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Pitner I, Mikuš M, Šprem Goldštajn M, Laganà AS, Chiantera V, Ferrari F, Shah M, D'Alterio MN, Vitale SG, Angioni S. Effects of different progesterone levels on reproductive outcomes in assisted reproductive technologies: from molecular basis to treatment strategies. Gynecol Endocrinol 2023; 39:2190806. [PMID: 36963420 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2023.2190806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/26/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this narrative review is to offer an overview about the role of progesterone levels on pregnancy outcome in patients undergoing assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). METHODS A detailed computerized search of the literature was performed in the main electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science) to determine the importance of elevated progesterone levels at different stages of the cycle for pregnancy rates in the in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle. Our review also provides information on the differences between elevated progesterone levels and their interpretation in normal and in poorly responding women. RESULTS After careful evaluation, our search strategy yielded a total of 15 included articles, showing the possible factors that may have had an impact on the increased progesterone level before human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) injection and the different thresholds above which the pregnancy rate was lower. Furthermore, increased progesterone on cycle day 2 or 3 could serve as a marker for increased progesterone in the late follicular phase, which is associated with a lower pregnancy rate. CONCLUSION Despite the literature data that support the negative effect of elevated progesterone on fresh cycles, due to lack of randomized controlled trials, the value of measuring progesterone in daily practice is questionable. Available evidence supports the detrimental effect of elevated progesterone in different subgroups of women, although there is still the need for defining different thresholds and durations of high progesterone exposure. The need for various thresholds for different cohorts of women, the inter-assay variability is making this decision harder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iva Pitner
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Centre, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Mislav Mikuš
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marina Šprem Goldštajn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Antonio Simone Laganà
- Unit of Gynecologic Oncology, ARNAS "Civico - Di Cristina - Benfratelli", Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Vito Chiantera
- Unit of Gynecologic Oncology, ARNAS "Civico - Di Cristina - Benfratelli", Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Federico Ferrari
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Mohsin Shah
- Department of Physiology, Khyber Medical University, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Maurizio Nicola D'Alterio
- Division of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Salvatore Giovanni Vitale
- Division of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Stefano Angioni
- Division of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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Moro F, Scavello I, Maseroli E, Rastrelli G, Baima Poma C, Bonin C, Dassie F, Federici S, Fiengo S, Guccione L, Villani M, Gambineri A, Mioni R, Moghetti P, Moretti C, Persani L, Scambia G, Giorgino F, Vignozzi L. The physiological sonographic features of the ovary in healthy subjects: a joint systematic review and meta-analysis by the Italian Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics (SIGO) and the Italian Society of Endocrinology (SIE). J Endocrinol Invest 2023; 46:439-456. [PMID: 36422829 PMCID: PMC9938076 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-022-01939-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE There is a lack of uniformity in the definition of normal ovary ultrasound parameters. Our aim was to summarize and meta-analyze the evidence on the topic. Full-text English articles published through December 31, 2020 were retrieved via MEDLINE and Embase. Data available for meta-analysis included: ovarian follicular count, ovarian volume, and ovarian Pulsatility Index (PI) assessed by Doppler ultrasound. METHODS Cohort, cross-sectional, prospective studies with a single or double arm were considered eligible. Interventional studies were included when providing baseline data. Both studies on pre- and post-menopausal women were screened; however, data on menopausal women were not sufficient to perform a meta-analysis. Studies on pre-pubertal girls were considered separately. Eighty-one papers were included in the meta-analysis. RESULTS The mean ovarian volume was 6.11 [5.81-6.42] ml in healthy women in reproductive age (5.81-6.42) and 1.67 ml [1.02-2.32] in pre-pubertal girls. In reproductive age, the mean follicular count was 8.04 [7.26-8.82] when calculated in the whole ovary and 5.88 [5.20-6.56] in an ovarian section, and the mean ovarian PI was 1.86 [1.35-2.37]. Age and the frequency of the transducers partly modulated these values. In particular, the 25-30-year group showed the higher mean follicular count (9.27 [7.71-10.82]), followed by a progressive age-related reduction (5.67 [2.23-9.12] in fertile women > 35 years). A significant difference in follicular count was also found according to the transducer's upper MHz limit. CONCLUSION Our findings provide a significant input to improve the interpretation and diagnostic accuracy of ovarian ultrasound parameters in different physiological and pathological settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Moro
- Dipartimento Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - I Scavello
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - E Maseroli
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - G Rastrelli
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50134, Florence, Italy
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - C Baima Poma
- Consultorio Familiare ASL Città di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - C Bonin
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology B, Department of Women and Children's Health, AOUI Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - F Dassie
- Department of Medicine, Clinica Medica 3-Azienda Ospedaliera, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - S Federici
