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Gillipelli SR, Pio L, Losty PD, Abdelhafeez AH. Female Fertility Cryopreservation Outcomes in Childhood Cancer: A Systematic Review. J Pediatr Surg 2024; 59:1564-1568. [PMID: 38519388 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2024.02.015] [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: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS As survival rates in childhood cancer progress significantly, health outcomes in adulthood are pivotal to quality of life (QoL). Female patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiation for childhood cancer may experience adverse effects such as gonadotoxicity-related ovarian insufficiency. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) is well studied in adults, but has only recently started to be explored in an effort to preserve fertility in young patients with childhood cancer. This systematic review aims to critically highlight contemporary outcomes of cryopreservation in female pediatric cancer patients. METHODS A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases to identify English-language full text articles and abstracts published between 2004 and 2022 describing cryopreservation among female children (0-21 years old) with cancer. Abstracts and full-text articles were screened for inclusion. Subsequently, data from eligible studies was extracted and analyzed. Descriptive statistics were utilized to estimate overall outcomes of cryopreservation. RESULTS Of 104 abstracts and 34 full-text articles, 12 studies were included. Data was collected from 7 world countries and involved some 612 pediatric and adolescent patients with malignant disease. Most common cancers included hematological malignant disease (81%), CNS nervous system malignant tumors (56%), and sarcomas (39%). Of the 6 studies with full reporting, OTC was undertaken in 501 patients, and 5.9% (30/501) of these patients underwent ovarian tissue transplantation (OTT). After OTT, 27 patients desired pregnancy and 33% (9/27) became pregnant. Six of these 9 patients (67%) had live births. CONCLUSIONS Preliminary analysis showed that OTC has been successfully performed but not yet studied thoroughly in pediatric cancer patients in a longitudinal manner. This study has further shown that cryopreservation outcomes are mainly reported among adult patients living in high income countries, demonstrating a crucial need for long-term outcome studies focused on pediatric and prepuberal OTC, subsequent OTT, and potential pregnancy. This work is considered critical to aid standardize recommendations of fertility preservation in childhood cancer patients and to better inform the efficacy of these procedures to benefit patients in world nations of all fiscal income levels. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level III.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luca Pio
- Department of Surgery, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA; Department of Pediatric Surgery, Bicêtre Hospital - Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris (APHP), Paris, France.
| | - Paul D Losty
- Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, UK; Department of Paediatric Surgery, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Abdelhafeez H Abdelhafeez
- Department of Surgery, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA; Department of Surgery, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
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Affdal AO, Salama M, Ravitsky V. Ethical, legal, social, and policy issues of ovarian tissue cryopreservation in prepubertal girls: a critical interpretive review. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:999-1026. [PMID: 38430324 PMCID: PMC11052756 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03059-z] [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: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite the increasing number of childhood cancer survivors, significant advances in ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) technique and medical societies' recommendations, fertility preservation (FP) and FP discussions are not always offered as a standard of care in the pediatric context. The aim of this literature review is to understand what ethical, legal, social, and policy issues may influence the provision of FP by OTC in prepubertal girls with cancer. METHODS A critical interpretive review of peer-reviewed papers published between 2000 and January 2023 was conducted, guided by the McDougall's version of the critical interpretive synthesis (Dixon-Woods), to capture recurring concepts, principles, and arguments regarding FP by OTC for prepubertal girls. RESULTS Of 931 potentially relevant papers, 162 were included in our analysis. Data were grouped into seven thematic categories: (1) risks of the procedure, (2) unique decision-making issues in pediatric oncofertility, (3) counseling, (4) cultural and cost issues, and (5) disposition of cryopreserved reproductive tissue. CONCLUSION This first literature review focusing on ethical, legal, social, and policy issues surrounding OTC in prepubertal girls highlights concerns in the oncofertility debate. Although OTC is no longer experimental as of December 2019, these issues could limit its availability and the child's future reproductive autonomy. This review concludes that specific actions must be provided to enable the offer of FP, such as supporting families' decision-making in this unique and complex context, and providing pediatric patients universal and full access to free or highly subsidized OTC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vardit Ravitsky
- University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada
