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Simmonds NJ, Southern KW, De Wachter E, De Boeck K, Bodewes F, Mainz JG, Middleton PG, Schwarz C, Vloeberghs V, Wilschanski M, Bourrat E, Chalmers JD, Ooi CY, Debray D, Downey DG, Eschenhagen P, Girodon E, Hickman G, Koitschev A, Nazareth D, Nick JA, Peckham D, VanDevanter D, Raynal C, Scheers I, Waller MD, Sermet-Gaudelus I, Castellani C. ECFS standards of care on CFTR-related disorders: Identification and care of the disorders. J Cyst Fibros 2024:S1569-1993(24)00037-7. [PMID: 38508949 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcf.2024.03.008] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
This is the third paper in the series providing updated information and recommendations for people with cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR)-related disorder (CFTR-RD). This paper covers the individual disorders, including the established conditions - congenital absence of the vas deferens (CAVD), diffuse bronchiectasis and chronic or acute recurrent pancreatitis - and also other conditions which might be considered a CFTR-RD, including allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, chronic rhinosinusitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis and aquagenic wrinkling. The CFTR functional and genetic evidence in support of the condition being a CFTR-RD are discussed and guidance for reaching the diagnosis, including alternative conditions to consider and management recommendations, is provided. Gaps in our knowledge, particularly of the emerging conditions, and future areas of research, including the role of CFTR modulators, are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- N J Simmonds
- Adult Cystic Fibrosis Centre, Royal Brompton Hospital, London, UK; National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, UK.
| | - K W Southern
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Liverpool, University of Liverpool, Alder Hey Children's Hospital, Liverpool, UK
| | - E De Wachter
- Cystic Fibrosis Center, Pediatric Pulmonology department, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - K De Boeck
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - F Bodewes
- Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Groningen Medical Center, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - J G Mainz
- Cystic Fibrosis Center, Brandenburg Medical School (MHB), University, Klinikum Westbrandenburg, Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany
| | - P G Middleton
- Cystic Fibrosis and Bronchiectasis Service, Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, News South Wales, Australia
| | - C Schwarz
- HMU-Health and Medical University Potsdam, CF Center Westbrandenburg, Campus Potsdam, Germany
| | - V Vloeberghs
- Brussels IVF, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - M Wilschanski
- CF Center, Department of Pediatrics, Hadassah Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - E Bourrat
- APHP, Service de Dermatologie, CRMR MAGEC Nord St Louis, Hôpital-Saint Louis, Paris, France
| | - J D Chalmers
- Division of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - C Y Ooi
- a) School of Clinical Medicine, Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, Medicine & Health, University of New South Wales, Level 8, Centre for Child Health Research & Innovation Bright Alliance Building Cnr Avoca & High Streets, Randwick, Sydney, NSW, Australia, 2031; b) Sydney Children's Hospital, Gastroenterology Department, High Street, Randwick, Sydney, NSW, Australia, 2031
| | - D Debray
- Pediatric Hepatology unit, Centre de Référence Maladies Rares (CRMR) de l'atrésie des voies biliaires et cholestases génétiques (AVB-CG), National network for rare liver diseases (Filfoie), ERN rare liver, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, AP-HP, Université de Paris, Paris, France; Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine (CRSA), Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Paris, France
| | - D G Downey
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | | | - E Girodon
- Service de Médecine Génomique des Maladies de Système et d'Organe, APHP.Centre - Université de Paris Cité, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
| | - G Hickman
- APHP, Service de Dermatologie, CRMR MAGEC Nord St Louis, Hôpital-Saint Louis, Paris, France
| | - A Koitschev
- Klinikum Stuttgart, Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - D Nazareth
- a) Adult CF Unit, Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, U.K; b) Clinical Infection, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - J A Nick
- Department of Medicine, National Jewish Health, Denver, CO, 80206, USA, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - D Peckham
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - D VanDevanter
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - C Raynal
- Laboratory of molecular genetics, University Hospital of Montpellier and INSERM U1046 PHYMEDEXP, Montpellier, France
| | - I Scheers
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Cliniques Universitaires Saint Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - M D Waller
- Adult Cystic Fibrosis and Respiratory Medicine, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom; Honorary Senior Lecturer, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - I Sermet-Gaudelus
