Child Neurodevelopment After Multidomain Interventions From Preconception Through Early Childhood: The WINGS Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Multidomain interventions in pregnancy and early childhood have improved child neurodevelopment, but little is known about the effects of additional preconception interventions.

Objective

To evaluate the effect of a multifaceted approach including health; nutrition; water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH); and psychosocial support interventions delivered during the preconception period and/or during pregnancy and early childhood on child neurodevelopment.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this randomized trial involving low- and middle-income neighborhoods in Delhi, India, 13 500 participants were assigned to preconception interventions or routine care for the primary outcome of preterm births and childhood growth. Participants who became pregnant were randomized to pregnancy and early childhood interventions or routine care. Neurodevelopmental assessments, the trial's secondary outcome reported herein, were conducted in a subsample of children at age 24 months, including 509 with preconception, pregnancy, and early childhood interventions; 473 with preconception interventions alone; 380 with pregnancy and early childhood interventions alone; and 350 with routine care. This study was conducted from November 1, 2000, through February 25, 2022.

Interventions

Health, nutrition, psychosocial care and support, and WASH interventions delivered during preconception, pregnancy, and early childhood periods.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Cognitive, motor, language, and socioemotional performance at age 24 months, assessed using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development 3 tool.

Results

The mean age of participants at enrollment was 23.8 years (SD, 3.0 years). Compared with the controls at age 24 months, children in the preconception intervention groups had higher cognitive scores (mean difference [MD], 1.16; 98.3% CI, 0.18-2.13) but had similar language, motor, and socioemotional scores as controls. Those receiving pregnancy and early childhood interventions had higher cognitive (MD, 1.48; 98.3% CI, 0.49-2.46), language (MD, 2.29; 98.3% CI, 1.07-3.50), motor (MD, 1.53; 98.3% CI, 0.65-2.42), and socioemotional scores (MD, 4.15; 98.3% CI, 2.18-6.13) than did controls. The pregnancy and early childhood group also had lower incidence rate ratios (RRs) of moderate to severe delay in cognitive (incidence RR, 0.62; 98.3% CI, 0.40-0.96), language (incidence RR, 0.73; 98.3% CI, 0.57-0.93), and socioemotional (incidence RR, 0.49; 98.3% CI, 0.24-0.97) development than did those in the control group. Children in the preconception, pregnancy, and early childhood intervention group had higher cognitive (MD, 2.60; 98.3% CI, 1.08-4.12), language (MD, 3.46; 98.3% CI, 1.65-5.27), motor (MD, 2.31; 98.3% CI, 0.93-3.69), and socioemotional (MD, 5.55; 98.3% CI, 2.66-8.43) scores than did those in the control group.

Conclusions and Relevance

Multidomain interventions during preconception, pregnancy and early childhood led to modest improvements in child neurodevelopment at 24 months. Such interventions for enhancing children's development warrant further evaluation.

Trial Registration

Clinical Trials Registry-India CTRI/2017/06/008908.

Burden, risk factors and outcomes associated with adequately treated hypothyroidism in a population-based cohort of pregnant women from North India

Hypothyroidism is the commonest endocrine disorder of pregnancy, with known adverse feto-maternal outcomes. There is limited data on population-based prevalence, risk factors and outcomes associated with treatment of hypothyroidism in early pregnancy. We conducted analysis on data from an urban and peri-urban low to mid socioeconomic population-based cohort of pregnant women in North Delhi, India to ascertain the burden, risk factors and impact of treatment, on adverse pregnancy outcomes- low birth weight, prematurity, small for gestational age and stillbirth. This is an observational study embedded within the intervention group of the Women and Infants Integrated Interventions for Growth Study, an individually randomized factorial design trial. Thyroid stimulating hormone was tested in 2317 women in early (9-13 weeks) pregnancy, and thyroxin replacement started hypothyroid (TSH ≥2.5mIU/mL). Univariable and multivariable generalized linear model with binomial family and log link were performed to ascertain risk factors associated with hypothyroidism and association between hypothyroidism and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Of 2317 women, 29.2% (95% CI: 27.4 to 31.1) had hypothyroidism and were started on thyroxin replacement with close monitoring. Overweight or obesity was associated with increased risk (adjusted RR 1.29, 95% CI 1.10 to 1.51), while higher hemoglobin concentration was associated with decreased risk (adjusted RR 0.93, 95% CI 0.88 to 0.98 for each g/dL) for hypothyroidism. Hypothyroid women received appropriate treatment with no increase in adverse pregnancy outcomes. Almost a third of women from low to mid socio-economic population had hypothyroidism in early pregnancy, more so if anemic and overweight or obese. With early screening and adequate replacement, adverse pregnancy outcomes may be avoided. These findings highlight the need in early pregnancy for universal TSH screening and adequate treatment of hypothyroidism; as well as for attempts to reduce pre and peri-conception overweight, obesity and anemia. Clinical trial registration: Clinical trial registration of Women and Infants Integrated Interventions for Growth Study Clinical Trial Registry-India, #CTRI/2017/06/008908; Registered on: 23/06/2017, (http://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials/pmaindet2.php?trialid=19339&EncHid=&userName=society%20for%20applied%20studies).

Procalcitonin levels in maternal serum and cord blood as marker for diagnosis of early onset neonatal sepsis

Objectives

To assess the diagnostic accuracy of Procalcitonin in maternal serum and umbilical cord blood samples to predict Early onset neonatal sepsis (EONS).

Study Design

It was a Prospective analytical cohort study. Pregnant women ≥ 34 weeks gestation in active labour, with risk factors for EONS were included in the study. Maternal blood samples at recruitment and umbilical cord blood samples after delivery were taken for Total leucocyte count (TLC), high sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) and Procalcitonin. Newborns were classified into non-infected, suspected and proven infection. Sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy of maternal and cord blood procalcitonin, TLC and hs-CRP were calculated.

Results

A total of 200 women were recruited. Maternal procalcitonin had a superior diagnostic accuracy of 99% compared to maternal TLC and maternal hs-CRP. Also, cord blood procalcitonin had a diagnostic accuracy of 95%.