- The Hastings Center, Garrison, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
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3
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Ding X, Lv S, Guo Z, Gong X, Wang C, Zhang X, Meng K. Potential Therapeutic Options for Premature Ovarian Insufficiency: Experimental and Clinical Evidence. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:3428-3442. [PMID: 37460850 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01300-1] [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: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a condition in which a woman experiences premature decline in ovarian function before the age of 40 years, manifested by menstrual disorders, decreased fertility, and possibly postmenopausal symptoms such as insomnia, hot flashes, and osteoporosis, and is one of the predominant clinical syndromes leading to female infertility. Genetic, immunologic, iatrogenic and other factors, alone or in combination, have been reported to trigger POI, yet the etiology remains unknown in most cases. The main methods currently used clinically to ameliorate menopausal symptoms due to hypoestrogenemia in POI patients are hormone replacement therapy, while the primary methods available to address infertility in POI patients are oocyte donation and cryopreservation techniques, both of which have limitations to some degree. In recent years, researchers have continued to explore more efficient and safe therapies, and have achieved impressive results in preclinical trials. In this article, we will mainly review the three most popular therapies and their related signaling pathways published in the past ten years, with the aim of providing ideas for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuechun Ding
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Birth Defect Research and Transformation of Shandong Province, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
- College of Second Clinical Medical, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Shenmin Lv
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Birth Defect Research and Transformation of Shandong Province, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
- College of Second Clinical Medical, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Zhipeng Guo
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Birth Defect Research and Transformation of Shandong Province, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
- College of Second Clinical Medical, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Xiaowei Gong
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Birth Defect Research and Transformation of Shandong Province, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
- College of Second Clinical Medical, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Caiqin Wang
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Birth Defect Research and Transformation of Shandong Province, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
- College of Second Clinical Medical, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhang
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Birth Defect Research and Transformation of Shandong Province, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
- College of Basic Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Kai Meng
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Birth Defect Research and Transformation of Shandong Province, Jining Medical University, Jining, China.
- Lin He's Academician Workstation of New Medicine and Clinical Translation, Jining Medical University, Jining, China.
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Dewani D, Karwade P, Mahajan KS. Uterine Transplantation and Fertility Preservation: A Hopeful Horizon for Cancer Survivors. Cureus 2023; 15:e50178. [PMID: 38192936 PMCID: PMC10771962 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.50178] [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: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Uterine transplantation, a groundbreaking medical intervention, stands as a beacon of hope for cancer survivors grappling with the dual challenges of a cancer diagnosis and potential fertility loss due to aggressive treatments. This review provides a comprehensive exploration of uterine transplantation as an innovative solution for fertility preservation in the context of cancer survivorship. The multifaceted discussion encompasses the impact of cancer on fertility, the imperative of fertility preservation, and the evolution of uterine transplantation as a transformative procedure. The post-transplantation care section delves into the intricacies of recovery, the delicate balance of immunosuppressive therapy, and the ongoing support required for recipients to embrace the full spectrum of reproductive possibilities and overall well-being. Ethical considerations surrounding uterine transplantation, including donor selection, risk assessment, and societal perspectives, are critically examined to navigate the ethical landscape of this evolving field. In conclusion, uterine transplantation is presented as a medical breakthrough and a symbol of interdisciplinary collaboration, resilience, and unwavering hope. The review underscores the role of collaborative efforts among medical professionals, researchers, ethicists, and psychologists in advancing this transformative field. Looking to the future, uterine transplantation signifies a paradigm shift in fertility preservation, offering a tangible path toward parenthood for cancer survivors. The procedure, grounded in science, ethics, and compassion, illuminates the way forward, inspiring a future where fertility preservation becomes an attainable reality for those whose reproductive dreams were once compromised by cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepika Dewani