- INSERM U1151, Institut Necker Enfants Malades, Paris, France; Université de Paris, Paris, France; Centre de référence Maladies Rares, Mucoviscidose et maladies apparentées, Hôpital Necker Enfants malades, Paris, France
| | - C Castellani
- IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Cystic Fibrosis Center, Genoa, Italy
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Wang M, Zhou J, Long R, Mao R, Gao L, Wang X, Chen Y, Jin L, Zhu L. An overview of CFTR mutation profiles and assisted reproductive technology outcomes in Chinese patients with congenital obstructive azoospermia. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:505-513. [PMID: 38114870 PMCID: PMC10894795 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-03004-6] [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: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is the most common causative gene attributed to congenital obstructive azoospermia (OA). The aim of this study was to conduct an epidemiological survey of congenital OA patients, to screen for CFTR mutations, and to follow their pregnancy outcomes in assisted reproductive technology (ART). METHODS This cohort study enrolled congenital OA patients undergoing ART and whole-exome sequencing from January 2018 to September 2023. Semen parameters, sex hormones, and seminal plasma biochemistry were evaluated. CFTR mutations identified in OA patients were analyzed. In addition, the laboratory outcomes, clinical outcomes, and neonatal outcomes were compared between OA patients carrying two CFTR mutations and the others after surgical sperm extraction-intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatment. RESULTS A total of 76 patients with congenital OA were enrolled. CFTR mutations were identified in 35 (46.1%) congenital OA patients. A total of 60 CFTR mutation sites of 27 types were identified, and 10 of them were novel. The average frequency was 1.71 (60/35) per person. The most common mutation was c.1210-11T > G (25%, 15/60). After ICSI treatment, there were no statistically significant differences in laboratory outcomes, clinical outcomes, and neonatal outcomes between OA patients carrying two CFTR mutations (n = 25) and other OA patients (n = 51). CONCLUSION Apart from the IVS9-5T mutation, the genetic mutation pattern of CFTR in Chinese OA patients is heterogeneous, which is significantly different from that of Caucasians. Although carrying two CFTR mutations or not had no effect on the pregnancy outcomes in OA patients after ICSI, genetic counseling is still recommended for such patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Juepu Zhou
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Rui Long
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Ruolin Mao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Limin Gao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Xiangfei Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yinwei Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Lei Jin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Lixia Zhu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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Wilbourne J, Jia S, Fogarty A, Takaku M, Zhao F. Crucial Roles of the Mesenchymal Androgen Receptor in Wolffian Duct Development. Endocrinology 2023; 165:bqad193. [PMID: 38146640 PMCID: PMC10763607 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqad193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Wolffian duct (WD) maintenance and differentiation is predominantly driven by the androgen action, which is mediated by the androgen receptor (AR). It is well established that the mesenchyme indicates the fate and differentiation of epithelial cells. However, in vivo developmental requirement of mesenchymal AR in WD development is still undefined. By designing a mesenchyme-specific Ar knockout (ARcKO), we discovered that the loss of mesenchymal Ar led to the bilateral or unilateral degeneration of caudal WDs and cystic formation at the cranial WDs. Ex vivo culture of ARcKO WDs invariably resulted in bilateral defects, suggesting that some factor(s) originating from surrounding tissues in vivo might promote WD survival and growth even in the absence of mesenchymal Ar. Mechanistically, we found cell proliferation was significantly reduced in both epithelial and mesenchymal compartments; but cell apoptosis was not affected. Transcriptomic analysis by RNA sequencing of E14.5 mesonephroi revealed 131 differentially expressed genes. Multiple downregulated genes (Top2a, Wnt9b, Lama2, and Lamc2) were associated with morphological and cellular changes in ARcKO male embryos (ie, reduced cell proliferation and decreased number of epithelial cells). Mesenchymal differentiation into smooth muscle cells that are critical for morphogenesis was also impaired in ARcKO male embryos. Taken together, our results demonstrate the crucial roles of the mesenchymal AR in WD maintenance and morphogenesis in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian Wilbourne
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Shuai Jia
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Allyssa Fogarty
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Motoki Takaku
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA
| | - Fei Zhao
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
- Comparative Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
