Frequency of mastalgia among women veterans. Association with psychiatric conditions and unexplained pain syndromes

Mastalgia - The Burden Beneath

Objective

Mastalgia is the most common breast-related complaint. A multitude of hormonal changes and lifestyle associated factors have been implicated in its causation. A long list of treatment modalities have been tried with varying success rates. To identify the most common risk factors and the most effective management strategies for mastalgia in our clinic population.

Materials and Methods

A total of 100 women between 18-65 years of age presenting to the breast clinic with mastalgia were followed throughout their course of diagnosis and management. Stepwise treatment was provided, starting with reassurance and breast support and progressing to include pharmacological measures, when necessary. The risk factors and outcomes of treatment were analysed.

Results

The majority (66%) were aged 25-47 years and the left breast was found to be most frequently involved. Involvement of the upper outer quadrant was significantly more common. Lump/nodularity was the most prevalent risk factor. Most patients showed a positive response to non-steroid anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) in addition to reassurance, breast support and dietary changes.

Conclusion

A detailed history and clinical examination helps to identify the risk factors and the best approach for the management of mastalgia. Educating women regarding breast self-examination at regular intervals helps in early presentation and diagnosis of the underlying condition. Reassurance, breast support and lifestyle changes are the first line treatment and have good results in a significant number of patients. In our practice topical and oral NSAIDs, evening primrose oil and vitamin E were frequently used as additional treatments to non-pharmacological methods.

Effectiveness of acupuncture in the treatment of cyclic mastalgia: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Background

About 68% of women aged 18–44 years have experienced cyclic mastalgia (CM), which occurs during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle when elevated hormone levels induce greater breast gland thickness. CM has a moderate-to-severe impact on a woman’s quality of life. Prior research has suggested that acupuncture may be beneficial for breast pain relief. In this study, we investigate the effectiveness of manual acupuncture (MA) in the treatment of CM compared with that of sham acupuncture (SA).

Methods

This is a multicenter, randomized, controlled trial. A total of 108 eligible CM patients will be randomly assigned to either MA (n = 54) or SA (n = 54) group using a 1:1 ratio and a stratified, blocked randomization. Acupuncture will be performed two weeks prior to menstruation and discontinued when menses begins. In both the MA and SA group, participants will be given acupuncture three times per week for 2 weeks per menstrual cycle for three consecutive menstrual cycles, encompassing a total of 18 sessions. The primary outcome will be the change in the average daily Breast Pain Visual Analog Scale (VAS-BP) over the first two weeks of menstruation from baseline to endpoints. The number of nominal days of breast pain (NDBP) two weeks before menstruation, World Health Organization Quality-of-Life Scale-Short Form scores, global patient assessment, breast glandular-section thickness, and breast-duct width three days before menstruation will also be measured as secondary outcomes.

Discussion

This prospective randomized trial will help evaluate the efficacy of acupuncture in treating CM. The results of this study will provide evidence of the therapeutic effectiveness of acupuncture on CM.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05408377, registered on June 7, 2022. 

Concerns About Breast Pain: How Useful Is Imaging?

Background: Breast pain is one of the most common reasons for referral to breast imaging. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the diagnostic yield of mammography and sonomammography in women complaining of breast pain in a teaching hospital in Southeast Nigeria. Methods: This descriptive study analyzed the mammographic/sonomammographic images and records of 241 consecutive adult women aged 18 - 81 years with breast pain who presented to the radiology department over three years. A non-random sampling method was employed to select the participants. The extracted variables were patient’s age, positive clinical history of breast pain, laterality of breast pain, type of imaging, presence or absence of lesion, type, and laterality of lesions if present, and Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) assignment of imaging findings on mammography and sonomammography. The descriptive analysis of continuous variables and inferential statistics of ordinal data were performed with Microsoft Excel and chi-squared test, respectively. In this study, P < 0.05 was set as the significance level. Results: Most women (20%) with a complaint of breast pain were in the 40 - 44-year age group. Moreover, 32.3%, 33.2%, and 34.4% of the participants had left-sided, right-sided, and bilateral breast pain, respectively. Among the participants, 118 and 123 women had mammography and sonomammography, respectively. Furthermore, 76.3% had normal findings on mammography or sonomammography, and only 23.7% had positive imaging findings on breast imaging. These lesions were mostly observed among the women in the age group of 45 - 49 years. Of those with lesions detected on imaging, 79.2% and 20.8% demonstrated benign and malignant attributes, respectively. Masses with definite benign attributes assigned BI-RADS II were mostly fibroadenomata and cysts. Inferential statistics indicated that unilateral mastalgia was more likely to be associated with a breast lesion, while bilateral mastalgia usually resulted in normal breast imaging findings. Conclusions: Women referring to the Radiology Department with a complaint of breast pain alone are unlikely to have any significant breast imaging finding; hence, imaging serves as a tool for assuaging the anxiety of these patients and reassuring the referring physician. Unilateral but not bilateral mastalgia is likely to yield positive imaging findings, which are largely benign.

