) and 0.98 [0.95, 0.99] (fibroid) between manually and automatically derived volumes. For manually and automatically derived NPV/TFLs, the mean difference was 5% [-41%, 51%] (ICC: 0.66 [0.32, 0.85]). CONCLUSION The algorithm presented in this study automatically calculates uterus volume, fibroid load, and NPVs, which could lead to more objective outcome quantification after MR-HIFU treatments of uterine fibroids in comparison to visual inspection. When robustness has been ascertained in a future study, this tool may eventually be employed in clinical practice to automatically measure the NPV/TFL after MR-HIFU procedures of uterine fibroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derk J Slotman
- Department of Radiology, Isala, Zwolle, the Netherlands; Imaging & Oncology Division, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Lambertus W Bartels
- Imaging & Oncology Division, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Ingrid M Nijholt
- Department of Radiology, Isala, Zwolle, the Netherlands; Imaging & Oncology Division, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Judith A F Huirne
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Chrit T W Moonen
- Imaging & Oncology Division, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Focused Ultrasound Foundation, Charlottesville, VA, United States of America
| | - Martijn F Boomsma
- Department of Radiology, Isala, Zwolle, the Netherlands; Imaging & Oncology Division, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Ishikawa H, Goto Y, Hirooka C, Katayama E, Baba N, Kaneko M, Saito Y, Kobayashi T, Koga K. Role of inflammation and immune response in the pathogenesis of uterine fibroids: Including their negative impact on reproductive outcomes. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 165:104317. [PMID: 39154624 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104317] [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: 05/28/2024] [Revised: 07/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
Uterine fibroids (UFs), the most common tumors in women of reproductive age, are characterized by sex steroid-dependent growth and excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) surrounding UF smooth muscle cells. Women with symptomatic UFs experience heavy menstrual bleeding and consequent iron-deficiency anemia. They also have a risk of recurrent pregnancy loss, preterm birth, and cesarean delivery, indicating that UFs can negatively affect reproductive outcomes. Various types of immune cells, including innate and adaptive cells, are observed in UFs; however, the impact of these cells on the pathophysiology of UFs remains unclear. Inflammation may play important roles in the growth of UFs, and expression levels of proinflammatory and inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, and TGF-β, are upregulated in UFs. These cytokines play important roles in the interaction between growth factors and ECM that is regulated by the sex steroids estrogen and progesterone. Furthermore, proinflammatory mediators are upregulated in females with UFs, with higher expression levels in the endometrium with submucosal and intramural UFs than in the endometrium without UFs, indicating that these proinflammatory cytokines may impair endometrial receptivity, leading to implantation failure in in vitro fertilization programs. Hormonal treatments using gonadotropin releasing hormone analogs and the selective progesterone receptor modulator ulipristal acetate significantly shrink UFs and improve UF-related symptoms. These compounds can regulate local inflammation in UFs and adjacent myometrium. Controlling and improving local inflammation caused by UFs may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for UFs and potentially improve reproductive outcomes in women with symptomatic UFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Ishikawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan.
| | - Yuki Goto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Chigusa Hirooka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Eri Katayama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Nao Baba
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Meika Kaneko
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yoshiko Saito
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Kobayashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan; Department of Regulatory Science, Research Promotion Unit, School of Medical Science, Fujita Health University, Aichi, Japan; Fujita Health University Haneda clinic, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kaori Koga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
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Wilson LF, Moss KM, Doust J, Farquhar CM, Mishra GD. First Australian estimates of incidence and prevalence of uterine fibroids: a data linkage cohort study 2000-2022. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:2134-2143. [PMID: 39013145 PMCID: PMC11373412 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the estimated prevalence and incidence of uterine fibroids diagnosed in Australian women of reproductive age? SUMMARY ANSWER An estimated 7.3% of Australian women had a diagnosis of uterine fibroids by the age of 45-49 years, with age-specific incidence highest in women aged 40-44 years (5.0 cases per 1000 person-years). WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Uterine fibroids are associated with a high symptom burden and may affect overall health and quality of life. Studies in different countries show a wide variation in both the prevalence (4.5-68%) and incidence (2.2-37.5 per 1000 person-years) of uterine fibroids, which may be partly explained by the type of investigation, method of case ascertainment, or the age range of the study population, necessitating the reporting of country-specific estimates. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This observational prospective cohort study using self-report survey and linked administrative data (2000-2022) included 8066 women, born between 1973 and 1978, in the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS A combination of self-report survey and linked administrative health data (hospital, emergency department, the Medicare Benefits Schedule, and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme) were used to identify women with a report of a diagnosis of uterine fibroids between 2000 and 2022. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Of the 8066 Australian women followed for 22 years, an estimated 7.3% of women (95% CI 6.9, 7.6) had a diagnosis of uterine fibroids by the age of 45-49 years. The incidence increased with age and was highest in women aged 40-44 years (5.0 cases per 1000 person-years, 95% CI 4.3, 5.7 cases per 1000 person-years). Women with uterine fibroids were more likely to experience heavy or painful periods. They were also more likely to report low iron levels, endometriosis, and poor self-rated health and to have two or more annual visits to their general practitioner. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Our estimates are based on self-report of doctor diagnosis or treatment for fibroids and/or data linked to treatment and procedure administrative records. This predominantly captures women with symptomatic fibroids, but has the potential for misclassification of asymptomatic women and an underestimate of overall prevalence and incidence. In addition, questions on fibroids were only asked in surveys when women were 37-42 years of age to 43-48 years of age, so cases at younger ages may have been underestimated (particularly in women with less severe symptoms) as these were only ascertained through data linkage. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These are the first population-based estimates of the prevalence and incidence of uterine fibroids in women of reproductive age in Australia. Establishing these first estimates will help inform health policy and health care provision in the Australian context. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The ALSWH is funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. L.FW. was supported by an Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Centres for Research Excellence grant (APP1153420) and G.D.M. was supported by an NHMRC Leadership Fellowship (APP2009577). The funding bodies played no role in the design, the collection, analysis or interpretation of data, the writing of the manuscript, or the decision to submit the manuscript for publication. There are no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- L F Wilson
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - K M Moss
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - J Doust
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - C M Farquhar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - G D Mishra
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD, Australia
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Barbaresso R, Qasba N, Knee A, Benabou K. Racial Disparities in Surgical Treatment of Uterine Fibroids During the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2024; 33:1085-1094. [PMID: 38629437 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2023.0826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective: Analyze the association between race and surgery performed for uterine fibroids during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Methods: Retrospective exploratory cross-sectional study of patients with fibroids who underwent surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic. We compared the type of surgery performed (minimally invasive hysterectomy [MIH], uterine-sparing procedure [USP], or total abdominal hysterectomy [TAH]) by White versus non-White patients. Absolute percentage differences were estimated with multinomial logistic regression adjusting for age, body mass index (BMI), parity, comorbidities, and maximum fibroid diameter. Results: Of 350 subjects, the racial composition was 1.7% Asian, 23.4% Black, and 74.9% White. Non-White patients had greater fibroid burden by mean maximum fibroid diameter, mean uterine weight, and mean fibroid weight. Although MIH occurred more frequently among White patients (7.5% points higher [95% confidence interval (CI) = -3.1 to 18.2]), USP and TAH were more commonly conducted for non-White patients (3.4% points higher [95% CI = -10.4 to 3.6] and 4.2% points higher [95% CI = -13.2 to 4.8], respectively). The overall complication rate was 18.6%, which was 6% points lower (95% CI = -15.8 to 3.7) among White patients. Conclusion: During the COVID-19 pandemic at a single-site institution, non-White patients were more likely to undergo a uterine-sparing procedure for surgical treatment of uterine fibroids, abdominal procedures, including both hysterectomy and myomectomy, and experience surgery-related complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Barbaresso
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baystate Medical Center, Springfield, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Neena Qasba
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baystate Medical Center, Springfield, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alexander Knee
- Epidemiology/Biostatistics Research Core, Office of Research, Baystate Medical Center, Springfield, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kelly Benabou
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baystate Medical Center, Springfield, Massachusetts, USA
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Chan LE, Casiraghi E, Reese J, Harmon QE, Schaper K, Hegde H, Valentini G, Schmitt C, Motsinger-Reif A, Hall JE, Mungall CJ, Robinson PN, Haendel MA. Predicting nutrition and environmental factors associated with female reproductive disorders using a knowledge graph and random forests. Int J Med Inform 2024; 187:105461. [PMID: 38643701 PMCID: PMC11188727 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmedinf.2024.105461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Female reproductive disorders (FRDs) are common health conditions that may present with significant symptoms. Diet and environment are potential areas for FRD interventions. We utilized a knowledge graph (KG) method to predict factors associated with common FRDs (for example, endometriosis, ovarian cyst, and uterine fibroids). MATERIALS AND METHODS We harmonized survey data from the Personalized Environment and Genes Study (PEGS) on internal and external environmental exposures and health conditions with biomedical ontology content. We merged the harmonized data and ontologies with supplemental nutrient and agricultural chemical data to create a KG. We analyzed the KG by embedding edges and applying a random forest for edge prediction to identify variables potentially associated with FRDs. We also conducted logistic regression analysis for comparison. RESULTS Across 9765 PEGS respondents, the KG analysis resulted in 8535 significant or suggestive predicted links between FRDs and chemicals, phenotypes, and diseases. Amongst these links, 32 were exact matches when compared with the logistic regression results, including comorbidities, medications, foods, and occupational exposures. DISCUSSION Mechanistic underpinnings of predicted links documented in the literature may support some of our findings. Our KG methods are useful for predicting possible associations in large, survey-based datasets with added information on directionality and magnitude of effect from logistic regression. These results should not be construed as causal but can support hypothesis generation. CONCLUSION This investigation enabled the generation of hypotheses on a variety of potential links between FRDs and exposures. Future investigations should prospectively evaluate the variables hypothesized to impact FRDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren E Chan
- Oregon State University, College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Corvallis, OR, USA.
| | - Elena Casiraghi
- AnacletoLab, Dipartimento di Informatica, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy; Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA; European Laboratory for Learning and Intelligent Systems, ELLIS
| | - Justin Reese
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Quaker E Harmon
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Epidemiology Branch, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Kevin Schaper
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Harshad Hegde
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Giorgio Valentini
- AnacletoLab, Dipartimento di Informatica, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy; European Laboratory for Learning and Intelligent Systems, ELLIS
| | - Charles Schmitt
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Office of Data Science, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Alison Motsinger-Reif
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Biostatistics & Computational Biology Branch, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Janet E Hall
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Clinical Research Branch, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Christopher J Mungall
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Peter N Robinson
- European Laboratory for Learning and Intelligent Systems, ELLIS; The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, 10 Discovery Drive, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Melissa A Haendel
- University of North Carolina, Dept. of Genetics, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Vannuccini S, Petraglia F, Carmona F, Calaf J, Chapron C. The modern management of uterine fibroids-related abnormal uterine bleeding. Fertil Steril 2024; 122:20-30. [PMID: 38723935 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2024.04.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Uterine fibroids (UFs) are the most common female benign pelvic tumors, affecting >60% of patients aged 30-44 years. Uterine fibroids are asymptomatic in a large percentage of cases and may be identified incidentally using a transvaginal ultrasound or a magnetic resonance imaging scan. However, in approximately 30% of cases, UFs affect the quality of life and women's health, with abnormal uterine bleeding and heavy menstrual bleeding being the most common complaints, along with iron deficiency (ID) and ID anemia. Medical treatments used for UFs-related abnormal uterine bleeding include symptomatic agents, such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs and tranexamic acid, and hormonal therapies, including combined oral contraceptives, gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists or antagonists, levonorgestrel intrauterine systems, selective progesterone receptor modulators, and aromatase inhibitors. Nevertheless, few drugs are approved specifically for UF treatment, and most of them manage the symptoms. Surgical options include fertility-sparing treatments, such as myomectomy, or nonconservative options, such as hysterectomy, especially in perimenopausal women who are not responding to any treatment. Radiologic interventions are also available: uterine artery embolization, high-intensity focused ultrasound or magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound, and radiofrequency ablation. Furthermore, the management of ID and ID anemia, as a consequence of acute and chronic bleeding, should be taken into account with the use of iron replacement therapy both during medical treatment and before and after a surgical procedure. In the case of symptomatic UFs, the location, size, multiple UFs, or coexistent adenomyosis should guide the choice with a shared decision-making process, considering long- and short-term treatment goals expected by the patient, including pregnancy desire or wish to preserve the uterus independently of reproductive goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Vannuccini
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Experimental, Clinical, and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy.