Conclusion

Procalcitonin in both maternal as well as cord blood is a promising biomarker to detect EONS with high diagnostic accuracy.

Evaluation of acceptability, safety, and continuation rates of centchroman as postabortion nonsteroidal contraceptive pill

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate acceptability, safety, and continuation rates of centchroman following abortion.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective, observational study. Following spontaneous/induced abortion, women were offered centchroman, 30-mg tablet twice weekly for first 3 months, then once weekly with 1 year of follow-up.

RESULTS

Of 120 women who opted for centchroman, continuation rate was 91% at 12 months. There was one case of user failure and one method failure and 26% had infrequent cycles.

CONCLUSIONS

Centchroman is safe, effective, has good acceptance, and continuation rate post abortion with infrequent menstrual cycles as the main limiting factor for its continuation.

IMPLICATIONS

Centchroman, available in Government scheme for contraception, has good acceptance and continuation rate post abortion. Its inclusion in contraceptive choices offered for postabortion contraception can go a long way in spacing of pregnancies, decreasing repeated unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, maternal morbidity, and mortality.

Impact of a package of health, nutrition, psychosocial support, and WaSH interventions delivered during preconception, pregnancy, and early childhood periods on birth outcomes and on linear growth at 24 months of age: factorial, individually randomised controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of integrated and concurrent delivery of health, nutrition, water, sanitation and hygiene (WaSH), and psychosocial care interventions during the preconception period alone, during pregnancy and early childhood, and throughout preconception, pregnancy, and early childhood on birth outcomes and linear growth at 24 months of age compared with routine care.

DESIGN

Individually randomised factorial trial.

SETTING

Low and middle income neighbourhoods of Delhi, India.

PARTICIPANTS

13 500 women were randomised to receive preconception interventions (n=6722) or routine care (n=6778). 2652 and 2269 pregnant women were randomised again to receive pregnancy and early childhood interventions or routine care. The analysis of birth outcomes included 1290 live births for the preconception, pregnancy, and early childhood interventions (group A), 1276 for the preconception intervention (group B), 1093 for the pregnancy and early childhood interventions (group C), and 1093 for the control (group D). Children aged 24 months by 30 June 2021 were included in the 24 month outcome analysis (453 in group A, 439 in B, 293 in C, and 271 in D).

INTERVENTIONS

Health, nutrition, psychosocial care and support, and WaSH interventions were delivered during preconception, pregnancy, and early childhood periods.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcomes were low birth weight, small for gestational age, preterm, and mean birth weight. At 24 months, the outcomes were mean length-for-age z scores and proportion stunted. Three prespecified comparisons were made: preconception intervention groups (A+B) versus no preconception intervention groups (C+D); pregnancy and early childhood intervention groups (A+C) versus routine care during pregnancy and early childhood (B+D) and preconception, pregnancy, and early childhood interventions groups (A) versus control group (D).

RESULTS

The proportion with low birth weight was lower in the preconception intervention groups (506/2235) than in the no preconception intervention groups (502/1889; incidence rate ratio 0.85, 98.3% confidence interval 0.75 to 0.97; absolute risk reduction -3.80%, 98.3% confidence interval -6.99% to -0.60%). The proportion with low birth weight was lower in the pregnancy intervention groups (502/2096) than in the no pregnancy intervention groups (506/2028) but the upper limit of the confidence interval crossed null effect (0.87, 0.76 to 1.01; -1.71%, -4.96% to 1.54%). There was a larger effect on proportion with low birth weight in the group that received interventions in the preconception and pregnancy periods (267/1141) compared with the control group (267/934; 0.76, 0.62 to 0.91; -5.59%, -10.32% to -0.85%). The proportion stunted at 24 months of age was substantially lower in the pregnancy and early childhood intervention groups (79/746) compared with the groups that did not receive these interventions (136/710; 0.51, 0.38 to 0.70; -8.32%, -12.31% to -4.32%), and in the group that received preconception, pregnancy, and early childhood interventions (47/453) compared with the control group (51/271; 0.49, 0.32 to 0.75; -7.98%, -14.24% to -1.71%). No effect on stunting at 24 months was observed in the preconception intervention groups (132/892) compared with the no preconception intervention groups (83/564).

CONCLUSIONS

An intervention package delivered during preconception, pregnancy, and early childhood substantially reduced low birth weight and stunting at 24 months. Pregnancy and early childhood interventions alone had lower but important effects on birth outcomes and 24 month outcomes. Preconception interventions alone had an important effect on birth outcomes but not on 24 month outcomes.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinical Trial Registry-India CTRI/2017/06/008908.

Burden, risk factors and outcomes associated with gestational diabetes in a population-based cohort of pregnant women from North India

Background

The burden of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) appears to be increasing in India and may be related to the double burden of malnutrition. The population-based incidence and risk factors of GDM, particularly in lower socio-economic populations, are not known. We conducted analyses on data from a population-based cohort of pregnant women in South Delhi, India, to determine the incidence of GDM, its risk factors and association with adverse pregnancy outcomes (stillbirth, preterm birth, large for gestational age babies) and need for caesarean section.

Methods

We analyzed data from the intervention group of the Women and Infants Integrated Interventions for Growth Study (WINGS), an individually randomized factorial design trial. An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed at the time of confirmation of pregnancy, and for those who had a normal test (≤140 mg), it was repeated at 24–28 and at 34–36 weeks. Logistic regression was performed to ascertain risk factors associated with GDM. Risk ratios (RR) were calculated to find association between GDM and adverse pregnancy outcomes and need for caesarean section.