Body Mass Index and Other Factors Related to Mastalgia: A Cross Sectional Study

BACKGROUND: Mastalgia is a common complaint in females aged 30–50 years. Mastalgia varies in degrees of severity. The quality of life of women may be adversely affected by severe mastalgia. It was associated with disturbance in sexual, social, and physical activities and behaviors. AIM: The main objective of this study is to investigate factors affecting mastalgia. METHODS: This is an analytical cross-sectional study. Conducted on 148 females attending the Family Medicine outpatient clinic. Mastalgia was assessed by new breast pain score. RESULTS: The mean age of patients was 32.6 and their mean body mass index (BMI) was 24.8. The majority of the cases were highly educated 48% and working 58.1%. There was a highly statistically significant difference between females with mild pain and those of moderate to severe pain regarding to BMI as the mean of BMI in patient with mild pain was 22.7 ± 2.5 while it was 27.6 ± 3.1., there was highly statistically significant difference between both groups as regards to the type of the contraception used that means females who used hormonal contraception had more pain. After logistic regression the only remaining significant factor was BMI 0.001. CONCLUSION: There are many factors affecting mastalgia as BMI, type of contraception, menstrual regularity, menstrual duration, breast pain duration, and premenstrual symptoms. But BMI is the most important factor affecting mastalgia.

The incidence of breast health issues and the efficacy of a sports bra fit and issue service in British Army recruits

Increasing retention of female recruits throughout Basic Training (BT) is a key priority for the British Army. The aims of this study were two-fold; (i) quantify breast health issues and sports bra usage within female British Army recruits, and (ii) assess the influence of professionally fitted sports bras on breast health and bra fit issues across 13 weeks of BT. A survey was completed by 246 female recruits that identified the incidence of breast health issues during BT. Subsequently, 33 female recruits were provided with professionally fitted sports bras during Week-1 of BT. Recruits completed a survey in Week-1 (Pre) and Week-13 (Post). There was a high incidence of bra issues during BT, which did not reduce following the implementation of professionally fitted sports bras. The authors recommend further research into the specific functional requirements of breast support relative to the demands of BT and the needs of the female recruit. Practitioner Summary: The British Army have a duty of care to ensure female recruits are equipped sufficiently for the demands of training. Despite the implementation of a sports bra fitting and issue service bra fit issues remained high. Further research into the specific functional requirements of breast support during training is recommended. Abbreviations: BT: Basic Training; ATR(W): Army Training Regiment Winchester; ATC(P): Army Training Centre Pirbright; BMI: Body Mass Index; NRS: Numeric Rating Scale; FET: Fisher's Exact Test.

Evaluation of Treatment Methods and Clinical Characteristics of Patients Applying to the Outpatient Clinic with Complaint of Mastalgia

Objective: Mastalgia or breast pain is one of the most vital complaints among women patients. This study aims to determine the prevalence of mastalgia and the properties of pain, elucidate the associated factors, particularly modifiable ones, and establish a treatment of standard. Methods: The study evaluated 685 female patients admitted to our outpatient clinic with a complaint of mastalgia in the period between 2017 and 2019. Results: Mean age of the patients was 35.20 ±10.28 (13–86). The pain was experienced in the right breast of 123 (17.9%) patients, in the left breast of 141 (20.6%) patients, and in both breasts of 422 (61.5%) patients. The mean pain value was found to be 5.29. The study population comprised 61 (8.9%) patients in the menopause state, whereas 624 (91.1%) patients were not in menopause. The pain was noncyclic in 519 (75.8%) patients, while cyclic for 166 (24.2%) patients. For treatment, a restricted diet in terms of coffee, salt, and fat as well as wearing supportive bra were recommended for 456 (66.5%) patients, while 181 patients with pain VAS (Visual Analog Scale) score of 8 and above was initiated with vitex agnus-castus. No patient was initiated with local or systemic analgesics and LHRH (luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone) analogs. Conclusion: The prevention and management of mastalgia reflected that restricted salt intake, regulated diet, and the use of properly fitted bras could significantly improve the quality of life. Appropriate radiological imaging could eliminate patients’ concerns regarding developing cancer. Keywords: Breast cancer, Diet, Mastalgia, Risk factor

Sleep disturbances and non-cyclical breast pain: where to break the vicious cycle?