| | - Felice Petraglia
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Experimental, Clinical, and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Francisco Carmona
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joaquim Calaf
- Hospital Sant Pau, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Charles Chapron
- Département de Gynécologie, Obstétrique et Médecine de la Reproduction, Faculté de Santé, Faculté de Médicine Paris Centre, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU), Université Paris-Cité, Paris, France
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9
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Tabatabaei F, Amiri P, Rajabzadeh F, Hosseini STN. Comparison of uterine myometrial thickness at the site of myomectomy scar after surgery using laparoscopic and laparotomy methods. J Robot Surg 2024; 18:270. [PMID: 38926240 DOI: 10.1007/s11701-024-01983-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Fibroids are the most common benign tumours of the uterus, often requiring surgery when symptomatic. This study aims to investigate the impact of surgery using two methods, laparoscopy and laparotomy, on the thickness and vascularity of the uterine myometrium at the site of myomectomy scar (comparing sonographic features at the surgical scar site, including thickness, vascularity, and the extent of fibrotic tissue, in both open and laparoscopic surgical approaches). In this clinical trial, 100 women with type 2-5 fibroids and clinical symptoms, seeking surgery et al. Zahra Hospital, were enrolled in two groups: laparoscopy and laparotomy. Inclusion criteria were a maximum fibroid size of 8 cm and, in the case of multiple fibroids, a maximum of three, with the largest being 8 cm. 6 months post-surgery, sonographic assessments of the myomectomy scar site were compared between both groups. Participants showed no significant differences in demographic and obstetric factors. The most common clinical symptom (87%) in both groups was abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB). The mean hospital stay duration was statistically significantly lower in the laparoscopy group at 1.64 (SD 0.56) compared to 1.89 (SD 0.58) in the laparotomy group (p = 0.028). Additionally, the decrease in haemoglobin levels was 0.89 (SD 0.92) and 1.87 (SD 2.24) units, respectively, which showed a statistically significant difference (p = 0.003). The duration of surgery was significantly shorter in the laparotomy group (p = 0.001). Abdominal pressure was not observed in the laparoscopy group, while 12% of the laparotomy group reported complaints (p = 0.013). Based on the results obtained in this study, it can be concluded that there was no difference between these two methods in terms of improving uterine thickness and associated complications. However, the decrease in haemoglobin levels and the length of hospital stay were lower in patients undergoing laparoscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Tabatabaei
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Al-Zahra Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Paria Amiri
- Graduated from Counseling in Midwifery, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Farrin Rajabzadeh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Alzahra Teaching Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Martinez C, Olig E, Pachalla S, Findley A. Racial Disparities in Medical Management of Uterine Fibroids Prior to Myomectomy or Hysterectomy. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2024:10.1007/s40615-024-02048-3. [PMID: 38886279 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-024-02048-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
The symptomatic burden of uterine fibroids has been demonstrated to disproportionately affect Black and Hispanic women. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate if racial disparities seen in disease severity in regards to bleeding symptoms and surgical management also applied to presurgical medical management. A retrospective chart review evaluated women aged 18-50 with the diagnosis of fibroids who underwent a myomectomy or hysterectomy between 2012 and 2021. Black and Hispanic women were more likely to have preoperative hemoglobin values under 10 mg/dL (p < 0.001) and had higher rates of preoperative blood transfusions than White women (p = 0.001). Black women utilized the highest number of medications before excisional procedures, followed by Hispanic women. Asian women reported the lowest average (p = 0.037). There was no preferential use of GnRH analogues, intrauterine devices, or oral hormonal therapies between races. Minor procedures were infrequently utilized without statistically significant variations among races. This study confirms previous evidence that Black and Hispanic women are more severely affected by uterine fibroids. This severity is mirrored in increased utilization of medications, but patients continue to be under optimized prior to surgery. Further research should identify factors preventing these groups from achieving better symptom control preoperatively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camryn Martinez
- University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS, USA.
| | - Emily Olig
- Department of Medical and Surgical Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Sarani Pachalla
- University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Austin Findley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansas University Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
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11
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Agu I, Das R, Geller EJ, Carey ET, Chu CM. Prevalence of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in Women Planning to Undergo Hysterectomy for Uterine Leiomyoma and Abnormal Uterine Bleeding. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2024; 33:798-804. [PMID: 38572932 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2023.0988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Leiomyomas are associated with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), but more specific characterization of their impact on LUTS is needed. Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study of 202 participants (101 per group) who underwent hysterectomy for leiomyomas versus abnormal uterine bleeding nonclassified (AUB-N) from July 2015 to May 2019. Baseline demographics, leiomyoma characteristics, and presence of baseline LUTS were collected. The main objective was to compare the prevalence of LUTS between these two groups. Secondary objectives were to analyze the association between leiomyoma characteristics and the prevalence of LUTS. Results: There was no difference in baseline prevalence of LUTS between the hysterectomy for leiomyoma versus AUB-N groups (42.6% vs. 45.5%, p = 0.67). When examining the entire study cohort of participants, irrespective of hysterectomy indication, leiomyoma size >6 cm was associated with an increased prevalence of LUTS when compared with leiomyoma <6 cm (64.9% vs. 40.4%, p = 0.02), and specifically difficulty passing urine (p = 0.02), nocturia (p = 0.04), and urinary frequency (p = 0.04). When controlling for age, body mass index, parity, chronic pelvic pain, and diabetes, leiomyomas >6 cm remained significantly associated with the presence of LUTS (odds ratio 3.1, 95% confidence interval = 1.2-8.3) when compared with leiomyoma <6 cm. Presence of >1 leiomyoma was associated with urinary frequency (67.9% vs. 32.1%, p = 0.02) when compared with ≤1 leiomyoma. Anterior location and uterine volume were not associated with a difference in LUTS. Conclusion: LUTS are prevalent in those planning hysterectomy for leiomyoma and AUB-N. Leiomyomas >6 cm are associated with the presence of LUTS. Future studies should evaluate change in LUTS following hysterectomy for leiomyomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ijeoma Agu
- Division of Urogynecology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Rajeshree Das
- School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Elizabeth J Geller
- Division of Urogynecology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Erin T Carey
- Division of Minimally Invasive Gynecology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Christine M Chu
- Division of Urogynecology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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12
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Wolfe EL, Craig LB. The importance of quantifying the adverse effects on healthcare-related quality of life in people with benign gynecologic conditions. F S Rep 2024; 5:138-139. [PMID: 38983723 PMCID: PMC11228797 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfre.2024.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth L Wolfe
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - LaTasha B Craig
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
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13
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Olson SL, Akbar RJ, Gorniak A, Fuhr LI, Borahay MA. Hypoxia in uterine fibroids: role in pathobiology and therapeutic opportunities. OXYGEN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 4:236-252. [PMID: 38957794 PMCID: PMC11218552 DOI: 10.3390/oxygen4020013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Uterine fibroids are the most common tumors in females affecting up to 70% of women world-wide, yet targeted therapeutic options are limited. Oxidative stress has recently surfaced as a key driver of fibroid pathogenesis and provides insights into hypoxia-induced cell transformation, extracellular matrix pathophysiology, hypoxic cell signaling cascades, and uterine biology. Hypoxia drives fibroid tumorigenesis through (1) promoting myometrial stem cell proliferation, (2) causing DNA damage propelling transformation of stem cells to tumor initiating cells, and (3) driving excess extracellular matrix (ECM) production. Common fibroid-associated DNA mutations include MED12 mutations, HMGA2 overexpression, and Fumarate hydratase loss of function. Evidence suggests an interaction between hypoxia signaling and these mutations. Fibroid development and growth are promoted by hypoxia-triggered cell signaling via various pathways including HIF-1, TGFβ, and Wnt/β-catenin. Fibroid-associated hypoxia persists due to antioxidant imbalance, ECM accumulation, and growth beyond adequate vascular supply. Current clinically available fibroid treatments do not take advantage of hypoxia-targeting therapies. Growing pre-clinical and clinical studies identify ROS inhibitors, anti-HIF-1 agents, Wnt/β-catenin inhibition, and TGFβ cascade inhibitors as agents that may reduce fibroid development and growth through targeting hypoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney L. Olson
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | | | - Adrianna Gorniak
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Laura I. Fuhr
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Mostafa A. Borahay
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
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14
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Sinha A, Yao M, Shippey E, Kho RM, Orlando MS. Perioperative Venous Thromboembolism Risk in Patients Undergoing Hysterectomy for Fibroids: A US Retrospective Cohort Study. JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY CANADA 2024; 46:102456. [PMID: 38588946 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogc.2024.102456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Venous thromboembolism (VTE) occurs in 0.4%-0.7% of benign hysterectomies. Pelvic vascular compression secondary to fibroids may elevate VTE risk. We aimed to evaluate the incidence and timing of VTE among individuals undergoing hysterectomy for fibroids and other benign indications. METHODS Retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent a hysterectomy for fibroid and non-fibroid indications from January 2015 to December 2021. Main outcome measure was VTE consisting of pulmonary embolism or deep venous thrombosis diagnosed during 3 periods: (1) preoperative (1 year before surgery until day before surgery), (2) early postoperative (surgery date through 6 weeks after surgery), and (3) late postoperative (6 weeks to 1 year after surgery). Demographics, comorbidities, surgical characteristics, and VTE rates were compared by indication. RESULTS A total of 263 844 individuals with fibroids and 203 183 without were identified. In total, 1.1% experienced VTE. On multivariable regression (adjusted demographic confounders and route of surgery), the presence of fibroids was associated with increased odds of preoperative (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.12; 95% CI 1.03-1.22, P = 0.011) and reduced odds of late postoperative VTE (aOR 0.81; 95% CI 0.73-0.91, P < 0.001). For individuals with fibroids, uterine weight ≥250 g and undergoing laparotomy were independently associated with preoperative (aOR 1.29; 95% CI 1.09-1.52, P = 0.003 and aOR 2.32; 95% CI 2.10-2.56, P < 0.001) and early postoperative VTE (aOR 1.32; 95% CI 1.08-1.62, P = 0.006 and aOR 1.72; 95% CI 1.50-1.96, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Patients with fibroids were at increased odds of having VTE 1 year before hysterectomy. For those with fibroids, elevated uterine weight and laparotomy were associated with greater risk of preoperative and early postoperative VTEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annika Sinha
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University, Durham, NC.
| | - Meng Yao
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH
| | | | - Rosanne M Kho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Arizona Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ; Banner University Medical Center Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ
| | - Megan S Orlando
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO
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15
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Kitade M, Kumakiri J, Kobori H, Murakami K. The effectiveness of relugolix compared with leuprorelin for preoperative therapy before laparoscopic myomectomy in premenopausal women, diagnosed with uterine fibroids: protocol for a randomized controlled study (MyLacR study). Trials 2024; 25:343. [PMID: 38790029 PMCID: PMC11127340 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-024-08170-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The oral gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist relugolix, which temporarily stops menstruation, is used to treat heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure, and low back pain in women with uterine fibroids. Treatment can also help women recover from low hemoglobin levels and possibly shrink the fibroids. However, evidence of preoperative use of relugolix before laparoscopic myomectomy is limited. Nevertheless, the treatment could reduce interoperative blood loss, decrease the risk of developing postoperative anemia, and shorten the operative time. Thus, we aim to test whether 12-week preoperative treatment with relugolix (40 mg orally, once daily) is similar to or not worse than leuprorelin (one injection every 4 weeks) to reduce intraoperative blood loss. METHODS Efficacy and safety of preoperative administration of drugs will be studied in a multi-center, randomized, open-label, parallel-group, noninferiority trial enrolling premenopausal women ≥ 20 years of age, diagnosed with uterine fibroids and scheduled for laparoscopic myomectomy. Participants (n = 80) will be recruited in the clinical setting of participating institutions. The minimization method (predefined factors: presence or absence of fibroids ≥ 9 cm and the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics [FIGO] type 1-5 fibroids) with randomization is used in a 1:1 allocation. Relugolix is a 40-mg oral tablet taken once a day before a meal, for 12 weeks, up to the day before surgery. Leuprorelin is a 1.88 mg, or 3.75 mg subcutaneous injection, given in three 4-week intervals during patient visits before the surgery. For the primary outcome measure of intraoperative bleeding, the blood flow is collected from the body cavity, surgical sponges, and collection bag and measured in milliliters. Secondary outcome measures are hemoglobin levels, myoma size, other surgical outcomes, and quality-of-life questionnaire responses (Kupperman Konenki Shogai Index and Uterine Fibroid Symptoms-Quality of Life). DISCUSSION Real-world evidence will be collected in a clinical setting to use pre-treatment with an oral gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist to reduce intraoperative bleeding in women who undergo laparoscopic myomectomy. TRIAL REGISTRATION jRCTs031210564 was registered on 19 January 2022 in the Japan Registry of Clinical Trials ( https://jrct.niph.go.jp ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mari Kitade
- Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8431, Japan.
| | - Jun Kumakiri
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1 Kawada-Cho, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo, 162-8666, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Kobori
- Medical Topia Soka Hospital, 1-11-18 Yatsuka, Soka-City, Saitama, 340-0028, Japan
| | - Keisuke Murakami
- Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8431, Japan
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16
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Srinivas T, Lulseged B, Mirza Aghazadeh Attari M, Borahay M, Weiss CR. Patient Characteristics Associated With Embolization Versus Hysterectomy for Uterine Fibroids: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Am Coll Radiol 2024; 21:729-739. [PMID: 38191081 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacr.2023.12.018] [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: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Black and underinsured women in the United States are more likely than their counterparts to develop uterine fibroids (UFs) and experience more severe symptoms. Uterine artery embolization (UAE), a uterine-sparing therapeutic procedure, is less invasive than the common alternative, open hysterectomy. To determine whether demographic disparities persist in UF treatment utilization, we reviewed patient characteristics associated with UAE versus hysterectomy for UF among studies of US clinical practices. METHODS A systematic literature review was conducted via PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL (PROSPERO CRD42023455051), yielding 1,350 articles (January 1, 1995, to July 15, 2023) that outlined demographic characteristics of UAE compared with hysterectomy. Two readers screened for inclusion criteria, yielding 13 full-text US-based comparative studies specifying at least one common demographic characteristic. Random effects meta-analysis was performed on the data (STATA v18.0). Egger's regression test was used to quantify publication bias. RESULTS Nine (138,960 patients), four (183,643 patients), and seven (312,270 patients) studies were analyzed for race, insurance status, and age as predictors of treatment modality, respectively. Black race (odds ratio = 3.35, P < .01) and young age (P < .05) were associated with UAE, whereas private insurance (relative to Medicare and/or Medicaid) was not (odds ratio = 1.06, P = .52). Between-study heterogeneity (I2 > 50%) was detected in all three meta-analyses. Small-study bias was detected for age but not race or insurance. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Knowledge of demographic characteristics of patients with UFs receiving UAE versus hysterectomy is sparse (n = 13 studies). Among these studies, which seem to be racially well distributed, Black and younger women are more likely to receive UAE than their counterparts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara Srinivas
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | - Mohammad Mirza Aghazadeh Attari
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, the Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Mostafa Borahay
- Associate Professor of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; Director of the Division of General Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Clifford R Weiss
- Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, the Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; Director of the Johns Hopkins HHT Center of Excellence and Professor of Radiology and Radiological Science, Baltimore, Maryland.