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20149, Milan, Italy
| | - S Fiengo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, ARNAS Civico Hospital, Palermo, Italy
| | - L Guccione
- Department of Systems' Medicine, University of Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - M Villani
- Unit of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - A Gambineri
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes Prevention and Care, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - R Mioni
- Department of Medicine, Clinica Medica 3-Azienda Ospedaliera, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - P Moghetti
- Unit of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - C Moretti
- Department of Systems' Medicine, University of Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - L Persani
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20149, Milan, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20121, Milan, Italy
| | - G Scambia
- Istituto Di Clinica Ostetrica E Ginecologica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - F Giorgino
- Section of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Andrology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - L Vignozzi
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50134, Florence, Italy.
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy.
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Vitale SG, Fulghesu AM, Mikuš M, Watrowski R, D’Alterio MN, Lin LT, Shah M, Reyes-Muñoz E, Sathyapalan T, Angioni S. The Translational Role of miRNA in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: From Bench to Bedside—A Systematic Literature Review. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10081816. [PMID: 36009364 PMCID: PMC9405312 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10081816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNAs that are essential for the regulation of post-transcriptional gene expression during tissue development and differentiation. They are involved in the regulation of manifold metabolic and hormonal processes and, within the female reproductive tract, in oocyte maturation and folliculogenesis. Altered miRNA levels have been observed in oncological and inflammatory diseases, diabetes or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Therefore, miRNAs are proving to be promising potential biomarkers. In women with PCOS, circulating miRNAs can be obtained from whole blood, serum, plasma, urine, and follicular fluid. Our systematic review summarizes data from 2010–2021 on miRNA expression in granulosa and theca cells; the relationship between miRNAs, hormonal changes, glucose and lipid metabolism in women with PCOS; and the potential role of altered miRNAs in fertility (oocyte quality) in PCOS. Furthermore, we discuss miRNAs as a potential therapeutic target in PCOS and as a diagnostic marker for PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Giovanni Vitale
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy;
| | - Anna Maria Fulghesu
- Division of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (A.M.F.); (M.N.D.)
| | - Mislav Mikuš
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Rafał Watrowski
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany;
| | - Maurizio Nicola D’Alterio
- Division of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (A.M.F.); (M.N.D.)
| | - Li-Te Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung City 81362, Taiwan;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Pei-Tou, Taipei 112, Taiwan
- Department of Biological Science, National Sun Yat-sen University, 70 Lienhai Rd., Kaohsiung City 80424, Taiwan
| | - Mohsin Shah
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Khyber Medical University, Peshawar 25100, Pakistan;
| | - Enrique Reyes-Muñoz
- Department of Gynecological and Perinatal Endocrinology, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, Mexico City 11000, Mexico;
| | - Thozhukat Sathyapalan
- Academic Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Kingston upon Hull HU6 7RX, UK;
| | - Stefano Angioni
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy;
- Correspondence:
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Fulghesu AM, Canu E, Casula L, Melis F, Gambineri A. Polycystic Ovarian Morphology in Normocyclic Non-hyperandrogenic Adolescents. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 2021; 34:610-616. [PMID: 33571658 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpag.2021.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To understand whether polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM) represents a transient phase, and whether an increased stroma could help to characterize the phenotype of the ovary in adolescence. METHODS Cross-sectional population-based study on high-school students in Cagliari, Italy. The study population consisted of 257 normocyclic non-hyperandrogenic girls selected from a sample of 600 healthy volunteers recruited from 2012 to 2016. Clinical examination, medical history, blood sampling, and pelvic ultrasound (US) were performed. Postmenarchal years and body mass index (BMI) were estimated. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), 17β estradiol (E2), total testosterone (tT), delta-4-androstenedione (A), and 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) were measured. Ovarian volume, follicular number per section (FNPS), and S/A ratio were measured by pelvic US. RESULTS Following the Rotterdam guidelines for US PCOS diagnosis and setting the normal S/A ratio at ≤0.3, subjects were categorized into 3 groups: (1) normal ovarian morphology (NOM; n = 154, 60%); (2) polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM) with normal S/A ratio (PCOM-NS; n = 70, 27%); and (3) PCOM with increased S/A ratio (PCOM-IS; n = 33, 13%). The NOM group had more postmenarchal years and a lower LH than both the PCOM groups, and lower A and tT than the PCOM-IS group. The PCOM-NS group had fewer postmenarchal years and lower A than the PCOM-IS group. Interestingly, unlike NOM and PCOM-NS, the prevalence of PCOM-IS remained constant among the 3 phases of postmenarchal age (10% vs 16% vs 15%, P = not significant). CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that PCOM can be a transient condition, whereas a high S/A ratio is a stable US alteration present from early postmenarchal years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Fulghesu
- Department of Surgical Science, Duilio Casula Hospital, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, CA, Italy.