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Pravin Karwade
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Kalyani S Mahajan
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Symbiosis Medical College for Women, Symbiosis International University, Pune, IND
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Arapaki A, Christopoulos P, Kalampokas E, Triantafyllidou O, Matsas A, Vlahos NF. Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation in Children and Adolescents. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:1256. [PMID: 36010146 PMCID: PMC9406615 DOI: 10.3390/children9081256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cancer during childhood and adolescence remains a major public health issue, affecting a significant portion of this age group. Although newer anti-cancer treatments have improved survival rates, this comes at a cost in terms of gonadotoxic effects. As a result, the preservation of fertility is important. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation, one of the newest methods, has some advantages, especially for prepubertal patients: no need for ovarian stimulation, thus, no further risk for estrogen-sensitive cancer types, and preservation of more and better-quality primordial follicles of the ovarian cortex. The most frequent indications include treatment with alkylating agents, ovarian-focused radiotherapy, leukemias, lymphomas, brain and neurological tumors, as well as Turner syndrome and benign hemoglobinopathies. An expected survival exceeding 5 years, the absence of systematic disease and an overall risk of premature ovarian insufficiency over 50% are among the criteria that need to be fulfilled in order for a patient to undertake this method. Orthotopic transplantation is more frequently used, since it can allow both live birth and the recovery of endocrine function. Reimplantation of malignant cells is always a major risk and should always be taken into consideration. Histological analysis, as well as immunohistochemical and molecular methods, are needed in order to improve the search for malignant cells before transplantation. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation appears to be a method with specific benefits, indications and risks which can be an important tool in terms of preserving fertility in younger women.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Panagiotis Christopoulos
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Aretaieion” Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | | | | | | | - Nikolaos F. Vlahos
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Aretaieion” Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece
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Voigt P, Persily J, Blakemore JK, Licciardi F, Thakker S, Najari B. Sociodemographic differences in utilization of fertility services among reproductive age women diagnosed with cancer in the USA. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:963-972. [PMID: 35316438 PMCID: PMC9051007 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02455-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine whether sociodemographic differences exist among female patients accessing fertility services post-cancer diagnosis in a representative sample of the United States population. METHODS All women ages 15-45 with a history of cancer who responded to the National Survey for Family Growth (NSFG) from 2011 to 2017 were included. The population was then stratified into 2 groups, defined as those who did and did not seek infertility services. The demographic characteristics of age, legal marital status, education, race, religion, insurance status, access to healthcare, and self-perceived health were compared between the two groups. The primary outcome measure was the utilization of fertility services. The complex sample analysis using the provided sample weights required by the NSFG survey design was used. RESULTS Five hundred forty-five women reported a history of cancer and were included in this study. Forty-three (7.89%) pursued fertility services after their cancer diagnosis. Using the NSFG sample weights, this equates to a population of 161,500.7 female cancer survivors in the USA who did utilize fertility services and 1,811,955.3 women who did not. Using multivariable analysis, household income, marital status, and race were significantly associated with women utilizing fertility services following a cancer diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS In this nationally representative cohort of reproductive age women diagnosed with cancer, there are marital, socioeconomic, and racial differences between those who utilized fertility services and those who did not. This difference did not appear to be due to insurance coverage, access to healthcare, or perceived health status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paxton Voigt
- NYU Grossman School of Medicine, NY, New York, USA.
| | - Jesse Persily
- NYU Langone Department of Urology, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | | | - Bobby Najari
- NYU Langone Department of Urology, New York, NY, USA
