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Vanden Brink H, Burgert TS, Barral R, Malik A, Gadiraju M, Lujan ME. Ovarian Morphology in Girls Longitudinal Cohort Study: Pilot Evaluation of Ovarian Morphology as a Biomarker of Reproductive and Metabolic Features during the First Gynecological Year. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 2024; 37:315-322. [PMID: 38395192 PMCID: PMC11195913 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpag.2024.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective was to establish whether aspects of ovarian morphology correlate with reproductive and metabolic features during the first postmenarcheal year using data from the Ovarian Morphology in Girls (OMG!) cohort study. The feasibility of transabdominal ultrasonography to assess ovarian features was also determined. METHODS Healthy adolescent females enrolled in a prospective cohort study. Study visits occurred at 6-10, 11-13, 17-19, and 23-25 months postmenarche and entailed a physical exam, transabdominal ultrasound, and fasting blood draw. Participants maintained menstrual diaries throughout the study. The present analysis reflects participants who completed the study visit at 6-10 months postmenarche. Associations between ovarian morphology or average cycle length with reproductive and metabolic features were assessed by Spearman correlations and linear regression. RESULTS Forty participants enrolled in the OMG! STUDY Thirty-one participants initiated study procedures at 6-10 months postmenarche, and data were available for analysis for 29 participants. Image quality was judged as partially visible or excellent in 90% of the left and 78% of the right ovaries assessed, with all images collected having sufficient image quality to provide measurements of at least 1 ovarian marker. The follicle number per ovary and ovarian volume were positively associated with anti-Müllerian hormone levels and negatively associated with fasting insulin. The average cycle length was only associated negatively with triglycerides. CONCLUSION Transabdominal ultrasonography in the early postmenarcheal period provides sufficient resolution to enable estimations of antral follicle count and ovarian size. Ovarian features in early gynecological life may correspond with measures of reproductive and metabolic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Vanden Brink
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York; Division of Endocrinology, Children's Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, Missouri; Department of Nutrition, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas.
| | - Tania S Burgert
- Division of Endocrinology, Children's Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, Missouri
| | - Romina Barral
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Children's Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, Missouri; University of Missouri Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, Missouri; University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas
| | - Anushka Malik
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York
| | - Manasa Gadiraju
- University of Missouri Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, Missouri
| | - Marla E Lujan
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York.
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Liu S, Zhou X, Jie H, Zheng Z, Cai B, Mai Q, Zhou C. Higher Cumulative Live Birth Rate but Also Higher Late Miscarriage Risk in Non-Obese Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Undergoing the First IVF/ICSI Cycle. Int J Womens Health 2024; 16:289-298. [PMID: 38415060 PMCID: PMC10898478 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s445021] [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: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose To determine the impact of polycystic ovary syndrome on in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection and embryo transfer outcomes while analyzing the influencing factors. Patients and Methods A retrospective cohort study comprised 4839 patients who underwent their first cycle of IVF/ICSI treatment from January 2016 to December 2021. Cumulative pregnancy rates, cumulative live birth rates, and late miscarriage rates compared between the PCOS group and control group. Subgroup analysis and binary regression were used to analyze the influence of BMI on clinical outcomes among individuals diagnosed with PCOS. Results Non-obese PCOS patients exhibited higher cumulative pregnancy rates, cumulative live birth rates, and late miscarriage rates compared to the control group with the normal BMI population (84.7% vs71.2%, P < 0.001; 74.1% vs 61.6%, P < 0.001; 4.1% vs 2.0%, P = 0.002), but there was no significant difference in early miscarriage rates between the two groups. Conclusion Non-obese PCOS patients demonstrated a notably higher cumulative live birth rate but also a higher risk of late miscarriage compared to non-PCOS females with a normal BMI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simin Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiu Zhou
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Huiying Jie
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zetong Zheng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Bing Cai
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Qingyun Mai
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Canquan Zhou
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
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Boegl M, Dewailly D, Marculescu R, Steininger J, Ott J, Hager M. The LH:FSH Ratio in Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhea: An Observational Study. J Clin Med 2024; 13:1201. [PMID: 38592037 PMCID: PMC10931730 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13051201] [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: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA), luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone levels show high interindividual variability, which significantly limits their diagnostic value in differentiating FHA from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Our aim was to profile the LH:FSH ratio in a large sample of patients with well-defined FHA. METHODS This observational study included all consecutive patients with FHA presenting to the Department of Gynecologic Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, between January 2017 and August 2023. The main parameters of interest were the LH level, the FSH level, and the LH:FSH ratio. In a subgroup analysis, we compared the LH:FSH ratio of patients with PCO morphology (PCOM) on ultrasound with that of patients without PCOM. RESULTS A total of 135 patients were included. Only a minority of patients revealed FSH and LH levels ≤ 2.0 mIU/mL (13% and 39%, respectively). Most patients (81.5%) had an LH:FSH ratio ≤ 1.0, while a minority (2.2%) had a ratio ≥ 2.1. The LH:FSH ratio was similar in patients with and without PCOM. CONCLUSION In a well-defined FHA sample, the LH:FSH ratio was ≤ 1 in most patients. The LH:FSH ratio may prove useful in distinguishing FHA from PCOS but needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Boegl
- Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (M.B.); (J.S.); (M.H.)
| | - Didier Dewailly
- Faculty of Medicine Henri Warembourg, University of Lille, CEDEX, 59045 Lille, France;
| | - Rodrig Marculescu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Johanna Steininger
- Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (M.B.); (J.S.); (M.H.)
| | - Johannes Ott
- Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (M.B.); (J.S.); (M.H.)
| | - Marlene Hager
- Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (M.B.); (J.S.); (M.H.)
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Selzer C, Ott J, Dewailly D, Marculescu R, Steininger J, Hager M. Prolactin levels in functional hypothalamic amenorrhea: a retrospective case-control study. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2024; 309:651-658. [PMID: 37957366 PMCID: PMC10808163 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-023-07277-1] [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: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA) is due to hypothalamic dysregulation. Literature lacks data about prolactin in FHA women, although both prolactin levels and FHA are associated with stress. Moreover, polycystic ovarian morphology is common in FHA and there is an association between FHA and polycystic ovary syndrome. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess prolactin levels in FHA patients and controls with a special focus on factors influencing prolactin levels, that could be considered as "sensors" of the hypothalamic-pituitary dysregulation. METHODS In a retrospective cohort study, 140 women with clearly defined FHA were compared to 70 healthy, normally ovulating women matched for age. The main outcome parameter was prolactin. Factors associated with prolactin levels > 12 µg/L were tested using a multivariable binary logistic regression model. RESULTS The median prolactin level was 11.5 µg/L (interquartile range, IQR 7.5-14.4), which was similar to the control group (median 10.7, IQR 8.3-14.5; p = 0.065). Only two women had hyperprolactinemia (prolactin > 25 µg/L; 1.4%). In a multivariable binary logistic regression model eating disorder (odds ratio, OR 0.206; p = 0.040), excessive exercise (OR 0.280; p = 0.031) and TSH (OR 1.923; p = 0.020) were significantly associated with prolactin levels > 12 µg/L. CONCLUSION Women with FHA have similar prolactin levels to healthy age-matched individuals. Eating disorders and excessive exercise where associated with prolactin levels < 12 µg/L, in contrast to TSH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Selzer
- Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Johannes Ott
- Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Didier Dewailly
- Faculty of Medicine Henri Warembourg, University of Lille, Lille Cedex, France
| | - Rodrig Marculescu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Johanna Steininger
- Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Marlene Hager
- Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, 1090, Vienna, Austria
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Huyghe L, Robin C, Dumont A, Decanter C, Kyheng M, Dewailly D, Catteau-Jonard S, Robin G. How to Choose the Optimal Starting Dose of Clomiphene Citrate (50 or 100 mg per Day) for a First Cycle of Ovulation Induction in Anovulatory PCOS Women? J Clin Med 2023; 12:4943. [PMID: 37568345 PMCID: PMC10420149 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12154943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Clomiphene citrate (CC) is one of the first-line treatments for ovulation induction in women with anovulatory polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). However, nearly 1 out of 2 women is resistant to 50 mg/day of CC. The objective of this study is to investigate the clinical, biological, and/or ultrasound factors that may predict the resistance to 50 mg/day of CC in the first cycle of treatment in women with anovulatory PCOS. This would make it possible to identify PCOS patients to whom the dose of 100 mg/day would be offered as of the first cycle. DESIGN A retrospective and monocentric study was conducted on 283 women with anovulatory PCOS who required the use of ovulation induction with CC (903 cycles). RESULTS During the first cycle of treatment, 104 patients (36.8%) were resistant to 50 mg/day of CC. Univariate regression analysis showed that patients who resisted 50 mg/day of CC had significantly higher BMI, waist circumference, serum levels of AMH, total testosterone, Δ4-androstenedione, 17-OHP, and insulin (p < 0.05), compared to patients ovulating with this dose. Serum levels of SHBG were significantly lower in patients resistant to 50 mg/day (p < 0.05). After multivariate analysis, only AMH and SHBG remained statistically significant (p = 0.01 and p = 0.001, respectively). However, areas under the ROC curves were weak (0.59 and 0.68, respectively). CONCLUSION AMH and SHBG are the only two parameters significantly associated with the risk of resistance to 50 mg/day of CC. However, no satisfactory thresholds have been established to predict resistance to 50 mg CC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Huyghe
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Preservation, Lille University Hospital, 59000 Lille, France; (L.H.); (C.R.); (A.D.); (S.C.-J.)
