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de Oliveira GC, Cintra MTR, Lima MFP, Gomes MKO, de Marqui ABT. Genetic variants in miR-146a and miR-196a2 in endometriosis: a Brazilian study. REVISTA DA ASSOCIACAO MEDICA BRASILEIRA (1992) 2024; 70:e20231382. [PMID: 38775532 PMCID: PMC11101185 DOI: 10.1590/1806-9282.20231382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to determine the allelic and genotypic frequencies of the polymorphisms, rs2910164 miR-146a and rs11614913 miR-196a2, by investigating their association with endometriosis. METHODS This is a case-control study performed with approximately 120 women. The polymorphisms were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction. For the statistical analysis, the chi-square and logistic regression tests were used. RESULTS There were no significant differences in the genotype and allele frequencies of rs2910164 and rs11614913 between cases and controls. The frequencies in both polymorphisms are in accordance with Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium regarding miR-146a (patients: χ2=1.64, p=0.20; controls: χ2=0.25, p=0.62) and miR-196a2 (patients: χ2=0.58, p=0.44; controls: χ2=2.78, p=0.10). No relationship was observed between rs2910164 and rs11614913 and endometriosis in the inheritance models analyzed. CONCLUSION In this study, our results show that the studied polymorphisms are not implicated in the development of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marco Fábio Prata Lima
- Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, Institute of Health Sciences – Uberaba (MG), Brazil
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Lukac S, Hancke K, Janni W, Pfister K, Schäffler H, Schmid M, Ebner F, Kloss T, Dayan D. Three-dimensional model for improvement of endometriosis care (3D-E). Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2024; 165:416-423. [PMID: 37795648 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.15165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Endometriosis affects approximately 10% of women of reproductive age and leads to significant morbidity and financial burden. Consequently, countries such as France and Germany are formulating strategies to combat endometriosis. In this study, we propose the implementation of our three-dimensional model (3D-E) to raise awareness about endometriosis and enhance timely diagnosis, treatment, and long-term care for affected patients. METHODS Based on the adapted Six Sigma Principle and the modified recommendation of Sales et al. for implementing evidence-based findings into a clinical routine, we first conducted a comprehensive investigation to identify risk factors leading to diagnostic delay of endometriosis. After identifying improvable factors, the applicable options were selected due to defined criteria such as integrability in the clinical routine, cost-effectiveness, and evidence-based-principle. Finally, solutions feasible for health care providers were integrated and the 3D-E model was established. RESULTS Some of the main risk factors contributing to diagnostic delays are symptoms acceptance and misinterpreted symptoms, especially if presenting to nongynecologists in cases of extragenital endometriosis with atypical presentation. Therefore, we tried to sensitize colleagues (first dimension) with a review paper in Germany's largest medical journal and started an elective for medical students (second dimension) at our university. In order to involve additional health care professionals in endometriosis care (third dimension), we are preparing the concept of the EndoNurse. CONCLUSION The 3D-E model is a relatively low-cost, comprehensive, and worldwide adaptable approach for facilitating knowledge transfer, sensitizing health care providers, and improving endometriosis diagnostics and therapy for patients with endometriosis who are in the center of the model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Lukac
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Katharina Hancke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Janni
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Kerstin Pfister
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Henning Schäffler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Marinus Schmid
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Florian Ebner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- Gynäkologische Gemeinschaftspraxis Freising & Moosburg, Munich, Germany
| | - Tabea Kloss
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Davut Dayan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