Results

19.2% (95% CI: 17.6 to 20.9) pregnant women who had at least one OGTT were diagnosed to have GDM. Women who had prediabetes at the time of confirmation of pregnancy had a significantly higher risk of developing GDM (RR 2.08, 95%CI 1.45 to 2.97). Other risk factors independently associated with GDM were woman’s age (adjusted OR (AOR) 1.10, 95% CI 1.06 to 1.15) and BMI (AOR 1.04, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.07). Higher maternal height was found to be protective factor for GDM (AOR 0.98, 95% CI 0.96 to 1.00). Women with GDM, received appropriate treatment did not have an increase in adverse outcomes and no increased need for caesarean section

Conclusions

A substantial proportion of pregnant women from a low to mid socio-economic population in Delhi had GDM, with older age, higher BMI and pre-diabetes as important risk factors. These findings highlight the need for interventions for prevention and provision of appropriate management of GDM in antenatal programmes.

Clinical trial registration

Clinical Trial Registry – India, #CTRI/2017/06/008908 (http://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials/pmaindet2.php?trialid=19339&EncHid=&userName=society%20for%20applied%20studies).

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12884-022-04389-5.

Gestational weight gain and pregnancy outcomes: Findings from North Indian pregnancy cohort

Despite the high prevalence of inadequate gestational weight gain (GWG) and adverse pregnancy outcomes, very few studies have addressed the association between GWG and pregnancy outcomes in South Asia. Our objectives were to estimate the prevalence of GWG during the second and third trimesters within, below and above the Institute of Medicine (IOM) guidelines, and to estimate the effect of the rate and adequacy of GWG on gestational age at the time of delivery, weight, length, length‐for‐age z‐score (LAZ), weight‐for‐length z‐score (WLZ) and adverse pregnancy outcomes, namely prematurity, small‐for‐gestational age (SGA), low birth weight (LBW), stunting and wasting at birth. We analysed data from the intervention group of the Women and Infants Integrated Interventions for Growth Study (WINGS), which is an ongoing individually randomized factorial design study. Of the 1332 women analysed, 40.2% [95% confidence interval (CI) 37.5 to 42.8] had GWG below the IOM guidelines. For every 100‐g/week increase in GWG, birth weight increased by 61 g, birth length by 0.16 cm, LAZ score by 0.08 SD, WLZ score by 0.14 SD, and gestational age at birth by 0.48 days. Women with GWG below the IOM guidelines had a higher relative risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes (44% for LBW, 27% for SGA, 32% for stunting and 42% for wasting at birth) than women who had GWG within the IOM guidelines, except for prematurity. The association between GWG and LAZ scores at birth was modified by early pregnancy body mass index (BMI). GWG is a strong predictor of newborn anthropometric outcomes and duration of gestation but not prematurity.

A Cross-Sectional Study of Barriers in Prevention of Anemia in Pregnancy

Introduction

Anemia in pregnancy is a significant health challenge in India and other developing countries. Various health programs aiming anemia prevention are existing in India for many decades. Despite that, anemia affects more than half of pregnant women. Our objective for performing this study was to evaluate the barriers in the prevention of anemia and to evaluate the perceptions and practices of anemic women towards their condition.

Methods

A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study, including 210 anemic women, was conducted in a tertiary care center in Delhi, India. In-depth interviews were conducted with 50 participants.

Results

Our important observations were that anemia was more prevalent in multigravida, and 43.80% of anemic patients were not taking iron supplements at the time of diagnosis. Chronic diseases were associated with 28.2% (n=59) of anemic women. Only 19% (n=40) of women sought antenatal care in the first and second trimester; the rest all booked themselves in the third trimester only. Twenty-two percent (n=48) of women reached our hospital after 36 weeks. Ignorance to anemia symptoms and the importance of consistent intake of the oral iron supplements was seen in 35.2% (n=74). One hundred and sixty-five (74.8%) women accepted that healthcare provider had informed them about iron-rich and high protein diet, but only 47.1% (n=98) actually made dietary modifications. Only 9.5% (n=20) of women were consistent in iron intake. Side effects of iron were reported by 30% (n=64) of women, and 15% (n=32) were intolerant to oral iron. Non-availability, change of residence, and forgetfulness were the main reasons behind non-compliance to oral iron.

Conclusion

We emphasize motivation for early registration, regular antenatal care, adequate iron supplement supply, and persistent counseling to ensure compliance to iron supplements by the antenatal care provider. Behavior-changing communication is needed at a societal level for antenatal mothers and their families aiming to prevent anemia in pregnancy instead of focussing on treatment.

Management of cervical cancer during the corona virus disease-19 (COVID-19) era

COVID-19 pandemic has had a catastrophic impact on the society, economy and heath-care system all over the globe with virus showing no signs of losing potency. As the situation appears to worsen, extra burden on other specialities like oncology seems to increase. Specific recommendations are necessary for management of cervical cancer in the current context. All concerned specialities must work together in the best interest of the patient. Attempts should be made at managing cervical cancer while limiting the viral spread among the patients and health-care workers without the loss of opportunity. Surgical intervention for early cervical cancer should be postponed or alternative modalities be considered. In a locally advanced disease, concurrent chemoradiation is the treatment of choice. In addition, the following under mentioned suggestions aim to discuss ways of minimizing infection spread, workload rationalization and providing guidance for management of cervical cancer in the presence of COVID-19 infection.

Burden of preconception morbidity in women of reproductive age from an urban setting in North India

Background

There is a growing interest in the life course approach for the prevention, early detection and subsequent management of morbidity in women of reproductive age to ensure optimal health and nutrition when they enter pregnancy. Reliable estimates of such morbidities are lacking. We report the prevalence of health or nutrition-related morbidities, specifically, anemia, undernutrition, overweight and obesity, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or reproductive tract infections (RTIs), diabetes or prediabetes, hypothyroidism, hypertension, and depressive symptoms, during the preconception period among women aged 18 to 30 years.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 2000 nonpregnant married women aged 18 to 30 years with no or one child who wished to have more children in two low- to middle-income urban neighborhoods in Delhi, India, in the context of a randomized controlled trial. STIs and RTIs were measured by symptoms and signs, blood pressure by a digital device, height by stadiometer and weight by a digital weighing scale. A blood specimen was taken to screen for anemia, diabetes, thyroid disorders and syphilis. Maternal depressive symptoms were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify sociodemographic factors associated with individual morbidity.