| | - Camille Robin
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Preservation, Lille University Hospital, 59000 Lille, France; (L.H.); (C.R.); (A.D.); (S.C.-J.)
| | - Agathe Dumont
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Preservation, Lille University Hospital, 59000 Lille, France; (L.H.); (C.R.); (A.D.); (S.C.-J.)
| | - Christine Decanter
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Preservation, Lille University Hospital, 59000 Lille, France; (L.H.); (C.R.); (A.D.); (S.C.-J.)
| | - Maeva Kyheng
- Department of Biostatistics, Lille University Hospital, 59000 Lille, France
- ULR 2694—METRICS: Evaluation des Technologies de Santé et des Pratiques Médicales, University of Lille, 59000 Lille, France
| | - Didier Dewailly
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Lille, 59000 Lille, France
- UMRS-1172, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Centre, 59000 Lille, France
| | - Sophie Catteau-Jonard
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Preservation, Lille University Hospital, 59000 Lille, France; (L.H.); (C.R.); (A.D.); (S.C.-J.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Lille, 59000 Lille, France
- UMRS-1172, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Centre, 59000 Lille, France
- Department of Medical Gynecology and Sexology, Lille University Hospital, 59000 Lille, France
| | - Geoffroy Robin
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Preservation, Lille University Hospital, 59000 Lille, France; (L.H.); (C.R.); (A.D.); (S.C.-J.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Lille, 59000 Lille, France
- UMRS-1172, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Centre, 59000 Lille, France
- Department of Medical Gynecology and Sexology, Lille University Hospital, 59000 Lille, France
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Makolle S, Catteau-Jonard S, Robin G, Dewailly D. Serum LH levels are associated to serum insulin and Anti-Müllerian hormone levels in women with both functional hypothalamic amenorrhoea and polycystic ovarian morphology. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2023; 99:73-78. [PMID: 36912207 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14912] [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: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to investigate whether serum Luteinizing Hormone (LH) levels in women with Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhoea (FHA) and Polycystic Ovarian Morphology (PCOM) are still associated to Body Mass Index (BMI) and/or serum insulin and/or Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) levels using a larger population of FHA. DESIGN Retrospective observational study (2006-2020). PARTICIPANTS Data from 62 FHA patients were used for this study using strict criteria to define them. MEASUREMENTS Serum LH, FSH, 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP), dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEA-S), androstenedione, total testosterone, prolactin, Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) and AMH levels were measured by immunoassay. To homogenize the AMH values, we converted those obtained after 2015. We defined PCOM with strict criteria: a follicle number per ovary (FNPO) ≥12 or ≥20 per ovary, depending on the date on which the assessment was carried out and the ultrasound device. RESULTS Forty-two percentage of our FHA population had PCOM. The PCOM+ group had significantly higher ranks of BMI (p = .024) and serum AMH levels (p = .0001) and significantly lower ranks of serum FSH levels (p = .002). LH was positively correlated with fasting insulin (p = .011) and with AMH (p = .035) in the PCOM+ group only but not with BMI. There was a positive correlation between LH and FSH in both groups. CONCLUSION Our study suggests that GnRH insufficiency in women with PCOM unravels some mechanisms of LH regulation that are poorly documented in the literature and may involve a direct pituitary effect, as suggested by our results with serum insulin and AMH levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Makolle
- CHU Lille, Service de Gynécologie Médicale Orthogénie et Sexologie, Lille, France
| | - Sophie Catteau-Jonard
- CHU Lille, Service de Gynécologie Médicale Orthogénie et Sexologie, Lille, France
- Inserm, Lille, France
- U1172-LilNCog (JPARC)-Lille Neurosciences and Cognition, Université Lille, Lille, France
| | - Geoffroy Robin
- CHU Lille, Service de Gynécologie Médicale Orthogénie et Sexologie, Lille, France
- Inserm, Lille, France
- U1172-LilNCog (JPARC)-Lille Neurosciences and Cognition, Université Lille, Lille, France
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Hager M, Dewailly D, Marculescu R, Ghobrial S, Parry JP, Ott J. Stress and polycystic ovarian morphology in functional hypothalamic amenorrhea: a retrospective cohort study. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2023; 21:42. [PMID: 37170133 PMCID: PMC10173512 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01095-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women with functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA) reveal polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM) in up to 50%. If stress sensitivity in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the reason why PCOS women are prone to develop FHA, patients with FHA caused by stress should reveal PCOM more often. METHODS In a retrospective cohort study, 38 stress-associated and 38 excessive exercise-induced FHA women were included. The main outcome parameter was PCOM. In addition, the focus was on general patient characteristics as well as on prolactin, dehydroepiandrosterone-sulphate (DHEAS), and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH). RESULTS PCOM was found in 34/76 patients (44.7%). The stress group showed a higher prevalence of PCOM than the excessive exercise group (57.9% versus 31.6%, p = 0.019) as well as higher prolactin levels (median 13.2ng/mL versus 11.7ng/mL, p = 0.008) and a trend towards higher DHEAS levels (p = 0.058). CONCLUSIONS In FHA women, the PCOM prevalence was significantly higher in the stress-group than in the excessive exercise-group. The well-known stress sensitivity in women with PCOS might explain why PCOS women are prone to develop FHA as well as the high PCOM prevalence in FHA women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlene Hager
- Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Didier Dewailly
- Faculty of Medicine Henri Warembourg, University of Lille, Lille Cedex, France
| | - Rodrig Marculescu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Stefan Ghobrial
- Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - John Preston Parry
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Parryscope and Positive Steps Fertility, Louisiana State University Health, Madison, Shreveport, Mississippi, Louisiana, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Johannes Ott
- Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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Barbagallo F, Pedrielli G, Bosoni D, Tiranini L, Cucinella L, Calogero AE, Facchinetti F, Nappi RE. Sexual functioning in women with functional hypothalamic amenorrhea: exploring the relevance of an underlying polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)-phenotype. J Endocrinol Invest 2023:10.1007/s40618-023-02021-7. [PMID: 36735200 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-023-02021-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To study sexual function and distress in women with functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA) compared to women with FHA and an underlying polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)-phenotype, considering also their psychometric variables. As a secondary aim, we explored the relationship between sexual functioning and hormonal milieu in these women. METHODS This is a retrospective cross-sectional study conducted on 36 women with typical FHA and 43 women with FHA + PCOS-phenotype. The following validated psychometric questionnaires were administered: Female Sexual Functional Index (FSFI), Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised (FSDS-R), Body Attitude Test (BAT), Bulimia Investigation Test (BITE), State Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale (MPS). Available hormones to formulate FHA diagnosis in the standard routine were considered. RESULTS Women with typical FHA reported a significantly lower FSFI total score than women with FHA + PCOS-phenotype (95% CI for median 16-21.3 vs. 21.1-24.1, p = 0.002), whereas the FSDS-R score was similar in the two groups (95% CI for median 6-16 vs. 6-16.3). No statistically significant differences were evident in body attitude, state and trait anxiety, depression, bulimic risk, and perfectionism between the two groups, confirming the two FHA groups were superimposable from a psychometric perspective. State anxiety correlated negatively with the FSFI total score in both typical FHA (rho: - 0.33, p = 0.05) and FHA + PCOS-phenotype (rho: - 0.40, p = 0.009). In the entire study population, a positive correlation was found between luteinizing hormone, androstenedione, and 17ß-estradiol and the total FSFI score (rho: 0.28, p = 0.01; rho: 0.27, p = 0.01, rho: 0.27, p = 0.01, respectively). CONCLUSION Women with FHA showed a very high rate of sexual symptoms as part of their condition, but those with a typical diagnosis displayed a more severe sexual impairment as compared with the FHA + PCOS-phenotype, in spite of a similar psychometric profile. Sexual distress was equally present in both groups (approximately 4 out of 10 women). Further studies should be designed to investigate the potential role of sex hormones, mainly LH-driven androstenedione, in influencing women's sexual functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Barbagallo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico "G. Rodolico", via S. Sofia 78, 95123, Catania, Italy.
