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Mrosk P, Sandi-Monroy N, Gagsteiger F, Friedl TWP, Hancke K, Bundschu K. Endometrial scratching and intralipid treatment-no general recommendations. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2024; 6:1505842. [PMID: 39665034 PMCID: PMC11631846 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2024.1505842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2024] [Accepted: 11/13/2024] [Indexed: 12/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives Endometrial scratching (ES) and/or intravenous intralipid therapy (in cases of increased uterine natural killer cells, uNKs) are still conducted in several fertility centers as "add-on" treatments in patients undergoing ART, although convincing evidence for beneficial effects is lacking. Study design In this retrospective study, associations between ES treatment or additional intralipid therapy and pregnancy and live birth rates of 1,546 patients undergoing 2,821 IVF-/ICSI-treatment cycles with fresh or frozen embryo transfers in a German fertility-center between 1st January 2014 and 31th May 2017 were analyzed. Results Overall pregnancy and live birth rates for all 2,821 treatment cycles (468 cycles with ES) were 32.8% and 23.5%. There were no statistically significant differences in pregnancy or live birth rates between first treatment cycles with and without ES (p = 0.915 and p = 0.577) or between second cycles following an unsuccessful first cycle with and without ES (p = 0.752 and p = 0.623). These results were confirmed using multivariable generalized estimating equations (GEE) models accounting for non-independency of multiple treatment cycles per patients that included all cycles and showed no significant effect of ES on pregnancy (p = 0.449) or live birth rates (p = 0.976). Likewise, a GEE model revealed no significant effect of intralipid treatment on pregnancy (p = 0.926) and live birth rates (p = 0.727). Conclusions Our results reveal no evidence that ES increases the pregnancy or live birth rates in women undergoing their first or further IVF cycle with fresh or frozen embryo transfer. Intralipid treatment was also not beneficial. Even if patients explicitly ask for it, these procedures are not recommended outside of clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolina Mrosk
- Kinderwunschzentrum Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- Department of Urology, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | | | - Friedrich Gagsteiger
- Kinderwunschzentrum Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | | | - Katharina Hancke
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Karin Bundschu
- Kinderwunschzentrum Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
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Uța C, Tîrziu A, Zimbru EL, Zimbru RI, Georgescu M, Haidar L, Panaitescu C. Alloimmune Causes of Recurrent Pregnancy Loss: Cellular Mechanisms and Overview of Therapeutic Approaches. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2024; 60:1896. [PMID: 39597081 PMCID: PMC11596804 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60111896] [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: 10/30/2024] [Revised: 11/16/2024] [Accepted: 11/18/2024] [Indexed: 11/29/2024]
Abstract
Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is a complex early pregnancy complication affecting 1-2% of couples and is often linked to immune dysfunction. Aberrations in T and B cell subpopulations, as well as natural killer (NK) cell activity, are particularly influential, with studies showing that abnormal NK cell activation and imbalances in T and B cell subtypes contribute to immune-mediated miscarriage risk. Successful pregnancy requires a tightly regulated balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory immune responses. In the early stages, inflammation supports processes such as trophoblast invasion and spiral artery remodeling, but this must be tempered to prevent immune rejection of the fetus. In this review, we explore the underlying immune mechanisms of RPL, focusing on how dysregulated T, B, and NK cell function disrupts maternal tolerance. Specifically, we discuss the essential role of uterine NK cells in the early stages of vascular remodeling in the decidua and regulate the depth of invasion by extravillous trophoblasts. Furthermore, we focus on the delicate Treg dynamics that enable the maintenance of optimal immune homeostasis, where the balance, and not only the quantity of Tregs, is crucial for fostering maternal-fetal tolerance. Other T cell subpopulations, such as Th1, Th2, and Th17 cells, also contribute to immune imbalance, with Th1 and Th17 cells promoting inflammation and potentially harming fetal tolerance, while Th2 cells support immune tolerance. Finally, we show how changes in B cell subpopulations and their functions have been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. We further discuss current therapeutic strategies aimed at correcting these immune imbalances, including intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg), glucocorticoids, and TNF-α inhibitors, examining their efficacy, challenges, and potential side effects. By highlighting both the therapeutic benefits and limitations of these interventions, we aim to offer a balanced perspective on clinical applications for women facing immune-related causes of RPL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Uța
- Center of Immuno-Physiology and Biotechnologies, Department of Functional Sciences, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.U.); (E.-L.Z.); (R.-I.Z.); (M.G.); (C.P.)
- Timis County Emergency Clinical Hospital “Pius Brinzeu”, 156 Liviu Rebreanu Bd., 300723 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Alexandru Tîrziu
- Center of Immuno-Physiology and Biotechnologies, Department of Functional Sciences, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.U.); (E.-L.Z.); (R.-I.Z.); (M.G.); (C.P.)
- Department of Functional Sciences, Physiology Discipline, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timişoara, Romania
- Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases Timisoara, 13A Gheorghe Adam Street, 300310 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Elena-Larisa Zimbru
- Center of Immuno-Physiology and Biotechnologies, Department of Functional Sciences, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.U.); (E.-L.Z.); (R.-I.Z.); (M.G.); (C.P.)
- Department of Functional Sciences, Physiology Discipline, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timişoara, Romania
- Research Center for Gene and Cellular Therapies in the Treatment of Cancer—OncoGen, Timis County Emergency Clinical Hospital “Pius Brinzeu”, 156 Liviu Rebreanu Bd., 300723 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Răzvan-Ionuț Zimbru
- Center of Immuno-Physiology and Biotechnologies, Department of Functional Sciences, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.U.); (E.-L.Z.); (R.-I.Z.); (M.G.); (C.P.)