Purpose

This study aimed to assess the sleep quality of patients with the complaint of non-cyclical breast pain (NCBP), compare them to a healthy control group, and analyze the interrelationship of sleep quality with pain, anxiety, depression, and quality of life.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted in consecutive women presenting to the general surgery clinic between May 2020 and December 2020. Patients diagnosed with NCBP formed one group for study and 44 receiving routine well-woman care formed the control group. Evaluations were undertaken using the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP), short-form McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI).

Results

Of 160 consecutive patients, 116 were diagnosed with NCBP and 44 controls. Poor sleep quality (PSQI > 5) was present in 59% (n = 69) of the women with NCBP and 38% (n = 17) of the controls (p = 0.018). According to PSQI global score, overall sleep quality was significantly lower in the NCBP group compared to the control group (p < 0.007). Sleep latency, sleep duration, and daytime dysfunction were the major components determining the PSQI global score (p = 0.004, p = 0.004, and p < 0.001, respectively). The correlation matrix revealed a statistically significant correlation between the HAD-A, HAD-D, and SF-MSQ and NHP subgroups and PSQI global score in the NCBP group (p < 0.001) whereas this significant correlation was detected with only the NHP subgroups among the controls.

Conclusions

A considerable proportion of NCBP patients, regardless of sensory or affective characteristics and trajectory of pain, experience significant sleep disturbances. Further studies should be conducted to evaluate the existence of central sensitization syndrome in NCBP patients to determine the required pharmacological treatment.

Noncyclical and cyclical mastalgia in Turkish women: Prevalans, risk factors, health-care seeking and quality of life

Our aim in this study was to determine the prevalence of cyclical and noncyclical mastalgia, its underlying risk factors, and to examine its effect on women's quality of life. This study was conducted on 415 women, among whom the prevalence of mastalgia was found as 20.7%. It was found that experiencing intense stress, daily coffee and chocolate consumption, breast surgery history and the menstruation pattern were risk factors associated with mastalgia. Some domains of quality of life were found to be negatively affected in women who had mastalgia. Awareness among women about the risk factors of mastodynia and lifestyle changes is needed to improve mastalgia management.

An alternative yogic approach for cyclical mastalgia-A narrative review

Background

Mastalgia or breast pain common benign breast disorder in women in her reproductive life. Mastalgia estimate prevalence 41-71%. It affects to overall quality of life and associated with anxiety, stress, and other psychological factors.

Objective

The purpose of the study was to conduct a review of alternative therapy in the management of mastalgia.

Method

A review was conducted using search terms cyclical mastalgia (CM), yoga therapy, breast treatment, primrose oil, oestrogen, progesterone and all the probable term in national and international data repositories such as PubMed, Scopus, science direct, google scholar, web of science in English language.

Result

The review of alternative therapies in the management of CM suggests that most of the studies used primrose oil, vitamins, and physical activity. There are very few studies conducted in relation to yoga and cyclical mastalgia. Further, most of the studies explored effect of alternative therapies on psychological outcomes. None of the studies investigated efficacy of these therapies on hormonal changes.

Conclusion

Evidence suggests that biochemical clinical trial is effective with side effect, primrose oil and seeds treatment is less effective. One evidence-based study with integrated yoga therapy should be considered in the management of cyclical mastalgia. More high-quality trial with yogic approach needed to first line management of patients presenting with CM.

Effects of sagging breasts and other risk factors associated with mastalgia: a case-control study

The aim of this study is to compare patients with and without mastalgia and to analyze the factors affecting mastalgia and its severity. The patient’s age, height, weight, educational status, marital status, and occupation were recorded in all subjects. In addition, the women were asked about the presence of any risk factors for mastalgia, such as tea and coffee consumption, smoking, alcohol consumption, and weight gain. The sternal notch to nipple distance (SNND) was measured to determine whether there was breast sagging. Mastalgia was significantly more common in women with BMIs of > 30 kg/m² (OR: 2.94, CI 1.65–5.24), those who were primary school graduates or illiterate (OR: 2.96, CI 1.6–5.46), and those with SNND values of 22–25 cm (OR: 2.94, CI 1.79–4.82). In these women, drinking more than 6 cups of tea a day (OR: 2.15, CI 1.32–3.5), smoking at least 10 cigarettes a day (OR: 2.94, CI 1.78–4.83), and drinking alcohol at least once a week (OR: 2.1, CI 1.12–3.91) were found to be important factors that increased the risk of mastalgia. As a result, it has been found that severe mastalgia complaints cause by obesity, sagging breasts, never giving birth, unemployment anxiety, regular smoking, alcohol use, and excessive tea consumption.