| | - G Pedrielli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Mother, Child and Adult, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Policlinico, Modena, Italy
| | - D Bosoni
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Gynecological Endocrinology and Menopause, IRCCS San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - L Tiranini
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Gynecological Endocrinology and Menopause, IRCCS San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - L Cucinella
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Gynecological Endocrinology and Menopause, IRCCS San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - A E Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico "G. Rodolico", via S. Sofia 78, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - F Facchinetti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Mother, Child and Adult, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Policlinico, Modena, Italy
| | - R E Nappi
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Gynecological Endocrinology and Menopause, IRCCS San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
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Dhadhal S, Nampoothiri L. Decoding the molecular cascade of embryonic-uterine modulators in pregnancy loss of PCOS mother- an "in vivo" study. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:165. [PMID: 36476384 PMCID: PMC9727897 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-01041-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic ovary syndrome is associated with an increased rate of spontaneous abortion/early pregnancy loss and pups delivered to PCOS animals were abnormal. Currently, assisted reproductive technology has been used to help numerous infertile couples to have their babies. However, there is a low implantation rate after the transfer of embryos. Till now, it could not be concluded whether the reduced pregnancy rates observed were due to abnormal embryos or endometrial modification. Further, transgenic mouse models have been used to find out the molecular deficits behind early pregnancy complications. But, the deletion of crucial genes could lead to systemic deficiencies/embryonic lethality. Also, pregnancy is a complex process with overlapping expression patterns making it challenging to mimic their stage-specific role. Therefore, the motive of the current study was to investigate the probable molecular cascade to decipher the early pregnancy loss in the letrozole-induced PCOS mouse model. METHODS PCOS was induced in mice by oral administration of letrozole daily for 21 days. Following, the pregnancy was established and animals were sacrificed on the day 6th of pregnancy. Animals were assessed for early pregnancy loss, hormonal profile, mRNA expression of steroid receptors (Ar, Pr, Esr1/2), decidualization markers (Hox10/11a), adhesion markers (Itgavb3, Itga4b1), matrix metalloproteinases and their endogenous inhibitor (Mmp2/9, Timp1/2) and key mediators of LIF/STAT pathway (Lif, Lifr, gp130, stat3) were analyzed in the embryo implanted region of the uterus. Morphological changes in ovaries and implanted regions of the uterus were assessed. RESULTS Mice treated with letrozole demonstrated significant increases in testosterone levels along with a decline in progesterone levels as compared to control animals. PCOS animals also exhibited decreased fertility index and disrupted ovarian and embryo-containing uterus histopathology. Altered gene expression of the steroid receptors and reduced expression of Hox10a, integrins, Mmp9, Timp1/3, Gp130 & Stat3 was observed in the implanted region of the uterus of PCOS animals. CONCLUSION Our results reveal that majority of the molecular markers alteration in the establishment of early pregnancy could be due to the aberrant progesterone signaling in the embryonic-uterine tissue of PCOS animals, which further translates into poor fetal outcomes as observed in the current study and in several IVF patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivani Dhadhal
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara, Gujarat, 390002, India
| | - Laxmipriya Nampoothiri
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara, Gujarat, 390002, India.
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10
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Hager M, Ott J, Marschalek J, Marschalek ML, Kinsky C, Marculescu R, Dewailly D. Basal and dynamic relationships between serum anti-Müllerian hormone and gonadotropins in patients with functional hypothalamic amenorrhea, with or without polycystic ovarian morphology. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:98. [PMID: 35787707 PMCID: PMC9251918 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00961-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To evaluate in women with functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA), whether there is a difference between patients with and without polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM) concerning the response to a gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) stimulation test and to pulsatile GnRH treatment. METHODS In a retrospective observational study, 64 women with FHA who underwent a GnRH stimulation test and 32 age-matched controls without PCOM were included. Pulsatile GnRH treatment was provided to 31 FHA patients and three-month follow-up data were available for 19 of these. RESULTS Serum levels of gonadotropins and estradiol were lower in FHA women than in controls (p < 0.05). FHA patients revealed PCOM in 27/64 cases (42.2%). FHA patients without PCOM revealed lower anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels than controls (median 2.03 ng/mL, IQR 1.40-2.50, versus 3.08 ng/mL, IQR 2.24-4.10, respectively, p < 0.001). Comparing FHA patients with and without PCOM, the latter revealed lower AMH levels, a lower median LH increase after the GnRH stimulation test (240.0%, IQR 186.4-370.0, versus 604.9%, IQR 360.0-1122.0; p < 0.001) as well as, contrary to patients with PCOM, a significant increase in AMH after three months of successful pulsatile GnRH treatment (median 1.69 ng/mL at baseline versus 2.02 ng/mL after three months of treatment; p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS In women with FHA without PCOM, the phenomenon of low AMH levels seems to be based on relative gonadotropin deficiency rather than diminished ovarian reserve. AMH tended to rise after three months of pulsatile GnRH treatment. The differences found between patients with and without PCOM suggest the former the existence of some PCOS-specific systemic and/or intra-ovarian abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlene Hager
- Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Johannes Ott
- Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Julian Marschalek
- Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Clemens Kinsky
- Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Rodrig Marculescu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Didier Dewailly
- Faculty of Medicine Henri Warembourg, University of Lille, 59045, Lille, Cedex, France
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11
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Hager M, Dewailly D, Marschalek J, Marschalek ML, Kinsky C, Marculsecu R, Ott J. Basale und dynamische Zusammenhänge zwischen serologischen Anti-Müller-Hormon-Levels und Gonadotropinen bei Patientinnen mit funktioneller hypothalamischer Amenorrhoe, mit und ohne PCOM. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2022. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1750213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- M Hager
- Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - D Dewailly
- Faculty of Medicine Henri Warembourg, University of Lille, 59045 Lille Cedex, France
| | - J Marschalek
- Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - M L Marschalek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Klinik Floridsdorf, Vienna, Austria
| | - C Kinsky
- Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - R Marculsecu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - J Ott
- Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
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12
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Oncul M, Ozcivit IB, Basibuyuk Z, Cebi C, Sahmay S. Anti-Müllerian hormone, an ovarian reserve marker in hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2022; 273:54-58. [PMID: 35477042 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2022.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the usefulness of Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) and antral follicle count (AFC) as an ovarian reserve marker in hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH) patients and to find a limit value for the gonadotropin levels in the diagnosis of HH patients. STUDY DESIGN It is a retrospective cross-sectional single-center study. One hundred ninety-nine women with HH and 171 healthy controls with no cycle disorders were included into this study. Continuous variables were expressed as mean ± standard deviation. Statistical comparisons were carried out according to the intention to treat by Student's t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, where appropriate. Receiver operating characteristic curve-ROC was used to represent the sensitivity and specificity pair corresponding to decision threshold of FSH and LH levels in HH diagnosis. P < 0.05 was accepted to be statistically significant. RESULTS There was not any statistically significant difference between HH and control group regarding the age (23.94 ± 6.56 vs. 23.92 ± 3.01, respectively; p = 0.09). Serum AMH levels didn't show statistically significant difference between HH and control group (3.26 ± 2.61 ng/mL vs. 3.15 ± 1.46 ng/mL, respectively; p = 0.11). The difference of AFC between HH and control group was statistically significant (6.67 ± 6.33 vs. 10.91 ± 2.92, respectively; p < 0.001). Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), Luteinizing-hormone (LH) and Estradiol (E2) levels between the groups were found to be significantly different. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve-ROC for FSH was 0.98 and for LH was 0.96. For the diagnosis of HH, FSH levels lower than 3.05 IU/L (with a sensitivity of 92% and specificity of 94%) and LH levels lower than 1.55 IU/L (with a sensitivity of 91% and specificity of 92%) can be used. CONCLUSION In conclusion, serum AMH levels reflect the follicle cohort in HH cases validly with negligible underestimation of ovarian reserve. FSH < 3.05 IU/L and LH < 1.55 IU/L could be used with high sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of HH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmut Oncul
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Turkey
| | - Ipek Betul Ozcivit
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Turkey.