- Department of Functional Sciences, Physiology Discipline, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timişoara, Romania
- Research Center for Gene and Cellular Therapies in the Treatment of Cancer—OncoGen, Timis County Emergency Clinical Hospital “Pius Brinzeu”, 156 Liviu Rebreanu Bd., 300723 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Marius Georgescu
- Center of Immuno-Physiology and Biotechnologies, Department of Functional Sciences, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.U.); (E.-L.Z.); (R.-I.Z.); (M.G.); (C.P.)
- Department of Functional Sciences, Physiology Discipline, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timişoara, Romania
| | - Laura Haidar
- Center of Immuno-Physiology and Biotechnologies, Department of Functional Sciences, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.U.); (E.-L.Z.); (R.-I.Z.); (M.G.); (C.P.)
- Department of Functional Sciences, Physiology Discipline, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timişoara, Romania
| | - Carmen Panaitescu
- Center of Immuno-Physiology and Biotechnologies, Department of Functional Sciences, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (C.U.); (E.-L.Z.); (R.-I.Z.); (M.G.); (C.P.)
- Department of Functional Sciences, Physiology Discipline, Faculty of Medicine, “Victor Babeș” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara, 2 Eftimie Murgu Square, 300041 Timişoara, Romania
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Van Muylder A, D'Hooghe T, Luyten J. Economic Evaluation of Medically Assisted Reproduction: A Methodological Systematic Review. Med Decis Making 2023; 43:973-991. [PMID: 37621143 DOI: 10.1177/0272989x231188129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medically assisted reproduction (MAR) is a challenging application area for health economic evaluations, entailing a broad range of costs and outcomes, stretching out long-term and accruing to several parties. PURPOSE To systematically review which costs and outcomes are included in published economic evaluations of MAR and to compare these with health technology assessment (HTA) prescriptions about which cost and outcomes should be considered for different evaluation objectives. DATA SOURCES HTA guidelines and systematic searches of PubMed Central, Embase, WOS CC, CINAHL, Cochrane (CENTRAL), HTA, and NHS EED. STUDY SELECTION All economic evaluations of MAR published from 2010 to 2022. DATA EXTRACTION A predetermined data collection form summarized study characteristics. Essential costs and outcomes of MAR were listed based on HTA and treatment guidelines for different evaluation objectives. For each study, included costs and outcomes were reviewed. DATA SYNTHESIS The review identified 93 cost-effectiveness estimates, of which 57% were expressed as cost-per-(healthy)-live-birth, 19% as cost-per-pregnancy, and 47% adopted a clinic perspective. Few adopted societal perspectives and only 2% used quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs). Broader evaluations omitted various relevant costs and outcomes related to MAR. There are several cost and outcome categories for which available HTA guidelines do not provide conclusive directions regarding inclusion or exclusion. LIMITATIONS Studies published before 2010 and of interventions not clearly labeled as MAR were excluded. We focus on methods rather than which MAR treatments are cost-effective. CONCLUSIONS Economic evaluations of MAR typically calculate a short-term cost-per-live-birth from a clinic perspective. Broader analyses, using cost-per-QALY or BCRs from societal perspectives, considering the full scope of reproduction-related costs and outcomes, are scarce and often incomplete. We provide a summary of costs and outcomes for future research guidance and identify areas requiring HTA methodological development. HIGHLIGHTS The cost-effectiveness of MAR procedures can be exceptionally complex to estimate as there is a broad range of costs and outcomes involved, in principle stretching out over multiple generations and over many stakeholders.We list 21 key areas of costs and outcomes of MAR. Which of these needs to be accounted for alters for different evaluation objectives (determined by the type of economic evaluation, time horizon considered, and perspective).Published studies mostly investigate cost-effectiveness in the very short-term, from a clinic perspective, expressed as cost-per-live-birth. There is a lack of comprehensive economic evaluations that adopt a broader perspective with a longer time horizon. The broader the evaluation objective, the more relevant costs and outcomes were excluded.For several costs and outcomes, particularly those relevant for broader, societal evaluations of MAR, the inclusion or exclusion is theoretically ambiguous, and HTA guidelines do not offer sufficient guidance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid Van Muylder
- Department Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (AVM, JL); Research Group Reproductive Medicine, Department of Development and Regeneration, Organ Systems, Group Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven (University of Leuven), Belgium (TD); Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA (TD); Global Medical Affairs Fertility, Research and Development, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany (TD). The review was written at the Leuven Institute for Healthcare Policy. It was presented at the ESHRE 38th Annual Meeting (Milan 2022). The authors declared the following potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article: Astrid Van Muylder and Jeroen Luyten have no conflicting interests to declare. The participation of Thomas D'Hooghe to this publication is part of his academic work; he does not see a conflict of interest as Merck KGaA was not involved in writing this article. The authors disclosed receipt of the following financial support for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article: We acknowledge an internal funding from KU Leuven for this study. The funding agreement ensured the authors' independence in designing the study, interpreting the data, writing, and publishing the report. The following authors are employed by the sponsor: Astrid Van Muylder and Jeroen Luyten
| | - Thomas D'Hooghe