Results

Overall, 58.7% of women were anemic; 16.5%, undernourished; 26%, overweight or obese; 13.2%, hypothyroid; and 10.5% with both symptoms and signs of STIs/RTIs. There was an increased risk of RTI/STI symptoms and signs in undernourished women and an increased risk of diabetes or prediabetes in overweight or obese women. An increased risk of undernutrition was also observed in women from lower categories of wealth quintiles. A decreased risk of moderate to severe anemia was seen in overweight women and those who completed at least secondary education.

Conclusions

Our findings show a high burden of undernutrition, anemia, RTIs, hypothyroidism and prediabetes among women in the study. This information will aid policymakers in planning special programs for women of reproductive age.

Impact of an integrated nutrition, health, water sanitation and hygiene, psychosocial care and support intervention package delivered during the pre- and peri-conception period and/or during pregnancy and early childhood on linear growth of infants in the first two years of life, birth outcomes and nutritional status of mothers: study protocol of a factorial, individually randomized controlled trial in India

Background

The period from conception to two years of life denotes a critical window of opportunity for promoting optimal growth and development of children. Poor nutrition and health in women of reproductive age and during pregnancy can negatively impact birth outcomes and subsequent infant survival, health and growth. Studies to improve birth outcomes and to achieve optimal growth and development in young children have usually tested the effect of standalone interventions in pregnancy and/or the postnatal period. It is not clearly known whether evidence-based interventions in the different domains such as health, nutrition, water sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and psychosocial care, when delivered together have a synergistic effect. Further, the effect of delivery of an intervention package in the pre and peri-conception period is not fully understood. This study was conceived with an aim to understand the impact of an integrated intervention package, delivered across the pre and peri-conception period, through pregnancy and till 24 months of child age on birth outcomes, growth and development in children.

Methods

An individually randomized controlled trial with factorial design is being conducted in urban and peri-urban low- to mid-socioeconomic neighbourhoods in South Delhi, India. 13,500 married women aged 18 to 30 years will be enrolled and randomized to receive either the pre and peri-conception intervention package or routine care (first randomization). Interventions will be delivered until women are confirmed to be pregnant or complete 18 months of follow up. Once pregnancy is confirmed, women are randomized again (second randomization) to receive either the intervention package for pregnancy and postnatal period or to routine care. Newborns will be followed up till 24 months of age. The interventions are delivered through different study teams. Outcome data are collected by an independent outcome ascertainment team.

Discussion

This study will demonstrate the improvement that can be achieved when key factors known to limit child growth and development are addressed together, throughout the continuum from pre and peri-conception until early childhood. The findings will increase our scientific understanding and provide guidance to nutrition programs in low- and middle-income settings.

Trial registration

Clinical Trial Registry – India #CTRI/2017/06/008908; Registered 23 June 2017, http://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials/pmaindet2.php?trialid=19339&EncHid=&userName=society%20for%20applied%20studies

Diagnostic Performance of Serum Human Epididymis Protein 4 (HE4) for Prediction of Malignancy in Ovarian Masses

Background:

Early diagnosis of ovarian cancer is essential for long term disease control and mortality reduction. This has been achieved using tumor markers like cancer antigen 125 (CA-125) which is elevated in malignant as well as non-malignant conditions. This dilemma led to efforts towards development of newer markers like serum human epididymis secretory protein E4 (HE4). Present study aimed to evaluate role of HE4 in diagnosing ovarian cancers and comparing it with CA-125.

Methods:

Serum samples from 67 patients with ovarian cancer, 42 with benign ovarian masses and 26 healthy controls were collected preoperatively and tested for serum HE4 levels and CA-125 levels. Diagnostic performance of both tumor markers (HE4/CA-125) to diagnose malignancy in ovarian masses was calculated and compared to each other.

Results:

Mean CA-125 and HE4 levels were significantly higher in patients with ovarian cancer than in those with benign disease (p<0.001) or healthy controls (p< 0.001). Serum HE4 levels significantly increased in epithelial ovarian cancers when compared to non-epithelial ovarian cancers (p<0.01). Using benign control as comparison, receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was generated to predict a cut-off value for diagnosing malignancy for serum HE4 and CA-125. Compared to CA-125, HE4 had a similar sensitivity (83.6% vs. 85.10%) and higher specificity (100% vs. 90.48%); combination of serum HE4 and CA-125 improved the sensitivity to detect ovarian cancer to 92.54%. Sensitivity of HE4 to detect early stage ovarian cancer was superior to CA-125 (92.61% vs. 63.41%).

Conclusion:

Serum HE4, a novel tumor marker, discriminated epithelial ovarian cancer from benign ovarian masses. HE4 levels were related to the stage and histological types with the lowest levels in mucinous epithelial ovarian cancer and non-epithelial malignancy. Measuring serum HE4 levels alongwith CA-125 may provide higher accuracy for detecting epithelial ovarian cancer particularly in the early stages.

Primary Cutaneous Amyloidosis: A Clinical, Histopathological and Immunofluorescence Study

INTRODUCTION

Primary Localized Cutaneous Amyloidosis (PLCA) is a relatively rare chronic condition characterized by amyloid deposition in dermis without associated deposits in internal organs. Histopathology of cutaneous amyloidosis using Haematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) stain shows eosinophilic hyaline material in papillary dermis, which can be further confirmed by Congo Red (CR) staining or Direct Immunofluorescence (DIF) Test or immunohistochemistry.

AIM

To assess the concordance between the clinical, histo pathological and DIF findings in various subtypes of (PLCA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data was collected from patients attending the Outpatient Department (OPD) at a tertiary care centre in Karnataka, India, over a period of one and half years. A total of 50 patients with clinical features suggestive of cutaneous amyloidosis were subjected to histopathological examination with H&E, CR stain and immunofluorescence.