| | - Zafer Basibuyuk
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Turkey
| | - Ceren Cebi
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Turkey
| | - Sezai Sahmay
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Turkey
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13
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Uk A, Decanter C, Grysole C, Keller L, Béhal H, Silva M, Dewailly D, Robin G, Barbotin AL. Polycystic ovary syndrome phenotype does not have impact on oocyte morphology. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:7. [PMID: 34986863 PMCID: PMC8729101 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00874-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The primary objective of the present study of women participating in an ICSI program was to determine whether the morphologic quality of oocytes was related to the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) phenotype. METHODS We performed a retrospective cohort study in the IVF unit at the Lille University Medical Center (Lille, France) between 2006 and 2015. Oocyte morphology (fragmented first polar body, abnormal zona pellucida, large perivitelline space, material in perivitelline space, abnormal shape of oocyte, granular cytoplasm and intracytoplasmic vacuoles) was evaluated in PCOS women and according to different subgroup (depending on the presence or absence of the cardinal features polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM), hyperandrogenism (HA), and oligo-anovulation (OA)). RESULTS A total of 1496 metaphase II oocytes (n = 602 for phenotype A combining PCOM + HA + OA, n = 462 oocytes for phenotype C: PCOM + HA, and n = 432 for phenotype D: PCOM + OA) were assessed. The phenotypes A, C and D did not differ significantly with regard to the proportion of normal oocytes (adjusted percentages (95%CI): 35.2% (31.5 to 39.1%), 25.8% (21.9 to 29.9%) and 34.0% (29.7 to 38.6%), respectively: adjusted p = 0.13). Likewise, there were no significant intergroup differences in oocyte morphology. The ICSI outcome was not significantly associated with the PCOS phenotype. CONCLUSION The present study is the first to show that the PCOS phenotype (notably the presence vs. absence of OA and/or HA) is not significantly associated with the morphological quality of oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Uk
- CHU Lille, Institut de Biologie de la Reproduction-Spermiologie-CECOS, Jeanne de Flandre Hospital, Lille, France
- Inserm UMR-S 1172, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille, France
- Department of Medicine, University of Lille, Lille, France
| | - Christine Decanter
- CHU Lille, Department of Endocrine Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Jeanne de Flandre Hospital, Lille, France
- Inserm EA 4308 Gametogenèse et Qualité du Gamète, Institut de Biologie de la Reproduction-Spermiologie-CECOS, Lille, France
| | - Camille Grysole
- CHU Lille, Department of Endocrine Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Jeanne de Flandre Hospital, Lille, France
| | - Laura Keller
- CHU Lille, Institut de Biologie de la Reproduction-Spermiologie-CECOS, Jeanne de Flandre Hospital, Lille, France
| | - Hélène Béhal
- Univ. Lille, CHU Lille, ULR 2694 - METRICS: Évaluation des Technologies de Santé et des Pratiques Médicales, Lille, France
| | - Mauro Silva
- Inserm UMR-S 1172, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille, France
| | | | - Geoffroy Robin
- Department of Medicine, University of Lille, Lille, France
- CHU Lille, Department of Endocrine Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Jeanne de Flandre Hospital, Lille, France
- Inserm EA 4308 Gametogenèse et Qualité du Gamète, Institut de Biologie de la Reproduction-Spermiologie-CECOS, Lille, France
| | - Anne-Laure Barbotin
- CHU Lille, Institut de Biologie de la Reproduction-Spermiologie-CECOS, Jeanne de Flandre Hospital, Lille, France.
- Inserm UMR-S 1172, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille, France.
- Department of Medicine, University of Lille, Lille, France.
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14
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Beitl K, Dewailly D, Seemann R, Hager M, Bünker J, Mayrhofer D, Holzer I, Ott J. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Phenotype D Versus Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhea With Polycystic Ovarian Morphology: A Retrospective Study About a Frequent Differential Diagnosis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:904706. [PMID: 35721741 PMCID: PMC9201247 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.904706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The two most frequent causes of secondary amenorrhea are polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA). Despite several studies showing differences in hormonal profile between these groups, the differential diagnosis remains challenging, in particular between FHA women with polycystic ovarian morphology (FHA-PCOM) and PCOS patients without hyperandrogenism (phenotype D, PCOS-D). In a retrospective case-control study, 58 clearly defined patients with FHA-PCOM were compared to 58 PCOS-D patients, matched 1:1 for age and BMI. Significantly higher levels of LH, estradiol, testosterone, and a higher luteinizing hormone (LH): follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) ratio as well as lower sexual hormone binding globulin (SHBG) levels were found in PCOS-D patients (p< 0.05). Optimized cut-off values for the prediction of FHA-PCOM were calculated by the Youden index. The highest sensitivity was found for an estradiol serum level <37.5 pg/mL (84.5%, 95% confidence interval, CI: 72.6-92.6), whereas a LH : FSH ratio <0.96 had the highest specificity (94.8, 95% CI: 85.6-98.9). A linear discriminant analysis including testosterone, SHBG and LH was able to correctly classify 87.9% of FHA-PCOM patients (bootstrap 95% CI: 80.2 - 94.0%). In conclusion, this model including serological parameters could be an easy and reliable tool to distinguish between FHA-PCOM and PCOS-D patients, especially in situations where the clinical profile is not obvious.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klara Beitl
- Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Didier Dewailly
- Faculty of Medicine Henri Warembourg, University of Lille, Lille Cedex, France
| | - Rudolf Seemann
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Marlene Hager
- Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jakob Bünker
- Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Daniel Mayrhofer
- Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Iris Holzer
- Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Johannes Ott
- Clinical Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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15
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Abou Sherif S, Newman R, Haboosh S, Al-Sharefi A, Papanikolaou N, Dimakopoulou A, Webber LJ, Abbara A, Franks S, Dhillo WS, Jayasena CN. Investigating the potential of clinical and biochemical markers to differentiate between functional hypothalamic amenorrhoea and polycystic ovarian syndrome: A retrospective observational study. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2021; 95:618-627. [PMID: 34323305 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [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: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Functional hypothalamic amenorrhoea (FHA) is a common cause of amenorrhoea, but diagnosis can be challenging. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical and biochemical features of FHA, compared to that of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and assess the diagnostic performance of the different parameters for differentiating the two conditions. DESIGN AND PATIENTS This was a retrospective observational study. We analysed clinical and biochemical parameters of women diagnosed with FHA and PCOS following specialist assessment at the reproductive endocrine gynaecology clinic, St Mary's Hospital. RESULTS Compared with PCOS, women with FHA had significantly lower body mass index (BMI; 20.1 ± 2.9 vs. 31.1 ± 7.8 kg/m2 ; p< .0001) and a thinner endometrium (3.75 ± 2.23 vs. 6.82 ± 3.32 mm; p< .0001). Women with FHA had significantly lower luteinising hormone (LH; 3.46 ± 7.31 vs. 8.79 ± 4.98 IU/L; p< .0001), and lower LH to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) ratio, estradiol, thyroid-stimulating hormone, free thyroxine and prolactin levels; there was no significant difference in FSH levels. BMI had the greatest predictive performance for FHA (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.93; p< .001), followed by estradiol (AUC: 0.89; p< .001), LH (AUC: 0.88; p< .001) and LH:FSH ratio (AUC: 0.86; p< .001). CONCLUSIONS Our data provides quantification for diagnostic accuracy of clinical parameters to differentiate FHA from PCOS, namely low BMI, estradiol, LH and LH:FSH ratio. These data could help clinicians more reliably diagnose FHA in women with secondary amenorrhoea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Abou Sherif
- Section of Investigative Medicine, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
- Department of Gynaecology, St Mary's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Rebecca Newman
- Section of Investigative Medicine, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Sara Haboosh
- Department of Endocrinology, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Ahmed Al-Sharefi
- Section of Investigative Medicine, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Nikoleta Papanikolaou
- Section of Investigative Medicine, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Anastasia Dimakopoulou
- Section of Investigative Medicine, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Lisa J Webber
- Department of Gynaecology, St Mary's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Ali Abbara
- Section of Investigative Medicine, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
- Department of Endocrinology, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Stephen Franks
- Department of Gynaecology, St Mary's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Waljit S Dhillo
- Section of Investigative Medicine, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
- Department of Endocrinology, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Channa N Jayasena
- Section of Investigative Medicine, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
- Department of Gynaecology, St Mary's Hospital, London, UK