- Department Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (AVM, JL); Research Group Reproductive Medicine, Department of Development and Regeneration, Organ Systems, Group Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven (University of Leuven), Belgium (TD); Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA (TD); Global Medical Affairs Fertility, Research and Development, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany (TD). The review was written at the Leuven Institute for Healthcare Policy. It was presented at the ESHRE 38th Annual Meeting (Milan 2022). The authors declared the following potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article: Astrid Van Muylder and Jeroen Luyten have no conflicting interests to declare. The participation of Thomas D'Hooghe to this publication is part of his academic work; he does not see a conflict of interest as Merck KGaA was not involved in writing this article. The authors disclosed receipt of the following financial support for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article: We acknowledge an internal funding from KU Leuven for this study. The funding agreement ensured the authors' independence in designing the study, interpreting the data, writing, and publishing the report. The following authors are employed by the sponsor: Astrid Van Muylder and Jeroen Luyten
| | - Jeroen Luyten
- Department Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (AVM, JL); Research Group Reproductive Medicine, Department of Development and Regeneration, Organ Systems, Group Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven (University of Leuven), Belgium (TD); Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA (TD); Global Medical Affairs Fertility, Research and Development, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany (TD). The review was written at the Leuven Institute for Healthcare Policy. It was presented at the ESHRE 38th Annual Meeting (Milan 2022). The authors declared the following potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article: Astrid Van Muylder and Jeroen Luyten have no conflicting interests to declare. The participation of Thomas D'Hooghe to this publication is part of his academic work; he does not see a conflict of interest as Merck KGaA was not involved in writing this article. The authors disclosed receipt of the following financial support for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article: We acknowledge an internal funding from KU Leuven for this study. The funding agreement ensured the authors' independence in designing the study, interpreting the data, writing, and publishing the report. The following authors are employed by the sponsor: Astrid Van Muylder and Jeroen Luyten
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4
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Marchand GJ, Masoud AT, Ulibarri H, Arroyo A, Coriell C, Goetz S, Moir C, Moberly A, Gonzalez D, Blanco M, Craig HR. Effect of a 20% intravenous fat emulsion therapy on pregnancy outcomes in women with RPL or RIF undergoing IVF/ICSI: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Clin Transl Res 2023; 9:236-245. [PMID: 37564251 PMCID: PMC10411978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy a 20% intravenous fat emulsion therapy in women suffering from recurrent pregnancy loss or recurrent implantation failure (RPL/RIF) who are undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Materials and Methods We searched Cochrane Library, ISI Web of Science, MEDLINE, ClinicalTrials.gov, PubMed, and Scopus using relevant keywords during February 2020 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the therapy versus placebo or no intervention in women suffering from RPL/RIF and undergoing IVF/ICSI. Results We included five RCTs with 840 patients. The intravenous fat emulsion therapy was significantly effective in increasing clinical pregnancy rates compared to the control group (risk ratios [RR] = 1.48, 95% confidence intervals [CI] [1.23, 1.79], P < 0.001). Furthermore, ongoing pregnancy and live birth rates were significantly higher with 20% intravenous fat emulsion therapy RR = 1.71, 95% CI [1.27, 2.32], P = 0.005 and RR = 1.85, 95% CI [1.44, 2.38], P < 0.001. Despite the statistically significant differences, the quality of evidence was only considered moderate, and this was primarily due to high risk of bias in the included RCTs. Conclusion Our review provides a moderate level of evidence that intravenous fat emulsion therapy is effective in improving reproductive outcomes among women with RPL/RIF performing IVF/ICSI techniques. Further, investigation is required to ascertain optimal dosage and timing of administration. Relevance for Patients Women suffering from RPL or RIF may wish to consider discussing with their reproductive endocrinologist the addition of a 20% fat emulsion therapy to planned IVF or ICSI cycles, which may improve outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greg J. Marchand
- Marchand Institute for Minimally Invasive Surgery, Mesa, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Ahmed Taher Masoud
- Marchand Institute for Minimally Invasive Surgery, Mesa, Arizona, United States of America
- Fayoum University Faculty of Medicine, Fayoum, Egypt
| | - Hollie Ulibarri
- Marchand Institute for Minimally Invasive Surgery, Mesa, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Amanda Arroyo
- Marchand Institute for Minimally Invasive Surgery, Mesa, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Catherine Coriell
- Marchand Institute for Minimally Invasive Surgery, Mesa, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Sydnee Goetz
- Marchand Institute for Minimally Invasive Surgery, Mesa, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Carmen Moir
- Marchand Institute for Minimally Invasive Surgery, Mesa, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Atley Moberly
- Marchand Institute for Minimally Invasive Surgery, Mesa, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Daniela Gonzalez
- Marchand Institute for Minimally Invasive Surgery, Mesa, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Madison Blanco
- Marchand Institute for Minimally Invasive Surgery, Mesa, Arizona, United States of America
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Stope MB, Mustea A, Sänger N, Einenkel R. Immune Cell Functionality during Decidualization and Potential Clinical Application. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13051097. [PMID: 37240742 DOI: 10.3390/life13051097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to a vast influx in the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle, leukocytes represent 40-50% of the decidua at the time of implantation. Their importance for the implantation, maintenance of pregnancy, and parturition are known yet not fully understood. Thus, in idiopathic infertility, decidual immune-related factors are speculated to be the cause. In this review, the immune cell functions in the decidua were summarized, and clinical diagnostics, as well as interventions, were discussed. There is a rising number of commercially available diagnostic tools. However, the intervention options are still limited and/or poorly studied. In order for us to make big steps towards the proper use of reproductive immunology findings, we need to understand the mechanisms and especially support translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias B Stope