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Lu Y, Xie Y, Li M, Zuo N, Ning S, Luo B, Ning M, Song J, Liang Y, Qin Y. A novel ADGRG2 truncating variant associated with X-linked obstructive azoospermia in a large Chinese pedigree. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:1747-1754. [PMID: 37273165 PMCID: PMC10352220 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02839-3] [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: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE In this study, we aimed to identify sterility-related variants in a Chinese pedigree with male infertility and to reveal the different phenotypes and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) outcomes of the affected members. METHODS Physical examinations were performed on male patients. G-band karyotype analysis, copy number variation sequencing, and quantitative fluorescent PCR were conducted to detect common chromosomal disorders in the probands. Whole-exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing were applied to identify the pathogenic genes and the protein expression changes caused by the very mutation were identified by Western Blot in vitro. RESULTS A novel nonsense mutation (c.908C > G: p.S303*) in the ADGRG2 was identified in all infertile male patients of the pedigree, which was inherited from their mothers. This variant was absent from the human genome databases. This mutation was also unexpectedly found in a male member with normal reproductive capability. Members with the mutation had different genitalia phenotypes, ranging from normal to dilated phenotypes of the vas deferens, spermatic veins and epididymis. There was a truncated ADGRG2 protein in vitro after mutation. Of the three patients' wives treated with ICSI, only one successfully gave birth. CONCLUSIONS Our study is the first to report the c.908C > G: p.S303* mutation in the ADGRG2 in an X-linked azoospermia pedigree and is the first to report normal fertility in a member with this mutation, expanding the mutation spectrum and phenotype spectrum of this gene. In our study, ISCI had a success rate of only one-third in couples including men with azoospermia with this mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinghong Lu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Yulin Women and Children Health Care Hospital, Yulin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Yulin, 537000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuling Xie
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Yulin Women and Children Health Care Hospital, Yulin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Yulin, 537000, People's Republic of China
| | - Mei Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Yulin Women and Children Health Care Hospital, Yulin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Yulin, 537000, People's Republic of China
| | - Na Zuo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Yulin Women and Children Health Care Hospital, Yulin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Yulin, 537000, People's Republic of China
| | - Sisi Ning
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Yulin Women and Children Health Care Hospital, Yulin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Yulin, 537000, People's Republic of China
| | - Bowen Luo
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Yulin Women and Children Health Care Hospital, Yulin, People's Republic of China
| | - Minxia Ning
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Yulin Women and Children Health Care Hospital, Yulin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Yulin, 537000, People's Republic of China
| | - Jujie Song
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Yulin Women and Children Health Care Hospital, Yulin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Yulin, 537000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Liang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Yulin Women and Children Health Care Hospital, Yulin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Yulin, 537000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yunrong Qin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Yulin Women and Children Health Care Hospital, Yulin, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Yulin, 537000, People's Republic of China.
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Feng J, Zhang Y, Yang X, Zhang Y. Heterogeneous spectrum of CFTR gene mutations in Chinese patients with CAVD and the dilemma of genetic blocking strategy. Reproduction 2022; 164:R47-R56. [PMID: 35913788 DOI: 10.1530/rep-21-0315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