| | - Elena Canu
- S. Francesco Hospital, S.C. Ostetricia e Ginecologia, Nuoro, Italy
| | - Laura Casula
- Department of Medical Science and Public Health, Su Planu-Selargius Cagliari, Italy
| | - Federica Melis
- Department of Surgical Science, Duilio Casula Hospital, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, CA, Italy
| | - Alessandra Gambineri
- Department of Surgical and Medical Science, S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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D'Alterio MN, Sigilli M, Succu AG, Ghisu V, Laganà AS, Sorrentino F, Nappi L, Tinelli R, Angioni S. Pregnancy outcomes in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Minerva Obstet Gynecol 2021; 74:45-59. [PMID: 33876903 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-606x.21.04758-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrinological disease of reproductive-aged women, with an estimated incidence ranging from 5% to 15%. The clinical manifestations of PCOS are heterogeneous and vary according to the age of the patient. Insulin resistance (IR), hyperandrogenism, and obesity are widely assumed to play a pivotal role in the pathophysiological mechanism of PCOS. As previously stated by many conducted meta-analyses, PCOS can cause a rising risk of pregnancy complications, including maternal, fetal, and neonatal complications. Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH), preeclampsia (PE), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), spontaneous preterm birth (PTB), and an increased necessity for a cesarean section (CS) are the most documented maternal implications. Regarding fetal outcomes, PCOS has also been correlated with elevated neonatal morbidity, prematurity, fetal growth restriction (FGR), birth weight variations (large for gestational age (LGA) and small for gestational age (SGA), and transfer to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Owing to the variability of the studies performed, the association of PCOS with an elevated risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes is still controversial. This variability is found in the diagnosis and clinical presentations of PCOS, and can be influenced by pre-pregnancy circumstances and therapies as well as particular population and environmental features. The Amsterdam consensus guidelines confirm that obesity and IR can worsen maternal and fetal complications; thus, a closer follow-up should be offered to PCOS women during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio N D'Alterio
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy -
| | - Marco Sigilli
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Antonio G Succu
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Valeria Ghisu
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Antonio S Laganà
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Filippo del Ponte Hospital, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Felice Sorrentino
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Luigi Nappi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Raffaele Tinelli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valle d'Itria Hospital, Martina Franca, Taranto, Italy
| | - Stefano Angioni
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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Mioni R, Gallea M, Granzotto M, Dassie F, Parolin M, Maffei P, Faggian D, De Marchi F, Litta P, Vettor R. Ovarian 25OH-vitamin D production in young women affected by polycystic ovary syndrome. J Endocrinol Invest 2020; 43:1623-1630. [PMID: 32319048 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-020-01247-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Vitamin D is involved in the regulatory mechanisms of ovarian function and is frequently low in PCOS patients. Since obesity and hyperinsulinemic state negatively influenced vitamin D levels, therefore, we evaluated the production of vitamin D at the ovarian level only in lean and normoinsulinemic PCOS subjects. Basal, GnRH analogue-induced ovarian production of 25OH-vitamin D (VitD) and a direct sampling at ovarian vein level were investigated. METHODS Basal and GnRH analogue-induced hormone levels were evaluated at peripheral level in 45 subjects, aged 18-39 years, and in 22 healthy women with age- and BMI-matched as controls. In 12 PCOS patients, undergoing laparoscopy, a venous sampling at both peripheral and ovarian level was further done. All subjects presented low VitD levels, appropriate to the season and with no difference between