RESULTS

Among 50 clinically suspected patients, the most common subtype was macular amyloidosis (70%) and lichen amyloidosis seen only in 16%. A biphasic pattern comprising of both macular and lichen amyloidosis was seen in 14% cases. Extensor aspect of the arm was the most frequently (76%) involved area. All the cases had multiple site involvement. Immunofluorescence positivity was 88% as compared to 86% on histopathology using CR stain. Amyloid deposits were detected in 80% of clinically diagnosed macular amyloidosis cases by histopathology using CR stain and in 85.7% by DIF, whereas in 5.7% cases, it was not detectable by both CR stain and DIF. Both immunofluorescence and CR staining were able to detect amyloid in all the cases of lichen amyloidosis. In biphasic amyloidosis, amyloid was detected in 100% cases on histopathology versus 85.7% cases on immunofluorescence.

CONCLUSION

CR stain and DIF are complimentary to each other for detection of macular amyloidosis. In case of lichen and biphasic amyloidosis, both CR and DIF are comparable modalities.

Diagnostic Performance of Serum Human Epididymis Protein 4 in Endometrial Carcinoma: A Pilot Study

INTRODUCTION

Endometrial Cancer (EC) is a common female malignant disorder. To date, there are no specific tumour markers for EC that may be routinely used in clinical practice for diagnosis.

AIM

To evaluate the diagnostic performance of the serum Human Epididymis protein 4 (HE4) as biomarker for EC and to determine its association with clinicopathological variables.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study population included 60 postmenopausal women with a diagnosis of EC and 60 healthy postmenopausal female subjects (control group). Concentrations of serum HE4 and CA-125 in EC patients and control group were determined using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assays (ELISA). The value of serum HE4 and CA-125 for the diagnosis and prediction of stage, histology, myometrial invasion and lymph nodal metastasis was analysed.

RESULTS

The mean serum HE4 and CA-125 levels were significantly higher in patients with EC than those with control group (p<0.05). Comparison for HE4 and CA-125 between different stages showed a statistically significant difference. Stage I EC patients with <50% myometrial invasion had a significantly lower mean serum HE4 value than patients with >50% myometrial invasion (p=0.007). Corresponding values of CA-125 showed a similar trend (p=0.023). There were significantly higher levels of HE4 and CA-125 in cases with lymph node involvement. The levels of serum HE4 and CA-125 were higher in the non-endometroid histology, but the difference was not statistically significant. The Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) curve analysis for EC and control group showed that HE4 had greater Area Under Curve (AUC) when compared with CA-125. Using ROC curve, a serum HE4 concentration of 69.8 pmol/l (AUC 0.974) and/or serum CA-125 level of 34.50 U/mL (AUC 0.714) was used to predict malignancy. Sensitivity of combined biomarkers showed no additional improvement in comparison to HE4 or CA-125 alone.

CONCLUSION

Our results show that HE4 is a sensitive diagnostic serum marker for detection of EC patients, exhibiting a better diagnostic performance compared to CA-125. Good performance of HE4 in diagnosis of early stages EC indicates its usefulness as a prognostic marker and also to monitor therapy and detect early recurrence.

Non-visualisation of strings after postplacental insertion of Copper-T 380A intrauterine device

Aim

To assess the incidence of visible strings of intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUDs) after postplacental insertion following vaginal or caesarean delivery and to establish a management protocol of follow-up visits when strings are not visualised.

Methods

This was a prospective study of a cohort of 348 women who underwent postplacental insertion of Copper-T 380A IUDs following vaginal or caesarean delivery, conducted at a hospital in New Delhi, India. Women were followed up at 6 weeks, 3, 6 and 12 months after IUD insertion and were questioned about IUD expulsion or removal at each visit. The cervix was inspected to visualise the IUD strings. All women whose IUD strings could not be visualised at the cervical os at any given follow-up were identified. We analysed the cumulative incidence of visible strings and of procedures performed to locate the IUD when strings were not visible.

Results

At 1 year follow-up, the IUD wasin situin 313/348 (89.9%) women. There were eight (2.3%) expulsions and 15 (4.3%) IUD removals. Among women with IUDsin situ, the strings were not visible in 73 (21%) cases. Pelvic ultrasound confirmed intrauterine position of the IUDs in these cases. At 1 year, string visibility was significantly lower after intra-caesarean insertions as compared to vaginal insertions (72.4% vs 98.1%;p<0.05).

Conclusions

Visualisation of strings after postplacental vaginal insertion is more common than after intra-caesarean insertion. Pelvic ultrasonography can be used to verify the presence of the device in cases of missing strings.

A Dedicated Postpartum Intrauterine Device Inserter: Pilot Experience and Proof of Concept

Use of the inserter was found to be safe, with high fundal placement in 82% of cases. Complete expulsion occurred in 7.5% of cases and partial expulsion was detected in 10%, comparable with rates in other studies using standard IUD insertion techniques. Further study and use of the dedicated inserter may reveal increased convenience and reduced risk of infection among users and could improve acceptability of postpartum IUD provision among providers.

Objective:

To assess the feasibility, acceptability, and safety of a dedicated postpartum intrauterine device (PPIUD) inserter specifically designed for the post-delivery setting. Primary objectives of fundal placement and expulsion rates were assessed. Secondary objectives were participant satisfaction and IUD retention.

Methods:

In this pilot proof of concept, we enrolled 80 women who presented for PPIUD insertion at 2 government hospitals in Delhi and Lucknow, India, between March and July 2015. PPIUD insertion was completed with the dedicated inserter in all cases, by trained providers with no prior experience in PPIUD insertion, followed immediately by ultrasound to assess location and fundal placement of the IUD. Follow-up took place at 6 to 8 weeks post-insertion, and ultrasound was used to assess IUD location. Providers and participants also completed satisfaction surveys.