- Department of Gynecology and Gynecological Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Alexander Mustea
- Department of Gynecology and Gynecological Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Nicole Sänger
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Rebekka Einenkel
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
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6
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Ghasemi N, Shirmohamadi M, Mashayekhy M, Alipourfard I, Fazeli J. Effect of heparin on recurrent IVF-ET failure patients. ASIAN PACIFIC JOURNAL OF REPRODUCTION 2023. [DOI: 10.4103/2305-0500.372376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
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Eidizadeh A, Papert S, Valk J, Pollok-Kopp B, Goldmann M, Riggert J, Moltrecht R, Legler TJ. Adverse drug reactions following lymphocyte immunotherapy for the treatment of infertility: A retrospective study. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2022; 48:2571-2582. [PMID: 35775609 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15348] [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: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIM Unexplained infertility is a major burden for couples who want to have children. Lymphocyte immunotherapy (LIT) could be a therapeutic help for these couples. Although LIT has been carried out for decades, the data on the success of therapy are still controversial and there is hardly information on possible adverse drug reactions. METHODS In this study, we used a questionnaire to determine the frequency of local and systemic adverse drug reactions in our patients who were treated with LIT between 2017 and 2020 (n = 302). In addition, we asked about pregnancies and/or live births after LIT in a 2-year follow-up (n = 140). RESULTS Most of the patients reported the occurrence of mild local adverse drug reactions in a period of less than 4 weeks: Over 75% reported moderate erythema, itching or swelling, over 10% erythema, itching or swelling as more pronounced adverse drug reaction. Blistering was specified in 10% of the cases. Serious adverse drug reactions or adverse events were not described. In the follow-up, 69% of our patients stated a pregnancy after LIT, and 50% a life birth. CONCLUSIONS Overall, LIT represents a well-tolerated therapy for couples with unexplained infertility, however, more evidence is needed on the benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abass Eidizadeh
- Institute for Clinical Chemistry/Interdisciplinary UMG Laboratory, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Susanne Papert
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Jakob Valk
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Beatrix Pollok-Kopp
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Monika Goldmann
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Joachim Riggert
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | | | - Tobias J Legler
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
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Pantos K, Grigoriadis S, Maziotis E, Pistola K, Xystra P, Pantou A, Kokkali G, Pappas A, Lambropoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Simopoulou M. The Role of Interleukins in Recurrent Implantation Failure: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:2198. [PMID: 35216313 PMCID: PMC8875813 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23042198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) is a multifactorial condition affecting 10-15% of in vitro fertilization (IVF) couples. Data suggest that functional dysregulation of the endometrial immune system constitutes one of the main pathophysiological mechanisms leading to RIF. The aim of this article is to provide a thorough presentation and evaluation of the role of interleukins (ILs) in the pathogenesis of RIF. A comprehensive literature screening was performed summarizing current evidence. During implantation, several classes of ILs are secreted by epithelial and stromal endometrial cells, including IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, IL-15, IL-18, and the leukemia inhibitory factor. These ILs create a perplexing network that orchestrates both proliferation and maturation of uterine natural killer cells, controls the function of regulatory T and B cells inhibiting the secretion of antifetal antibodies, and supports trophoblast invasion and decidua formation. The existing data indicate associations between ILs and RIF. The extensive analysis performed herein concludes that the dysregulation of the ILs network indeed jeopardizes implantation leading to RIF. This review further proposes a mapping of future research on how to move forward from mere associations to robust molecular data that will allow an accurate profiling of ILs in turn enabling evidence-based consultancy and decision making when addressing RIF patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Pantos
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.P.); (A.P.); (G.K.); (A.P.); (K.S.)
| | - Sokratis Grigoriadis
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (K.P.); (P.X.)
| | - Evangelos Maziotis
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (K.P.); (P.X.)
| | - Kalliopi Pistola
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (K.P.); (P.X.)
| | - Paraskevi Xystra
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (K.P.); (P.X.)
| | - Agni Pantou
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.P.); (A.P.); (G.K.); (A.P.); (K.S.)
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (K.P.); (P.X.)
| | - Georgia Kokkali
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.P.); (A.P.); (G.K.); (A.P.); (K.S.)
| | - Athanasios Pappas
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.P.); (A.P.); (G.K.); (A.P.); (K.S.)
| | - Maria Lambropoulou
- Laboratory of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece;
| | - Konstantinos Sfakianoudis
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.P.); (A.P.); (G.K.); (A.P.); (K.S.)
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (K.P.); (P.X.)