In brief The genetic heterogeneity of CFTR gene mutations in Chinese patients with congenital absence of the vas deferens (CAVD) differs from the hotspot mutation pattern in Caucasians. This paper reviews and suggests a more suitable screening strategy for the Chinese considering the dilemma of CFTR genetic blocking. Abstract Congenital absence of the vas deferens (CAVD) is a major cause of obstructive azoospermia and male infertility, with CFTR gene mutation as the main pathogenesis. Other genes such as ADGRG2, SLC9A3, and PANK2 have been discovered and proven to be associated with CAVD in recent studies. Multiple CFTR hotspot mutations have been found in Caucasians in several foreign countries, and relevant genetic counseling and preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) have been conducted for decades. However, when we examined research on Chinese CAVD, we discovered that CFTR mutations show heterogeneity in the Chinese Han population, and there is currently no well-established screening strategy. Therefore, we have reviewed the literature, combining domestic and international research as well as our own, aiming to review research progress on the CFTR gene in China and discuss the appropriate scope for CFTR gene detection, the detection efficiency of other CAVD-related genes, and the screening strategy applicable to the Chinese Han population. This study provides more valuable information for genetic counseling and a theoretical basis for PGD and treatment for couples with CAVD when seeking reproductive assistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiarong Feng
- 1Department of Infertility and Sexual Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanan Zhang
- 1Department of Infertility and Sexual Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaojian Yang
- 1Department of Infertility and Sexual Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- 1Department of Infertility and Sexual Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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Pauwaert K, Muysoms F, Dewulf M. Incidental finding of a congenital unilateral absence of the vas deferens during robotic inguinal hernia repair: missing a crucial landmark. A case report. Acta Chir Belg 2022:1-4. [PMID: 35098883 DOI: 10.1080/00015458.2022.2035920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We report on a case of congenital unilateral atresia of the vas deferens encountered during a robotic-assisted transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) inguinal hernia repair. CASE REPORT Our 65-years-old male patient was scheduled for a bilateral robotic-assisted TAPP inguinal hernia repair because of bilateral symptomatic groin hernia. Standard intraoperative dissection obtaining a critical view of the myopectineal orifice did not allow for an identification of the vas deferens (VD) on the left side. On the right side, a normal VD was identified. There was no suspicion of an intraoperative lesion or ligation of the VD. Both gonadal and inferior epigastric vessels were present on both sides. Upon clinical evaluation, no VD was palpable in the scrotum on the left side. The diagnosis of a congenital unilateral absence of the vas deferens was made. Additional abdominal computed tomography scan revealed a congenital agenesis of the left kidney, ureter, vesicula seminalis and vas deferens. DISCUSSION The accidental finding of a congenital absence of the vas deferens during inguinal hernia repair is rare. However, surgeons performing inguinal hernia repair should be aware of this condition and the clinical implications it poses, as this could prevent unnecessary exploration and missed diagnosis of associated underlying conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim Pauwaert
- Department of Urology, Gent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
| | - Filip Muysoms
- Department of General Surgery, Maria Middelares Hospital, Gent, Belgium
| | - Maxime Dewulf
- Department of General Surgery, Maria Middelares Hospital, Gent, Belgium
- Department of Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Brusq C, Mieusset R, Hamdi SM. Development of a multivariable prediction model for congenital unilateral absence of the vas deferens in male partners of infertile couples. Andrology 2021; 10:262-269. [PMID: 34510807 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13106] [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: 04/04/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Congenital unilateral absence of vas deferens has been diagnosed in fertile and normozoospermic males and is associated with the risk of unilateral renal absence or cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator mutations; but no prediction model currently exists to diagnose this condition. OBJECTIVES The study aims to identify clinical and biological variables that may have a predictive value for the diagnosis of congenital unilateral absence of vas deferens in male partners of infertile couples MATERIALS AND METHODS: We designed a retrospective, cross-sectional, case-control study on electronic health records of a single tertiary-care andrological centre collected between 1998 and 2018. We included all subjects diagnosed with congenital unilateral absence of vas deferens using combined scrotal and transrectal ultrasounds. Controls were confirmed free of congenital unilateral absence of vas deferens by the same way. Both groups received standardised exploration procedures. Multivariable logistic regression model was built in a backward stepwise manner. Model performance and calibration were assessed. The study is reported according to TRIPOD statement. RESULTS We included 69 congenital unilateral absence of vas deferens cases and 78 controls. Cases had a lower semen volume than controls. The congenital unilateral absence of vas deferens risk was associated with history of cryptorchidism and both levels of semen fructose and α-glucosidase. These predictors were confirmed by a random forest algorithm. The area under the curve was 0.886 (95% interval: 0.81-0.92). Calibration was performed with the Hosmer-Lemeshow test (p = 0.88). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION History of cryptorchidism, semen fructose and α-glucosidase were identified as relevant and independent predictors for the diagnosis of congenital unilateral absence of vas deferens. The model enables to identify male patients with a high risk of congenital unilateral absence of vas deferens to whom a transrectal ultrasounds would be proposed to confirm the diagnosis, whatever their semen parameters. It will also help to address the risks of unilateral renal absence and of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator mutations carrying during the management of infertile couples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Brusq