Results:

High fundal placement (≤10 mm from uterine fundus) was achieved with the dedicated PPIUD inserter in 82% of cases (n = 65). There were no perforations or infections among the participants and no other complications associated with use of the dedicated inserter. The mean distance between the IUD and the endometrial verge immediately post-insertion was 5.8 mm (range, 0–31; N = 80); this distance at follow-up was also 5.8 mm (range, 0–25; n = 50). Complete expulsion was observed in 6 cases (7.5%), and asymptomatic partial expulsion in 8 cases (10%). Providers reported the majority (93%, n = 74) of insertions to be easy. The majority (74%, n = 59) of participants reported the same level of pain before and after insertion.

Conclusions:

This dedicated PPIUD inserter performed as intended and was found to be safe, with high acceptability among the participants and providers. Further study and use of the dedicated inserter may reveal reduced risk of infection among PPIUD users as well as increased convenience compared with standard PPIUD insertion techniques, and could improve acceptability of postpartum IUD provision among providers. The success of this study has led to the initiation of a formal randomized controlled trial in India to further investigate the acceptability of the dedicated inserter.

Feto-maternal Outcome Using New Screening Criteria of Serum TSH for Diagnosing Hypothyroidism in Pregnancy

INTRODUCTION

Evidence suggests that by using the classical non pregnant reference range for serum TSH (STSH), one might miss hypothyroidism in pregnancy. Therefore, upper normal cut off value of S TSH should be taken as <2.5 mIU/L in the first trimester and <3mIU/L in the second and third trimester. However, two Indian studies have reported higher trimester specific reference ranges in the Indian pregnant women.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the maternal and fetal outcomes using new screening criteria with upper S TSH cut off as >3mIU/L, for diagnosing hypothyroidism in pregnancy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study was a cross sectional study, carried out in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of a tertiary care hospital, in collaboration with the Department of Endocrinology. Pregnant women with ≤ 20 weeks gestation, attending antenatal OPD from December 2010 to January 2012 were included in the study. On the basis of S TSH level, women were divided into Study Group with S TSH level between 3.1 to 6.2 mIU/L, (new range to be studied) and an equal number of age and parity matched Control Group with S TSH levels between 0.4 to 3 mIU/L. The maternal and fetal outcomes were compared between study and control groups.

RESULTS

During the study period, a total of 66 women had S TSH between 3.1-6.2 mIU/L. Maternal and fetal outcomes in both the groups were comparable. There was no difference in the mode of delivery between study and control groups.

CONCLUSION

The lower S TSH cut off recommended for diagnosing hypothyroidism in pregnancy may not be applicable to pregnant Indian women.

Clinical Outcome of Postplacental Copper T 380A Insertion in Women Delivering by Caesarean Section

INTRODUCTION

Short interconception period after caesarean section and its associated risk of increased morbidity, mortality and surgical interventions could be avoided by postplacental IUCD insertion during the procedure. Despite the safety reports on intracaesarean IUCD insertion, obstetricians are still hesitant to extend the benefit of this long acting reversible contraception to women undergoing operative delivery.

OBJECTIVE

To study the clinical outcome (safety, efficacy, expulsion and continuation rates) of postplacental Copper T 380A insertion in primiparous women undergoing caesarean section.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study was a prospective observational study, carried out in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Safdarjung hospital, which is a tertiary care hospital of Northern India. Primiparous women who delivered by caesarean section over a period of six months (July 2012 to December 2012), willing for postplacental intracaesarean IUCD insertion, and willing to comply with the study protocol, were recruited for the study. All these subjects fulfilled the WHO Standard Medical Criteria for PPIUCD insertion; follow up visits were scheduled at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months.

RESULTS

A total of 300 primiparous women underwent postpartum intracaesarean insertion of Copper T 380A. The mean age of women included in the study was 23.12 ± 2.42 years. Most common postinsertion complication observed in the immediate postoperative period was febrile morbidity (2%). Majority of women (94.33%) had hospital stay of less than 4 days. The common adverse events observed during follow-up of 12 months were menstrual complaints, excessive vaginal discharge and persistent pelvic pain. At the end of one year, there were 16 expulsions, 21 removals, and 2 pregnancies with gross cumulative expulsion, removal, failure and continuation rates of 5.33%, 7%, 0.67% and 91%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Postplacental intracaesarean Copper T 380A insertion in primiparous women is a safe and effective method of reversible contraception, with low expulsion and high continuation rates.

Risk assessment for psychological disorders in postmenopausal women

INTRODUCTION

Psychological symptoms are common & bothersome in post menopausal women. Hence, screening these women for risk factors for psychological disorders is an important measure to improve their health.

OBJECTIVE

To study the risk assessment for psychological disorders in postmenopausal women Material & Methods: This was a prospective and observational study conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of a North Indian tertiary care hospital. It included a cross-section of 200 postmenopausal women attending gynecology OPD and menopausal clinic.

RESULT

Psychological symptoms were present in 32% postmenopausal women while sleep disturbance and decreased concentration were reported by nearly 34%. Irritability, nervousness and depression were the presenting complaints in 31.5%, 28.5% and 23.5% women respectively. Mild depression was present in 41.5%, whereas 3% women suffered from clinical (moderate to severe) depression. Depression was significantly associated with vasomotor symptoms (p=0.000), past history of depression (p=0.048) and psychosocial stressors (p=0.000).

CONCLUSION

Women during postmenopausal years are at increased risk of psychological disorders; hence assessment of mental health and address of related issues should be an integral part of comprehensive evaluation of these women.

Abolition of endocrine dimorphism in hyperthyroid males? An argument for the positive feedback effect of hyperoestrogenaemia on LH secretion

Our aim was (i) to investigate the hypothalamo-hypophyseal-gonadal axis in hyperthyroid Indian males, (ii) to rule out the modulatory role of adrenal steroids on it and (iii) to determine if the simultaneous rise in oestradiol and luteinising hormone (LH) in hyperthyroid males is due to a positive feedback action of oestradiol on pituitary LH release. Age- and BMI-matched men were divided into two groups, I, euthyroid subjects (n = 17) and II, hyperthyroid patients (n = 12) on the basis of their thyroid hormone levels. Serum levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone, triiodothyronine, thyroxine, LH, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), prolactin, E(2), T, P(4), sex hormone binding globulin and dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS) were assayed. Mean levels of T and E(2) were approximately two times higher in group II in comparison with group I. DHEAS levels were similar in both groups ruling out any adrenal involvement. Mean serum LH level was 2.6 folds higher in group II in comparison with group I. Mean serum levels of FSH were higher in group II, it was marginally nonsignificant. On the basis of these and previous observations, we hypothesise that endocrinological dimorphism in human male and female is not rigid; a sustained rise in serum oestradiol probably induces a positive feedback action on pituitary leading to elevated gonadotrophin levels.