Is it mastalgia or myofascial pain? A clinical confusion

Objectives

This study aims to investigate the frequency of myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) and its characteristics in mastalgia patients.

Patients and methods

The localization of pain, age, education, menopausal status, hormone replacement and employment status, and existence of comorbid diseases were reviewed on consecutive 131 female mastalgia patients (mean age 43.3±9.4 years; range, 18 to 75 years) in this prospective study conducted between June and December 2019. A total breast pain index (IBP) was obtained and mastalgia was classified according to these scores as mild, moderate, and severe. Patients were divided into four diagnostic groups of MPS, cyclic mastalgia, fibrocystic breast disease, and mastitis.

Results

The total IBP was significantly higher in MPS group (129.2±49.5) than in cyclic mastalgia group (98.3±11.9) (p<0.05). However, it was significantly higher in mastitis group (230.7±17.6) compared to MPS group (p<0.05). The fibrocystic disease group was similar to MPS group in terms of total IBP (p>0.05). Considering the localization of pain according to the quadrants where the pain was felt, 57.1% of the patients who felt pain in the upper quadrants were from MPS group (p=0.001) and 45.3% of the patients who felt pain in the lower quadrants were from cyclic mastalgia group (p=0.001). Myofascial pain was observed particularly in upper quadrants and almost all was unilateral; however, cyclic mastalgia was observed bilaterally in the majority, particularly in lower quadrants.

Conclusion

Myofascial pain syndrome should be kept in mind as an extramammary disorder in the differential diagnosis of particularly unilateral upper quadrant mastalgia. It may be for the benefit of patients complaining of mastalgia with no primary breast disorder to be consulted with a physiatrist.

Evaluation of mastalgia in patients presented to the breast clinic in Duhok city, Iraq: Cross sectional study

INTRODUCTION

Mastalgia is a common condition that may affect up to two-thirds of patients during the reproductive period. It can be divided into cyclical and noncyclical. It is mostly due to benign causes, but breast cancer should be excluded. It may be associated with a high level of stress and anxiety. Patients need to be assessed fully, breast and general examinations, and investigations such as breast imaging and hormonal assay.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This is a prospective study that was done in the breast clinic in the period between February 2019 and July 2019. A total number of 445 patients with mastalgia included were in the study. Patients were examined and evaluated using various imaging modalities.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients was 34 years. Mastalgia was present in 54.2% of our patients, in about 70.1% of our patients it was noncyclical mastalgia. Mastalgia was positively correlated with smoking, oral contraceptive pills, and positive family history of breast cancer (p values: 0.000, 0.009, and 0.000) respectively with no correlation with other factors. The type of pain was less in women having early first pregnancy and with the site of the pain showed a positive correlation with the type of pain, (p values: 0.001 and 0.000) respectively.

CONCLUSION

Mastalgia is a common complaint which may affect most females. It is caused by benign breast disorders in the majority of patients. A systematic approach must be followed for the management of mastalgia. Reassurance, regular exercise, and local analgesics may be very effective initial measures. In severe, intractable cases, hormonal therapy may be used.

A Review of Breast Pain: Causes, Imaging Recommendations, and Treatment

Over two-thirds of women will experience breast pain in their lifetime. As one of the leading breast symptoms for which women seek medical attention, breast pain is suspected to be underreported and under-studied. Cyclical breast pain is related to hormonal changes. Noncyclical breast pain is independent of the menstrual cycle and can be idiopathic and related to chronic pain syndromes, infections, ill-fitting bras, musculoskeletal abnormalities, pregnancy, perimenopause, and postsurgical causes. Breast pain can also present in transgender patients and may require additional considerations as to the underlying cause. Imaging of mastalgia depends upon the suspected etiology. Inappropriate imaging for breast pain is associated with significant utilization of health care resources. Cyclical breast pain does not require an imaging work-up. The work-up of focal, noncyclical breast pain includes ultrasound for women aged younger than 40 years, and mammography and ultrasound for women aged 40 years and older. Management of breast pain is often supportive, as most breast pain resolves spontaneously. If pain persists, imaging and management should follow a step-wise approach. If conservative measures fail, second-line therapy is topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. If breast pain is severe and resistant to conservative methods, additional third-line therapies can be added by breast care specialists with specific knowledge of the potential deleterious side effects of these medications. While the causes of mastalgia are overwhelmingly benign, breast pain can significantly impact quality of life, and the breast radiologist should be familiar with causes, management, and treatment recommendations from a multidisciplinary approach.