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Damous LL, Shiroma ME, Carvalho AETSD, Soares-Jr JM, Krieger JE, Baracat EC. Gene expression profile in experimental frozen-thawed ovarian grafts treated with scaffold-base delivery of adipose tissue-derived stem cells. Clinics (Sao Paulo) 2022; 77:100066. [PMID: 35777300 PMCID: PMC9253596 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinsp.2022.100066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Gelfoam scaffold is a feasible and safe non-invasive technique for Adipose tissue-derived Stem Cell (ASC)-delivery in the treatment of frozen-thawed ovarian autografts. This study seeks to analyze the genes expression profile of rat frozen-thawed ovarian autografts treated with scaffold-based delivery of adipose tissue-derived stem cells. METHODS Eighteen adult Wistar rats were distributed into three groups: Control (frozen-thawed only); Group 1 (G1) and Group 2 (G2) (frozen-thawed ovaries treated with culture medium or ASC, respectively). Both treatments were performed immediately after autologous retroperitoneal transplant with scaffold-based delivery. The ovarian grafts were retrieved 30 days after transplantation. Quantitative gene expression (qPCR) for apoptosis, angiogenesis, and inflammatory cytokines (84 genes in each pathway) were evaluated by RT-PCR. Graft morphology (HE), apoptosis (cleaved-caspase-3), neoangiogenesis (VEGF), and cellular proliferation (Ki-67) were assessed. RESULTS In grafts treated with ASC, the apoptosis pathway showed the highest number of genes over-regulated - 49 genes - compared to inflammation cytokines and angiogenesis pathway - 36 and 23 genes respectively, compared to grafts treated with culture medium. Serpinb5 family was highlighted in the angiogenesis pathway and Cxcl6 in the inflammation cytokines pathway. In the apoptosis pathway, the most over-regulated gene was Capsase14. ASC treatment promoted the reduction of cleaved caspase-3 in the theca internal layer and increased cell proliferation by Ki-67 in the granulosa layer without altering VEGF. A mild inflammatory infiltrate was observed in both groups. CONCLUSION ASC therapy in rat frozen-thawed ovarian autografts promoted an abundance of genes involved with apoptosis and inflammatory cytokines without compromising the ovary graft morphology and viability for short time. Further studies are necessary to evaluate the repercussion of apoptosis and inflammation on the graft in the long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Lamarão Damous
- Laboratório de Ginecologia Estrutural e Molecular (LIM-58), Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Marcos Eiji Shiroma
- Laboratório de Ginecologia Estrutural e Molecular (LIM-58), Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana Elisa Teófilo Saturi de Carvalho
- Laboratório de Genética e Cardiologia Molecular, Instituto do Coração (Incor), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - José Maria Soares-Jr
- Laboratório de Ginecologia Estrutural e Molecular (LIM-58), Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - José Eduardo Krieger
- Laboratório de Genética e Cardiologia Molecular, Instituto do Coração (Incor), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Edmund C Baracat
- Laboratório de Ginecologia Estrutural e Molecular (LIM-58), Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Mehedintu C, Frincu F, Carp-Veliscu A, Barac R, Badiu DC, Zgura A, Cirstoiu M, Bratila E, Plotogea M. A Warning Call for Fertility Preservation Methods for Women Undergoing Gonadotoxic Cancer Treatment. Medicina (B Aires) 2021; 57:medicina57121340. [PMID: 34946285 PMCID: PMC8709408 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57121340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant hematological conditions have recognized an increased incidence and require aggressive treatments. Targeted chemotherapy, accompanied or not by radiotherapy, raises the chance of defeating the disease, yet cancer protocols often associate long-term gonadal consequences, for instance, diminished or damaged ovarian reserve. The negative effect is directly proportional to the types, doses, time of administration of chemotherapy, and irradiation. Additionally, follicle damage depends on characteristics of the disease and patient, such as age, concomitant diseases, previous gynecological conditions, and ovarian reserve. Patients should be adequately informed when proceeding to gonadotoxic therapies; hence, fertility preservation should be eventually regarded as a first-intention procedure. This procedure is most beneficial when performed before the onset of cancer treatment, with the recommendation for embryos or oocytes’ cryopreservation. If not feasible or acceptable, several options can be available during or after the cancer treatment. Although not approved by medical practice, promising results after in vitro studies increase the chances of future patients to protect their fertility. This review aims to emphasize the mechanism of action and impact of chemotherapy, especially the one proven to be gonadotoxic, upon ovarian reserve and future fertility. Reduced fertility or infertility, as long-term consequences of chemotherapy and, particularly, following bone marrow transplantation, is often associated with a negative impact of recovery, social and personal life, as well as highly decreased quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Mehedintu
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.M.); (F.F.); (A.C.-V.), (R.B.); (A.Z.); (M.C.); (E.B.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Nicolae Malaxa” Clinical Hospital, 022441 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Francesca Frincu
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.M.); (F.F.); (A.C.-V.), (R.B.); (A.Z.); (M.C.); (E.B.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Nicolae Malaxa” Clinical Hospital, 022441 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Andreea Carp-Veliscu
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.M.); (F.F.); (A.C.-V.), (R.B.); (A.Z.); (M.C.); (E.B.)
| | - Ramona Barac
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.M.); (F.F.); (A.C.-V.), (R.B.); (A.Z.); (M.C.); (E.B.)