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Lin T, Allaire C, As-Sanie S, Stratton P, Vincent K, Adamson GD, Arendt-Nielsen L, Bush D, Jansen F, Longpre J, Rombauts L, Shah J, Toussaint A, Hummelshoj L, Missmer SA, Yong PJ. World Endometriosis Research Foundation Endometriosis Phenome and Biobanking Harmonization Project: V. Physical examination standards in endometriosis research. Fertil Steril 2024:S0015-0282(24)00178-X. [PMID: 38508508 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2024.03.007] [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: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The World Endometriosis Research Foundation established the Endometriosis Phenome and Biobanking Harmonisation Project (EPHect) to create standardized documentation tools (with common data elements) to facilitate the comparison and combination of data across different research sites and studies. In 2014, 4 data research standards were published: clinician-reported surgical data, patient-reported clinical data, and fluid and tissue biospecimen collection. Our current objective is to create an EPHect standard for the clinician-reported physical examination (EPHect-PE) for research studies. DESIGN An international consortium involving 26 clinical and academic experts and patient partners from 11 countries representing 25 institutions and organizations. Two virtual workshops, followed by the development of the physical examination standards underwent multiple rounds of iterations and revisions. SUBJECTS N/A MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): N/A RESULT(S): The EPHect-PE tool provides standardized assessment of physical examination characteristics and pain phenotyping. Data elements involve examination of back and pelvic girdle; abdomen including allodynia and trigger points; vulva including provoked vestibulodynia; pelvic floor muscle tone and tenderness; tenderness on unidigital pelvic examination; presence of pelvic nodularity; uterine size and mobility; presence of adnexal masses; presence of incisional masses; speculum examination; tenderness and allodynia at an extra-pelvic site (e.g., forearm); and recording of anthropometrics. CONCLUSION(S) The EPHect-PE standards will facilitate the standardized documentation of the physical examination, including the assessment and documentation of examination phenotyping of endometriosis-associated pelvic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tinya Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Catherine Allaire
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sawsan As-Sanie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | | - Katy Vincent
- Department of Women's & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - G David Adamson
- World Endometriosis Research Foundation (WERF); Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California
| | - Lars Arendt-Nielsen
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark; Aalborg University Hospital, Mech-Sense, Aalborg, Denmark
| | | | - Femke Jansen
- World Endometriosis Organisations (WEO); EndoHome - Endometriosis Association Belgium, Belgium
| | - Jennifer Longpre
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Université de Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Luk Rombauts
- World Endometriosis Research Foundation (WERF); Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jay Shah
- National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Abeesha Toussaint
- World Endometriosis Organisations (WEO); Trinidad and Tobago Endometriosis Association, Trinidad and Tobago, Port of Spain
| | | | - Stacey A Missmer
- World Endometriosis Research Foundation (WERF); Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan
| | - Paul J Yong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
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Zippl AL, Reiser E, Seeber B. Endometriosis and mental health disorders: identification and treatment as part of a multimodal approach. Fertil Steril 2024; 121:370-378. [PMID: 38160985 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.12.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a disease marked by more than just pain and infertility, as it transcends the well-characterized physical symptoms to be frequently associated with mental health issues. This review focuses on the associations between endometriosis and anxiety, depression, sexual dysfunction, and eating disorders, all of which show a higher prevalence in women with the disease. Studies show that pain, especially the chronic pelvic pain of endometriosis, likely serves as a mediating factor. Recent studies evaluating genetic predispositions for endometriosis and mental health disorders suggest a shared genetic predisposition. Healthcare providers who treat women with endometriosis should be aware of these associations to best treat their patients. A holistic approach to care by gynecologists as well as mental health professionals should emphasize prompt diagnosis, targeted medical interventions, and psychological support, while also recognizing the role of supportive relationships in improving the patient's quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Lena Zippl
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Elisabeth Reiser
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Beata Seeber
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria.