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17
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Ramaiyer MS, Saad E, Kurt I, Borahay MA. Genetic Mechanisms Driving Uterine Leiomyoma Pathobiology, Epidemiology, and Treatment. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:558. [PMID: 38790186 PMCID: PMC11121260 DOI: 10.3390/genes15050558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas (ULs) are the most common benign tumor of the uterus. They can be associated with symptoms including abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic pain, urinary frequency, and pregnancy complications. Despite the high prevalence of UL, its underlying pathophysiology mechanisms have historically been poorly understood. Several mechanisms of pathogenesis have been suggested, implicating various genes, growth factors, cytokines, chemokines, and microRNA aberrations. The purpose of this study is to summarize the current research on the relationship of genetics with UL. Specifically, we performed a literature review of published studies to identify how genetic aberrations drive pathophysiology, epidemiology, and therapeutic approaches of UL. With regards to pathophysiology, research has identified MED12 mutations, HMGA2 overexpression, fumarate hydratase deficiency, and cytogenetic abnormalities as contributors to the development of UL. Additionally, epigenetic modifications, such as histone acetylation and DNA methylation, have been identified as contributing to UL tumorigenesis. Specifically, UL stem cells have been found to contain a unique DNA methylation pattern compared to more differentiated UL cells, suggesting that DNA methylation has a role in tumorigenesis. On a population level, genome-wide association studies (GWASs) and epidemiologic analyses have identified 23 genetic loci associated with younger age at menarche and UL growth. Additionally, various GWASs have investigated genetic loci as potential drivers of racial disparities in UL incidence. For example, decreased expression of Cytohesin 4 in African Americans has been associated with increased UL risk. Recent studies have investigated various therapeutic options, including ten-eleven translocation proteins mediating DNA methylation, adenovirus vectors for drug delivery, and "suicide gene therapy" to induce apoptosis. Overall, improved understanding of the genetic and epigenetic drivers of UL on an individual and population level can propel the discovery of novel therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eslam Saad
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, 720 Rutland Ave, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (E.S.); (I.K.)
| | - Irem Kurt
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, 720 Rutland Ave, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (E.S.); (I.K.)
- Faculty of Medicine, Selcuk University, 42000 Konya, Turkey
| | - Mostafa A. Borahay
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, 720 Rutland Ave, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (E.S.); (I.K.)
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18
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Orellana M, DSouza KN, Yap JQ, Sriganeshan A, Jones ME, Johnson C, Allyse M, Venable S, Stewart EA, Enders F, Balls-Berry JE. "In our community, we normalize pain": discussions around menstruation and uterine fibroids with Black women and Latinas. BMC Womens Health 2024; 24:233. [PMID: 38610011 PMCID: PMC11010402 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-024-03008-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous neoplasms that arise from the uterus affecting over 75% of women. However, there is a disparity with Black women having an increased prevalence of nearly 80%. Black women also experience increased symptom burden, including younger age at the time of diagnosis and increased number and volume of fibroids. Less is known about other ethnoracially diverse women such as Latinas and the potential cultural impacts on fibroid burden and treatment. METHODS Community engagement studios were conducted to facilitate discussions with stakeholders on their uterine fibroid and menstruation experience. We recruited Black women (n = 6) diagnosed with uterine fibroids and Latinas (n = 7) without uterine fibroids. We held two virtual community engagement studios split by uterine fibroid diagnosis. The studios were not audio recorded and notes were taken by four notetakers. The notes were thematically analyzed in Atlas.ti using content analysis. RESULTS Participants felt there was a lack of discussion around menstruation overall, whether in the home or school settings. This lack of menstruation education was pronounced when participants had their first menstruation experience, with many unaware of what to expect. This silence around menstruation led to a normalization of painful menstruation symptoms. When it came to different treatment options for uterine fibroids, some women wanted to explore alternative treatments but were dismissed by their healthcare providers. Many participants advocated for having discussions with their healthcare provider about life goals to discuss different treatment options for their uterine fibroids. CONCLUSION Despite uterine fibroid diagnosis, there is silence around menstruation. Menstruation is a normal biological occurrence and needs to be discussed to help prevent delayed diagnosis of uterine fibroids and possibly other gynecological disorders. Along with increased discussions around menstruation, further discussion is needed between healthcare providers and uterine fibroid patients to explore appropriate treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minerva Orellana
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Karen N DSouza
- Center for Clinical and Translational Science, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Jane Q Yap
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - M Elena Jones
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, 4488 Forest Park, St. Louis, MO, 63108, USA
| | - Charis Johnson
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, 4488 Forest Park, St. Louis, MO, 63108, USA
| | - Megan Allyse
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Program in Biomedical Ethics Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Elizabeth A Stewart
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Mayo Clinic College of Medicine & Science, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Felicity Enders
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Mayo Clinic College of Medicine & Science, Rochester, MN, USA
- Division of Clinical Trials and Biostatistics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Joyce E Balls-Berry
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, 4488 Forest Park, St. Louis, MO, 63108, USA.
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19
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Mitro SD, Wise LA, Waetjen LE, Lee C, Zaritsky E, Harlow SD, Solomon DH, Thurston RC, El Khoudary SR, Santoro N, Hedderson MM. Hypertension, Cardiovascular Risk Factors, and Uterine Fibroid Diagnosis in Midlife. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e246832. [PMID: 38625699 PMCID: PMC11022113 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.6832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Fibroids are benign neoplasms associated with severe gynecologic morbidity. There are no strategies to prevent fibroid development. Objective To examine associations of hypertension, antihypertensive treatment, anthropometry, and blood biomarkers with incidence of reported fibroid diagnosis in midlife. Design, Setting, and Participants The Study of Women's Health Across the Nation is a prospective, multisite cohort study in the US. Participants were followed-up from enrollment (1996-1997) through 13 semiannual visits (1998-2013). Participants had a menstrual period in the last 3 months, were not pregnant or lactating, were aged 42 to 52 years, were not using hormones, and had a uterus and at least 1 ovary. Participants with prior fibroid diagnoses were excluded. Data analysis was performed from November 2022 to February 2024. Exposures Blood pressure, anthropometry, biomarkers (cholesterol, triglycerides, and C-reactive protein), and self-reported antihypertensive treatment at baseline and follow-up visits were measured. Hypertension status (new-onset, preexisting, or never [reference]) and hypertension treatment (untreated, treated, or no hypertension [reference]) were categorized. Main Outcomes and Measures Participants reported fibroid diagnosis at each visit. Discrete-time survival models estimated hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs for associations of time-varying hypertension status, antihypertensive treatment, anthropometry, and biomarkers with incident reported fibroid diagnoses. Results Among 2570 participants without a history of diagnosed fibroids (median [IQR] age at screening, 45 [43-48] years; 1079 [42.1%] college educated), 526 (20%) reported a new fibroid diagnosis during follow-up. Risk varied by category of hypertension treatment: compared with those with no hypertension, participants with untreated hypertension had a 19% greater risk of newly diagnosed fibroids (HR, 1.19; 95% CI, 0.91-1.57), whereas those with treated hypertension had a 20% lower risk (HR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.56-1.15). Among eligible participants with hypertension, those taking antihypertensive treatment had a 37% lower risk of newly diagnosed fibroids (HR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.38-1.05). Risk also varied by hypertension status: compared with never-hypertensive participants, participants with new-onset hypertension had 45% greater risk of newly diagnosed fibroids (HR, 1.45; 95% CI, 0.96-2.20). Anthropometric factors and blood biomarkers were not associated with fibroid risk. Conclusions and Relevance Participants with untreated and new-onset hypertension had increased risk of newly diagnosed fibroids, whereas those taking antihypertensive treatment had lower risk, suggesting that blood pressure control may provide new strategies for fibroid prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna D. Mitro
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland
| | - Lauren A. Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - L. Elaine Waetjen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Davis
| | - Catherine Lee
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland
| | - Eve Zaritsky
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland
| | - Siobán D. Harlow
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | | | - Rebecca C. Thurston
- Department of Psychology and Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Samar R. El Khoudary
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Nanette Santoro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
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20
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Langton CR, Harmon QE, Baird DD. Family History and Uterine Fibroid Development in Black and African American Women. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e244185. [PMID: 38568693 PMCID: PMC10993075 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.4185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Uterine fibroids are an understudied condition, with earlier onset in Black than White women. Prior studies of the importance of family history on fibroid development are limited by reliance on hospital-based participant selection, poorly defined measures of family history, and nonsystematic fibroid assessment. Objective To examine whether family history is a risk factor for fibroid development using prospective ultrasonography data to identify incident fibroids and measure fibroid growth and standardized methods to ascertain family history. Design, Setting, and Participants This prospective community cohort of Black and African American women from the Detroit, Michigan, area was conducted from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2018, using 4 standardized ultrasonographic examinations during 5 years to detect fibroids 0.5 cm or larger in diameter and measure fibroid growth. Data analysis was performed between May 2022 and January 2024. Exposures Maternal fibroid history data were gathered directly from participants' mothers when possible (1425/1628 [88%]), and 2 exposure variables were created: maternal history of fibroids (diagnosed vs not diagnosed) and age at maternal fibroid diagnosis (20-29, 30-39, or ≥40 years vs not diagnosed). Main Outcomes and Measures Fibroid incidence was assessed using multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models; fibroid growth was calculated as change in log-volume per 18 months for fibroids matched at successive ultrasonograms. Results A total of 1610 self-identified Black and/or African American women aged 23 to 35 years (mean [SD] age, 29.2 [3.4] years) with no prior clinical diagnosis of fibroids at enrollment were available for analysis. Of 1187 fibroid-free participants at enrollment, 442 (37%) had mothers who were diagnosed with fibroids. Compared with participants without a maternal history of fibroids, those reporting maternal history had an adjusted hazard ratio (AHR) of 1.21 (95% CI, 0.96-1.52). Risk was strongest in those whose mothers were diagnosed at a younger age (20-29 years: AHR, 1.56; 95% CI, 1.11-2.21; 30-39 years: AHR, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.71-1.49; ≥40 years: AHR, 1.11; 95% CI, 0.81-1.52; P = .053 for trend). Fibroid growth rates were higher when mothers were diagnosed with fibroids vs not diagnosed (8.0% increased growth; 95% CI, -1.2% to 18.0%). Conclusions and Relevance In this prospective cohort study, results supported maternal history of fibroids as a risk factor for incident fibroids, especially when mothers were diagnosed at a younger age. Maternal history was also associated with increased fibroid growth. Asking patients about their family history of fibroids could encourage patient self-advocacy and inform care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine R. Langton
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Quaker E. Harmon
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Donna D. Baird
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
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21
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Laily A, Nair I, Shank SE, Wettschurack C, Khamis G, Dykstra C, DeMaria AL, Kasting ML. Enhancing Uterine Fibroid Care: Clinician Perspectives on Diagnosis, Disparities, and Strategies for Improving Health Care. WOMEN'S HEALTH REPORTS (NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y.) 2024; 5:293-304. [PMID: 38558944 PMCID: PMC10979696 DOI: 10.1089/whr.2023.0113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Objective To explore clinicians' perspectives on diagnosing, treating, and managing uterine fibroids, identifying gaps and challenges in health care delivery, and offering recommendations for improving care. Materials and Methods A qualitative design was used to conduct 14 semistructured interviews with clinicians who treat fibroid patients in central Indiana. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using thematic analysis techniques. Constant comparative analysis was used to identify emergent themes. Results Four themes emerged. (1) Lack of patient fibroid awareness: Patients lacked fibroid awareness, leading to challenges in explaining diagnoses and treatment. Misconceptions and emotional distress highlighted the need for better education. (2) Inequities in care and access: Health care disparities affected Black women and rural patients, with transportation, scheduling delays, and financial constraints hindering access. (3) Continuum of care: Clinicians prioritized patient-centered care and shared decision-making, tailoring treatment based on factors like severity, location, size, cost, fertility goals, and recovery time. (4) Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) impact: The pandemic posed challenges and opportunities, prompting telehealth adoption and consideration of nonsurgical options. Conclusions Clinician perspectives noted patient challenges with fibroids, prompting calls for enhanced education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and accessible care to address crucial aspects of fibroid management and improve women's well-being. Practice Implications Clinicians identified a lack of patient awareness and unequal access to fibroid care, highlighting the need for improved education and addressing disparities. Findings also emphasized the importance of considering multidimensional aspects of fibroid care and adapting to challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, recommending broader education, affordability, interdisciplinary collaboration, and research for better fibroid health care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfu Laily
- Department of Public Health, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Isha Nair
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Sophie E. Shank
- Department of Public Health, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Cameron Wettschurack
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Grace Khamis
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Chandler Dykstra
- Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Andrea L. DeMaria
- Department of Public Health, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Monica L. Kasting
- Department of Public Health, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
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22
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Evans J. The impact of health literacy on uterine fibroid awareness, diagnosis, and treatment in the United States: a mini literature review. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2024; 6:1335412. [PMID: 38529318 PMCID: PMC10961336 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2024.1335412] [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: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Limited health literacy is a social health determinant leading to poor health outcomes. General and health literacy correlate and can impact diagnosis and treatment understanding. Limited literacy can lead to women receiving more significant rates of invasive surgical treatment, including hysterectomies. This review explores the impact of health literacy levels on uterine fibroid awareness, diagnosis, and treatment. PubMed, CINAHL, and Academic Search Premier searched articles published between January 1, 2012, and December 31, 2022. The keywords uterine fibroids, fibroids, myomas, leiomyomas, and health literacy were used. A total of four articles were returned. Increased rates of hysterectomies were found among participants with low income and education, as well as those with limited health literacy. Hysterectomies are the removal of the uterus and thus removes a woman's right to have children. While increased efforts are needed to understand the impact of health literacy levels on disparities and inequities in uterine fibroid diagnosis and treatment, there is still a need for targeted patient education and community-based education that ensures patient understanding of the diagnosis and treatment options for uterine fibroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyvina Evans
- Department of Health Management, Howard University, Washington, DC, United States
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23
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Vilos GA, Vilos AG, Burbank F. Bipedalism and the dawn of uterine fibroids. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:454-463. [PMID: 38300232 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The high prevalence and burden of uterine fibroids in women raises questions about the origin of these benign growths. Here, we propose that fibroids should be understood in the context of human evolution, specifically the advent of bipedal locomotion in the hominin lineage. Over the ≥7 million years since our arboreal ancestors left their trees, skeletal adaptations ensued, affecting the pelvis, limbs, hands, and feet. By 3.2 million years ago, our ancestors were fully bipedal. A key evolutionary advantage of bipedalism was the freedom to use hands to carry and prepare food and create and use tools which, in turn, led to further evolutionary changes such as brain enlargement (encephalization), including a dramatic increase in the size of the neocortex. Pelvic realignment resulted in narrowing and transformation of the birth canal from a simple cylinder to a convoluted structure with misaligned pelvic inlet, mid-pelvis, and pelvic outlet planes. Neonatal head circumference has increased, greatly complicating parturition in early and modern humans, up to and including our own species. To overcome the so-called obstetric dilemma provoked by bipedal locomotion and encephalization, various compensatory adaptations have occurred affecting human neonatal development. These include adaptations limiting neonatal size, namely altricial birth (delivery of infants at an early neurodevelopmental stage, relative to other primates) and mid-gestation skeletal growth deceleration. Another key adaptation was hyperplasia of the myometrium, specifically the neomyometrium (the outer two-thirds of the myometrium, corresponding to 90% of the uterine musculature), allowing the uterus to more forcefully push the baby through the pelvis during a lengthy parturition. We propose that this hyperplasia of smooth muscle tissue set the stage for highly prevalent uterine fibroids. These fibroids are therefore a consequence of the obstetric dilemma and, ultimately, of the evolution of bipedalism in our hominin ancestors.