Evaluation of 1294 Female Patients with Breast Pain: A Retrospective Study

INTRODUCTION

Mastalgia, or breast pain, is one of the most important complaints referred to outpatient clinics. The objective of this study was to evaluate the factors causing mastalgia. All patients who presented to our clinic with complaints of mastalgia were assessed along with their type of mastalgia symptoms, menopausal status, and radiology results.

METHODS

A total of 3157 patients with mastalgia complaints visited our clinic between January 2015 and February 2018. Only 1294 of them were retrospectively screened. Age, sex, menopausal (premenopausal, postmenopausal) status, mastalgia type (cyclic, non-cyclic), and imaging findings of the patients were examined.

RESULTS

The mean age was 43.8 ± 11.8 (13-86) years, with 453 (35%) patients younger than 40 years and 841 (65%) older than 40. Cyclic mastalgia was found in 207 (16%) patients, and non-cyclic mastalgia was seen in 1087 (84%) patients. A total of 786 (60.7%) patients were premenopausal, and 508 (39.3%) were postmenopausal. Mammography was used in 545 (42.1%) patients; 1190 (92.0%) women had breast ultrasonography.

CONCLUSION

Although breast pain is a common symptom in women who are referred to breast outpatient clinics, we concluded that patients who complain of mastalgia should not be afraid of cancer. Despite this and for reassurance, clinical imaging may be necessary to alleviate these patients' suspicions.

Effectiveness of Matricaria chamomilla (chamomile) extract on pain control of cyclic mastalgia: a double-blind randomised controlled trial

Breast pain (mastalgia) often precedes menstrual period, which is of mild to moderate severity. This study was performed to determine the effectiveness of chamomile on pain control of cyclic mastalgia. This double-blind randomised controlled clinical trial was conducted on 60 patients with mastalgia referred to the breast clinic of an academic hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences. The patients were randomly allocated into two groups: chamomile (n = 30) and placebo (n = 30). Primary outcomes were: (1) assessment of the visual analogue scale (VAS) and (2) assessment of the breast pain chart (BPC) 8 weeks after initial intervention. All the participants were asked to take drops three times a day each time having five drops for two consecutive months. Significant decline was observed in both the groups (chamomile and placebo) after two months (p < .0001 and p = .048, respectively) compared to baseline and between two groups (p = .007). Chamomile was a well-tolerated, secure and effective drug for treating women with mild to moderate mastalgia. Impact statement What is already known on this subject: Breast pain (mastalgia) is a common chief complaint reported by many women. The 'cyclic' type, which usually occurs monthly prior to the onset of menstrual period, is of moderate severity. In 30% of the cases, mastalgia is severe and disturbs normal life, leading to sexual, physical, and social dysfunction as well as depression and anxiety. The cause of cyclical mastalgia is not known, but given the fact that it begins in the luteal phase, it can be caused by hormonal stimulation. A variety of therapies have been recommended. Such therapies include prescription of vitamin B2, B6, E and C, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), diuretics, thyroxin, progesterone, Tamoxifen, Danazol, Bromocriptine and plant extracts like vitexagnus castus, evening primrose oil (EPO). However, given the side effects of hormonal treatment, many women have developed a propensity towards the use of herbal medicine. What do the results of this study add: Chamomile presents a safe, well-tolerated and effective treatment for women with moderate mastalgia. What are the implications of these finding for clinical practice and/or further research: Considering that Danazol, Bromocriptine and Tamoxifen are standard treatments for mastalgia, it would be helpful to carry out a trial study to compare the effect of chamomile extract versus standard treatments. The physicians can prescribe chamomile as a safe alternative treatment for mastalgia.

Can breast ultrasound reduce patient's level of anxiety and pain?