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Kanti FS, Allard V, Maheux-Lacroix S. Quality of life and symptoms of pain in patients with endometriomas compared to those with other endometriosis lesions: a cross-sectional study. BMC Womens Health 2024; 24:72. [PMID: 38279101 PMCID: PMC10821264 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-024-02919-1] [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: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriomas are genetically distinct from other endometriosis lesions and could be associated with a predisposition to excessive inflammation. However, differences in clinical presentation between types of endometriosis lesions have not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the quality of life and pain scores of patients with endometriomas compared to those with other types of endometriosis lesions. METHODS A cross-sectional observational study was conducted between January 2020 and August 2023. Patients diagnosed with endometriosis completed the Endometriosis Health Profile 30 pain subscale questionnaire for their quality of life score and rated their endometriosis-associated pain symptoms using an 11-point numerical rating scale. The data were analyzed for comparison through multivariate linear regression models. RESULTS A total of 248 patients were included and divided into endometrioma (81, 33%) and nonendometrioma (167, 67%) groups. The mean age of the patients was 37.1 ± 7.5 years. Most participants were Canadian or North American (84%). One-third of the patients reported experiencing up to four concurrent pain symptoms. The most reported pain included deep dyspareunia (90%), chronic pelvic pain (84%) and lower back pain (81%). The mean quality of life score was 45.9 ± 25.9. We observed no difference in quality of life scores between patients with and without endometriomas. Patients with endometriomas had lower mean scores for deep dyspareunia (0.8; 95% CI [0 to 1.5]; p = 0.049) and higher mean scores for superficial dyspareunia (1.4; 95% CI [0.2 to 2.6]; p = 0.028). Comorbid infertility (p = 0.049) was a factor that modified superficial dyspareunia intensity in patients with endometriomas. CONCLUSION In patients with endometriosis, evidence was insufficient to conclude that the presence of endometriomas was not associated with a greater or lesser quality of life, but differences in specific symptoms of dyspareunia were identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fleur Serge Kanti
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Valérie Allard
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Sarah Maheux-Lacroix
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
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Cofini V, Muselli M, Limoncin E, Lolli C, Pelaccia E, Guido M, Fabiani L, Necozione S. The Perception of the Quality of Professional Healthcare Assistance for the Management of Endometriosis: Findings from a National Survey in Italy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6978. [PMID: 37947536 PMCID: PMC10649906 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20216978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
(1) Background: endometriosis is included in the list of chronic and disabling pathologies. This study aimed to examine patients' points of view about the quality of care for endometriosis during the COVID-19 pandemic; (2) Methods: we conducted a survey on knowledge about endometriosis, management of endometriosis, perceived mental and physical well-being, and perceived changes in the quality of care during the pandemic; (3) Results: out of 1065 participants, 875 were included in the analysis, with an average age of 34. Overall, patients had positive perceptions of care accessibility and cleanliness (95%), but less satisfaction with visit hours (86%). Those with better physical and psychological health were more satisfied with service hours, while those treated at specialised centres were more content with cleanliness. Satisfaction with clarity was linked to specialist treatment, and perceived availability to listen correlated with age, complications, and overall health status; (4) Conclusions: patients' perspectives are crucial for patient education and advocate for specialised interdisciplinary networks to support endometriosis management and patients' well-being. These findings highlight the importance of considering patient viewpoints, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on healthcare systems and suggest a need for further research from the patient's perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenza Cofini
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (V.C.); (C.L.); (E.P.); (M.G.); (L.F.); (S.N.)
| | - Mario Muselli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (V.C.); (C.L.); (E.P.); (M.G.); (L.F.); (S.N.)
| | - Erika Limoncin
- Department of Dynamic, Clinical Psychology and Health Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Chiara Lolli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (V.C.); (C.L.); (E.P.); (M.G.); (L.F.); (S.N.)
| | - Erika Pelaccia
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (V.C.); (C.L.); (E.P.); (M.G.); (L.F.); (S.N.)
| | - Maurizio Guido
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (V.C.); (C.L.); (E.P.); (M.G.); (L.F.); (S.N.)
| | - Leila Fabiani
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (V.C.); (C.L.); (E.P.); (M.G.); (L.F.); (S.N.)
| | - Stefano Necozione
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (V.C.); (C.L.); (E.P.); (M.G.); (L.F.); (S.N.)