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Affiliation(s)
- George A Vilos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Angelos G Vilos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Fred Burbank
- Salt Creek International Women's Health Foundation, San Clemente, CA, USA
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24
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Nieh C, Mabila SL. Incidence and health care burden of uterine fibroids among female service members in the active component of the U.S. Armed Forces, 2011-2022. MSMR 2024; 31:9-15. [PMID: 38466970 PMCID: PMC10959453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Uterine fibroids are the most common benign tumors of the uterus among women of reproductive age, disproportionally affecting non-Hispanic Black women compared to other races and ethnicities. This report is an update of a 2011 MSMR report that examined uterine fibroids among female active component service members in the U.S. Armed Forces from 2001 to 2010. Incident uterine fibroids were identified for this report from inpatient and outpatient medical encounter data from 2011 to 2022. Health care burden was estimated utilizing uterine fibroid-related inpatient and outpatient diagnostic and procedure codes. Crude incidence rates and incidence rate ratios were calculated to compare rate differences between subpopulations. A total of 16,046 new uterine fibroid cases were identified, with an incidence rate of 63.5 cases per 10,000 person-years (95% confidence interval: 62.5-64.5). The highest incidence rates were observed among service women 40 years and older, non-Hispanic Black women, and those who served in the Army. Health care burden analysis showed that, even with increases in medical encounters and individuals affected, the numbers of hospital bed days declined over time. The decline in uterine fibroid-related hospital bed days could be attributed to early diagnoses and minimally-invasive treatments. Continued promotion of uterine fibroid awareness can potentially help further reduce uterine fibroid-related impacts on military readiness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiping Nieh
- Epidemiology and Analysis Section, Armed Forces Health Surveillance Division, Defense Health Agency, Silver Spring, MD
| | - Sithembile L Mabila
- Epidemiology and Analysis Section, Armed Forces Health Surveillance Division, Defense Health Agency, Silver Spring, MD
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25
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Robbins SJ, Brown SE, Stennett CA, Tuddenham S, Johnston ED, Wnorowski AM, Ravel J, He X, Mark KS, Brotman RM. Uterine fibroids and longitudinal profiles of the vaginal microbiota in a cohort presenting for transvaginal ultrasound. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0296346. [PMID: 38315688 PMCID: PMC10843103 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0296346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis, characterized in part by low levels of vaginal Lactobacillus species, has been associated with pro-inflammatory cytokines which could fuel uterine fibroid development. However, prior work on the associations between uterine fibroids and vaginal bacteria is sparse. Most studies have focused on assessment of individual taxa in a single sample. To address research gaps, we sought to compare short, longitudinal profiles of the vaginal microbiota in uterine fibroid cases versus controls with assessment for hormonal contraceptives (HCs), a possible confounder associated with both protection from fibroid development and increases in Lactobacillus-dominated vaginal microbiota. This is a secondary analysis of 83 reproductive-age cisgender women who presented for transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) and self-collected mid-vaginal swabs daily for 1-2 weeks before TVUS (Range: 5-16 days, n = 697 samples). Sonography reports detailed uterine fibroid characteristics (N = 21 cases). Vaginal microbiota was assessed by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and longitudinal microbiota profiles were categorized by hierarchical clustering. We compared longitudinal profiles of the vaginal microbiota among fibroid cases and controls with exact logistic regression. Common indications for TVUS included pelvic mass (34%) and pelvic pain (39%). Fibroid cases tended to be older and report Black race. Cases less often reported HCs versus controls (32% vs. 58%). A larger proportion of cases had low-Lactobacillus longitudinal profiles (48%) than controls (34%). In unadjusted analysis, L. iners-dominated and low-Lactobacillus profiles had higher odds of fibroid case status compared to other Lactobacillus-dominated profiles, however these results were not statistically significant. No association between vaginal microbiota and fibroids was observed after adjusting for race, HC and menstruation. Results were consistent when number of fibroids were considered. There was not a statistically significant association between longitudinal profiles of vaginal microbiota and uterine fibroids after adjustment for common confounders; however, the study was limited by small sample size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J. Robbins
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Sarah E. Brown
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Christina A. Stennett
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Susan Tuddenham
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth D. Johnston
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Amelia M. Wnorowski
- Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Jacques Ravel
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Xin He
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Katrina S. Mark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Rebecca M. Brotman
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
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Britten J, Roura-Monllor JA, Malik M, Moran S, DeAngelis A, Driggers P, Afrin S, Borahay M, Catherino WH. Simvastatin induces degradation of the extracellular matrix in human leiomyomata: novel in vitro, in vivo, and patient level evidence of matrix metalloproteinase involvement. F&S SCIENCE 2024; 5:80-91. [PMID: 38043603 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2023.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the effect of simvastatin on uterine leiomyoma growth and extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. DESIGN Laboratory analysis of human leiomyoma cell culture, xenograft in a mouse model, and patient tissue from a clinical trial. SETTING Academic research center. PATIENT(S) Tissue culture from human leiomyoma tissue and surgical leiomyoma tissue sections from a placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial. INTERVENTION(S) Simvastatin treatment. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Serum concentrations, xenograft volumes, and protein expression. RESULTS Mice xenografted with 3-dimensional human leiomyoma cultures were divided as follows: 7 untreated controls; 12 treated with activated simvastatin at 10 mg/kg body weight; and 15 at 20 mg/kg body weight. Simvastatin was detected in the serum of mice injected at the highest dose. Xenograft volumes were significantly smaller (mean 53% smaller at the highest concentration). There was dissolution of compact ECM, decreased ECM formation, and lower collagen protein expression in xenografts. Membrane type 1 matrix metalloproteinase was increased in vitro and in vivo. Matrix metalloproteinase 2 and low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 were increased in vitro. CONCLUSIONS Simvastatin exhibited antitumoral activity with ECM degradation and decreased leiomyoma tumor volume in vivo. Activation of the matrix metalloproteinase 2, membrane type 1 matrix metalloproteinase, and low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 pathway may explain these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joy Britten
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Jaime A Roura-Monllor
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Minnie Malik
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Sean Moran
- Biomedical Instrumentation Center, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Anthony DeAngelis
- National Institute of Child Health and Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Paul Driggers
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Sadia Afrin
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, John Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Mostafa Borahay
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, John Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - William H Catherino
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland.
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Alsharif SA, Baradwan S, Alshahrani MS, Khadawardi K, AlSghan R, Badghish E, Bukhari IA, Alyousef A, Khuraybah AM, Alomar O, Abu-Zaid A. Effect of Oral Consumption of Vitamin D on Uterine Fibroids: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials. Nutr Cancer 2024; 76:226-235. [PMID: 38234246 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2023.2288716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Impaired vitamin D status is highly prevalent among women with UFs. The objective of this first-ever systematic review and meta-analysis was to summarize the effect of vitamin D supplementation on the size of uterine fibroids (UFs). We performed a comprehensive literature search for published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from inception to September 2022. Five trials including 511 participants (256 cases and 255 controls) were included. Pooling results from five trials, which compared size of UFs between experimental and placebo groups, revealed that vitamin D supplementation could significantly decrease the size of UFs (standardized mean difference [SMD]: -0.48, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.66, -0.31) and cause improvement in serum level of vitamin D compared to placebo group (SMD: 3.1, 95% CI: 0.66, 5.55). A significant effect was observed in the subset of trials administering vitamin D supplementation for >8 wk (SMD: -0.62, 95% CI: -0.88, -0.37). In conclusion, vitamin D supplementation significantly increases serum levels of vitamin D and reduces the size of UFs. However, larger, well-designed RCTs are still needed to determine the effect of vitamin D on other parameters of UFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saud Abdullah Alsharif
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saeed Baradwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Majed Saeed Alshahrani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Najran University, Najran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid Khadawardi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rayan AlSghan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternity and Children Hospital, Alkharj, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ehab Badghish
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternity and Children Hospital, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ibtihal Abdulaziz Bukhari
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Alyousef
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz University Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Osama Alomar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Abu-Zaid
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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28
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Stewart EA, Al-Hendy A, Lukes AS, Madueke-Laveaux OS, Zhu E, Proehl S, Schulmann T, Marsh EE. Relugolix combination therapy in Black/African American women with symptomatic uterine fibroids: LIBERTY Long-Term Extension study. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2024; 230:237.e1-237.e11. [PMID: 37863160 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.10.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the LIBERTY Long-Term Extension study, once-daily relugolix combination therapy (40 mg relugolix, estradiol 1 mg, norethindrone acetate 0.5 mg) substantially improved uterine fibroid-associated heavy menstrual bleeding throughout the 52-week treatment period in the overall study population. OBJECTIVE Black or African American women typically experience a greater extent of disease and symptom burden of uterine fibroids vs other racial groups and have traditionally been underrepresented in clinical trials. This secondary analysis aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of relugolix combination therapy in the subgroup population of Black or African American women with uterine fibroids in the LIBERTY Long-Term Extension study. STUDY DESIGN Black or African American premenopausal women (aged 18-50 years) with uterine fibroids and heavy menstrual bleeding who completed the 24-week randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind LIBERTY 1 (identifier: NCT03049735) or LIBERTY 2 (identifier: NCT03103087) trials were eligible to enroll in the 28-week LIBERTY Long-Term Extension study (identifier: NCT03412890), in which all women received once-daily, open-label relugolix combination therapy. The primary endpoint of this subanalysis was the proportion of Black or African American treatment responders: women who achieved a menstrual blood loss volume of <80 mL and at least a 50% reduction in menstrual blood loss volume from the pivotal study baseline to the last 35 days of treatment by pivotal study randomized treatment group. The secondary outcomes included rates of amenorrhea and changes in symptom burden and quality of life. RESULTS Overall, 241 of 477 women (50.5%) enrolled in the LIBERTY Long-Term Extension study self-identified as Black or African American. In Black or African American women receiving continuous relugolix combination therapy for up to 52 weeks, 58 of 70 women (82.9%; 95% confidence interval, 72.0%-90.8%) met the treatment responder criteria for reduction in heavy menstrual bleeding (primary endpoint). A substantial reduction in menstrual blood loss volume from the pivotal study baseline to week 52 was demonstrated (least squares mean percentage change: 85.0%); 64.3% of women achieved amenorrhea; 59.1% of women with anemia at the pivotal study baseline achieved a substantial improvement (>2 g/dL) in hemoglobin levels; and decreased symptom severity and distress because of uterine fibroid-associated symptoms and improvements in health-related quality of life through 52 weeks were demonstrated. The most frequently reported adverse events during the cumulative 52-week treatment period were hot flush (12.9%), headache (5.7%), and hypertension (5.7%). Bone mineral density was preserved through 52 weeks. CONCLUSION Once-daily relugolix combination therapy improved uterine fibroid-associated heavy menstrual bleeding in most Black or African American women who participated in the LIBERTY Long-Term Extension study. The safety and efficacy profile of relugolix combination therapy in Black or African American women was consistent with previously published results from the overall study population through 52 weeks. Findings from this subanalysis will assist shared decision-making by helping providers and Black or African American women understand the efficacy and safety of relugolix combination therapy as a pharmacologic option for the management of uterine fibroid-associated symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Stewart
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic and Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, Rochester, MN.