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Kumar P, Marron K, Harrity C. Intralipid therapy and adverse reproductive outcome: is there any evidence? REPRODUCTION AND FERTILITY 2022; 2:173-186. [PMID: 35118388 PMCID: PMC8788620 DOI: 10.1530/raf-20-0052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Controversy exists regarding the benefits of intravenous intralipid therapy in patients with a poor reproductive history. It is frequently reported that there is no evidence to support the effectiveness, utility or safety for this treatment. While individual studies may be perceived as weak, a systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to determine if there is any advantage to patients. PubMed, Embase and Scopus searches were performed with the target populations being either recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), or recurrent implantation failure (RIF) undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART) and receiving intralipid infusions. These cohorts were compared with either placebo, no intervention or alternative treatments. The most relevant outcome measures were considered to be clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), live birth rate (LBR), implantation rate (IR) and miscarriage rate (MR). Twelve studies encompassing 2676 participants met the criteria for selection and were included and reviewed. Treatment of the target population with intralipid led to an improvement in IR (Odds Ratio (OR): 2.97, 2.05–4.29), pregnancy rate (OR: 1.64, 1.31–2.04), and LBR (OR: 2.36, 1.75–3.17), with a reduction in MR (OR: 0.2, 0.14–0.30). Although intravenous intralipid is not recommended as a routine treatment for recurrent miscarriage or implantation failure, there is enough data to suggest consideration in selected patients where routine testing is unremarkable, standard treatments have failed and immunological risk factors are present. The presence of abnormal uterine natural killer (uNK) cells needs more study as a target marker to determine those who could benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parijot Kumar
- Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.,RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Kevin Marron
- RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Conor Harrity
- Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.,RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland.,ReproMed, Dublin, Ireland
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Salazar MD, Wang WJ, Skariah A, He Q, Field K, Nixon M, Reed R, Dambaeva S, Beaman K, Gilman-Sachs A, Kwak-Kim J. Post-hoc evaluation of peripheral blood natural killer cell cytotoxicity in predicting the risk of recurrent pregnancy losses and repeated implantation failures. J Reprod Immunol 2022; 150:103487. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Revised: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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11
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Sfakianoudis K, Rapani A, Grigoriadis S, Pantou A, Maziotis E, Kokkini G, Tsirligkani C, Bolaris S, Nikolettos K, Chronopoulou M, Pantos K, Simopoulou M. The Role of Uterine Natural Killer Cells on Recurrent Miscarriage and Recurrent Implantation Failure: From Pathophysiology to Treatment. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9101425. [PMID: 34680540 PMCID: PMC8533591 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9101425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine natural killer (uNK) cells constitute a unique uterine leucocyte subpopulation facilitating implantation and maintaining pregnancy. Herein, we critically analyze current evidence regarding the role of uNK cells in the events entailed in recurrent implantation failure (RIF) and recurrent miscarriages (RM). Data suggest an association between RIF and RM with abnormally elevated uNK cells’ numbers, as well as with a defective biological activity leading to cytotoxicity. However, other studies do not concur on these associations. Robust data suggesting a definitive causative relationship between uNK cells and RIF and RM is missing. Considering the possibility of uNK cells involvement on RIF and RM pathophysiology, possible treatments including glucocorticoids, intralipids, and intravenous immunoglobulin administration have been proposed towards addressing uNK related RIF and RM. When considering clinical routine practice, this study indicated that solid evidence is required to report on efficiency and safety of these treatments as there are recommendations that clearly advise against their employment. In conclusion, defining a causative relationship between uNK and RIF–RM pathologies certainly merits investigation. Future studies should serve as a prerequisite prior to proposing the use of uNK as a biomarker or prior to targeting uNK cells for therapeutic purposes addressing RIF and RM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Sfakianoudis
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (A.P.); (M.C.); (K.P.)
| | - Anna Rapani
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
| | - Sokratis Grigoriadis
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
- Assisted Conception Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Agni Pantou
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (A.P.); (M.C.); (K.P.)
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
| | - Evangelos Maziotis
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
- Assisted Conception Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Georgia Kokkini
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
| | - Chrysanthi Tsirligkani
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
| | - Stamatis Bolaris
- Assisted Conception Unit, General-Maternity District Hospital "Elena Venizelou", Elenas Venizelou Avenue, 11521 Athens, Greece;
| | - Konstantinos Nikolettos
- Assisted Reproduction Unit of Thrace “Embryokosmogenesis”, Apalos, 68132 Alexandroupoli, Greece;
| | - Margarita Chronopoulou
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (A.P.); (M.C.); (K.P.)
| | - Konstantinos Pantos
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (A.P.); (M.C.); (K.P.)
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
- Assisted Conception Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-21-0746-2592
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12
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Han EJ, Lee HN, Kim MK, Lyu SW, Lee WS. Efficacy of intralipid administration to improve in vitro fertilization outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2021; 48:203-210. [PMID: 34488285 PMCID: PMC8421665 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2020.04266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate whether intralipid administration improved the outcomes of in vitro fertilization. Online databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Medline, and Embase) were searched until March 2020. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that assessed the role of intralipid administration during in vitro fertilization were considered. We analyzed the rates of clinical pregnancy and live birth as primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes included the rates of chemical pregnancy, ongoing pregnancy, and missed abortion. We reviewed and assessed the eligibility of 180 studies. Five RCTs including 840 patients (3 RCTs: women with repeated implantation failure, 1 RCT: women with recurrent spontaneous abortion, 1 RCT: women who had experienced implantation failure more than once) met the selection criteria. When compared with the control group, intralipid administration significantly improved the clinical pregnancy rate (risk ratio [RR], 1.48; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.23-1.79), ongoing pregnancy rate (RR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.31-2.53), and live birth rate (RR, 1.85; 95% CI, 1.44-2.38). However, intralipid administration had no beneficial effect on the miscarriage rate (RR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.48-1.17). A funnel plot analysis revealed no publication bias. Our findings suggest that intralipid administration may benefit women undergoing in vitro fertilization, especially those who have experienced repeated implantation failure or recurrent spontaneous abortion. However, larger, well-designed studies are needed to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Jung Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fertility Center of CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hye Nam Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fertility Center of CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Min Kyoung Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fertility Center of CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang Woo Lyu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fertility Center of CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Woo Sik Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fertility Center of CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Díaz-Hernández I, Alecsandru D, García-Velasco JA, Domínguez F. Uterine natural killer cells: from foe to friend in reproduction. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 27:720-746. [PMID: 33528013 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recurrent miscarriage and pre-eclampsia are common reproductive disorders, but their causes are often unknown. Recent evidence has provided new insight into immune system influences in reproductive disorders. A subset of lymphocytes of the innate immune system known as uterine natural killer (uNK) cells are now recognized as fundamental to achieving embryo implantation and successful pregnancy, but were initially attributed a bad reputation. Indeed, immune therapies have been developed to treat the 'exaggerated' immune response from uNK cells. These treatments have been based on studies of peripheral blood natural killer (pbNK) cells. However, uNK cells and pbNK cells have different phenotypic and functional characteristics. The functions of uNK cells are closely related to their interactions with the extravillous trophoblast cells (EVTs) and spiral arteries, which underlie an essential role in regulating vascular function, controlling trophoblast invasion and promoting placental development. EVTs express MHC molecules of class I HLA-C/E/G/F, while uNK cells express, among other receptors, killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) that bind to HLA-C or CD94/NKG2A inhibitory receptors, and then bind HLA-E. Associations of certain KIR/HLA-C combinations with recurrent miscarriage, pre-eclampsia, and foetal growth restriction and the interactions between uNK cells, trophoblasts and vascular cells have led to the hypothesis that uNK cells may play a role in embryo implantation. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE Our objective was to review the evolution of our understanding of uNK cells, their functions, and their increasingly relevant role in reproduction. SEARCH METHODS Relevant literature through June 2020 was retrieved using Google Scholar and PubMed. Search terms comprised uNK cells, human pregnancy, reproductive failure, maternal KIR and HLA-C, HLA-E/G/F in EVT cells, angiogenic cytokines, CD56+ NK cells, spiral artery, oestrogen and progesterone receptors, KIR haplotype and paternal HLA-C2. OUTCOMES This review provides key insights into the evolving conceptualization of uNK cells, from their not-so-promising beginnings to now, when they are considered allies in reproduction. We synthesized current knowledge about uNK cells, their involvement in reproduction and their main functions in placental vascular remodeling and trophoblast invasion. One of the issues that this review presents is the enormous complexity involved in studying the immune system in reproduction. The complexity in the immunology of the maternal-foetal interface lies in the great variety of participating molecules, the processes and interactions that occur at different levels (molecular, cellular, tissue, etc.) and the great diversity of genetic combinations that are translated into different types of responses. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Insights into uNK cells could offer an important breakthrough for ART outcomes, since each patient could be assessed based on the combination of HLA and its receptors in their uNK cells, evaluating the critical interactions at the materno-foetal interface. However, owing to the technical challenges in studying uNK cells in vivo, there is still much knowledge to gain, particularly regarding their exact origin and functions. New studies using novel molecular and genetic approaches can facilitate the identification of mechanisms by which uNK cells interact with other cells at the materno-foetal interface, perhaps translating this knowledge into clinical applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Diana Alecsandru
- Department of Immunology and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad-Madrid, Rey Juan Carlos University (IVI), Madrid 28023, Spain
| | - Juan Antonio García-Velasco
- Department of Immunology and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad-Madrid, Rey Juan Carlos University (IVI), Madrid 28023, Spain
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14
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"Add-Ons" for Assisted Reproductive Technology: Do Patients Get Honest Information from Fertility Clinics' Websites? Reprod Sci 2021; 28:3466-3472. [PMID: 33939166 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00601-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
"Add-on" procedures are actively promoted on some fertility clinic websites as proven means to improve IVF success rates, especially for couples with repeated implantation/IVF failures. However, the actual contribution of these interventions to live birth rates remains inconclusive. At present, little is known about the type and quality of the information provided on the IVF clinics' websites regarding the merits of "add-ons." A systematic evaluation of the quality of information on "add-on" procedures in fertility clinic websites was performed using 10-criteria structured questionnaire. We included English language websites that presented in the Google.com search engine after typing the following key-words:"endometrial scratching"(ES), "intralipid infusions"(ILI), "assisted hatching"(AHA), "PGT-A," or "PGS". In total, 254 websites were evaluated. In most cases, an accurate description of the "add-on" procedures was provided (78.8%). However, only a minority (12%) reported their undetermined effectiveness. The use of PGT-A was more often encouraged (52.8%) than ES (23.6%) and AHA (16%). The cost was infrequently presented (6.9%). Scientific references were only rarely provided for ILI, versus 12.7% for ES, 4.0% for AHA, and 5.6% for PGT-A. The information entry date was often missing. None of the websites reported the clinic's pregnancy-rate following the "add-on" procedures. Information on "add-ons" available to patients from IVF clinic websites is often inaccurate. This could perpetuate false myths among infertile patients about these procedures and raises concern regarding possible commercial bias. It is imperative that IVF clinic websites will better communicate the associated risks and uncertainties of "add-ons" to prospective patients.
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Vomstein K, Feil K, Strobel L, Aulitzky A, Hofer-Tollinger S, Kuon RJ, Toth B. Immunological Risk Factors in Recurrent Pregnancy Loss: Guidelines Versus Current State of the Art. J Clin Med 2021; 10:869. [PMID: 33672505 PMCID: PMC7923780 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10040869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Around 1-5% of all couples experience recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). Established risk factors include anatomical, genetic, endocrine, and hemostatic alterations. With around 50% of idiopathic cases, immunological risk factors are getting into the scientific focus, however international guidelines hardly take them into account. Within this review, the current state of immunological risk factors in RPL in international guidelines of the European Society of Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE), American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), German/Austrian/Swiss Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology (DGGG/OEGGG/SGGG) and the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (RCOG) are evaluated. Special attention was drawn to recommendations in the guidelines regarding diagnostic factors such as autoantibodies, natural killer cells, regulatory T cells, dendritic cells, plasma cells, and human leukocyte antigen system (HLA)-sharing as well as treatment options such as corticosteroids, intralipids, intravenous immunoglobulins, aspirin and heparin in RPL. Finally, the current state of the art focusing on both diagnostic and therapeutic options was summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kilian Vomstein
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (K.F.); (L.S.); (A.A.); (S.H.-T.); (B.T.)