BACKGROUND

Breast pain is one of the most common complaints of women attending a gynecology clinic and general practitioners. This pain can cause anxiety and, consequently, reduce the woman's quality of life. The objective of this study was to assess the severity of pain and anxiety in patients with breast pain and normal examination, before and after breast sonography.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Among the patients with breast pain and normal examination who came for breast sonography in three centers in Shiraz during 2011-2012, 51 patients agreed to cooperate in this project. These patients filled out the questionnaire for evaluation of pain and anxiety before and after breast sonography.

RESULTS

Sonography findings indicated that 88% of patients have normal sonography without any finding. The average amounts of pain severity before and after sonography were 3.3 and 2.4, respectively (p < 0.005). The average amounts of anxiety severity in patients before and after sonography were 51.9 and 37.9, respectively (p < 0.005).

CONCLUSION

This study shows the severity of pain and anxiety after ultrasonography decreased significantly. It can be concluded that ultrasound findings, which reassure the patients that they do not have specific pathology, can reduce the pain and anxiety by its impact on psychological status of the patient.

Efficacy of Psychological Interventions for Patients with Breast Hyperplasia

To explore the efficacy of psychological interventions (PI) in patients with breast hyperplasia (BH). In total 120 BH patients who were treated in the Third Affiliated Hospital of the Third Military Medical University were randomly divided into PI group (n = 40; treated with oral XiaoYao Pill and psychological interventions), anti-anxiety/depression medication (AADM) group (n = 40; treated with oral XiaoYao Pill and paroxetine), and control group (n = 40; treated with oral XiaoYao Pill) and the treatment lasted for 1 year. Before the treatment and 4, 8, and 12 months after the initiation of treatment, the changes in the psychological indicators were measured using Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS), Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA), Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD), and Ways of Coping Questionnaire (WCQ), as well as the physiological indicators including estradiol, prolactin, and progesterone were determined. The overall response rates were evaluated at the end of the treatment, and the relapse rates were calculated during the 1-year follow-up. The HAMD and HAMA scores were declined in all three groups. The scores of TAS and WCQ negative coping subscales showed a declining trend after treatment for the AADM and PI groups. Compared to the control and PI groups, the HAMA and HAMD scores were significantly lower in the AADM group 4, 8, and 12 months after the initiation of treatment (P < 0.05). The scores of TAS and WCQ negative coping subscales were significantly lower in AADM group but were significantly higher than those in PI group and lower than the control group 4, 8, and 12 months after the initiation of treatment (P < 0.05). The HAMA and HAMD scores were significantly lower in PI group than in control group 4, 8, and 12 months after the initiation of treatment (P < 0.05). After the initiation of treatment, the estradiol and prolactin levels decreased while the progesterone levels increased in all three groups. Compared with the control group and AADM group, the PI group had significantly higher estradiol and prolactin levels and higher progesterone levels 4, 8, and 12 months after the initiation of treatment (P < 0.05). Compared with the control group, the AADM group had significantly lower levels of estradiol and prolactin and higher progesterone levels 4, 8, and 12 months after the initiation of treatment (P < 0.05). The overall response rate was not significantly different for both PI group and AADM group (P > 0.05), while the relapse rate was significantly lower in the PI group than the control and AADM groups (P < 0.05). However, the relapse rate did not significantly differ between the control group and AADM group (P > 0.05). PI can effectively improve the psychological status of BH patients and restore the disordered endocrine system. The efficacy lasts for long and the relapse rate is lower. Therefore, it could be an effective method for treating BH.

Centchroman as First-line Treatment for Mastalgia: Results of an Open-label, Single-arm Trial

Mastalgia is a distressing symptom and may be severe enough to interfere with usual daily activities. Breast pain is either cyclical or noncyclical. Currently; multiple options are available for the treatment of mastalgia including hormonal and nonhormonal agents. This study was conducted to evaluate the role of centchroman as a nonhormonal first-line treatment for moderate to severe mastalgia. To accomplish this; a prospective open-label, single-arm study was done using the Pretest-Posttest Design. A total of 100 women suffering from mastalgia were grouped according to the characteristic pattern of breast pain (cyclic and noncyclic) and received centchroman 30 mg/day for 12 weeks followed by observation for 12 weeks. The efficacy analysis of centchroman was done by comparing median Visual Analog Scale score, median pain duration and side effects over time among the two groups. Centchroman significantly alleviates mastalgia with minimal side effects. The median pain score was significantly reduced over successive visits (1, 4, 12, and 24 weeks). The median pain duration decreased remarkably over time in comparison to the baseline (p = 0.001). Overall the response rate was 88% at the end of 12 weeks and 85% at the end of 24 weeks. The drug was found more effective with a quicker response in cyclic pattern of matalgia. Complete response was observed in 66% of cyclic mastalgia and 40% of noncyclic mastalgia patients at 1 week of therapy. The response was improved over time in both groups and at completion of treatment (12 weeks) 92% patients in cyclic group and 80% patients in noncyclic group were pain free. The effect of the drug persisted till the completion (24 weeks) of the study (p = 0.001). These results imply that centchroman is very effective in treating breast pain and can be prescribed as drug of first choice for mastalgia.