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Andrea S Lukes
- Carolina Women's Research and Wellness Center, Durham, NC
| | | | | | | | | | - Erica E Marsh
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
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29
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Peven K, Wickham AP, Wilks O, Kaplan YC, Marhol A, Ahmed S, Bamford R, Cunningham AC, Prentice C, Meczner A, Fenech M, Gilbert S, Klepchukova A, Ponzo S, Zhaunova L. Assessment of a Digital Symptom Checker Tool's Accuracy in Suggesting Reproductive Health Conditions: Clinical Vignettes Study. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2023; 11:e46718. [PMID: 38051574 PMCID: PMC10731551 DOI: 10.2196/46718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reproductive health conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affect a large proportion of women and people who menstruate worldwide. Prevalence estimates for these conditions range from 5% to 40% of women of reproductive age. Long diagnostic delays, up to 12 years, are common and contribute to health complications and increased health care costs. Symptom checker apps provide users with information and tools to better understand their symptoms and thus have the potential to reduce the time to diagnosis for reproductive health conditions. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the agreement between clinicians and 3 symptom checkers (developed by Flo Health UK Limited) in assessing symptoms of endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and PCOS using vignettes. We also aimed to present a robust example of vignette case creation, review, and classification in the context of predeployment testing and validation of digital health symptom checker tools. METHODS Independent general practitioners were recruited to create clinical case vignettes of simulated users for the purpose of testing each condition symptom checker; vignettes created for each condition contained a mixture of condition-positive and condition-negative outcomes. A second panel of general practitioners then reviewed, approved, and modified (if necessary) each vignette. A third group of general practitioners reviewed each vignette case and designated a final classification. Vignettes were then entered into the symptom checkers by a fourth, different group of general practitioners. The outcomes of each symptom checker were then compared with the final classification of each vignette to produce accuracy metrics including percent agreement, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value. RESULTS A total of 24 cases were created per condition. Overall, exact matches between the vignette general practitioner classification and the symptom checker outcome were 83% (n=20) for endometriosis, 83% (n=20) for uterine fibroids, and 88% (n=21) for PCOS. For each symptom checker, sensitivity was reported as 81.8% for endometriosis, 84.6% for uterine fibroids, and 100% for PCOS; specificity was reported as 84.6% for endometriosis, 81.8% for uterine fibroids, and 75% for PCOS; positive predictive value was reported as 81.8% for endometriosis, 84.6% for uterine fibroids, 80% for PCOS; and negative predictive value was reported as 84.6% for endometriosis, 81.8% for uterine fibroids, and 100% for PCOS. CONCLUSIONS The single-condition symptom checkers have high levels of agreement with general practitioner classification for endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and PCOS. Given long delays in diagnosis for many reproductive health conditions, which lead to increased medical costs and potential health complications for individuals and health care providers, innovative health apps and symptom checkers hold the potential to improve care pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Stephen Gilbert
- Else Kröner Fresenius Center for Digital Health, TUD Dresden University of Technology, Dresden, Germany
| | | | - Sonia Ponzo
- Flo Health UK Limited, London, United Kingdom
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Weiss MC, Wang L, Sargis RM. Hormonal Injustice: Environmental Toxicants as Drivers of Endocrine Health Disparities. Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am 2023; 52:719-736. [PMID: 37865484 PMCID: PMC10929240 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecl.2023.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
The toll of multiple endocrine disorders has increased substantially in recent decades, and marginalized populations bear a disproportionate burden of disease. Because of the significant individual and societal impact of these conditions, it is essential to identify and address all modifiable risk factors contributing to these disparities. Abundant evidence now links endocrine dysfunction with exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), with greater exposures to multiple EDCs occurring among vulnerable groups, such as racial/ethnic minorities, those with low incomes, and others with high endocrine disease burdens. Identifying and eliminating EDC exposures is an essential step in achieving endocrine health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret C Weiss
- School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1603 West Taylor Street, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1853 West Polk Street, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Illinois at Chicago, 835 South Wolcott, Suite E625, M/C 640, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Luyu Wang
- College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1853 West Polk Street, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Illinois at Chicago, 835 South Wolcott, Suite E625, M/C 640, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Robert M Sargis
- College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1853 West Polk Street, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Illinois at Chicago, 835 South Wolcott, Suite E625, M/C 640, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; Chicago Center for Health and Environment, School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1603 West Taylor Street, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 820 South Damen, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
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Ogunsina K, Sandler DP, Murphy JD, Harmon QE, D'Aloisio AA, Baird DD, O'Brien KM. Association of genital talc and douche use in early adolescence or adulthood with uterine fibroids diagnoses. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2023; 229:665.e1-665.e10. [PMID: 37598998 PMCID: PMC10840729 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genital talc and douching are practices that can involve exposure to chemical compounds linked to certain gynecologic cancers. However, it is unclear if they are associated with fibroid risk or age at fibroid diagnosis among women. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the impact of early-adolescence genital talc use and douching on prevalence of fibroids diagnosed before the age of 35 and 50 years among Black/African American and non-Hispanic White women. STUDY DESIGN Data were derived from the Sister Study (2003-2020), a prospective cohort of 50,884 US women aged 35 to 74 years at enrollment. Participants were asked if they ever had a fibroid diagnosis and at what age, and if they used genital talc and/or douched between the ages of 10 and 13 years or in the past 12 months. After applying predefined exclusion criteria, our analytical sample size was n=46,316 (Black, n=4310; non-Hispanic White, n=42,006). Multivariable logistic regression was used to compute adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for having vs not having early-onset fibroids diagnosed before age 35 among women aged 35 to 74 years at enrollment, and fibroids diagnosed before age 50 among women aged 50 to 74 years at enrollment. We adjusted for early life factors (in utero diethylstilbestrol exposure, singleton or multiple birth, fed soy formula during infancy), childhood socioeconomic status, and relative weight and height compared with peers at age 10. We used multiple imputation (<10% missing in all analyses). Results were stratified by race/ethnicity given that Black women are more likely to develop fibroids at a younger age than non-Hispanic White women. RESULTS Among Black/African American women, 29% had fibroids diagnosed before age 35. Both genital talc use at age 10 to 13 (adjusted odds ratio, 1.23; confidence interval, 1.06-1.41) and douching (adjusted odds ratio, 1.19; 95% confidence interval, 0.95-1.48) were associated with higher odds of having a fibroid diagnosed before age 35. Douching without talc use was not associated with increased odds, but combined use of genital talc and douche was associated with 52% increased odds of fibroids (confidence interval, 1.14-2.01). Among non-Hispanic White women, 9% reported fibroids diagnosed before age 35. Genital talc use (1.31; 1.20-1.44) but not douching (0.96; 0.77-1.20) at age of 10 to 13 years was associated with having a fibroid diagnosed before age 35. We observed similar patterns for non-Hispanic White women when we considered fibroids diagnosed before age 50, but neither practice was associated with fibroids diagnosed before age 50 in Black women. CONCLUSION Genital talc use in early adolescence, alone and in combination with douching (but not douching alone), is associated with prevalence of fibroids diagnosed before age 35 among Black/African American women and before ages 35 and 50 among non-Hispanic White women. Early adolescence may be a window of susceptibility for fibroid development, suggesting that adolescent girls should be educated on abstention from or alternatives to talc use and douching.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kemi Ogunsina
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC.
| | - Dale P Sandler
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC
| | - John D Murphy
- Epidemiology and Genomics Research Program, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD
| | - Quaker E Harmon
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC
| | | | - Donna D Baird
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC
| | - Katie M O'Brien
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC
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Ali M, Ciebiera M, Wlodarczyk M, Alkhrait S, Maajid E, Yang Q, Hsia SM, Al-Hendy A. Current and Emerging Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids. Drugs 2023; 83:1649-1675. [PMID: 37922098 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-023-01958-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/05/2023]
Abstract
Uterine fibroids are the most common benign neoplasm of the female reproductive tract in reproductive age women. Their prevalence is age dependent and can be detected in up to 80% of women by the age of 50 years. Patients affected by uterine fibroids may experience a significant physical, emotional, social, and financial toll as well as losses in their quality of life. Unfortunately, curative hysterectomy abolishes future pregnancy potential, while uterine-sparing surgical and radiologic alternatives are variously associated with reduced long-term reproductive function and/or high tumor recurrence rates. Recently, pharmacological treatment against uterine fibroids have been widely considered by patients to limit uterine fibroid-associated symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding. This hormonal therapy seemed effective through blocking the stimulatory effects of gonadal steroid hormones on uterine fibroid growth. However, they are contraindicated in women actively pursuing pregnancy and otherwise effective only during use, which is limited because of long-term safety and other concerns. Accordingly, there is an urgent unmet need for safe, durable, and fertility-compatible non-surgical treatment options for uterine fibroids. In this review article, we cover the current pharmacological treatments for uterine fibroids including their comparable efficacy and side effects as well as emerging safe natural compounds with promising anti-uterine fibroid effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Ali
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, 11566, Egypt
| | - Michał Ciebiera
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, 00-189, Poland
| | - Marta Wlodarczyk
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, Warsaw, 02-097, Poland
- Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Samar Alkhrait
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Elise Maajid
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Qiwei Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Shih-Min Hsia
- School of Nutrition and Health Sciences, College of Nutrition, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
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Najafiarab H, Keyvanfar A, Rahimi Mansour F, Didar H, Hooshmand Chayijan SH, Rajaei Firouzabadi SH, Hosseini MS, Bakhtiyari Z, Farzaneh F. Validity and Reliability of The Persian Version of Uterine Fibroid Symptom and Health-Related Quality of Life Questionnaire: A Psychometric Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2023; 18:60-66. [PMID: 38041461 PMCID: PMC10692748 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2023.1988864.1431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women with uterine fibroids (UFs) experience many clinical manifestations that affect their quality of life (QOL). The Uterine Fibroid Symptom and Health-related Quality of Life (UFS-QOL) questionnaire is an English instrument specifically designed to assess fibroid-related symptoms and their impact on QOL. This study aims to investigate the reliability and validity of the Persian version of the UFS-QOL questionnaire in Iranian women with UF. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this psychometric study, women with UFs who presented to Imam Hossein Hospital (Tehran, Iran) between August 2022 and January 2023 were enrolled in this study. A forward-backward approach was applied to translate the UFS-QOL questionnaire into Persian. The reliability of the UFS-QOL questionnaire was assessed by internal consistency and test-retest correlation. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to assess convergent validity between items and subscales of the UFS-QOL questionnaire. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to assess convergence validity between subscales of the UFS-QOL and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief Version 26 questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF-26). RESULTS Overall, we assessed 226 women with UFs. All subscales of the UFS-QOL questionnaire had acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha>0.7). Test-retest analysis indicated significant positive correlations between two measurements of all subscales of the UFS-QOL questionnaire: symptom severity (P<0.001), concern (P<0.001), activities (P<0.001), energy/mood (P<0.001), control (P<0.001), self-consciousness (P=0.002), and sexual function (P<0.001). The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) measure value was 0.920, and the result of Bartlett's test of sphericity was significant (P<0.001). CFA identified six factors for the health-related QOL (HRQL) questionnaire, which explained 73.827% of the total variation. Most subscales of the UFS-QOL questionnaire correlated with domains of the WHOQOL-BREF-26 questionnaire (P<0.05). CONCLUSION The Persian version of the UFS-QOL questionnaire is a valid and reliable instrument to evaluate UFrelated symptoms and QOL among Iranian women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanieh Najafiarab
- Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirreza Keyvanfar
- Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farima Rahimi Mansour
- 1. Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2. Department of Cell & Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Didar
- Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | | | - Maryam Sadat Hosseini
- Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Bakhtiyari
- Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farah Farzaneh
- Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Shi L, Zhang R, Tao S, Yuan X, Zhang J, Wang B, Xiang M, Ren Z, Cai H, Fu C. Efficacy and Safety of Ultrasound-Guided High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound Ablation in Women With Multiple Uterine Fibroids: An Exploratory Study. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2023; 49:2378-2387. [PMID: 37596155 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2023.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the work described here was to explore the clinical efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided high-intensity focused ultrasound (USg-HIFU) treatment in women with multiple fibroids and identify the characteristic parameters predicting USg-HIFU efficacy in multiple fibroids. METHODS From February 2021 to August 2022, 138 patients with multiple fibroids (group A comprising 125 patients with two to four fibroids and 13 patients with five or more fibroids) and 149 patients with solitary fibroids (group B) were included. HIFU treatment information, efficacy comparisons and adverse events were recorded. A nomogram model of the characteristic parameters used to predict the efficacy of USg-HIFU in multiple fibroids was established. RESULTS After USg-HIFU treatment, the statistical comparison of pre-operative versus post-operative symptom scores and fibroid volume in the two groups indicated obvious symptom relief and substantial shrinkage of fibroid volume (all p values <0.001). Nevertheless, group A required more energy and longer treatment and sonication times to achieve a 70% non-perfused volume (NPV) ratio, and had a lower energy efficiency factor than group B (all p values <0.05). No severe complications were observed in either group. The nomogram model included fibroid volume, fibroid location and signal intensity on T2-weighted imaging (T2WI). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve and the accuracy of the model were 0.698 and 0.686, respectively. CONCLUSION USg-HIFU appears to be an effective and safe treatment option for multiple fibroids. Knowledge of the fibroid volume, location and signal intensity on T2WI may help determine the efficacy of USg-HIFU in multiple fibroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liye Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Rongsen Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Siqi Tao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaorui Yuan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Beibei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Mengting Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Chongqing Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhen Ren
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Haiyi Cai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Chun Fu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China.