| | - Katharina Feil
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (K.F.); (L.S.); (A.A.); (S.H.-T.); (B.T.)
| | - Laura Strobel
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (K.F.); (L.S.); (A.A.); (S.H.-T.); (B.T.)
| | - Anna Aulitzky
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (K.F.); (L.S.); (A.A.); (S.H.-T.); (B.T.)
| | - Susanne Hofer-Tollinger
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (K.F.); (L.S.); (A.A.); (S.H.-T.); (B.T.)
| | - Ruben-Jeremias Kuon
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Ruprecht-Karls University Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 440, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany;
| | - Bettina Toth
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (K.F.); (L.S.); (A.A.); (S.H.-T.); (B.T.)
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Canella PRBC, Barini R, Carvalho PDO, Razolli DS. Lipid emulsion therapy in women with recurrent pregnancy loss and repeated implantation failure: The role of abnormal natural killer cell activity. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:2290-2296. [PMID: 33544456 PMCID: PMC7933936 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Altered immune and/or inflammatory response plays an important role in cases of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) and repeated implantation failure (RIF). Exacerbation of the maternal immune response through increased NK cell activity and inflammatory cytokines can cause embryo rejection leading to abortion or embryo implantation failure. Immunosuppressors or immunomodulators can help or prevent this condition. Currently, lipid emulsion therapy (LET) has emerged as a treatment for RPL and RIF in women with abnormal NK cell activity, by decreasing the exacerbated immune response of the maternal uterus and providing a more receptive environment for the embryo. However, the mechanisms by which the intralipid acts to reduce NK cell activity are still unclear. In this review, we focus on the studies that conducted LET to treat patients with RPL and RIF with abnormal NK cell activity. We find that although some authors recommend LET as an effective intervention, more studies are necessary to confirm its effectiveness in restoring NK cell activity to normal levels and to comprehend the underlying mechanisms of the lipids action in ameliorating the maternal environment and improving the pregnancy rate.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ricardo Barini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Campinas University (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | | | - Daniela Soares Razolli
- Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, São Francisco University, Bragança Paulista, Brazil
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17
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Coulam CB. Intralipid treatment for women with reproductive failures. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 85:e13290. [DOI: 10.1111/aji.13290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn B. Coulam
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science North Chicago IL USA
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Zhou P, Wu H, Lin X, Wang S, Zhang S. The effect of intralipid on pregnancy outcomes in women with previous implantation failure in in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2020; 252:187-192. [PMID: 32622103 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2020.06.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Several recent studies have investigated the relationship between intravenous intralipid and in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) outcomes in women with previous implantation failure. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the effects of intravenous intralipid on pregnancy outcomes in women with previous implantation failure. Ovid MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library, Embase and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched up to August 5th, 2019. Randomized controlled trials comparing intravenous intralipid with placebo or no treatment during IVF/ICSI cycles in women with at least one implantation failure were included. Results were presented as risk ratio (RR) with 95 % confidence intervals (CIs). Four studies with 544 participants were included. Live birth rate was statistically higher among the groups of women who received intravenous intralipid (RR 1.98, 95 % CI 1.39-2.80, quality of evidence: low). Intralipid infusion could significantly improve clinical pregnancy rate (RR 1.74, 95 % CI 1.27-2.40, quality of evidence: low). When excluding two studies only published as conference abstracts, there were no significant differences in terms of live birth (RR 1.78, 95 % CI 0.95-3.34, heterogeneity: I² = 25.5 %, quality of evidence: low, Fig. 4A) and clinical pregnancy (RR 1.66, 95 % CI 0.90-3.08, heterogeneity: I² = 47.7 %, quality of evidence: low, Fig. 4B). Adverse events were reported to be rare, but three congenital anomalies were observed in women receiving intravenous intralipid. Administering intravenous intralipid during IVF/ICSI cycles may improve live birth and clinical pregnancy in women with previous implantation failure, such benefit is not significant excluding studies with high risk of bias in the analysis, more studies are needed to evaluate its efficacy and safety especially congenital malformations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Zhou
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hanglin Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hangzhou Women's Hospital, No. 369 Kun Peng Road, Hangzhou 310008, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaona Lin
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shasha Wang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, Zhejiang, China
| | - Songying Zhang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, Zhejiang, China.