PCOS and control subjects. RESULTS GnRH analogue significantly stimulated plasma LH, FSH, 17-OHP and estradiol secretion (p from < 0.05 to < 0.001 vs basal levels), whereas no effect was observed on both serum AMH and VitD concentrations in all groups. A significant difference (p < 0.006), between peripheral and ovarian veins, was observed in both AMH and estradiol levels in PCOS subjects, while no gradient of VitD was detected. CONCLUSIONS All patients presented with low VitD levels. The absence of any VitD variation, both at basal and after GnRH analogue administration, or at peripheral-ovarian vein gradient, suggests no pituitary-ovarian axis involvement in VitD production or its direct ovarian production in lean and normoinsulinemic PCOS subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Mioni
- Department of Medicine, Clinica Medica 3, Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padua, PD, Italy.
| | - M Gallea
- Department of Medicine, Clinica Medica 3, Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padua, PD, Italy
| | - M Granzotto
- Department of Medicine, Clinica Medica 3, Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padua, PD, Italy
| | - F Dassie
- Department of Medicine, Clinica Medica 3, Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padua, PD, Italy
| | - M Parolin
- Department of Medicine, Clinica Medica 3, Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padua, PD, Italy
| | - P Maffei
- Department of Medicine, Clinica Medica 3, Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padua, PD, Italy
| | - D Faggian
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - F De Marchi
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - P Litta
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - R Vettor
- Department of Medicine, Clinica Medica 3, Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padua, PD, Italy
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Lauritsen MP, Pinborg A, Loft A, Petersen JH, Mikkelsen AL, Bjerge MR, Nyboe Andersen A. Revised criteria for PCOS in WHO Group II anovulatory infertility - a revival of hypothalamic amenorrhoea? Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2015; 82:584-91. [PMID: 25262871 DOI: 10.1111/cen.12621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2014] [Revised: 08/22/2014] [Accepted: 09/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate revised criteria for polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM) in the diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in anovulatory infertility. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. PATIENTS WHO Group II anovulatory infertile women (n = 75). MEASUREMENTS Clinical, sonographic and endocrine parameters, including anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH). RESULTS The Rotterdam criteria for PCOM (antral follicle count (AFC) ≥12 and/or ovarian volume >10 ml) were fulfilled in 93% of the women. The PCOM prevalence was 68% when increasing the threshold to AFC >20 and 76% according to an AMH-based threshold of >35 pmol/l. The most recently proposed AFC ≥ 25 threshold reduced the PCOM prevalence to 52% (n = 39), leaving 48% (n = 36) without features of PCOM. Comparing the 36 women with non-PCOM with the 39 women in the PCOM group according to AFC ≥ 25, 22% vs 59% (P = 0·001) had serum LH >10 IU/l, 11% vs 41% (P = 0·003) had an LH/FSH ratio >2 and 19% vs 41% (P = 0·04) had hirsutism and/or elevated total testosterone, free testosterone, and/or androstenedione. The non-PCOM group included significantly more women with secondary infertility. The median AMH in the non-PCOM group was 47 pmol/l, which was twofold lower than in the PCOM group but above the upper limit of normo-ovulatory women. CONCLUSIONS According to a revised threshold of 25 follicles, almost half the anovulatory infertile women do not have PCOM. The characteristics of these women may be compatible with hypothalamic anovulation, but according to AMH levels, the ovaries remain multifollicular. PERSPECTIVES A better distinction between hypothalamic amenorrhoea and PCOS could improve treatment strategies for anovulatory infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mette Petri Lauritsen
- The Fertility Clinic, Section 4071, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Gambineri A, Patton L, Prontera O, Fanelli F, Ciampaglia W, Cognigni GE, Pagotto U, Pasquali R. Basal insulin-like factor 3 levels predict functional ovarian hyperandrogenism in the polycystic ovary syndrome. J Endocrinol Invest 2011; 34:685-91. [PMID: 21586896 DOI: 10.3275/7726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