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Szypłowska M, Tarkowski R, Kułak K. The impact of endometriosis on depressive and anxiety symptoms and quality of life: a systematic review. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1230303. [PMID: 37744486 PMCID: PMC10512020 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1230303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Endometriosis is a common gynecological disorder affecting approximately 10-15% of women of reproductive age. The main complaints of patients with endometriosis are pain and fertility problems. Symptoms of endometriosis can impact the psychological functioning of the patients and significantly compromise their mental health. Methods The aim of this review was to assess the prevalence of depressive and anxiety symptoms and quality of life in endometriosis patients. For this systematic review, we searched the PubMed, MEDLINE, ProQuest, EMBASE, Cochrane, CINAHL, Google Scholar, Scopus, and ScienceDirect electronic databases up to March 2023 to identify potentially relevant studies. The systematic review in the present paper is reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidance. Results Of four records identified, 18 were eligible to be reviewed on the association between endometriosis and symptoms of depression and anxiety. Of 8,901 records identified, 28 were reviewed on the association between endometriosis and quality of life. The reviewed articles showed a prevalence ranging from 9.8 to 98.5% for depressive symptoms and 11.5 to 87.5% for anxiety. The quality of life in patients with endometriosis was significantly impaired, regardless of the tool used for evaluation. Discussion This systematic review shows that endometriosis is associated with depressive and anxiety symptoms and impaired HRQoL. Broad correlating factors modulate mental health outcomes, indicating the complex relationship between the disease and the psychological health of the patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Szypłowska
- Chair and Department of Oncological Gynecology and Gynecology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
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Kfoury M, Barakat H, Hallit S, Saliba S. Association between endometriosis and sexual satisfaction among a sample of lebanese women. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:164. [PMID: 37024920 PMCID: PMC10080926 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02323-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis is a complex disease that affects approximately 10% of women of childbearing age. It is characterized by the presence of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus and often results in symptoms such as pelvic pain and infertility. This condition may disturb mental health and decrease both the mental and physical health related quality of life of women. The aim of this study was to assess the emotional state and the intimate relational aspect of life in Lebanese women living with endometriosis. METHODS This is a case-control study that included 317 women (65 participants with endometriosis and 252 controls (1:3 ratio)). Participants completed an online survey that included questions related to endometriosis, Sexual Satisfaction Scale for Women, Couple Satisfaction Index, Perceived Partner Responsiveness Scale and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale. RESULTS A significantly higher mean sexual satisfaction score was found in women without endometriosis compared to those with endometriosis (90.83 vs. 83.42; p = 0.006). No significant difference was found in terms of couple satisfaction, depression, anxiety, stress, and perceived partner responsiveness between the two groups. Higher couple satisfaction (Beta = 1.30) and perceived partner responsiveness (Beta = 0.16) were significantly associated with higher sexual satisfaction, whereas higher depression (Beta=-1.70) and having endometriosis compared to not (Beta=-6.51) were significantly associated with lower sexual satisfaction. CONCLUSION This study validated the link between endometriosis and sexual satisfaction and invalidated the association between endometriosis and emotional state, as well as couple satisfaction and perceived partner responsiveness. Greater sexual satisfaction was, however, linked to greater perceived partner responsiveness and greater couple satisfaction, as well as decreased signs of depression, anxiety, and stress. More research is warranted to better understand how Lebanese women are coping with the disease and how clinicians may help them further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Kfoury
- School of Arts and Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, P.O. Box 446, Jounieh, Lebanon
| | - Habib Barakat
- School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, P.O. Box 446, Jounieh, Lebanon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Notre Dame des Secours University Hospital Center, Street 93, Postal Code 3, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Souheil Hallit
- School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, P.O. Box 446, Jounieh, Lebanon.
- Applied Science Research Center, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan.
- Research Department, Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, Jal Eddib, Lebanon.