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Phylactou M, Clarke SA, Patel B, Baggaley C, Jayasena CN, Kelsey TW, Comninos AN, Dhillo WS, Abbara A. Clinical and biochemical discriminants between functional hypothalamic amenorrhoea (FHA) and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2021; 95:239-252. [PMID: 33354766 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Secondary oligo/amenorrhoea occurs in 3%-5% of women of reproductive age. The two most common causes are polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) (2%-13%) and functional hypothalamic amenorrhoea (FHA) (1%-2%). Whilst both conditions have distinct pathophysiology and their diagnosis is supported by guidelines, in practice, differentiating these two common causes of menstrual disturbance is challenging. Moreover, both diagnoses are qualified by the need to first exclude other causes of menstrual disturbance. AIM To review clinical, biochemical and radiological parameters that could aid the clinician in distinguishing PCOS and FHA as a cause of menstrual disturbance. RESULTS FHA is uncommon in women with BMI > 24 kg/m2 , whereas both PCOS and FHA can occur in women with lower BMIs. AMH levels are markedly elevated in PCOS; however, milder increases may also be observed in FHA. Likewise, polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM) is more frequently observed in FHA than in healthy women. Features that are differentially altered between PCOS and FHA include LH, androgen, insulin, AMH and SHBG levels, endometrial thickness and cortisol response to CRH. Other promising diagnostic tests with the potential to distinguish these two conditions pending further study include assessment of 5-alpha-reductase activity, leptin, INSL3, kisspeptin and inhibin B levels. CONCLUSION Further data directly comparing the discriminatory potential of these markers to differentiate PCOS and FHA in women with secondary amenorrhoea would be of value in defining an objective probability for PCOS or FHA diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Phylactou
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Sophie A Clarke
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Bijal Patel
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Caitlin Baggaley
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Channa N Jayasena
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Endocrinology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Tom W Kelsey
- School of Computer Science, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
| | - Alexander N Comninos
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Endocrinology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Waljit S Dhillo
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Endocrinology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Ali Abbara
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Endocrinology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
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Makolle S, Catteau-Jonard S, Robin G, Dewailly D. Revisiting the serum level of anti-Müllerian hormone in patients with functional hypothalamic anovulation. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:1043-1051. [PMID: 33580689 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are serum levels of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) normal in patients with functional hypothalamic anovulation (FHA)? SUMMARY ANSWER Our study confirms that in the general FHA population, serum AMH levels are not decreased, but if patients with polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM) are excluded, levels become significantly lower, as in other situations of gonadotropic insufficiency. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY In most situations of low LH (physiological, pharmacological or pathological), serum AMH levels are low. However, paradoxically, many publications have reported normal or even increased serum AMH levels in FHA patients. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Retrospective observational study conducted in an academic centre. The data concerning the study population was collected between 2006 and 2015 from a database including clinical, biological and ultrasound information. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS A total of 45 FHA patients were compared to 37 controls matched based on age and body mass index (BMI). Serum LH, FSH, androstenedione, total testosterone, prolactin and AMH levels were measured by immunoassay. We defined PCOM with strict criteria: a follicle number per ovary (FNPO) ≥ 12 or ≥ 19 per ovary, depending on the date on which the assessment was carried out and the ultrasound device. An AMH level ≥ 35 pmol/l could be a substitute for an excess FNPO. Controls meeting these criteria were not included in this study. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE There was no significant difference in the ranges of AMH levels between FHA and controls. Using strict criteria to define PCOM status, 46.7% of FHA patients had PCOM. After excluding these patients, the levels of AMH were significantly lower (P < 0.002) in FHA patients compared to controls. Within the FHA group, patients with PCOM had significantly higher ranks of AMH levels and BMI than those without PCOM. However, within the PCOM+ subgroup, the ranks of LH, FSH and A levels were still lower than in controls (P < 0.0001, <0.002 and <0.05, respectively). The positive correlation between AMH and LH was significant in the controls but not in the FHA group. However, in the FHA PCOM+, there was a strong positive correlation between BMI and LH. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This is a retrospective study; our controls did not represent the general population as they were recruited in an ART centre; we used a modified classification for PCOM using follicle count and/or AMH level with in-house thresholds to define the follicle excess; the AMH assay used is no longer commercially available. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Besides biasing the results of AMH assay in FHA patients, the presence of PCOM in FHA patients despite low gonadotropin and androgen levels raises the issue of epigenetically acquired amplification of androgen and/or FSH sensitivity within granulosa cells from polycystic ovaries. In terms of clinical practice, it seems important not to diagnose a low ovarian reserve in FHA patients too quickly on the basis of a decreased AMH level alone. On the contrary, a high AMH level in the context of a menstrual disorder and PCOM should not lead to a misdiagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) if the basal LH is low. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) None. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Makolle
- CHU Lille, Unité Fonctionnelle de Gynécologie Endocrinienne, Service de Gynécologie Médicale, Orthogénie et Sexologie, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, Lille, France
| | - Sophie Catteau-Jonard
- CHU Lille, Unité Fonctionnelle de Gynécologie Endocrinienne, Service de Gynécologie Médicale, Orthogénie et Sexologie, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, Lille, France.,Inserm, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Jean- Pierre Aubert Research Centre, Lille 59945, France
| | - Geoffroy Robin
- CHU Lille, Unité Fonctionnelle de Gynécologie Endocrinienne, Service de Gynécologie Médicale, Orthogénie et Sexologie, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, Lille, France.,Lille University, EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Lille, France
| | - Didier Dewailly
- Inserm, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Jean- Pierre Aubert Research Centre, Lille 59945, France
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Pitts S, Dahlberg SE, Gallagher JS, Gordon CM, DiVasta AD. Is Ovarian Reserve Impacted in Anorexia Nervosa? J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 2021; 34:196-202. [PMID: 33278562 PMCID: PMC8005478 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpag.2020.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVES Hypothalamic amenorrhea is common in adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with anorexia nervosa (AN), and ovarian reserve is not routinely assessed. AN increases rates of fertility problems, but how or when AN negatively influences future fertility is unclear. We sought to determine whether biomarkers of ovarian reserve were impacted in AYA with AN. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Tertiary care center. PARTICIPANTS Females with AN and amenorrhea (n = 97) at the pre-intervention visit of a clinical trial, n = 19 females without an eating disorder or menstrual dysfunction. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) concentrations. RESULTS AMH levels were higher in AYA with AN than unaffected adolescents (4.7 vs. 3.2 ng/mL; P = .03). Neither FSH nor inhibin B differed between groups. In 19.6% of participants with AN, AMH levels were elevated above the normal range (>6.78 ng/mL). These subjects had a longer disease duration than those with normal AMH levels (9 vs. 3 mos; P = .03); age or degree of malnutrition did not differ between AN subjects with normal or elevated AMH. CONCLUSIONS AMH levels appear to be normal or elevated in AYA with AN. Low AMH in a patient with AN should raise clinical concern regarding ovarian reserve, and should not be attributed to degree of malnutrition alone. Currently, AMH is not regularly assessed during routine AN clinical care. However, our findings suggest some clinical utility in identifying those patients with reduced ovarian reserve. Potential links between the hypothalamic amenorrhea suffered by patients with AN and PCOS should be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Pitts
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
| | - Suzanne E Dahlberg
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jenny Sadler Gallagher
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Catherine M Gordon
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Amy D DiVasta
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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A comparison of two- and three-dimensional ultrasonographic methods for evaluation of ovarian follicle counts and classification of polycystic ovarian morphology. Fertil Steril 2021; 115:761-770. [PMID: 33618897 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2020.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the level of agreement across assessments of follicle number per ovary (FNPO) and classifying of polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM; FNPO ≥25) with the use of various real-time (RT) and off-line two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) ultrasonographic methods. DESIGN Method comparison study. SETTING University-based clinical research unit. PATIENT(S) Sixteen women with and without PCOM. INTERVENTION Thirty-two ovaries were analyzed with the use of eight ultrasonographic methods: 2D-Grid (reference method), 2D-RT, 2D-RT with Grid, multiplanar view (MPV), MPV-RT, tomographic ultrasound imaging (TUI), TUI-RT, and semiautomated volume calculation (SonoAVC). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) FNPO, PCOM status, and time to obtain FNPO. Clinical feasibility, defined as the time taken to obtain FNPO, also was evaluated. RESULT(S) 2D-RT overestimated FNPO versus 2D-Grid (3 ± 9 follicles) owing to overcounting in non-PCOM ovaries (6 ± 6 follicles). However, systematic bias was not detected when a grid overlay was incorporated (2D-RT with Grid). SonoAVC underestimated FNPO (-3 ± 5 follicles), particularly in PCOM ovaries (-4.1 ± 5.0 follicles). No bias in FNPO was detected between MPV, TUI, or TUI-RT versus 2D-Grid. 2D-RT significantly misclassified ovaries as PCOM. All methods except MPV took less time to complete FNPO assessments compared with 2D-Grid. CONCLUSION(S) Variability in FNPO across ultrasonographic methods limits their interchangeable use, particularly when a precise metric is needed. 2D-RT may be problematic owing to its propensity to misclassify PCOM. 2D-RT with Grid and MPV-RT could represent clinically feasible alternatives to obtain FNPO and classify PCOM. Efforts to reduce variation in FNPO will clarify the relevance of PCOM in women's health.