AIM The aims of the study were to understand the association between insulin-like factor 3 (INSL3) and functional ovarian hyperandrogenism (FOH) in PCOS and the regulatory role played by LH. SUBJECTS AND METHODS Fifteen PCOS women were classified as FOH (FOH-PCOS, no.=8) and non-FOH (NFOH-PCOS, no.=7) according to the response of 17OH-progesterone to buserelin (a GnRH analogue) with respect to 15 controls. FOH-PCOS and NFOH-PCOS were compared for basal INSL3 levels. In addition, the effect of buserelin on INSL3 concentrations and the relationship between basal and buserelin-stimulated LH and 17OH-progesterone and INSL3 were evaluated. RESULTS Basal INSL3 levels were higher in FOH-PCOS than NFOH-PCOS (p=0.001) and controls (p=0.001), whereas they did not differ between NFOHPCOS and controls. In addition, FOH-PCOS had a higher response of LH to buserelin with respect to NFOH-PCOS. Within all PCOS women the levels of INSL3 positively correlated with free testosterone (p=0.022) and negatively with SHBG (r= p=0.031). Moreover, positive correlations with the absolute increase of 17OH-progesterone (p<0.001) and with the LH area under the curve (p=0.001) after buserelin administration were found. In the multiple regression analysis INSL3 persisted significantly correlated only with 17OH-progesterone response to buserelin. Finally, INSL3 was not significantly modified after buserelin administration either in FOHPCOS or in NFOH-PCOS. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that INSL3 is related to FOH in PCOS women, but this association seems not to be mediated by LH, further reinforcing the concept that a pathophysiological heterogeneity for ovarian hyperandrogenism in PCOS exists.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Gambineri
- Department of Internal Medicine, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy
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Willenberg HS, Bahlo M, Schott M, Wertenbruch T, Feldkamp J, Scherbaum WA. Helpful diagnostic markers of steroidogenesis for defining hyperandrogenemia in hirsute women. Steroids 2008; 73:41-6. [PMID: 17915271 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2007.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2007] [Revised: 06/24/2007] [Accepted: 08/24/2007] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
HYPOTHESIS Androgen excess carries varied clinical manifestations in women. Although testosterone and dehydroepiandrostendionesulfate (DHEAS) determination is considered useful in diagnostic workup, there is no laboratory definition that sufficiently describes androgen excess. DESIGN We studied 464 hirsute women with a Ferriman and Gallwey score of at least 8 between 2000 and 2005. Our examination included clinical data, total testosterone (T), sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), the free androgen index (FAI), and DHEAS. Additionally, androstendione, 17alpha-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP), dehydroepiandrostendione (DHEA), and 11-deoxycortisol were determined at baseline and 60min after corticotropin challenge (250microg synacthen). RESULTS Of 464 women, 77.6% fulfilled the clinical criteria for hyperandrogenemia. Of these 360 women, 78.1% had hyperandrogenic hirsutism. Of these 281 women, 43.4% showed increased stimulation of 17OHP to 250microg of synacthen. Another 37.4% showed adrenal steroid biosynthesis defects other than 21alpha-hydroxylase deficiency, such as defective 11beta-hydroxylation or 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase malfunction. The diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome was applicable to 12.4%. In addition, our results show that 72% of 281 patients with secondary hirsutism had normal T concentrations, and 55% had a normal FAI. Only 5% of hirsute patients with a normal FAI had elevated DHEAS values. However, 40% showed elevated DHEA levels, while 26% of the women with normal FAI showed androstendione values over the maximal levels in the 79 controls. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that in addition to testosterone and FAI, androstendione and DHEA are significantly helpful parameters in diagnosing hyperandrogenemia in hirsute women. DHEAS was not found to be helpful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holger S Willenberg
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Rheumatology, University Hospital Duesseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany.