Factors Effecting Mastalgia

BACKGROUND

Breast pain is one of the leading complaints that ends up with referral to breast surgery clinics. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the factors that cause mastalgia, and its relation with benign or malignant breast disease.

METHODS

The study was performed in 700 patients. Data obtained from surveys, and imaging findings were prospectively recorded, and analyzed.

RESULTS

The mean age was 45.20 ± 10.78 years. The mastalgia group included 500 cases; the asymptomatic group comprised 200 individuals. Stressful lifestyle, caffeine consumption, and smoking were associated with mastalgia (p < 0.05). Rates of women who had breast fed 3 times or more were higher in the mastalgia group (p < 0.05). Increased breast density, and breast imaging-reporting and data system (BI-RADS) 2 mammography findings were related with mastalgia (p < 0.05). Cysts and fibroadenomas were more common in the mastalgia group (p < 0.05). The incidence of a past history of malignant breast disease was significantly higher in the mastalgia group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Stress, caffeine, smoking, lactation frequency, and benign disorders were factors detected to be related with mastalgia. Although a significant relation between mastalgia and malignant breast disease was detected in our study, more controlled studies are still required to investigate this issue further.

Can mastalgia be another somatic symptom in fibromyalgia syndrome?

OBJECTIVE

The purposes of this study were to determine the coexistence of mastalgia and fibromyalgia, to investigate the effects of this combination on pain patterns, and to discuss the status of breast pain in the diagnostic algorithm of fibromyalgia syndrome.

METHODS

Sixty-one female patients reporting breast pain during the last three months and 53 female patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia syndrome were enrolled in this study. The Breast Pain Questionnaire was administered to all participants in the mastalgia group and to those in the fibromyalgia syndrome group who had experienced mastalgia during the past three months. The patients in the fibromyalgia syndrome group were evaluated using the 2010 preliminary American College of Rheumatology classification criteria. All of the patients in the mastalgia group were evaluated for the diagnosis of fibromyalgia syndrome by a single physiatrist. The coexistence and pain patterns of mastalgia and fibromyalgia were assessed statistically.

RESULTS

Approximately half of the patients with fibromyalgia syndrome (47.2%) reported having mastalgia at the time of admission and 37.7% of the patients with mastalgia met the diagnostic criteria for fibromyalgia syndrome. The patients with mastalgia in the fibromyalgia syndrome group had significantly higher total breast pain scores compared with the women in the mastalgia group. In addition, the patients with fibromyalgia syndrome in the mastalgia group had significantly higher Widespread Pain Index and Symptom Severity Scale scores than the patients with fibromyalgia syndrome.

CONCLUSIONS

We suggest that mastalgia can be an aspect of the central sensitivity syndrome and can be added to the somatic symptoms of fibromyalgia.

Effects of Mastalgia in Young Women on Quality of Life, Depression, and Anxiety Levels

The aims of this study are to evaluate whether or not there is a relationship between mastalgia with anxiety and depression in young women with mastalgia who do not have organic breast pathology and to examine the effect of pain on the quality of life. Forty female pre-menopausal patients between the ages of 20-40 years with mastalgia and 40 totally healthy volunteers with the same characteristics were investigated with the Short Form 36 (SF-36), Hamilton Depression Scale, and the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale prospectively following breast examination and radiological examination. Statistical assessments were performed using the SPSS 11.5. Anxiety levels were observed to be higher in the patient group (p = 0.04). The depression level was higher in the patient group; however, this was not statistically significant (p = 0.08). The quality of life of the mastalgia group was determined to be lower than that of the control group, and the sub-parameters of physical function (p = 0.04), body pain (p = 0.02), general health (p = 0.03), and energy (p = 0.008) were found to be significantly low. There may be a relationship between mastalgia and depression in young women with mastalgia; however, a closer relationship between anxiety and mastalgia is observed. Mastalgia affects the quality of life of an individual negatively at a significant degree.