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Plaçais L, Kolanska K, Kraiem YB, Cohen J, Suner L, Bornes M, Sedille L, Rosefort A, D'Argent EM, Selleret L, Abisror N, Johanet C, Buffet NC, Darai E, Antoine JM, Fain O, Kayem G, Mekinian A. Intralipid therapy for unexplained recurrent miscarriage and implantation failure: Case-series and literature review. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2020; 252:100-104. [PMID: 32592916 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2020.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In retrospective cohort study of women with unexplained recurrent implantation failure (RIF) and miscarriage (RM), we analyzed the efficacy and safety of intralipid therapy to obtain a live birth. PATIENTS AND METHODS Women with unexplained RM and/or RIF were included from 2015 to 2018 from three French university hospitals. RESULTS Among 187 women treated for unexplained recurrent miscarriages and implantation failures, 26 women with median age of 36 years (29-43) received intralipid therapy. Among these 26 women, 10 women with a median age of 33 years (31-40) had a history of spontaneous recurrent miscarriages, with a median of 5 (4-8) previous miscarriages. Live births occurred in 7 (70 %) pregnancies under intralipids and were significantly more frequent than in women with recurrent miscarriages who did not receive intralipid therapy (n = 20, p = 0.02). Age, number of previous miscarriages, and additional therapies did not significantly differ between the two groups. Among the 26 included women, 16 had a history of recurrent implantation failures, with median age of 37 years (29-43) and median 9.5 (3-19) embryo transfers. Clinical pregnancy occurred in 9 (56 %) women receiving intralipids after embryo transfers under intralipids among which 5 (55 %) resulted in a live birth. Comparing successful pregnancies under intralipids with those with fetal loss, no significant differences have been noted. CONCLUSION Intralipids could be an effective and safe therapy in women with unexplained recurrent miscarriages and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Léo Plaçais
- AP-HP, Hôpital Saint Antoine, service de médecine interne et Inflammation-Immunopathology-Biotherapy Department (DHU i2B), Faculté de Médecine Sorbonne Université, F-75012, Paris, France; Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, UMR 7211, F-75005, Paris, France
| | - Kamilla Kolanska
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, UMR 7211, F-75005, Paris, France; AP-HP, Hôpital Tenon, service de gynécologie, obstétrique et PMA, Faculté de Médecine Sorbonne Université, F-75020, Paris, France
| | - Yasmine Ben Kraiem
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, UMR 7211, F-75005, Paris, France; AP-HP, Hôpital Tenon, service de gynécologie, obstétrique et PMA, Faculté de Médecine Sorbonne Université, F-75020, Paris, France
| | - Jonathan Cohen
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, UMR 7211, F-75005, Paris, France; AP-HP, Hôpital Tenon, service de gynécologie, obstétrique et PMA, Faculté de Médecine Sorbonne Université, F-75020, Paris, France
| | - Ludovic Suner
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, UMR 7211, F-75005, Paris, France; AP-HP, Hôpital Saint Antoine, service d'hématologie biologique, Faculté de Médecine Sorbonne Université, F-75012, Paris, France
| | - Marie Bornes
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, UMR 7211, F-75005, Paris, France; AP-HP, Hôpital Tenon, service de gynécologie, obstétrique et PMA, Faculté de Médecine Sorbonne Université, F-75020, Paris, France
| | - Lucie Sedille
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, UMR 7211, F-75005, Paris, France; AP-HP, Hôpital Trousseau, service de gynécologie, obstétrique, Faculté de Médecine Sorbonne Université, F-75012, Paris, France
| | - Audrey Rosefort
- AP-HP, Hôpital Saint Antoine, service de médecine interne et Inflammation-Immunopathology-Biotherapy Department (DHU i2B), Faculté de Médecine Sorbonne Université, F-75012, Paris, France
| | - Emmanuel Mathieu D'Argent
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, UMR 7211, F-75005, Paris, France; AP-HP, Hôpital Tenon, service de gynécologie, obstétrique et PMA, Faculté de Médecine Sorbonne Université, F-75020, Paris, France
| | - Lise Selleret
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, UMR 7211, F-75005, Paris, France; AP-HP, Hôpital Tenon, service de gynécologie, obstétrique et PMA, Faculté de Médecine Sorbonne Université, F-75020, Paris, France
| | - Noémie Abisror
- AP-HP, Hôpital Saint Antoine, service de médecine interne et Inflammation-Immunopathology-Biotherapy Department (DHU i2B), Faculté de Médecine Sorbonne Université, F-75012, Paris, France; Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, UMR 7211, F-75005, Paris, France
| | - Catherine Johanet
- AP-HP, Hôpital Trousseau, service de gynécologie, obstétrique, Faculté de Médecine Sorbonne Université, F-75012, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Chabbert Buffet
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, UMR 7211, F-75005, Paris, France; AP-HP, Hôpital Tenon, service de gynécologie, obstétrique et PMA, Faculté de Médecine Sorbonne Université, F-75020, Paris, France
| | - Emile Darai
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, UMR 7211, F-75005, Paris, France; AP-HP, Hôpital Tenon, service de gynécologie, obstétrique et PMA, Faculté de Médecine Sorbonne Université, F-75020, Paris, France
| | - Jean Marie Antoine
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, UMR 7211, F-75005, Paris, France; AP-HP, Hôpital Tenon, service de gynécologie, obstétrique et PMA, Faculté de Médecine Sorbonne Université, F-75020, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Fain
- AP-HP, Hôpital Saint Antoine, service de médecine interne et Inflammation-Immunopathology-Biotherapy Department (DHU i2B), Faculté de Médecine Sorbonne Université, F-75012, Paris, France; Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, UMR 7211, F-75005, Paris, France
| | - Gilles Kayem
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, UMR 7211, F-75005, Paris, France; AP-HP, Hôpital Trousseau, service de gynécologie, obstétrique, Faculté de Médecine Sorbonne Université, F-75012, Paris, France
| | - Arsène Mekinian
- AP-HP, Hôpital Saint Antoine, service de médecine interne et Inflammation-Immunopathology-Biotherapy Department (DHU i2B), Faculté de Médecine Sorbonne Université, F-75012, Paris, France; Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, UMR 7211, F-75005, Paris, France.
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Immunotherapy for recurrent pregnancy loss. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2019; 60:77-86. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2019.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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