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Bouzoni E, Perakakis N, Mantzoros CS. Circulating profile of Activin-Follistatin-Inhibin Axis in women with hypothalamic amenorrhea in response to leptin treatment. Metabolism 2020; 113:154392. [PMID: 33045195 PMCID: PMC7680407 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2020.154392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic energy deficiency observed in women that exercise strenuously affects reproductive function, often leading to hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA). In such conditions, hypoleptinemia and robust changes in the Activin-Follistatin-Inhibin Axis (AFI) are observed. Treatment with leptin restores menstruation in many (60% responders) but not all (40% non-responders) women, suggesting that leptin is not the only regulator of reproductive function related to energy balance. In this work, we aimed to identify differences in hormonal profiles between leptin responders and non-responders among women with HA, with particular focus on the AFI axis. METHODS AFI axis and reproductive hormones (LH, FSH, Estradiol, ΑΜΗ) were measured in blood in: a) An open-label interventional study, b) a randomized placebo-controlled trial, both investigating responders versus non-responders/women with HA treated with leptin. RESULTS Women with HA that responded to leptin treatment have higher circulating levels/peak values of Inhibin A, Estradiol (E2), higher LH/FSH ratio and a trend to lower AMH compared with non-responders. CONCLUSIONS Components of the AFI axis are associated with improvement of reproductive function in women with HA treated with leptin. ΑΜΗ may serve as a marker of ovarian recovery under HA treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eirini Bouzoni
- Division of Endocrinology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Nikolaos Perakakis
- Division of Endocrinology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christos S Mantzoros
- Division of Endocrinology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Section of Endocrinology, VA Boston Healthcare System, Jamaica Plain, MA, USA
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21
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Vagios S, James KE, Sacha CR, Hsu JY, Dimitriadis I, Bormann CL, Souter I. A patient-specific model combining antimüllerian hormone and body mass index as a predictor of polycystic ovary syndrome and other oligo-anovulation disorders. Fertil Steril 2020; 115:229-237. [PMID: 33077236 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2020.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether a patient-specific predictive model combining antimüllerian hormone (AMH) levels and body mass index (BMI) can aid in the diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and other ovulatory dysfunction disorders (OVDYS) among infertile women. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING Academic fertility center. PATIENT(S) One thousand and ten infertile women undergoing 3,160 intrauterine insemination (IUI) cycles, stratified by diagnosis in three groups: PCOS, OVDYS, and other etiologies. INTERVENTION(S) Ovulation induction followed by IUI or ultrasound-monitored natural cycles. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The probability of either PCOS or OVDYS diagnosis based on AMH levels alone and a patient-specific predictive model that combines serum AMH and patient's BMI. RESULT(S) Median and interquartile range (IQR) for the serum AMH levels (ng/mL) were the highest in women with PCOS, and lowest in those with other infertility causes. Overall, for every 1 ng/mL increase in AMH, the odds of PCOS and OVDYS versus other causes increased by 55% and 24%, respectively. Postestimation from multivariate logistic regression models showed that PCOS diagnosis can be predicted with lower AMH values in women with a higher BMI compared with the AMH values predicting PCOS in normal-weight or underweight patients. The receiver operating characteristic curves reinforced these findings, and the best cutoffs for PCOS diagnosis were 7.5, 4.4, and 4.1 ng/mL for women belonging to the BMI groups 18.5-24.9, 25.0-29.9, and ≥30.0 kg/m2, respectively. CONCLUSION(S) Taking into account AMH and BMI, we developed a model that predicts the probability of an oligo-anovulation diagnosis, thus facilitating patient-specific counseling in the infertility setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stylianos Vagios
- Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Deborah Kelly Center for Outcomes Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
| | - Kaitlyn E James
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Deborah Kelly Center for Outcomes Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Caitlin R Sacha
- Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Deborah Kelly Center for Outcomes Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jennifer Y Hsu
- Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Deborah Kelly Center for Outcomes Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Irene Dimitriadis
- Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Deborah Kelly Center for Outcomes Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Charles L Bormann
- Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Deborah Kelly Center for Outcomes Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Irene Souter
- Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Deborah Kelly Center for Outcomes Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Roberts RE, Farahani L, Webber L, Jayasena C. Current understanding of hypothalamic amenorrhoea. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab 2020; 11:2042018820945854. [PMID: 32843957 PMCID: PMC7418467 DOI: 10.1177/2042018820945854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypothalamic amenorrhoea (HA) accounts for approximately 30% of cases of secondary amenorrhoea in women of reproductive age. It is caused by deficient secretion of hypothalamic gonadotrophin-releasing hormone, which in turn leads to failure of pituitary gonadotrophin and gonadal steroid release. Functional HA (FHA) is defined as HA occurring in the absence of a structural lesion and is predominantly caused by significant weight loss, intense exercise or stress. Treatment of FHA is crucial in avoiding the long-term health consequences on fertility and bone health, in addition to reducing psychological morbidity. This article summarises our understanding of the mechanisms underlying FHA, the evidence base for its clinical management and emerging therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel E. Roberts
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen Charlotte’s and Chelsea Hospital, London, UK
| | - Linda Farahani
- Section of Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK, and Department of Gynaecology, St Mary’s Hospital, London, UK
| | - Lisa Webber
- Department of Gynaecology, St Mary’s Hospital, London, UK
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Rao P, Bhide P. Controversies in the diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome. Ther Adv Reprod Health 2020; 14:2633494120913032. [PMID: 32656532 PMCID: PMC7328349 DOI: 10.1177/2633494120913032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common endocrinological condition which is found to be prevalent in 5-10% of women of reproductive age. Historically, a combination of anovulation and androgen excess was considered a hallmark in the diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome. Addition of ultrasound features of polycystic ovary syndrome has improved the detection of variation in the polycystic ovary syndrome phenotype. Despite the widespread use of consensus diagnostic criteria, there remain several unresolved controversies in the diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome. Difficulty arises in methods of assessment and types of androgens to be measured to detect biochemical hyperandrogenism, setting a cut-off value for the diagnosis of clinical hyperandrogenism, setting an ultrasound threshold of antral follicle count to diagnose polycystic ovaries and also diagnosing this condition in adolescence where there is no clear definition for 'irregular cycles'. This article looks at various controversies in the diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Preetham Rao
- Homerton University Hospital NHS Foundation
Trust, London, UK
| | - Priya Bhide
- Homerton Fertility Centre, Homerton University
Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London E9 6SR, UK
- Queen Mary University of London, London,
UK
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24
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Carmina E, Fruzzetti F, Lobo RA. Features of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women with functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA) may be reversible with recovery of menstrual function. Gynecol Endocrinol 2018; 34:301-304. [PMID: 29073797 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2017.1395842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Since features of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have been found to be prevalent in women with functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA), we wished to determine what happens to these features after recovery of menstrual function in FHA Design: Prospective cohort study. Twenty-eight women with FHA and 30 age-matched ovulatory controls were studied. METHODS Twenty-eight women with FHA and 30 age-matched ovulatory controls were studied. We measured serum estradiol, LH, FSH, testosterone, DHEAS, anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), body mass index, and ovarian morphology on transvaginal ultrasound. RESULTS At baseline, 12 of the 28 women (43%) had increased AMH (>4.7 ng/mL), and higher testosterone and larger ovaries compared to the other 16 women with normal AMH. One year after recovery of menstrual function, in the 12 women with increased AMH, serum AMH, testosterone and ovarian size decreased, while LH and estradiol increased. At one year, only one of the 12 women in the high AMH group developed clinical features of PCOS. CONCLUSIONS In the majority of women with FHA who have PCOS-like features, these features may be due to the hypothalamic state and appear to be reversible. Few women may develop clinical PCOS after recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Carmina
- a Endocrinology Unit, Department of Health Sciences and Mother and Child Care , University of Palermo , Palermo , Italy
| | | | - Roger A Lobo
- c Department of Ob/GYN , Columbia University , New York , NY , USA
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25
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Peigné M, Catteau-Jonard S, Robin G, Dumont A, Pigny P, Dewailly D. The numbers of 2– 5 and 6–9 mm ovarian follicles are inversely correlated in both normal women and in polycystic ovary syndrome patients: what is the missing link? Hum Reprod 2018; 33:706-714. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- M Peigné
- CHU Lille, Service de Gynécologie-Endocrinienne et Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, rue Eugène Avinée 59000, Lille, France
- AP-HP, Unité de Médecine de la Reproduction, Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique, Hôpital Bichat-Claude Bernard, 46 rue Henri Huchard, 75018 Paris, France
| | - S Catteau-Jonard
- CHU Lille, Service de Gynécologie-Endocrinienne et Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, rue Eugène Avinée 59000, Lille, France
| | - G Robin
- CHU Lille, Service de Gynécologie-Endocrinienne et Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, rue Eugène Avinée 59000, Lille, France
| | - A Dumont
- CHU Lille, Service de Gynécologie-Endocrinienne et Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, rue Eugène Avinée 59000, Lille, France
| | - P Pigny
- CHU Lille, Service de Biochimie et Hormonologie, Centre de Biologie Pathologie, Bd du Professeur J. Leclercq 59000, Lille, France
| | - D Dewailly
- CHU Lille, Service de Gynécologie-Endocrinienne et Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, rue Eugène Avinée 59000, Lille, France
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Song DK, Oh JY, Lee H, Sung YA. Differentiation between polycystic ovary syndrome and polycystic ovarian morphology by means of an anti-Müllerian hormone cutoff value. Korean J Intern Med 2017; 32:690-698. [PMID: 27899014 PMCID: PMC5511935 DOI: 10.3904/kjim.2016.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Revised: 05/22/2016] [Accepted: 05/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Although increased serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) level has been suggested to be a surrogate marker of polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM), its association with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is controversial, and its diagnostic value has not been determined. We aimed to observe the relationship between the AMH level and PCOS phenotypes and to determine the optimal cutoff value of AMH for the diagnosis of PCOS in young Korean women. METHODS We recruited 207 women with PCOS (120 with PCOM and 87 without PCOM) and 220 regular cycling women with normoandrogenemia (100 with PCOM and 120 without PCOM). Subjects underwent testing at a single outpatient visit. Serum AMH level was measured. RESULTS Women with PCOS had higher serum AMH levels than did regular cycling women with normoandrogenemia (p < 0.05). Women with PCOM had higher serum AMH levels than women without PCOM, regardless of PCOS status (p < 0.05). The optimal AMH cutoff value for the diagnosis of PCOS was 10.0 ng/mL (71% sensitivity, 93% specificity). Serum AMH was an independent determinant of total testosterone after adjustment for age, body mass index, and the number of menses/year (β = 0.31, p < 0.01). An association between AMH and hyperandrogenism was only observed in women with PCOS, and it was independent of the presence of PCOM. CONCLUSION The serum AMH level can be useful for the diagnosis of PCOS at any age less than 40 years, and the optimal cutoff value for the diagnosis of PCOS identified in this study of young Korean women was 10.0 ng/mL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Do Kyeong Song