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Koga K, Fukui M, Fujisawa M, Suzukamo Y. Impact of diagnosis and treatment of uterine fibroids on quality of life and labor productivity: The Japanese online survey for uterine fibroids and quality of life (JOYFUL survey). J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2023; 49:2528-2537. [PMID: 37524334 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
AIM To investigate the impact of uterine fibroid diagnosis/treatment status on quality of life (QOL) and work productivity in women living in Japan. METHODS Women aged 20-49 years who registered on Macromill were recruited via the opt-in method. They completed an online survey on demographic and uterine fibroid diagnosis/treatment status, 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey, Uterine Fibroid Symptom and Health-Related Quality of Life questionnaire (UFS-QOL), and World Health Organization Health and Work Performance Questionnaire. RESULTS There were 4120 respondents: 1362 untreated, 249 with ongoing treatment, 449 with past treatment, 1030 with no uterine fibroids, and 1030 with unknown uterine fibroid status. A high proportion of women with ongoing treatment had moderate to severe uterine fibroid-like symptoms (symptom severity score of UFS-QOL ≥40 points), accompanied by reduced QOL. QOL was improved in women with past treatment. Uterine fibroids had a significant impact on physical and psychosocial aspects in the ongoing treatment group versus other groups. Using classification and regression tree analysis, anemia was identified as a plausible predictor of reduced QOL in the ongoing treatment group. Approximately 20% of women-even in groups other than the ongoing treatment group-experienced moderate to severe uterine fibroid-like symptoms. However, the diagnosis and treatment status of uterine fibroids had no clear impact on work productivity. CONCLUSIONS Uterine fibroids, especially in association with anemia, were related to reduced QOL. Given that uterine fibroid-related reduced QOL is likely improved by appropriate treatment, women with uterine fibroid-like symptoms, such as menorrhagia, should be examined and treated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaori Koga
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | | | | | - Yoshimi Suzukamo
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
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Lazaridis A, Hirsch M, Pistofidis G, Odejinmi F. Surgical management of uterine fibroids. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2023; 35:440-445. [PMID: 37548229 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Fibroids are benign pelvic masses and constitute the most common gynaecological condition. They create a significant health and social burden to many women because of heavy menstrual bleeding and fibroid pressure symptoms. Many women will be faced with the dilemma of surgical management to improve their symptoms at some point of their reproductive age. The aim of this article is to identify current surgical management of fibroids describing the technical steps, advantages, disadvantages and risks of each method. RECENT FINDINGS The surgical management of fibroids remains challenging, as the overall prevalence, the clinical experience and the patient awareness is increasing because of an upgrade in our sonographic and magnetic resonance diagnostic tools. Unfortunately not every patient is able to benefit from tailor-made surgery that holistically evaluates individual needs including fertility aspirations. SUMMARY This article provides the most current synopsis of every available surgical modality for fibroid management. Large prospective multicentre cohort studies are needed to definitely determine the most suitable operation for any individual suffering with fibroids; and perhaps artificial intelligence may offer a valuable tool in the future data analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros Lazaridis
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Aretaieion' Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Martin Hirsch
- Oxford Endometriosis CaRe Centre, Nuffield Department of Women's & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Funlayo Odejinmi
- Whipps Cross Hospital, Barts Health, NHS Trust, Leytonstone, London, UK
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Vyas PS, Kim SW, Castellano JM, Bal JK, Plewniak KM. Uterine Fibroid-Induced Compressive Neuropathy of Lumbar Plexus and Obturator Nerve. CRSLS : MIS CASE REPORTS FROM SLS 2023; 10:e2023.00034. [PMID: 37937278 PMCID: PMC10627345 DOI: 10.4293/crsls.2023.00034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Uterine fibroids are the most common gynecologic tumors in reproductive-aged women with a prevalence of up to 80%. Symptoms can range from heavy vaginal bleeding and bulk symptoms to, less frequently, deep vein thrombosis and bowel obstruction. Case Description A 32-year-old female patient presented with acute-onset of right groin and knee pain, and difficulty ambulating. A large posterior uterine fibroid was found to be compressing branches of the lumbar plexus, including the obturator nerve. The patient underwent gynecologic evaluation and an urgent laparoscopic myomectomy. Postoperatively, she had significant improvement in neurologic symptoms. She continued physical therapy for residual mild paresthesia and pain with prolonged ambulation. Discussion Large pelvic masses such as uterine fibroids should be considered on the differential diagnosis for acute-onset non-gynecologic symptoms such as compressive neuropathy, which require urgent evaluation and possible surgical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja S Vyas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY. (Drs. Vyas, Kim, Bal, and Plewniak)
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. (Drs. Vyas, Kim, Plewniak and Ms. Castellano)
| | - Sun Woo Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY. (Drs. Vyas, Kim, Bal, Plewniak)
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. (Drs. Vyas, Kim, Plewniak and Ms. Castellano)
| | - Julia M Castellano
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. (Drs. Vyas, Kim, Plewniak and Ms. Castellano)
| | - Japjot K Bal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY. (Drs. Vyas, Kim, Bal, Plewniak)
| | - Kari M Plewniak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY. (Drs. Vyas, Kim, Bal, Plewniak)
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. (Drs. Vyas, Kim, Plewniak and Ms. Castellano)
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Maxey AP, Travis JM, McCain ML. Regulation of oxytocin-induced calcium transients and gene expression in engineered myometrial tissues by tissue architecture and matrix rigidity. Curr Res Physiol 2023; 6:100108. [PMID: 38107790 PMCID: PMC10724203 DOI: 10.1016/j.crphys.2023.100108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The uterus is susceptible to benign tumors known as fibroids, which have been associated with many pregnancy complications, including preterm labor. However, the impact of fibrotic tissue remodeling on the physiology of the myometrium, the smooth muscle layer of the uterus, is poorly understood, in large part due to a lack of model systems. In this study, we engineered healthy-like and fibrotic-like myometrium by culturing human myometrial smooth muscle cells on polyacrylamide hydrogels micropatterned with fibronectin to independently tune matrix rigidity and tissue alignment, respectively. We then evaluated calcium transients in response to oxytocin stimulation. Isotropic myometrial tissues on stiff substrates (representing fibrotic myometrium) had shorter calcium transients due to shorter decay time compared to aligned myometrial tissues on soft substrates (representing healthy myometrium). Calcium transients in aligned tissues had longer response times and longer decay times than isotropic tissues, irrespective of substrate stiffness. The amplitude of calcium transients was also higher on soft substrates compared to stiff substrates, irrespective of tissue alignment. We also performed RNA sequencing to detect differentially expressed genes between healthy- and fibrotic-like tissues, which revealed that a bitter taste receptor shown to induce smooth muscle relaxation, TAS2R31, was down-regulated in fibrotic-like tissues. Finally, we measured oxytocin-induced calcium transients in response to pre-treatment with progesterone, caffeine, thrombin, and nifedipine to demonstrate applications for our model system in drug screening. Both progesterone and caffeine caused a decrease in calcium transient duration, as expected, while thrombin and nifedipine had less impact. Collectively, our engineered model of the myometrium enables new insights into myometrial mechanobiology and can be extended to identify or screen novel drug targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonina P. Maxey
- Laboratory for Living Systems Engineering, Alfred E. Mann Department of Biomedical Engineering, USC Viterbi School of Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jaya M. Travis
- Laboratory for Living Systems Engineering, Alfred E. Mann Department of Biomedical Engineering, USC Viterbi School of Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Megan L. McCain
- Laboratory for Living Systems Engineering, Alfred E. Mann Department of Biomedical Engineering, USC Viterbi School of Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Keck School of Medicine of USC, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Anchan RM, Spies JB, Zhang S, Wojdyla D, Bortoletto P, Terry K, Disler E, Milne A, Gargiulo A, Petrozza J, Brook O, Srouji S, Morton CC, Greenberg J, Wegienka G, Stewart EA, Nicholson WK, Thomas L, Venable S, Laughlin-Tommaso S, Diamond MP, Maxwell GL, Marsh EE, Myers ER, Vines AI, Wise LA, Wallace K, Jacoby VL. Long-term health-related quality of life and symptom severity following hysterectomy, myomectomy, or uterine artery embolization for the treatment of symptomatic uterine fibroids. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2023; 229:275.e1-275.e17. [PMID: 37244458 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies have directly compared different surgical procedures for uterine fibroids with respect to long-term health-related quality of life outcomes and symptom improvement. OBJECTIVE We examined differences in change from baseline to 1-, 2-, and 3-year follow-up in health-related quality of life and symptom severity among patients who underwent abdominal myomectomy, laparoscopic or robotic myomectomy, abdominal hysterectomy, laparoscopic or robotic hysterectomy, or uterine artery embolization. STUDY DESIGN The COMPARE-UF registry is a multiinstitutional prospective observational cohort study of women undergoing treatment for uterine fibroids. A subset of 1384 women aged 31 to 45 years who underwent either abdominal myomectomy (n=237), laparoscopic myomectomy (n=272), abdominal hysterectomy (n=177), laparoscopic hysterectomy (n=522), or uterine artery embolization (n=176) were included in this analysis. We obtained demographics, fibroid history, and symptoms by questionnaires at enrollment and at 1, 2, and 3 years posttreatment. We used the UFS-QoL (Uterine Fibroid Symptom and Quality of Life) questionnaire to ascertain symptom severity and health-related quality of life scores among participants. To account for potential baseline differences across treatment groups, a propensity score model was used to derive overlap weights and compare total health-related quality of life and symptom severity scores after enrollment with a repeated measures model. For this health-related quality of life tool, a specific minimal clinically important difference has not been determined, but on the basis of previous research, a difference of 10 points was considered as a reasonable estimate. Use of this difference was agreed upon by the Steering Committee at the time when the analysis was planned. RESULTS At baseline, women undergoing hysterectomy and uterine artery embolization reported the lowest health-related quality of life scores and highest symptom severity scores compared with those undergoing abdominal myomectomy or laparoscopic myomectomy (P<.001). Those undergoing hysterectomy and uterine artery embolization reported the longest duration of fibroid symptoms with a mean of 6.3 years (standard deviation, 6.7; P<.001). The most common fibroid symptoms were menorrhagia (75.3%), bulk symptoms (74.2%), and bloating (73.2%). More than half (54.9%) of participants reported anemia, and 9.4% women reported a history of blood transfusion. Across all modalities, total health-related quality of life and symptom severity score markedly improved from baseline to 1-year with the largest improvement in the laparoscopic hysterectomy group (Uterine Fibroids Symptom and Quality of Life: delta= [+] 49.2; symptom severity: delta= [-] 51.3). Those undergoing abdominal myomectomy, laparoscopic myomectomy, and uterine artery embolization also demonstrated significant improvement in health-related quality of life (delta= [+]43.9, [+]32.9, [+]40.7, respectively) and symptom severity (delta= [-]41.4, [-] 31.5, [-] 38.5, respectively) at 1 year, and the improvement persisted from baseline for uterine-sparing procedures during second (Uterine Fibroids Symptom and Quality of Life: delta= [+]40.7, [+]37.4, [+]39.3 SS: delta= [-] 38.5, [-] 32.0, [-] 37.7 and third year (Uterine Fibroids Symptom and Quality of Life: delta= [+] 40.9, [+]39.9, [+]41.1 and SS: delta= [-] 33.9, [-]36.5, [-] 33.0, respectively), posttreatment intervals, however with a trend toward decline in degree of improvement from years 1 and 2. Differences from baseline were greatest for hysterectomy; however, this may reflect the relative importance of bleeding in the Uterine Fibroids Symptom and Quality of Life, rather than clinically meaningful symptom recurrence among women undergoing uterus-sparing treatments. CONCLUSION All treatment modalities were associated with significant improvements in health-related quality of life and symptom severity reduction 1-year posttreatment. However, abdominal myomectomy, laparoscopic myomectomy and uterine artery embolization indicated a gradual decline in symptom improvement and health-related quality of life by third year after the procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond M Anchan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven CT.