| | - Dumitru-Cristinel Badiu
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.M.); (F.F.); (A.C.-V.), (R.B.); (A.Z.); (M.C.); (E.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +40-723226346
| | - Anca Zgura
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.M.); (F.F.); (A.C.-V.), (R.B.); (A.Z.); (M.C.); (E.B.)
| | - Monica Cirstoiu
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.M.); (F.F.); (A.C.-V.), (R.B.); (A.Z.); (M.C.); (E.B.)
| | - Elvira Bratila
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (C.M.); (F.F.); (A.C.-V.), (R.B.); (A.Z.); (M.C.); (E.B.)
| | - Mihaela Plotogea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Nicolae Malaxa” Clinical Hospital, 022441 Bucharest, Romania;
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Barnbrock A, Salzmann-Manrique E, Sänger N, Fiegel H, Ochsendorf F, Klingebiel T, Bader P, Jarisch A. How can fertility counseling be implemented for every newly diagnosed pediatric patient facing gonadotoxic treatment?-A single-center experience. Ann Hematol 2021; 100:2831-2841. [PMID: 34536088 PMCID: PMC8510917 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-021-04648-z] [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: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Since the survival rates of pediatric patients undergoing cancer treatment or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) have increased rapidly in recent decades, the late effects of treatment are now an important focus of patient care. Access to fertility preservation (FP) procedures as well as their financing differs considerably across Europe. However, some countries in Europe have recently changed the legal basis for financing FP procedures; therefore, the implementation of structures is mandatory to give patients access to FP. In this prospective cohort study, we characterized the process for establishing pediatric fertility counseling, including the development of an in-house standard procedure for recommendations regarding FP with potentially gonadotoxic treatment and valuating data from all FP counseling sessions. All data concerning patient characteristics (pubertal status, disease group) and recommendation of FP measures were prospectively collected and adoption of FP measures analyzed. Prior to the establishment of a structured process for FP in our pediatric oncology and stem cell transplantation center, there was no standardized FP counseling. We demonstrate that with the establishment of an inhouse standard procedure, it is possible to give consistent yet individualized FP counseling to approximately 90% of our patients facing gonadotoxic treatment, counseling over 200 patients between 2017 and 2019. This pilot study could potentially be adapted in other pediatric hematology, oncology, and stem cell transplantation centers to allow a more standardized handling of FP counseling for all patients facing gonadotoxic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke Barnbrock
- Division for Stem Cell Transplantation and Immunology, Department for Children and Adolescents, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt/Main, Germany. .,Division for Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department for Children and Adolescents, University Hospital, Goethe University, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60596, Frankfurt/Main, Germany.
| | - Emilia Salzmann-Manrique
- Division for Stem Cell Transplantation and Immunology, Department for Children and Adolescents, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Nicole Sänger
- Division for Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department for Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Henning Fiegel
- Division for Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology, Department for Surgery, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Falk Ochsendorf
- Division for Andrology, Department for Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Thomas Klingebiel
- Division for Stem Cell Transplantation and Immunology, Department for Children and Adolescents, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt/Main, Germany.,Division for Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department for Children and Adolescents, University Hospital, Goethe University, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60596, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Peter Bader
- Division for Stem Cell Transplantation and Immunology, Department for Children and Adolescents, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Andrea Jarisch
- Division for Stem Cell Transplantation and Immunology, Department for Children and Adolescents, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
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Applications of Melatonin in Female Reproduction in the Context of Oxidative Stress. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2021; 2021:6668365. [PMID: 34367465 PMCID: PMC8342146 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6668365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress has been recognized as one of the causal mediators of female infertility by affecting the oocyte quality and early embryo development. Improving oxidative stress is essential for reproductive health. Melatonin, a self-secreted antioxidant, has a wide range of effects by improving mitochondrial function and reducing the damage of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This minireview illustrates the applications of melatonin in reproduction from four aspects: physiological ovarian aging, vitrification freezing, in vitro maturation (IVM), and oxidative stress homeostasis imbalance associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), emphasising the role of melatonin in improving the quality of oocytes in assisted reproduction and other adverse conditions.