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ewha Womans University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Correspondence to Do Kyeong Song, M.D. Department of Internal Medicine, Ewha Womans University School of Medicine, 1071 Anyangcheon-ro, Yangcheon-gu, Seoul 07985, Korea Tel: +82-2-2650-6158 Fax: +82-2-2650-5235 E-mail:
| | - Jee-Young Oh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ewha Womans University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyejin Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ewha Womans University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yeon-Ah Sung
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ewha Womans University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Fraissinet A, Robin G, Pigny P, Lefebvre T, Catteau-Jonard S, Dewailly D. Use of the serum anti-Müllerian hormone assay as a surrogate for polycystic ovarian morphology: impact on diagnosis and phenotypic classification of polycystic ovary syndrome. Hum Reprod 2017; 32:1716-1722. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2017] [Accepted: 06/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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28
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Bradbury RA, Lee P, Smith HC. Elevated anti-Mullerian hormone in lean women may not indicate polycystic ovarian syndrome. Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol 2017; 57:552-557. [DOI: 10.1111/ajo.12647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2016] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul Lee
- Diabetes and Metabolism Division; Garvan Institute of Medical Research; Darlinghurst New South Wales Australia
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Gordon CM, Ackerman KE, Berga SL, Kaplan JR, Mastorakos G, Misra M, Murad MH, Santoro NF, Warren MP. Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhea: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2017; 102:1413-1439. [PMID: 28368518 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2017-00131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 226] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2017] [Accepted: 02/23/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
COSPONSORING ASSOCIATIONS The American Society for Reproductive Medicine, the European Society of Endocrinology, and the Pediatric Endocrine Society. This guideline was funded by the Endocrine Society. OBJECTIVE To formulate clinical practice guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA). PARTICIPANTS The participants include an Endocrine Society-appointed task force of eight experts, a methodologist, and a medical writer. EVIDENCE This evidence-based guideline was developed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach to describe the strength of recommendations and the quality of evidence. The task force commissioned two systematic reviews and used the best available evidence from other published systematic reviews and individual studies. CONSENSUS PROCESS One group meeting, several conference calls, and e-mail communications enabled consensus. Endocrine Society committees and members and cosponsoring organizations reviewed and commented on preliminary drafts of this guideline. CONCLUSIONS FHA is a form of chronic anovulation, not due to identifiable organic causes, but often associated with stress, weight loss, excessive exercise, or a combination thereof. Investigations should include assessment of systemic and endocrinologic etiologies, as FHA is a diagnosis of exclusion. A multidisciplinary treatment approach is necessary, including medical, dietary, and mental health support. Medical complications include, among others, bone loss and infertility, and appropriate therapies are under debate and investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kathryn E Ackerman
- Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114
| | - Sarah L Berga
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157
| | - Jay R Kaplan
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157
| | - George Mastorakos
- Areteio Hospital, Medical School, National and Capodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece 10674
| | | | - M Hassan Murad
- Division of Preventive Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905
| | | | - Michelle P Warren
- Center for Menopause, Hormonal Disorders, and Women's Health, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York 10021
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Dumont A, Dewailly D, Plouvier P, Catteau-Jonard S, Robin G. Comparison between pulsatile GnRH therapy and gonadotropins for ovulation induction in women with both functional hypothalamic amenorrhea and polycystic ovarian morphology. Gynecol Endocrinol 2016; 32:999-1004. [PMID: 27258574 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2016.1191462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Ovulation induction in patients having both functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA) and polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM) has been less studied in the literature. As results remain contradictory, no recommendations have yet been established. OBJECTIVE To compare pulsatile GnRH therapy versus gonadotropins for ovulation induction in "FHA-PCOM" patients and to determine if one treatment strikes as superior to the other. METHODS A 12-year retrospective study, comparing 55 "FHA-PCOM" patients, treated either with GnRH therapy (38 patients, 93 cycles) or with gonadotropins (17 patients, 53 cycles). RESULTS Both groups were similar, defined by low serum LH and E2 levels, low BMI, excessive follicle number per ovary and/or high serum AMH level. Ovulation rates were significantly lower with gonadotropins (56.6% versus 78.6%, p = 0.005), with more cancellation and ovarian hyper-responses (14% versus 34% per initiated cycle, p < 0.005). Pregnancy rates were significantly higher with GnRH therapy, whether per initiated cycle (26.9% versus 7.6%, p = 0.005) or per patient (65.8% versus 23.5%, p = 0.007). CONCLUSION In our study, GnRH therapy was more successful and safer than gonadotropins, for ovulation induction in "FHA-PCOM" patients. If results were confirmed by prospective studies, it could become a first-line treatment for this population, just as it is for FHA women without PCOM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agathe Dumont
- a Service de Gynécologie Endocrinienne et de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre , CHRU Lille , France
| | - Didier Dewailly
- a Service de Gynécologie Endocrinienne et de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre , CHRU Lille , France
| | - Pauline Plouvier
- a Service de Gynécologie Endocrinienne et de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre , CHRU Lille , France
| | - Sophie Catteau-Jonard
- a Service de Gynécologie Endocrinienne et de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre , CHRU Lille , France
| | - Geoffroy Robin
- a Service de Gynécologie Endocrinienne et de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre , CHRU Lille , France
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Dewailly D. Diagnostic criteria for PCOS: Is there a need for a rethink? Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2016; 37:5-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2016.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2016] [Revised: 03/08/2016] [Accepted: 03/09/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Rosenfield RL, Ehrmann DA. The Pathogenesis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): The Hypothesis of PCOS as Functional Ovarian Hyperandrogenism Revisited. Endocr Rev 2016; 37:467-520. [PMID: 27459230 PMCID: PMC5045492 DOI: 10.1210/er.2015-1104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 694] [Impact Index Per Article: 86.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2015] [Accepted: 07/20/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) was hypothesized to result from functional ovarian hyperandrogenism (FOH) due to dysregulation of androgen secretion in 1989-1995. Subsequent studies have supported and amplified this hypothesis. When defined as otherwise unexplained hyperandrogenic oligoanovulation, two-thirds of PCOS cases have functionally typical FOH, characterized by 17-hydroxyprogesterone hyperresponsiveness to gonadotropin stimulation. Two-thirds of the remaining PCOS have FOH detectable by testosterone elevation after suppression of adrenal androgen production. About 3% of PCOS have a related isolated functional adrenal hyperandrogenism. The remaining PCOS cases are mild and lack evidence of steroid secretory abnormalities; most of these are obese, which we postulate to account for their atypical PCOS. Approximately half of normal women with polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM) have subclinical FOH-related steroidogenic defects. Theca cells from polycystic ovaries of classic PCOS patients in long-term culture have an intrinsic steroidogenic dysregulation that can account for the steroidogenic abnormalities typical of FOH. These cells overexpress most steroidogenic enzymes, particularly cytochrome P450c17. Overexpression of a protein identified by genome-wide association screening, differentially expressed in normal and neoplastic development 1A.V2, in normal theca cells has reproduced this PCOS phenotype in vitro. A metabolic syndrome of obesity-related and/or intrinsic insulin resistance occurs in about half of PCOS patients, and the compensatory hyperinsulinism has tissue-selective effects, which include aggravation of hyperandrogenism. PCOS seems to arise as a complex trait that results from the interaction of diverse genetic and environmental factors. Heritable factors include PCOM, hyperandrogenemia, insulin resistance, and insulin secretory defects. Environmental factors include prenatal androgen exposure and poor fetal growth, whereas acquired obesity is a major postnatal factor. The variety of pathways involved and lack of a common thread attests to the multifactorial nature and heterogeneity of the syndrome. Further research into the fundamental basis of the disorder will be necessary to optimally correct androgen levels, ovulation, and metabolic homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L Rosenfield
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, The University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60637
| | - David A Ehrmann
- Section of Adult and Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, The University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60637
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Carmina E, Fruzzetti F, Lobo RA. Increased anti-Mullerian hormone levels and ovarian size in a subgroup of women with functional hypothalamic amenorrhea: further identification of the link between polycystic ovary syndrome and functional hypothalamic amenorrhea. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2016; 214:714.e1-6. [PMID: 26767792 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2015.12.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Revised: 12/19/2015] [Accepted: 12/29/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Functional hypothalamic amenorrhea is a disorder characterized by cessation of menstrual cycles in the absence of organic disease. In most patients, it occurs in adult life after a stressful event and may be related to a condition of mild chronic energy deprivation. The endocrine pattern is characterized by low estrogen levels with an absent response to a progestogen challenge test and low-normal gonadotropin levels. A few studies have shown that some of these women may have some features of polycystic ovary syndrome; these features include an increased androgen response to gonadotropins, increased anti-Mullerian hormone levels, and altered ovarian morphology or increased ovarian size. These findings suggest a link between these 2 completely different disorders: functional hypothalamic amenorrhea and polycystic ovary syndrome. The importance of the possible coexistence of these disorders in some women is important for follow-up of these women and in their treatment if they desire to become pregnant. OBJECTIVE To determine whether a subgroup of well-characterized women with functional hypothalamic amenorrhea may have the coexistence of polycystic ovary syndrome. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective analysis of women with functional hypothalamic amenorrhea. Forty consecutive patients and 28 normal age-matched control patients were studied. Blood was obtained for serum anti-Mullerian hormone, androgens, and other hormone levels and all women had ovarian ultrasonographic measurements. RESULTS In the entire group of women with functional hypothalamic amenorrhea, anti-Mullerian hormone and ovarian volume were greater than in control patients. In 13 patients (32.5%), anti-Mullerian hormone was elevated (>4.7 ng/mL, levels consistent with polycystic ovary syndrome) and in this group, ovarian volume was significantly greater than in the remaining patients with functional hypothalamic amenorrhea. Four of the 13 women with functional hypothalamic amenorrhea who had elevated anti-Mullerian hormone levels (10%), also had ovarian volume ≥10 cc (consistent with polycystic ovarian syndrome). In these patients all studied androgens were in the upper normal range or slightly elevated despite low-normal gonadotropins; mean total testosterone was significantly greater than in the other patients with increased anti-Mullerian hormone values with normal ovarian size (P<.05.) Six other women with functional hypothalamic amenorrhea who had increased anti-Mullerian hormone also had isolated elevations of some androgen levels, but mean testosterone and ovarian size were normal. CONCLUSIONS As many as 10% of women with functional hypothalamic amenorrhea may have the coexistence of polycystic ovary syndrome. Because no signs or symptoms of this disorder were reported by these women before the appearance of the amenorrhea, it does not seem to be a coincidental relationship. The possibility that functional hypothalamic amenorrhea favors the appearance of polycystic ovary syndrome or more likely, that a mild (ovulatory) phenotype of polycystic ovary syndrome predisposes to the development of functional hypothalamic amenorrhea should be considered. Possible mechanisms are unclear and need to be investigated but may involve common vulnerabilities such as psychologic and mood disturbances.