| | - James B Spies
- Department of Radiology, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC
| | - Shuaiqi Zhang
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - Daniel Wojdyla
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - Pietro Bortoletto
- The Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY
| | - Kathryn Terry
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Emily Disler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Ankrish Milne
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Antonio Gargiulo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - John Petrozza
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Olga Brook
- Department of Radiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA
| | - Serene Srouji
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Cynthia C Morton
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA; Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - James Greenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Ganesa Wegienka
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI
| | - Elizabeth A Stewart
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Wanda K Nicholson
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Center for Women's Health Research, and Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Laine Thomas
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC; Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | | | - Shannon Laughlin-Tommaso
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Michael P Diamond
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA
| | - G Larry Maxwell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Falls Church, VA
| | - Erica E Marsh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Evan R Myers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - Anissa I Vines
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Kedra Wallace
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
| | - Vanessa L Jacoby
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA; Department of Radiology, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC
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Lerner VT, Donnellan NM, Siedhoff MT, Truong MD, King CR. Care Delivery for Patients with Leiomyomas: Failures, Real-Life Experiences, Analysis of Barriers, and Proposed Restorative Remedies. Health Equity 2023; 7:439-452. [PMID: 37638119 PMCID: PMC10457642 DOI: 10.1089/heq.2022.0116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In this narrative review, we describe historical and contemporary influences that prevent patients with fibroids from getting appropriate medical care. Using patient stories as examples, we highlight how misogyny on all levels hurts patients and prevents medical teams from doing their best. Importantly, inequity and disparities result in massive gaps in care delivery. We suggest that we, as gynecologists and surgeons, must join public discourse on this topic to highlight the inadequacies of care delivery and the reasons behind it, suggest potential solutions, and join patients and communities in formulating and implementing remedies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica T. Lerner
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Lenox Hill Hospital, Northwell Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Nicole M. Donnellan
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, UPMC Magee-Women's Hospital, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Mathew T. Siedhoff
- Division of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Mireille D. Truong
- Division of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Cara R. King
- Section of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery, Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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Venturella R, Rechberger T, Zatik J, Wagman RB, Zhu E, Rakov VG, Petraglia F. Relugolix combination therapy in European women with symptomatic uterine fibroids: a subgroup analysis from the randomized phase 3 LIBERTY pivotal trials. Gynecol Endocrinol 2023; 39:2249107. [PMID: 37634528 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2023.2249107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In the 24-week, phase 3 LIBERTY 1 (L1) and LIBERTY 2 (L2) trials, relugolix combination therapy (relugolix-CT (relugolix 40 mg, estradiol 1 mg, norethisterone acetate 0.5 mg)) reduced uterine fibroid (UF)-associated symptoms. This post hoc analysis assessed safety and efficacy of relugolix-CT in European women from L1/L2. METHODS Premenopausal women (aged 18-50 years) with UF-associated heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) were randomized 1:1:1 in L1 (N = 388) and L2 (N = 382) to relugolix-CT or placebo for 24 weeks, or delayed relugolix-CT (relugolix 40 mg then relugolix-CT; 12 weeks each). Primary endpoint: proportion of responders (menstrual blood loss (MBL) <80 mL and reduction of ≥50% from baseline MBL volume) over the last 35 days of treatment. Secondary endpoints: MBL volume, amenorrhea, UF-associated pain, symptom severity, distress related to bleeding and pelvic discomfort, health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Safety endpoints included adverse event (AE) reporting and bone mineral density (BMD) assessment. RESULTS In European women from L1/L2 (N = 124, 16%), a significantly greater proportion of treatment responders was observed with relugolix-CT vs. placebo (85.4% vs. 19.1%, respectively; nominal p < .0001). There were statistically significant improvements with relugolix-CT vs. placebo for several secondary endpoints: reduction in MBL volume, amenorrhea rate, proportion achieving mild-to-no pain, reduction in symptom severity and distress from bleeding and pelvic discomfort, and improvement in HRQoL. Incidence of AEs and percentage changes in BMD from baseline to week 24 were similar for relugolix-CT and placebo. CONCLUSIONS In European women with UF and HMB, once-daily relugolix-CT vs. placebo improved UF-associated symptoms and preserved BMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Venturella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Tomasz Rechberger
- Second Department of Gynecology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - János Zatik
- Szent Anna Women's OB/GYN and Ultrasound Outpatient Clinic, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Rachel B Wagman
- Clinical Research, Sumitomo Pharma America, Inc., Brisbane, CA, USA
| | - Emily Zhu
- Development Operation, Sumitomo Pharma America, Inc., Brisbane, CA, USA
| | | | - Felice Petraglia
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
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Musa B, Alswang JM, Di Ioia R, Grubic L, Naif A, Mbuguje EM, Vuong V, Newsome J, Shaygi B, Ramalingam V, Gaupp FML. Uterine artery embolization in Tanzania: a procedure with major public health implications. CVIR Endovasc 2023; 6:40. [PMID: 37548779 PMCID: PMC10406993 DOI: 10.1186/s42155-023-00384-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The burden of uterine fibroids is substantial in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), with up to 80% of black women harboring them in their lifetime. While uterine artery embolization (UAE) has emerged as an effective alternative to surgery to manage this condition, the procedure is not available to the vast majority of women living in SSA due to limited access to interventional radiology (IR) in the region. One of the few countries in SSA now offering UAE in a public hospital setting is Tanzania. This study aims to assess the safety and effectiveness of UAE in this new environment. METHODS From June 2019 to July 2022, a single-center, retrospective cohort study was conducted at Tanzania's first IR service on all patients who underwent UAE for the management of symptomatic fibroids or adenomyosis. Patients were selected for the procedure based on symptom severity, imaging findings, and medical management failure. Procedural technical success and adverse events were recorded for all UAEs. Self-reported symptom severity and volumetric response on imaging were compared between baseline and six-months post-procedure using paired sample t-tests. RESULTS During the study period, 92.1% (n = 35/38) of patients underwent UAE for the management of symptomatic fibroids and 7.9% (n = 3/38) for adenomyosis. All (n = 38/38) were considered technically successful and one minor adverse event occurred (2.7%). Self-reported symptom-severity scores at six-months post-procedure decreased in all categories: abnormal uterine bleeding from 8.8 to 3.1 (-5.7), pain from 6.7 to 3.2 (-3.5), and bulk symptoms from 2.8 to 1 (-1.8) (p < 0.01). 100% of patients reported satisfaction with outcomes. Among the nine patients with follow-up imaging, there was a mean volumetric decrease of 35.5% (p = 0.109). CONCLUSIONS UAE for fibroids and adenomyosis can be performed with high technical success and low complication rates in a low-resource setting like Tanzania, resulting in significant symptom relief for patients. Building capacity for UAE has major public health implications not only for fibroids and adenomyosis, but can help address the region's leading cause of maternal mortality, postpartum hemorrhage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Balowa Musa
- Radiology and Imaging Department, School of Medicine, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 65001, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Jared Mark Alswang
- Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Rose Di Ioia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, 2001 McGill College Avenue, Montreal, QC, H3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Lydia Grubic
- Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine, 3200 Cold Spring Rd, Indianapolis, IN, 46222, USA
| | - Azza Naif
- Department of Radiology and Imaging, Muhimbili National Hospital, P.O. Box 65000, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Erick Michael Mbuguje
- Department of Radiology and Imaging, Muhimbili National Hospital, P.O. Box 65000, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Victoria Vuong
- Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego Medical Center, 200 W. Arbor Drive, San Diego, CA, 92103, USA
| | - Janice Newsome
- Department of Radiology, Emory University School of Medicine, 1364 Clifton Rd, NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Behnam Shaygi
- Department of Radiology, London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust, A404 Watford Rd, Harrow, HA1 3UJ, UK
| | - Vijay Ramalingam
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 1 Deaconess Road, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Fabian Max Laage Gaupp
- Section of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, 333 Cedar St, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
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Robinson WR, Mathias JG, Wood ME, Anderson LG, Howard AG, Carey ET, Nicholson WK, Carey TS, Myers ER, Stürmer T, Doll KM. Ethnoracial Differences in Premenopausal Hysterectomy: The Role of Symptom Severity. Obstet Gynecol 2023; 142:350-359. [PMID: 37473411 PMCID: PMC10351903 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000005225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate whether greater symptom severity can explain higher hysterectomy rates among premenopausal non-Hispanic Black compared with White patients in the U.S. South rather than potential overtreatment of Black patients. METHODS Using electronic health record data from 1,703 patients who underwent hysterectomy in a large health care system in the U.S. South between 2014 and 2017, we assessed symptom severity to account for differences in hysterectomy rates for noncancerous conditions among premenopausal non-Hispanic Black, non-Hispanic White, and Hispanic patients. We used Poisson generalized linear mixed modeling to estimate symptom severity (greater than the 75th percentile on composite symptom severity scores of bleeding, bulk, or pelvic pain) as a function of race-ethnicity. We calculated prevalence ratios (PRs). We controlled for factors both contra-indicating and contributing to hysterectomy. RESULTS The overall median age of non-Hispanic White (n=1,050), non-Hispanic Black (n=565), and Hispanic (n=158) patients was 40 years. The White and Black patients were mostly insured (insured greater than 95%), whereas the Hispanic patients were often uninsured (insured 58.9%). White and Black patients were mostly treated outside academic medical centers (nonmedical center: 63.7% and 58.4%, respectively); the opposite was true for Hispanic patients (nonmedical center: 34.2%). Black patients had higher bleeding severity scores compared with Hispanic and White patients (median 8, 7, and 4 respectively) and higher bulk scores (median 3, 1, and 0, respectively), but pain scores differed (median 3, 5, and 4, respectively). Black and Hispanic patients were disproportionately likely to have severe symptoms documented on two or more symptoms (referent: not severe on any symptoms) (adjusted PR [Black vs White] 3.02, 95% CI 2.29-3.99; adjusted PR [Hispanic vs White] 2.61, 95% CI 1.78-3.83). Although Black and Hispanic patients were more likely to experience severe symptoms, we found no racial and ethnic differences in the number of alternative treatments attempted before hysterectomy. CONCLUSION We did not find evidence of overtreatment of Black patients. Our findings suggest potential undertreatment of Black and Hispanic patients with uterine-sparing alternatives earlier in their disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Whitney R Robinson
- Division of Women's Community and Population Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, the Margolis Center for Health Policy, Duke University, and the Duke-UNC Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Durham, the Department of Epidemiology and the Department of Biostatistics, Gillings School of Global Public Health, the Carolina Population Center, and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina; the Department of Prevention and Community Health, George Washington Milken Institute of Public Health, Washington, DC; and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington
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Wesselink AK, Wegienka G, Coleman CM, Geller RJ, Harmon QE, Upson K, Lovett SM, Claus Henn B, Marsh EE, Noel NL, Baird DD, Wise LA. A prospective ultrasound study of cigarette smoking and uterine leiomyomata incidence and growth. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2023; 229:151.e1-151.e8. [PMID: 37148957 PMCID: PMC10524545 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.04.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uterine leiomyomata (fibroids) are common, benign neoplasms that contribute substantially to gynecologic morbidity. Some existing epidemiologic studies indicate that cigarette smoking is associated with lower uterine leiomyomata risk. However, no prospective studies have systematically screened an entire study population for uterine leiomyomata using transvaginal ultrasound or evaluated the association between cigarette smoking and uterine leiomyomata growth. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to examine the association between cigarette smoking and uterine leiomyomata incidence and growth in a prospective ultrasound study. STUDY DESIGN We enrolled 1693 residents from the Detroit metropolitan area into the Study of Environment, Lifestyle, and Fibroids during 2010 to 2012. Eligible participants were aged 23 to 34 years, had an intact uterus but no previous diagnosis of uterine leiomyomata, and self-identified as Black or African American. We invited participants to complete a baseline visit and 4 follow-up visits over approximately 10 years. At each visit, we used transvaginal ultrasound to assess uterine leiomyomata incidence and growth. Participants provided extensive self-reported data throughout follow-up including exposures to active and passive cigarette smoking in adulthood. We excluded participants who did not return for any follow-up visits (n=76; 4%). We fit Cox proportional hazards regression models to estimate hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals for the association between time-varying smoking history and incidence rates of uterine leiomyomata. We fit linear mixed models to estimate the percentage difference and 95% confidence intervals for the association between smoking history and uterine leiomyomata growth. We adjusted for sociodemographic, lifestyle, and reproductive factors. We interpreted our results based on magnitude and precision rather than binary significance testing. RESULTS Among 1252 participants without ultrasound evidence of uterine leiomyomata at baseline, uterine leiomyomata were detected in 394 participants (31%) during follow-up. Current cigarette smoking was associated with a lower uterine leiomyomata incidence rate (hazard ratio, 0.67; 95% confidence interval, 0.49-0.92). Associations were stronger among participants who had smoked for longer durations (≥15 years vs never: hazard ratio, 0.49; 95% confidence interval, 0.25-0.95). The hazard ratio for former smokers was 0.78 (95% confidence interval, 0.50-1.20). Among never smokers, the hazard ratio for current passive smoke exposure was 0.84 (95% confidence interval, 0.65-1.07). Uterine leiomyomata growth was not appreciably associated with current (percent difference, -3%; 95% confidence interval, -13% to 8%) or former (percent difference, -9%; 95% confidence interval, -22% to 6%) smoking. CONCLUSION We provide evidence from a prospective ultrasound study that cigarette smoking is associated with lower uterine leiomyomata incidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelia K Wesselink
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA.