Assessment of quality of life among HIV positive people attending tertiary hospital of Delhi, India

As per global HIV/AIDS estimates, a total of 33 million [30.3 - 36.1 million] People were living with HIV in 2007. The world's second-most populous country, India, is experiencing a highly varied HIV epidemic, which appears to be stable or diminishing in some parts while growing at a modest rate in others. Quality of life (QOL) of HIV/AIDS patients is becoming an important component of overall assessment of health care and management in health care settings. It is one of the indicators effectiveness of management of PLHAS. The objective of this study was to determine the QOL of patients with HIV/AIDS in New Delhi. Purposive sampling was used to identify subjects from the antiretroviral therapy clinic (ART) in Lok Nayak hospital. 180 patients were interviewed with the WHOQOL-HIV instrument. This questionnaire included demographic data, multi-item scales and six domains namely physical, psychological, level of independence, social relationships, environment and spirituality religion. Study subjects were aged between 20-56 years. Mean age of all study subjects was 33.85 +/- 7.01 years, comprising of 34.4 females. More than 50% of the total subjects had received less than secondary school education. All domains have higher scores for women than men except the psychological domain. Correlation of scores of six domains with overall QOL score and among individual domains was statistically significant. Younger people showed poorer QOL and level of education correlated positively with all domains of QOL Overall results indicate that quality of life of AIDS attending Lok Nayak hospital is satisfactory.

Correlation between baseline CD4 + T-Lymphocyte count and plasma viral load in AIDS patients and their early clinical and immunological response to HAART: a preliminary study

The aim of this study was to determine the clinical, immunological and virological status of newly diagnosed AIDS cases and to monitor their clinical and immunological response to HAART after a minimum period of three months. Forty three drug naive AIDS patients were enrolled. The most common presenting complaints were weight loss (74.4%), cough (72.1%) and diarrhoea (67.4%). Mean baseline CD4 cell count was 112 +/- 60 cells/microL and mean baseline plasma viral load of 31 patients studied was 192,686 copies/mL. Baseline plasma viral load was higher among patients with lower baseline CD4 cell count. During follow-up, 80.8% patients showed clinical improvement, while a CD4 cell count increased by > or =50 cells/microL in 84.6% cases. Mean CD4 cell count increased from 126 +/- 16.6 cells/microL at baseline to 278 +/- 196.7 cells/microL.

Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura complicating pregnancy

Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura is a relatively common but unrecognised auto-immune disorder among women of child bearing age. Nearly one-third of patients present with bleeding tendency in pregnancy. Management necessitates care of mother during pregnancy and delivery and care of the baby. Steroids remain the chief, economical and effective method of raising platelet counts, but platelet transfusion and human intravenous high dose alpha-globulin may be required. Neonatal thrombocytopenia must be expected and managed. Management of patient, since it concerns two lives, should be individualised and carefully planned in consultation with haematologist and paediatrician.

Silent myocardial ischaemia in patients with type II diabetes mellitus and its relation with autonomic dysfunction

Accelerated coronary and peripheral vascular atherosclerosis is one of the most common and chronic complications of diabetes mellitus. A relatively recently analysed aspect of coronary artery disease in this condition is its silent or asymptomatic nature. We studied silent/asymptomatic myocardial ischaemia in unselected consecutive middle aged asymptomatic diabetics and controls by 24-hour ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring, treadmill test and coronary angiography. Also, a relationship was sought between silent myocardial ischaemia and autonomic dysfunction. Thirty asymptomatic diabetics between the ages 35-60 without any documented evidence of coronary artery disease and as many controls (matched for age, sex, smoking habits, blood pressure, serum cholesterol and body mass index) were studied. All the diabetics and controls were subjected to treadmill test and 24-hour ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring. Coronary angiography was done in those who were positive in treadmill test or 24-hour ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring. Also five simple bedside tests for autonomic dysfuncton i.e. heart rate response to valsalva, deep breathing and orthostatic variation and blood pressure response to orthostatic variation and sustained handgrip were done in all the subjects. Those with two or more abnormal tests were diagnosed as having autonomic dysfunction. ST segment depression indicating silent myocardial ischaemia was seen in 14 (46.7%) out of 30 diabetics and in 3 (10.0%) out of 30 controls on both Holter and treadmill test (p=0.002). Also, diabetics had higher heart rate and greater number of supraventricular and ventricular ectopics than controls. Coronary angiography done in patients with silent ischaemia revealed higher prevalence of multivessel involvement and diffuse disease in diabetics as compared to controls. Half the diabetics (50%) and none of the control had autonomic dysfunction. Autonomic dysfunction was present in 85.7 percent of diabetics with silent ischaemia compared to 18.7 percent diabetics without silent ischaemia (p=0.001).