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Dumont A, Dewailly D, Plouvier P, Catteau-Jonard S, Robin G. Does polycystic ovarian morphology influence the response to treatment with pulsatile GnRH in functional hypothalamic amenorrhea? Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2016; 14:24. [PMID: 27129705 PMCID: PMC4850648 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-016-0159-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2016] [Accepted: 04/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pulsatile GnRH therapy is the gold standard treatment for ovulation induction in women having functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA). The use of pulsatile GnRH therapy in FHA patients with polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM), called "FHA-PCOM", has been little studied in the literature and results remain contradictory. The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of pulsatile GnRH therapy for ovulation induction between FHA and "FHA-PCOM" patients in order to search for an eventual impact of PCOM. METHODS Retrospective study from August 2002 to June 2015, including 27 patients with FHA and 40 "FHA-PCOM" patients (85 and 104 initiated cycles, respectively) treated by pulsatile GnRH therapy for induction ovulation. RESULTS The two groups were similar except for markers of PCOM (follicle number per ovary, serum Anti-Müllerian Hormone level and ovarian area), which were significantly higher in patients with "FHA-PCOM". There was no significant difference between the groups concerning the ovarian response: with equivalent doses of GnRH, both groups had similar ovulation (80.8 vs 77.7 %, NS) and excessive response rates (12.5 vs 10.6 %, NS). There was no significant difference in on-going pregnancy rates (26.9 vs 20 % per initiated cycle, NS), as well as in miscarriage, multiple pregnancy or biochemical pregnancy rates. CONCLUSION Pulsatile GnRH seems to be a successful and safe method for ovulation induction in "FHA-PCOM" patients. If results were confirmed by prospective studies, GnRH therapy could therefore become a first-line treatment for this specific population, just as it is for women with FHA without PCOM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agathe Dumont
- Service de Gynécologie Endocrinienne et de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, Centre hospitalier régional universitaire de Lille, CHRU, Avenue Eugène Avinée, 59037, Lille, France.
| | - Didier Dewailly
- Service de Gynécologie Endocrinienne et de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, Centre hospitalier régional universitaire de Lille, CHRU, Avenue Eugène Avinée, 59037, Lille, France
| | - Pauline Plouvier
- Service de Gynécologie Endocrinienne et de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, Centre hospitalier régional universitaire de Lille, CHRU, Avenue Eugène Avinée, 59037, Lille, France
| | - Sophie Catteau-Jonard
- Service de Gynécologie Endocrinienne et de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, Centre hospitalier régional universitaire de Lille, CHRU, Avenue Eugène Avinée, 59037, Lille, France
| | - Geoffroy Robin
- Service de Gynécologie Endocrinienne et de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, Centre hospitalier régional universitaire de Lille, CHRU, Avenue Eugène Avinée, 59037, Lille, France
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Dumont A, Robin G, Catteau-Jonard S, Dewailly D. Role of Anti-Müllerian Hormone in pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: a review. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2015; 13:137. [PMID: 26691645 PMCID: PMC4687350 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-015-0134-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2015] [Accepted: 12/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause of chronic anovulation and hyperandrogenism in young women. Excessive ovarian production of Anti-Müllerian Hormone, secreted by growing follicles in excess, is now considered as an important feature of PCOS. The aim of this review is first to update the current knowledge about the role of AMH in the pathophysiology of PCOS. Then, this review will discuss the improvement that serum AMH assay brings in the diagnosis of PCOS. Last, this review will explain the utility of serum AMH assay in the management of infertility in women with PCOS and its utility as a marker of treatment efficiency on PCOS symptoms. It must be emphasized however that the lack of an international standard for the serum AMH assay, mainly because of technical issues, makes it difficult to define consensual thresholds, and thus impairs the widespread use of this new ovarian marker. Hopefully, this should soon improve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agathe Dumont
- Service de Gynécologie Endocrinienne et de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, CHRU, 2 Avenue Eugène Avinée, 59037, Lille, France.
| | - Geoffroy Robin
- Service de Gynécologie Endocrinienne et de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, CHRU, 2 Avenue Eugène Avinée, 59037, Lille, France.
| | - Sophie Catteau-Jonard
- Service de Gynécologie Endocrinienne et de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, CHRU, 2 Avenue Eugène Avinée, 59037, Lille, France.
| | - Didier Dewailly
- Service de Gynécologie Endocrinienne et de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, CHRU, 2 Avenue Eugène Avinée, 59037, Lille, France.
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Lauritsen MP, Pinborg A, Loft A, Petersen JH, Mikkelsen AL, Bjerge MR, Nyboe Andersen A. Revised criteria for PCOS in WHO Group II anovulatory infertility - a revival of hypothalamic amenorrhoea? Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2015; 82:584-91. [PMID: 25262871 DOI: 10.1111/cen.12621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2014] [Revised: 08/22/2014] [Accepted: 09/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate revised criteria for polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM) in the diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in anovulatory infertility. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. PATIENTS WHO Group II anovulatory infertile women (n = 75). MEASUREMENTS Clinical, sonographic and endocrine parameters, including anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH). RESULTS The Rotterdam criteria for PCOM (antral follicle count (AFC) ≥12 and/or ovarian volume >10 ml) were fulfilled in 93% of the women. The PCOM prevalence was 68% when increasing the threshold to AFC >20 and 76% according to an AMH-based threshold of >35 pmol/l. The most recently proposed AFC ≥ 25 threshold reduced the PCOM prevalence to 52% (n = 39), leaving 48% (n = 36) without features of PCOM. Comparing the 36 women with non-PCOM with the 39 women in the PCOM group according to AFC ≥ 25, 22% vs 59% (P = 0·001) had serum LH >10 IU/l, 11% vs 41% (P = 0·003) had an LH/FSH ratio >2 and 19% vs 41% (P = 0·04) had hirsutism and/or elevated total testosterone, free testosterone, and/or androstenedione. The non-PCOM group included significantly more women with secondary infertility. The median AMH in the non-PCOM group was 47 pmol/l, which was twofold lower than in the PCOM group but above the upper limit of normo-ovulatory women. CONCLUSIONS According to a revised threshold of 25 follicles, almost half the anovulatory infertile women do not have PCOM. The characteristics of these women may be compatible with hypothalamic anovulation, but according to AMH levels, the ovaries remain multifollicular. PERSPECTIVES A better distinction between hypothalamic amenorrhoea and PCOS could improve treatment strategies for anovulatory infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mette Petri Lauritsen
- The Fertility Clinic, Section 4071, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Dewailly D, Alebi M , Duhamel A, Stojanovi N. Using cluster analysis to identify a homogeneous subpopulation of women with polycystic ovarian morphology in a population of non-hyperandrogenic women with regular menstrual cycles. Hum Reprod 2014; 29:2536-43. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
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Dewailly D, Andersen CY, Balen A, Broekmans F, Dilaver N, Fanchin R, Griesinger G, Kelsey TW, La Marca A, Lambalk C, Mason H, Nelson SM, Visser JA, Wallace WH, Anderson RA. The physiology and clinical utility of anti-Müllerian hormone in women. Hum Reprod Update 2014; 20:370-85. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmt062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 577] [Impact Index Per Article: 57.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Dewailly D, Lujan ME, Carmina E, Cedars MI, Laven J, Norman RJ, Escobar-Morreale HF. Definition and significance of polycystic ovarian morphology: a task force report from the Androgen Excess and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Society. Hum Reprod Update 2013; 20:334-52. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmt061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 309] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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