| | - Ganesa Wegienka
- Department for Public Health Sciences, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI
| | - Chad M Coleman
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Ruth J Geller
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Quaker E Harmon
- Women's Health Group, Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC
| | - Kristen Upson
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI
| | - Sharonda M Lovett
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Birgit Claus Henn
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Erica E Marsh
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Nyia L Noel
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA
| | - Donna D Baird
- Women's Health Group, Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC
| | - Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
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Chan LE, Casiraghi E, Putman T, Reese J, Harmon QE, Schaper K, Hedge H, Valentini G, Schmitt C, Motsinger-Reif A, Hall JE, Mungall CJ, Robinson PN, Haendel MA. Predicting nutrition and environmental factors associated with female reproductive disorders using a knowledge graph and random forests. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2023:2023.07.14.23292679. [PMID: 37502882 PMCID: PMC10371183 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.14.23292679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Objective Female reproductive disorders (FRDs) are common health conditions that may present with significant symptoms. Diet and environment are potential areas for FRD interventions. We utilized a knowledge graph (KG) method to predict factors associated with common FRDs (e.g., endometriosis, ovarian cyst, and uterine fibroids). Materials and Methods We harmonized survey data from the Personalized Environment and Genes Study on internal and external environmental exposures and health conditions with biomedical ontology content. We merged the harmonized data and ontologies with supplemental nutrient and agricultural chemical data to create a KG. We analyzed the KG by embedding edges and applying a random forest for edge prediction to identify variables potentially associated with FRDs. We also conducted logistic regression analysis for comparison. Results Across 9765 PEGS respondents, the KG analysis resulted in 8535 significant predicted links between FRDs and chemicals, phenotypes, and diseases. Amongst these links, 32 were exact matches when compared with the logistic regression results, including comorbidities, medications, foods, and occupational exposures. Discussion Mechanistic underpinnings of predicted links documented in the literature may support some of our findings. Our KG methods are useful for predicting possible associations in large, survey-based datasets with added information on directionality and magnitude of effect from logistic regression. These results should not be construed as causal, but can support hypothesis generation. Conclusion This investigation enabled the generation of hypotheses on a variety of potential links between FRDs and exposures. Future investigations should prospectively evaluate the variables hypothesized to impact FRDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren E Chan
- Oregon State University, College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Elena Casiraghi
- AnacletoLab, Dipartimento di Informatica, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Tim Putman
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Justin Reese
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Quaker E Harmon
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Epidemiology Branch, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Kevin Schaper
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Harshad Hedge
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Giorgio Valentini
- AnacletoLab, Dipartimento di Informatica, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy
| | - Charles Schmitt
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Office of Data Science, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Alison Motsinger-Reif
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Biostatistics & Computational Biology Branch, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Janet E Hall
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Clinical Research Branch, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Christopher J Mungall
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Peter N Robinson
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, 10 Discovery Drive, Farmington, CT, USA
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Katon JG, Bossick A, Carey C, Christy A, Doll K, Gatsby E, Gray KE, Lynch KE, Moy E, Owens S, Washington DL, Callegari LS. Racial Disparities in Uterine Fibroid Treatment Among Veterans Using VA Health Care. Womens Health Issues 2023; 33:405-413. [PMID: 37105835 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2023.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Uterine fibroids are common, nonmalignant tumors that disproportionately impact Black patients. We aimed to examine Black and White differences in receipt of any treatment and type of first treatment in the Department of Veterans Affairs, including effect modification by severity as approximated by anemia. METHODS We used Department of Veterans Affairs administrative data to identify 5,041 Black and 3,206 White veterans with symptomatic uterine fibroids, identified by International Classification of Diseases, 9th edition, Clinical Modification, codes, between fiscal year 2010 and fiscal year 2012 and followed in the administrative data through fiscal year 2018 for outcomes. Outcomes included receipt of any treatment, hysterectomy as first treatment, and fertility-sparing treatment as first treatment. We stratified all analyses by age (<45, ≥45 years old), used generalized linear models with a log link and Poisson error distribution, included an interaction term between race and anemia, and used recycled predictions to estimate adjusted percentages for outcomes. RESULTS There was evidence of effect modification by anemia for receipt of any treatment but not for any other outcomes. Across age and anemia sub-groups, Black veterans were less likely to receive any treatment than White veterans. Adjusted racial differences were most pronounced among veterans with anemia (<45 years, Black-White difference = -10.3 percentage points; 95% confidence interval, -15.9 to -4.7; ≥45 years, Black-White difference = -20.3 percentage points; 95% confidence interval, -27.8 to -12.7). Across age groups, Black veterans were less likely than White veterans to have hysterectomy and more likely to have a fertility-sparing treatment as their first treatment. CONCLUSIONS We identified significant Black-White disparities in receipt of treatment for symptomatic uterine fibroids. Additional research that centers the experiences of Black veterans with uterine fibroids is needed to inform strategies to eliminate racial disparities in uterine fibroid care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jodie G Katon
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Healthcare System, Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, Health Services Research and Development (HSR&D), Seattle, Washington; Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington.
| | - Andrew Bossick
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Healthcare System, Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, Health Services Research and Development (HSR&D), Seattle, Washington; Henry Ford Healthcare System, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Cathea Carey
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Healthcare System, Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, Health Services Research and Development (HSR&D), Seattle, Washington
| | - Alicia Christy
- Office of Women's Health, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Kemi Doll
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Elise Gatsby
- Department of Veterans Affairs Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Kristen E Gray
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Healthcare System, Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, Health Services Research and Development (HSR&D), Seattle, Washington; Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Kristine E Lynch
- Department of Veterans Affairs Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, Utah; Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah; Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Ernest Moy
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Health Equity, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Shanise Owens
- Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Donna L Washington
- HSR&D Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation, and Policy, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California; Division of General Internal Medicine & Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Lisa S Callegari
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Healthcare System, Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, Health Services Research and Development (HSR&D), Seattle, Washington; Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
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Jiang Y, Qin S, Wang Y, Liu Y, Liu N, Tang L, Fang J, Jia Q, Huang X. Intravoxel incoherent motion diffusion-weighted MRI for predicting the efficacy of high-intensity focused ultrasound ablation for uterine fibroids. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1178649. [PMID: 37427113 PMCID: PMC10324408 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1178649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate the significance of magnetic resonance (MR) intravoxel incoherent motion diffusion-weighted imaging (IVIM-DWI) quantitative parameters in predicting early efficacy of high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) ablation of uterine fibroids before treatment. Method 64 patients with 89 uterine fibroids undergoing HIFU ablation (51 sufficient ablations and 38 insufficient ablations) were enrolled in the study and completed MR imaging and IVIM-DWI before treatment. The IVIM-DWI parameters, including D (diffusion coefficient), D* (pseudo-diffusion coefficient), f (perfusion fraction) and relative blood flow (rBF) were calculated. The logistic regression (LR) model was constructed to analyze the predictors of efficacy. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was drawn to assess the model's performance. A nomograph was constructed to visualize the model. Results The D value of the sufficient ablation group (931.0(851.5-987.4) × 10-6 mm2/s) was significantly lower than that of the insufficient ablation group (1052.7(1019.6-1158.7) × 10-6 mm2/s) (p<0.001). However, differences in D*, f, and rBF values between the groups were not significant (p>0.05). The LR model was constructed with D value, fibroid position, ventral skin distance, T2WI signal intensity, and contrast enhanced degree. The area under the ROC curve, specificity, and sensitivity of the model were 0.858 (95% confidence interval: 0.781, 0.935), 0.686, and 0.947. The nomogram and calibration curves confirmed that the model had excellent performance. Conclusion The IVIM-DWI quantitative parameters can be used to predict early effects of HIFU ablation on uterine fibroids. A high D value before treatment may indicate that the treatment will be less effective in the early stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Jiang
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Shize Qin
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Yanlin Wang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Nian Liu
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Lingling Tang
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Jie Fang
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Qing Jia
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Xiaohua Huang
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
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Yang F, Chen Y. Urinary phytoestrogens and the risk of uterine leiomyomata in US women. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:261. [PMID: 37179289 PMCID: PMC10182647 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02381-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uterine leiomyomata (UL) is a common gynecological disease in women. Studied on the relationship between single metabolites of urinary phytoestrogens and UL, especially for the combined effects of mixed metabolites on UL still are insufficient. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, we included 1,579 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Urinary phytoestrogens were assessed by measuring urinary excretion of daidzein, genistein, equol, O-desmethylangolensin, enterodiol and enterolactone. The outcome was defined as UL. Weighted logistic regression was used to analyze the association between single metabolites of urinary phytoestrogens and UL. Notably, we adopted the weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression, Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR), and quantile g-computation (qgcomp) models, to investigate the combined effects of six mixed metabolites on UL. RESULTS The prevalence of UL was approximately 12.92%. After adjusting age, race/ethnicity, marital status, drinking status, body mass index, waist circumference, menopausal status, ovary removed status, use of female hormones, hormones/hormone modifiers, total energy, daidzein, genistein, O-desmethylangolensin, enterodiol, and enterolactone, the association of equol with UL was significant [Odds ratio (OR) = 1.92, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.09-3.38]. In the WQS model, mixed metabolites of urinary phytoestrogen had a positive association with UL (OR = 1.68, 95%CI: 1.12-2.51), with the highest weighted chemical of equol. In the gpcomp model, equol had the largest positive weight, followed by genistein and enterodiol. In the BKMR model, equol and enterodiol have positive correlation on UL risk, while enterolactone has negative correlation. CONCLUSION Our results implied a positive association between the mixed metabolites of urinary phytoestrogen and UL. This study provides evidence that urinary phytoestrogen-metabolite mixture was closely related to the risk of female UL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No.899 Pinghai Road, Suzhou, 215006, P. R. China
| | - Youguo Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No.899 Pinghai Road, Suzhou, 215006, P. R. China.
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Neblett MF, Stewart EA. Oral Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Antagonists for the Treatment of Uterine Leiomyomas. Obstet Gynecol 2023; 141:901-910. [PMID: 37103532 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000005145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas are common hormone-responsive neoplasms that frequently cause heavy menstrual bleeding, anemia, pelvic pressure, pain, and adverse reproductive outcomes. In this overview, the efficacy and safety of oral gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists, co-administered with menopausal replacement-level steroid hormones or used at doses to avoid complete hypothalamic suppression, are reviewed for the management of uterine leiomyomas. Oral GnRH antagonists provide rapid suppression of sex steroids and avoid the initial steroidal flare and resultant temporary worsening of symptoms typically seen with parenteral GnRH agonists. Oral GnRH antagonists are effective in reducing leiomyoma-associated heavy menstrual bleeding, with high rates of amenorrhea and improved anemia and leiomyoma-associated pain, and providing modest reduction in uterine volume when used in combination with menopausal replacement-level steroid hormones. This add-back therapy can reduce hypogonadal side effects, including hot flushes and bone mineral density loss, close to levels seen with placebo therapy. Currently, both elagolix 300 mg twice daily with once-daily estradiol (1 mg) and norethindrone (0.5 mg) and relugolix 40 mg once daily with estradiol (1 mg) and norethindrone (0.5 mg) combination therapy are approved for leiomyoma treatment by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Linzagolix is under investigation in the United States but approved at two does with and without steroid hormones in the European Union. The efficacy of these agents appears to be robust over a wide spectrum of clinical presentations, demonstrating that worse disease parameters at baseline do not appear to inhibit efficacy. Across clinical trials, participants largely reflected the population of individuals affected by uterine leiomyomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael F Neblett
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, the Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, the Department of Surgery, and the Women's Health Research Center, Mayo Clinic, and Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota
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Langton CR, Gerety M, Harmon QE, Baird DD. Keloids, hypertrophic scars, and uterine fibroid development: a prospective ultrasound study of Black and African American women. F&S SCIENCE 2023; 4:172-180. [PMID: 37028513 PMCID: PMC10200770 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2023.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the association between keloids, hypertrophic scars, and uterine fibroid incidence as well as growth. Both keloids and fibroids are fibroproliferative conditions that have been reported to be more prevalent among Blacks than Whites, and they share similar fibrotic tissue structures, including extracellular matrix composition, gene expression, and protein profiles. We hypothesized that women with a history of keloids would have greater uterine fibroid development. DESIGN A prospective community cohort study (enrollment 2010-2012) with 4 study visits over 5 years to conduct standardized ultrasounds to detect and measure fibroids ≥0.5 cm in diameter, assess the history of keloid and hypertrophic scars, and update covariates. SETTING Detroit, Michigan area. PATIENTS A total of 1,610 self-identified Black and/or African American women aged 23-35 years at enrollment without a previous clinical diagnosis of fibroids. EXPOSURE(S) Keloids (raised scars that grow beyond the margins of the original injury) and hypertrophic scars (raised scars that stay within the bounds of the original injury). Because of the difficulties in distinguishing keloids and hypertrophic scars, we separately examined the history of keloids and the history of either keloids or hypertrophic scars (any abnormal scarring) and their associations with fibroid incidence and growth. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Fibroid incidence (new fibroid after a fibroid-free ultrasound at enrollment) was assessed using Cox proportional-hazards regression. Fibroid growth was assessed using linear mixed models. The estimates for the change in log volume per 18 months were converted to the estimated percentage difference in volume for scarring vs. no-scarring. Both incidence and growth models were adjusted for time-varying demographic, reproductive, and anthropometric factors. RESULT(S) Of the 1,230 fibroid-free participants, 199 (16%) reported ever having keloids, 578 (47%) reported keloids or hypertrophic scars, and 293 (24%) developed incident fibroids. Neither keloids (adjusted hazard ratio = 1.04; 95% confidence interval: 0.77, 1.40) nor any abnormal scarring (adjusted hazard ratio = 1.10; 95% confidence interval: 0.88, 1.38) were associated with fibroid incidence. Fibroid growth differed little by scarring status. CONCLUSION(S) Despite molecular similarities, self-reported keloid and hypertrophic scars did not show an association with fibroid development. Future research may benefit from the examination of dermatologist-confirmed keloids or hypertrophic scars; however, our data suggest little shared susceptibility for these 2 types of fibrotic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine R Langton
- Women's Health Group, Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.
| | - Meghan Gerety
- Department of Statistics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Quaker E Harmon
- Women's Health Group, Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Donna D Baird
- Women's Health Group, Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
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