The frequency and influence of gallbladder varices on gallbladder functions in patients with portal hypertension

Gallbladder varices have been reported in patients with portal hypertension. The exact frequency and significance of these collaterals in patients with cirrhotic and noncirrhotic portal hypertension is not known. One hundred and two patients with portal hypertension [38 with cirrhosis, 29 with noncirrhotic portal fibrosis (NCPF) and 35 with extrahepatic portal vein obstruction (EHPVO)] and 25 healthy controls were studied. Gallbladder varices were seen at ultrasound as tortuous, dilated vessels in the wall or in the bed of the gallbladder. In 35 patients (19 patients with and 16 without gallbladder varices) and in 10 healthy controls, gallbladder functions were studied by determining fasting volume (FV) and then residual volume (RV) every 10 min over 1 h after giving a liquid meal of 420 k.cal. Ejection fraction (EF) was computed as a percentage by the formula: FV--RV/FV x 100. Twenty four (24%) patients had gallbladder varices: Five (13%) with cirrhosis, seven (24%) with NCPF, and 12 (34%) with EHPVO. FV in EHPVO patients was seen significantly more than in cirrhotics (31.6 +/- 15.4 vs 19.3 +/- 6.0 ml, p < 0.05). The RV and EF were not different in the three groups of patients compared with the controls. The EF was similar in patients with or without gallbladder varices (63.3 +/- 10.2% vs 64.6 +/- 10.4%). Gallbladder varices are often seen in portal hypertension, more often in EHPVO patients, and these collaterals cause some gallbladder stasis but do not impede gallbladder function and hence seem unlikely to contribute to gallstone formation.

High familial prevalence of gallstones in the first-degree relatives of gallstone patients

Limited information is available on the prevalence of gallstones in the first-degree relatives of gallstone patients. Three groups of subjects were studied by real-time ultrasound examination: group A, 105 index gallstone patients (male/female; 20:85); group B, 330 first-degree relatives of index patients; group C, matched controls for group A (n = 105) and group B (n = 330) subjects. Dietary, anthropometric, and biochemical investigations were carried out. In 39 of 105 (37%) index cases, one or more additional family members had gallstones (positive-index case). The positive-index cases were younger than the remaining index cases (mean age, 33.1 +/- 14 vs. 44.5 +/- 13.1 years; P < .05). Fifty-one of 330 (15.5%) first-degree relatives had gallstones, nearly four and a half times (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.4 to 8.5) more often than in the matched control population (12 of 330 [3.6%]). Thirty-three of 51 (65%) positive relatives were women; mother (37.3%), sister (17.6%) or daughters (10%) to the index patients. There was no difference in the diet, physical activity, and serum lipid profile between the positive index patients and the remaining gallstone patients and positive relatives and their controls. Our results show that there is a strong familial predisposition for gallstone formation. Female relatives of young gallstone patients should be routinely screened for gallstones.

Histological and biochemical changes in testis of zinc deficient BALB/c strain of mice

Zinc, protein, cholesterol, phospholipids, alkaline phosphatase (AlPase), acid phosphatase (AcPase), adenosine-5-triphosphatase(ATPase) and histology were studied in testis of zinc-deficient mice. Zinc and protein decreased in the 3-week experiment whereas they increased in the 6-week experiment. Zinc is involved in several functions of the cell and is regulated by hormones. Inhibition of spermatogenesis indicates for decreased zinc levels in 3-week whereas the increase in 6-week experiment indicates for accumulation of zinc in oedomatous fluid and uncontrolled diffusion of zinc across the blood testis barrier. Glycogen decreased in the 3-week as well as 6-week experiments due to blockage of androgen and spermatogenesis. Cholesterol and phospholipids increased in the 3-week experiment and decreased in 6-week experiment as both the parameters are related to steroidogenesis. Zinc deficiency leads to aspermatogenic condition and comparatively less injury to non-germinal cells. This could have blocked the transport of material across the testis barrier and therefore might have increased AlPase levels. Increased AcPase, probably represents lysosomal enzymes, as the cell debris of disorganised epithelium are to be digested and removed. ATPase increased in 3-week experiment and can be correlated to increased demands of energy of testicular cells to overcome the insults of zinc deficiency whereas the decrease in 6-week experiment could be as a result of inhibition of spermatogenesis.

Persistent or recurrent acromegaly. Long-term endocrinologic efficacy and neurologic safety of postsurgical radiation therapy

As in other clinics, pituitary surgery was definitive treatment in less than 50% of cases of acromegaly treated at one institution over several decades. From 1965 to 1989, 24 acromegalic patients who had noncurative pituitary surgery received radiation therapy at the National Institutes of Health, with a basal human growth hormone level of greater than 5 ng/ml as the criterion for active disease. Using megavoltage irradiation, more than 60% of these patients stabilized at a normal hormonal range, and the overwhelming majority had decreasing growth hormone levels with time. No major side effects of irradiation were encountered except panhypopituitarism of varying degrees. The authors evolved a policy of surgery as the first option, followed by irradiation for patients with postoperative growth hormone levels more than 5 ng/ml.

Splenic abscess

We report a splenic abscess in an elderly diabetic female. Awareness of the disease is emphasised.

Intensive combined modality therapy of small round cell and undifferentiated sarcomas in children and young adults: local control and patterns of failure

Seventy-five patients (ages 4-35 years) with the following small round cell tumors and undifferentiated sarcoma were treated at the National Cancer Institute: Ewing's sarcoma (n = 32), peripheral neuroepithelioma (n = 14), rhabdomyosarcoma (n = 24), undifferentiated sarcoma (n = 5). Most patients had poor prognostic features including 36 (48%) with metastatic disease, and 42 (56%) with central (truncal) tumors (22 in the pelvis). Treatment included 5 cycles of intensive induction chemotherapy with vincristine, cyclophosphamide and adriamycin, plus aggressive local radiation therapy using simulation and computerized treatment planning for all patients. Thereafter, complete clinical responses were consolidated with intensive chemotherapy, total body irradiation and autologous bone marrow transplantation. There were three local only failures, 10 local plus distant failures, 36 distant only failures, 3 treatment-related deaths, and one intercurrent death. Overall actuarial survival and event-free survival at 4 years are 49 and 29%, respectively. Actuarial freedom from local progression was seen in 74% of patients at 4 years, quite remarkable considering the bulk and location of most of these tumors. Without aggressive surgery, many of these high risk patients had satisfactory outcomes, but better systemic treatments are still needed.

Cranial nerve palsies in benign intracranial hypertension

Benign intracranial hypertension may occasionally be associated with various cranial nerve palsies. A case with multiple cranial nerve involvement is presented.