| | - Sahar Saliba
- School of Arts and Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, P.O. Box 446, Jounieh, Lebanon
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Thomsen LH, Vexø LE, Schnack TH, Hansen KE, Forman A, Hartwell D, Nielsen HS, Hummelshoj L, Nyegaard M, Madsen ME. Danish translation, cross-cultural adaptation, and electronic migration of the World Endometriosis Research Foundation Endometriosis Phenome and Biobanking Harmonisation Project Endometriosis Patient Questionnaire. Front Glob Womens Health 2023; 4:1102006. [PMID: 36994241 PMCID: PMC10042231 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2023.1102006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
ObjectivesThis study aims to translate and cross-culturally adapt the standard version of the World Endometriosis Research Foundation (WERF) EPHect Endometriosis Patient Questionnaire (EPQ) into Danish and to ensure equivalence of a Danish electronic version.MethodsThe translation, cultural adaption, and electronic migration followed recommendations from the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR) and the Critical Path Institute. Ten women with endometriosis were enrolled for cognitive debriefing of the paper version (pEPQ) after translation and back translation. The questionnaire was then migrated into an electronic version (eEPQ) and subsequently tested for usability and measurement equivalence by five women with endometriosis.ResultsCross-cultural alterations were needed for medical terms, response options for ethnicity, the educational system, and measurement units. Thirteen questions were altered after back translation, while 21 underwent minor changes after cognitive debriefing. After testing the eEPQ, 13 questions were altered. Questions tested for measurement equivalence across the two modes of administration were found comparable. The median time-to-complete the pEPQ and eEPQ was 62 min (range: 29–110) and 63 min (range: 31–88), respectively. General comments included the questionnaire being relevant but long and repetitive.ConclusionsWe find the the Danish pEPQ and eEPQ similar and comparable to the original English instrument. However, attention must be drawn to questions regarding measurement units, ethnicity, and educational systems before cross-country comparison. The Danish pEPQ and eEPQ are suitable for obtaining subjective data on women with endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Line Holdgaard Thomsen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Correspondence: Line Holdgaard Thomsen
| | - Laura Emilie Vexø
- Department of Gynecology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | | | | | - Axel Forman
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Dorthe Hartwell
- Department of Gynecology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Henriette Svarre Nielsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lone Hummelshoj
- World Endometriosis Research Foundation (WERF), London, United Kingdom
- Endometriosis.org, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mette Nyegaard
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Mette Elkjær Madsen
- Department of Gynecology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Al Shukri M, Al Riyami AS, Al Ghafri W, Gowri V. Are There Predictors of Early Diagnosis of Endometriosis Based on Clinical Profile? A Retrospective Study. Oman Med J 2023; 38:e458. [PMID: 36873797 PMCID: PMC9975661 DOI: 10.5001/omj.2023.35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Significant delays occur in referring cases for care of endometriosis, despite women suffering for years. This study was conducted to assess whether there is a specific symptom profile characteristic of endometriosis to alert physicians for earlier referrals. Methods In this retrospective observational cohort study, patient data of the women who attended Sultan Qaboos University Hospital from January 2011 to December 2019 with a diagnosis of endometriosis was collected from the hospital's electronic data archive and analyzed. Results Cases of N = 262 endometriosis patients were studied. The diagnosis was surgical in 198 (75.6%) of patients and the remaining 64 (24.4%) were diagnosed by clinical assessment and imaging. The mean age at diagnosis was 30.7±6.8 years (range = 15-51). The presence of ovarian endometrioma on ultrasound served as an alert for earlier referral. The mean age at diagnosis for those who had an endometrioma was 30.3±6.7 years and 32.4±7.1 years for those without an endometrioma without a significant difference. The mean age at diagnosis for those who did not have pain was 31.2 years and those with pain was 30.0 years (p =0.894; CI: -2.58-2.91). Among the 163 married women in the sample, 88 (54.0%) had primary infertility, and 31 (19.0%) had secondary infertility. There was no significant difference between the groups in the mean age at diagnosis (analysis of variance test; p =0.056). Over the nine-year period, diagnosis was made at progressively younger ages (p =0.047). Conclusions Based on this study, no specific symptom profile appears to predict an early diagnosis of endometriosis. However, over the years the diagnosis of endometriosis is made earlier likely due to increasing awareness of women and their physicians about the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Al Shukri
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| | - Al Shaima Al Riyami
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
| | - Wadha Al Ghafri
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| | - Vaidyanathan Gowri
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman
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Brandes I, Kleine-Budde K, Heinze N, Binder S, Klug C, Schippert C, Ebert AD, Halis G. Cross-sectional study for derivation of a cut-off value for identification of an early versus delayed diagnosis of endometriosis based on analytical and descriptive research methods. BMC Womens Health 2022; 22:521. [PMID: 36514039 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-022-02044-x] [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: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis is a benign, hormone-dependent, chronic inflammatory gynecological disease accompanied by cyclic and acyclic pelvic pain and other complaints. The long lists of research recommendations in the AWMF guideline (Burghaus et al., Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 81:422-46, 2021) and ESHRE Endometriosis Guideline (ESHRE Endometriosis Guideline Development Group, Endometriosis: Guideline of European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology, 2022) show that there is still a great need for research in all aspects of the disease. Diagnostic delay, defined as the mean time between symptom onset and confirmed diagnosis, is a particular problem associated with endometriosis. Some quantitative and qualitative studies have investigated possible reasons for this. A range of physician-related (Dixon et al., Br J Gen Pract 71:e668-e676, 2021; van der Zanden and Nap, Reprod Biomed Online 32:527-31, 2016) and patient-related factors (Sayer-Jones and Sherman, Health Psychol Behav Med 9:456-79, 2021) as well as stigmatization of the topic of menstruation by society have been identified (Kruckenberg, Frauenarzt 59:2-5, 2018; Seear, Soc Sci Med 69:1220-7, 2009). The consequences of the disease being diagnosed late (or too late) on the course of disease, the quality of life and the costs of the disease have already been documented in studies (Sims Int J Environ Res Public Health 18(15):8210, 2021; Surrey Adv Ther 37:1087-99, 2020). However, a systematically derived cut-off value that clearly distinguishes between short and long delay is still lacking. Therefore, the aim of our study was to derive a threshold value for the definition of a target corridor for endometriosis diagnosis based on descriptive and analytical methods. METHODS Since our review of the rather sparse publications on diagnostic delay did not yield satisfactory results, we used descriptive statistics and location parameters to calculate a cut-off value for German population data from the EndoCost study. Statistical methods were used for correlation analysis of shortDD versus longDD (correlation analysis and logistic regression) and group membership (discriminant analysis). RESULTS Five years was identified as the cut-off value that significantly differentiated between shortDD and longDD based on various disease-related variables. This suggests that endometriosis should be definitively diagnosed within less than five years to minimize the risk of an unfavorable course of the disease. CONCLUSION Our findings confirmed that an early onset of endometriosis-related symptoms is the most important risk factor for a long diagnostic delay. Consequently, adolescent females should receive increased attention as an especially vulnerable group. Evidently, there is an urgent need to develop adequate concepts to improve the endometriosis education and care among this target group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Brandes
- Department of Epidemiology, Social Medicine and Health System Research, Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany.
| | | | - Nicole Heinze
- Department of Epidemiology, Social Medicine and Health System Research, Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany
| | - Sebastian Binder
- German Rheumatism Research Centre Berlin (DRFZ), Berlin, Germany
| | - Constanze Klug
- Institute of Medical Management and Health Sciences (IMG), University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Cordula Schippert
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hannover Medical School (MHH), Hannover, Germany
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Internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy for improving health-related quality of life in patients with endometriosis: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials 2022; 23:300. [PMID: 35414092 PMCID: PMC9006397 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-06204-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The trial investigates the efficacy of internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) in improving health-related QoL in patients with endometriosis, which is a chronic gynecological condition affecting up to 15% of people with female-assigned reproductive organs. Endometriosis is stress-related and comes with various physical symptoms such as pelvic pain and infertility. It has a substantial impact on health-related quality of life (QoL), and mind-body interventions seem promising in reducing the psychological burden. Methods This is a monocentric randomized-controlled trial recruiting 120 patients with endometriosis. The intervention consists of eight iCBT modules focusing on psychoeducation, cognitive restructuring, pacing, and emotion regulation. Participants will receive written feedback from a trained therapist weekly. The comparator is a waitlist control group. All participants will be followed up 3 months after the intervention, and the intervention group will additionally be followed up 12 months after the intervention. Trial participants will not be blinded to the allocated trial arm. Primary outcome measures are endometriosis-related QoL, pain, and pain-related disability. Secondary outcomes include coping, illness representations, and psychological flexibility. Statistical analyses will be performed following intention-to-treat principles. Discussion This randomized-controlled trial is the first trial to test the efficacy of iCBT for improving endometriosis-related QoL. Potential predictor variables and key mechanisms in treatment will be investigated to enable further progression in medical and psychological care for patients with endometriosis. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05098444 Registered on October 28, 2021
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