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Hendriks ML, Brouwer J, Hompes PGA, Homburg R, Lambalk CB. LH as a diagnostic criterion for polycystic ovary syndrome in patients with WHO II oligo/amenorrhoea. Reprod Biomed Online 2008; 16:765-71. [DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60140-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Pasquali R, Patton L, Pocognoli P, Cognigni GE, Gambineri A. 17-hydroxyprogesterone responses to gonadotropin-releasing hormone disclose distinct phenotypes of functional ovarian hyperandrogenism and polycystic ovary syndrome. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2007; 92:4208-17. [PMID: 17785360 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2007-0870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT The exaggerated 17-hydroxyprogesterone response to GnRH agonists, which reflects functional ovarian hyperandrogenism (FOH), is believed to be the prominent abnormality in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). OBJECTIVE Our objectives were to quantify the prevalence of PCOS with FOH and to evaluate whether the presence of FOH may distinguish different clinical and biochemical phenotypes. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS We conducted an observational study at an academic hospital that included 148 PCOS women and 22 healthy age-matched normal-weight control women. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES A hormone profile was taken at baseline and in response to (1-24)ACTH and to a GnRH agonist, buserelin, administered during dexamethasone suppression. RESULTS Based on the data obtained in the control subjects, the PCOS patients were divided into two groups, one with a normal (NR-PCOS, n = 78) and one with a high 17-hydroxyprogesterone response (HR-PCOS, n = 70) to buserelin. The two groups of PCOS subjects had similar anthropometric parameters and clinical signs of hyperandrogenism. Age and body weight at menarche were significantly lower and higher, respectively, in the HR-PCOS group than the NR-PCOS group. Moreover, the HR-PCOS group had higher basal testosterone (P < 0.001), free androgen index (P < 0.01), 17-hydroxyprogesterone (P < 0.05), estrogens (P < 0.05), area under the curve for insulin (insulin(AUC)) (P < 0.05), and C-peptide(AUC) (P < 0.01) and lower insulin sensitivity (as composite insulin sensitivity index) (P < 0.05) than the NR-PCOS group. The response of 17-hydroxyprogesterone to (1-24)ACTH (as percent variation) was lower in the HR-PCOS group with respect to the NR-PCOS group (P < 0.05), whereas the response of cortisol, androstenedione, and dehydroepiandrosterone was similar. Finally, the HR-PCOS group had lower percent suppression of androstenedione (P < 0.001) and 17-hydoxyprogesterone (P < 0.05) to dexamethasone. In a multiple regression model applied in all PCOS women, insulin(AUC) but not androgens or markers of insulin resistance predicted the 17-hydroxyprogesterone response to buserelin to a highly significant extent (t = 3.269; P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS This study indicates that the paradigm that FOH is a specific feature of the PCOS status can no longer be sustained. We have shown that women with an exaggerated 17-hydroxyprogesterone response to a GnRH agonist, buserelin, are characterized by more severe hyperandrogenemia, glucose-stimulated beta-cell insulin secretion, and worse insulin resistance than those without evidence of FOH. Our data may be consistent with the hypothesis that excess insulin may represent a candidate factor responsible for FOH in these women, through the overactivation of the cytochrome P450 17alpha-hydroxylase/17,20-lyase (CYP17) enzyme pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renato Pasquali
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University Alma Mater Studiorum, Via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The aim of this article is to describe the role of insulin resistance in the etiology of polycystic ovary syndrome and to review the results of treatment with the insulin sensitizing drug metformin. RECENT FINDINGS Polycystic ovary syndrome is a heterogeneous combination of clinical, hormonal, and reproductive abnormalities associated with insulin resistance and increased cardiovascular risk factors. Reduction of hyperinsulinism and improvement of insulin sensitivity with metformin has been reported to ameliorate these abnormalities in many, but not all studies, with few adverse effects. SUMMARY Metformin may be the drug of first choice for most, if not all women with polycystic ovarian syndrome, either alone or in combination with other treatments. Further investigation is necessary to determine the optimal dose and duration of treatment necessary to maximize response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa G Lebinger
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, New York, USA.
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Bibliography. Current world literature. Diabetes and the endocrine pancreas. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes 2007; 14:170-96. [PMID: 17940437 DOI: 10.1097/med.0b013e3280d5f7e9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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