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11
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Sehring J, Hussain A, Grimm L, Rosen E, Esguerra J, Matevossian K, Louden E, Beltsos A, Jeelani R. A call to action: unified clinical practice guidelines for oncofertility care. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:1745-1754. [PMID: 33709343 PMCID: PMC8324617 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02142-z] [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: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
By 2030, WHO estimates that 1.4 million reproductive-aged women will be diagnosed with cancer annually. Fortunately, cancer is no longer considered an incurable disease in many cases. From 2008-2014, 85% of women under the age of 45 years diagnosed with cancer survived. This increase in survival rate has shifted attention from focusing exclusively on preserving life to focusing on preserving quality of life after treatment. One aspect of this is preserving the ability to have a biological family. Oncofertility, the field that bridges oncology and reproductive endocrinology with the goal of preserving fertility, offers these patients hope. Though it is clear that ASCO and ASRM recognize the importance of fertility preservation as an aspect of comprehensive oncology care, there are not yet unified guidelines for oncologists and fertility specialists for treating oncofertility patients. First, we identify the need for reproductive counseling prior to cancer treatment, as many patients report that their fertility preservation concerns are not addressed adequately. We then delineate multi-modal fertility preservation options that are available and appropriate for different patients with corresponding outcomes using different treatments. We discuss the unique challenges and considerations, including ethical dilemmas, for delivering timely and comprehensive care specifically for oncofertility patients. Finally, we address the multidisciplinary team that includes oncologists, reproductive endocrinologists, surgeons as well as their staff, nurses, genetic counselors, mental health professionals, and more. Since oncofertility patient care requires the coordination of both physician teams, one set of unified guidelines will greatly improve quality of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Sehring
- Vios Fertility Institute, 1455 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL, 60622, USA.
| | - Anisa Hussain
- Vios Fertility Institute, 1455 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL, 60622, USA
| | - Lauren Grimm
- Vios Fertility Institute, 1455 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL, 60622, USA
| | - Elisabeth Rosen
- Vios Fertility Institute, 1455 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL, 60622, USA
| | - Jody Esguerra
- Vios Fertility Institute, 1455 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL, 60622, USA
| | | | - Erica Louden
- Vios Fertility Institute, 1455 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL, 60622, USA
| | - Angeline Beltsos
- Vios Fertility Institute, 1455 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL, 60622, USA
| | - Roohi Jeelani
- Vios Fertility Institute, 1455 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL, 60622, USA
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Prevention and treatment of iatrogenic premature ovarian insufficiency: interpretation of the first Chinese guideline on ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation. GLOBAL HEALTH JOURNAL 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.glohj.2021.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
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13
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Abstract
Ovarian cancer is more frequent in post-menopausal women, however it can also occur in young premenopausal women. After diagnosis and cancer staging, health care providers should address the possibility of infertility and might offer fertility preservation options. Chemotherapy, frequently used when treating ovarian cancer, has proven to cause extensive ovarian damage. Standard surgery may be aggressive and the recurrence risk may not be relevant enough to opt for these approaches. Fertility sparing surgery has been progressively accepted and many alternative surgical approaches have proven to be successful in both cancer treatment, fertility preservation and low recurrence rates. Though there are several techniques available for fertility preservation in cancer patients, when dealing with ovarian cancer patients, oocyte and embryo cryopreservation are the only suitable. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation has been largely studied, but no data on ovarian cancer patients exist, due to the risk of reimplanting cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ana Sofia Pais
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Teresa Almeida Santos
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Abstract
Disorders of sex development (DSD) are a group of complex conditions that can affect chromosomal, gonadal, and/or phenotypical sex with a highly variable fertility potential amongst affected individuals. In this review we discuss fertility issues facing patients affected by DSD and Turner syndrome and summarise the literature on fertility and reproductive outcomes. We will also discuss fertility preservation prior to gonadotoxic treatment in adolescent and prepubertal girls. Future directions in fertility preservation and ethical issues will also be addressed. Fertility preserving options that are established include ovarian tissue and oocyte cryopreservation. However, in many of the DSDs fertility is not possible and the discussion may need to move toward alternative methods of creating a family such as gamete donation or surrogacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashi Kalra
- Reproductive Services Unit, The Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville VIC 3052, Australia.
| | - Melissa Cameron
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, The Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Catharyn Stern
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, The Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
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