- DEFE, Univ Toulouse, Université Toulouse III, Paul Sabatier, INSERM, Toulouse, France
| | - Roger Mieusset
- DEFE, Univ Toulouse, Université Toulouse III, Paul Sabatier, INSERM, Toulouse, France.,Andrologie, Médecine de la Reproduction, CHU Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Safouane M Hamdi
- DEFE, Univ Toulouse, Université Toulouse III, Paul Sabatier, INSERM, Toulouse, France.,Laboratoire de Biochimie et d'Hormonologie, CHU Toulouse, Toulouse, France
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Andrade DL, Viana MC, Esteves SC. Differential Diagnosis of Azoospermia in Men with Infertility. J Clin Med 2021; 10:3144. [PMID: 34300309 PMCID: PMC8304267 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10143144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The differential diagnosis between obstructive and nonobstructive azoospermia is the first step in the clinical management of azoospermic patients with infertility. It includes a detailed medical history and physical examination, semen analysis, hormonal assessment, genetic tests, and imaging studies. A testicular biopsy is reserved for the cases of doubt, mainly in patients whose history, physical examination, and endocrine analysis are inconclusive. The latter should be combined with sperm extraction for possible sperm cryopreservation. We present a detailed analysis on how to make the azoospermia differential diagnosis and discuss three clinical cases where the differential diagnosis was challenging. A coordinated effort involving reproductive urologists/andrologists, geneticists, pathologists, and embryologists will offer the best diagnostic path for men with azoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danilo L Andrade
- Department of Medical Physiopathology (Postgraduate Program), State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas 13083-887, SP, Brazil
| | - Marina C Viana
- Department of Surgery (Residency Program), Division of Urology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas 13083-887, SP, Brazil
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology & Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas 13075-460, SP, Brazil
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas 13083-887, SP, Brazil
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Rudnik-Schöneborn S, Messner M, Vockel M, Wirleitner B, Pinggera GM, Witsch-Baumgartner M, Murtinger M, Kliesch S, Swoboda M, Sänger N, Zschocke J, Tüttelmann F. Andrological findings in infertile men with two (biallelic) CFTR mutations: results of a multicentre study in Germany and Austria comprising 71 patients. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:551-559. [PMID: 33374015 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION When should cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) mutation analysis be recommended in infertile men based on andrological findings? SUMMARY ANSWER CFTR mutation analysis is recommended in all men with unexplained azoospermia in the presence of normal gonadotropin levels. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY While 80-97% of men with congenital bilateral absence of the vas deferens (CBAVD) are thought to carry CFTR mutations, there is uncertainty about the spectrum of clinical and andrological abnormalities in infertile men with bilallelic CFTR mutations. This information is relevant for evidence-based recommendations to couples requesting assisted reproduction. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We studied the andrological findings of patients with two CFTR mutations who were examined in one of the cooperating fertility centres in Germany and Austria. In the period of January till July 2019, the completed and anonymized data sheets of 78 adult male patients were returned to and analysed by the project leader at the Institute of Human Genetics in Innsbruck, Austria. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Minimum study entry criteria were the presence of two (biallelic) CFTR mutations and results of at least one semen analysis. Andrological assessments were undertaken by standardized data sheets and compared with normal reference values. Seventy-one patients were eligible for the study (n = 30, 42% from Germany, n = 26, 37% from Austria, n = 15, 21% other nations). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Gonadotropin levels (FSH, LH) were normal, 22% of patients had reduced testosterone values. Mean right testis volume was 23.38 ml (SD 8.77), mean left testis volume was 22.59 ml (SD 8.68) and thereby statistically increased compared to normal (P < 0.01). although the means remained in the reference range of 12-25 ml. Semen analysis revealed azoospermia in 70 of 71 (99%) patients and severe oligozoospermia <0.1 × 106/ml in one patient. Four semen parameters, i.e. ejaculate volume, pH, α-glucosidase and fructose values, were significantly reduced (P < 0.01). Only 18% of patients had a palpatory and sonographically diagnosed CBAVD, while in 31% the diagnosis of CBAVD was uncertain, in 12% patients, the vas deferens was present but hypoplastic, and in 39% the vas deferens was normally present bilaterally. Seminal vesicles were not detectable in 37% and only unilaterally present in 37% of patients. Apart from total testes volume, clinical findings were similar in patients with two confirmed pathogenic CFTR mutations (Group I) compared with patients who carried one pathogenic mutation and one CFTR variant of unknown significance (Group II). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION We could not formally confirm the in trans position of genetic variants in most patients as no family members were available for segregation studies. Nonetheless, considering that most mutations in our study have been previously described without other rare variants in cis, and in view of the compatible andrological phenotype, it is reasonable to assume that the biallelic genotypes are correct. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our study reveals that CFTR mutation analysis has a broader indication than just the absence of the vas deferens. We recommend to completely sequence the CFTR gene if there is a suspicion of obstructive azoospermia, and to extend this analysis to all patients with unexplained azoospermia in the presence of normal gonadotropin levels. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) German Research Foundation Clinical Research Unit 'Male Germ Cells: from Genes to Function' (DFG CRU326, grants to F.T.). There are no conflicts of interest to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Rudnik-Schöneborn
- Institute of Human Genetics, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - M Messner
- Institute of Human Genetics, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - M Vockel
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - B Wirleitner
- NEXTCLINIC, IVF Centres Prof. Zech, Bregenz, Bregenz, Austria
| | - G-M Pinggera
- Department of Urology, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | | | - M Murtinger
- NEXTCLINIC, IVF Centres Prof. Zech, Bregenz, Bregenz, Austria
| | - S Kliesch
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - M Swoboda
- VivaNeo Kinderwunschzentrum Dr. Loimer GmbH, Wels-Thalheim, Austria
| | - N Sänger
- Clinic of Gynecological Endocrinology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - J Zschocke
- Institute of Human Genetics, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - F Tüttelmann
- Institute of Reproductive Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
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Bieth E, Hamdi SM, Mieusset R. Genetics of the congenital absence of the vas deferens. Hum Genet 2020; 140:59-76. [PMID: 32025909 PMCID: PMC7864840 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-020-02122-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Congenital absence of the vas deferens (CAVD) may have various clinical presentations depending on whether it is bilateral (CBAVD) or unilateral (CUAVD), complete or partial, and associated or not with other abnormalities of the male urogenital tract. CBAVD is usually discovered in adult men either during the systematic assessment of cystic fibrosis or other CFTR-related conditions, or during the exploration of isolated infertility with obstructive azoospermia. The prevalence of CAVDs in men is reported to be approximately 0.1%. However, this figure is probably underestimated, because unilateral forms of CAVD in asymptomatic fertile men are not usually diagnosed. The diagnosis of CAVDs is based on clinical, ultrasound, and sperm examinations. The majority of subjects with CAVD carry at least one cystic fibrosis-causing mutation that warrants CFTR testing and in case of a positive result, genetic counseling prior to conception. Approximately 2% of the cases of CAVD are hemizygous for a loss-of-function mutation in the ADGRG2 gene that may cause a familial form of X-linked infertility. However, despite this recent finding, 10–20% of CBAVDs and 60–70% of CUAVDs remain without a genetic diagnosis. An important proportion of these unexplained CAVDs coexist with a solitary kidney suggesting an early organogenesis disorder (Wolffian duct), unlike CAVDs related to CFTR or ADGRG2 mutations, which might be the result of progressive degeneration that begins later in fetal life and probably continues after birth. How the dysfunction of CFTR, ADGRG2, or other genes such as SLC29A3 leads to this involution is the subject of various pathophysiological hypotheses that are discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Bieth
- Service de Génétique Médicale, Hôpital Purpan, CHU, 31059, Toulouse, France.
| | - Safouane M Hamdi
- Service de Biochimie, Institut Fédératif de Biologie, CHU, 31059, Toulouse, France.,EA3694 (Groupe de Recherche en Fertilité Humaine), Université Toulouse III, 31059, Toulouse, France
| | - Roger Mieusset
- EA3694 (Groupe de Recherche en Fertilité Humaine), Université Toulouse III, 31059, Toulouse, France.,Département d'Andrologie (Groupe Activité Médecine de la Reproduction), CHU, 31059, Toulouse, France
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