Care of women veterans

As more women have joined the US military, there has been a shift in the overall veteran population. Those who served in the US military, especially women, have undergone experiences that will impact their overall health and wellbeing. It is therefore critical for providers to better understand US military culture and be prepared on how to ask patients about their military experience. Health care providers need to be aware of the unique medical, psychiatric, and psychosocial needs of women veterans in order to best serve this patient population.

Alcohol and drug misuse, abuse, and dependence in women veterans

We conducted a systematic literature review on substance misuse, abuse, and dependence in women veterans, including National Guard/reserve members. We identified 837 articles published between 1980 and 2013. Of 56 included studies, 32 reported rates of alcohol misuse, binge drinking, or other unhealthy alcohol use not meeting diagnostic criteria for abuse or dependence, and 33 reported rates of drug misuse or diagnosed alcohol or drug use disorders. Rates ranged from 4% to 37% for alcohol misuse and from 7% to 25% for binge drinking; among Veterans Health Administration (VA) health-care system outpatients, rates ranged from 3% to 16% for substance use disorder. Studies comparing women veterans and civilians reported no clear differences in binge or heavy drinking. Substance misuse rates were generally lower among women veterans than men veterans. Substance misuse was associated with higher rates of trauma, psychiatric and medical conditions, and increased mortality and suicide rates. Most studies included only VA patients, and many used only VA medical record data; therefore, the reported substance misuse rates likely do not reflect true prevalence. Rates also varied by assessment method, source of data, and the subgroups studied. Further efforts to develop epidemiologically valid prevalence estimates are needed to capture the true health burden of substance misuse in women veterans, particularly those not using VA care.

A Rare Clinical Entity in the Differential Diagnosis of Mastalgia: Thoracic Zona

OBJECTIVE

Mastalgia is the most common complaint of patients who are admitted for breast examination. Breast pain may originate breast tissue pathologies or non-breast pathologies adjacent organs. One of the causes of mastalgia is the varicella-zoster infection of the thoracic nerve ganglions. The zona zoster infection is painful, and vesicular lesions in the infected dermatomal regions can be observed because of the reactivation of the latent varicella (Herpes)-zoster virus (VZV) in the dorsal radix of medulla spinalis. There are no reviews of the zona cases of mastalgia patients in the literature. We aimed to investigate and represent the characteristics of these patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients complaining of mastalgia and who were diagnosed with zona zoster infection after physical examination and clinical evaluation in the outpatients department of General Surgery were investigated retrospectively between January 2010 and January 2015.

RESULTS

The study included 12 patients. All of them were female, and the mean age of patients was 51.66 (36-72) years. Eight of the zona cases were seen in the right breast (66.6%), and four of them were seen in the left breast (33.4%). Complaints of patients were pain (100%), eruption (70%), and burning sensation (60%). Underlying pathology was seen in one of the cases. Physical examination at admission revealed that four of the patients did not have any physical abnormality (33.3%). On the contrary of vesicular lesions, typical physical findings of zona, were seen in eight patients (66.7%).

CONCLUSION

Detailed history analysis and physical examination of the breast should be performed, particularly in older patients with unilateral severe mastalgia, and zona should be considered.

National prevalence and correlates of alcohol misuse in women veterans

Our goal was to estimate the prevalence and correlates of alcohol misuse in women veterans and to assess the associations between alcohol misuse and mental health (MH) care utilization in a group comprising both Veterans Health Administration (VA) healthcare system users and non-users. We assessed alcohol misuse using survey-based AUDIT-C scores. The prevalence of alcohol misuse was 27% in VA users and 32% in non-users. Prevalence rates were higher for VA users who were younger, served in OEF/OIF, or had combat exposure and for VA non-users who screened positive for posttraumatic stress disorder or sexual assault in the military. In contrast to VA users, VA non-users with alcohol misuse had a low prevalence of past-year MH care despite having indications of MH care need. Our results on alcohol misuse prevalence, its correlates, and its association with MH care may aid program planning and resource allocation in VA and non-VA settings.

Improving care of chronic conditions for women veterans: identifying opportunities for comparative effectiveness research

This article aims to critically analyze research focused on the findings for five chronic conditions: chronic pain, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, HIV and cancer among women veterans to identify opportunities for comparative effectiveness research. We provide a descriptive analysis from the relevant articles in prior systematic reviews. In order to identify potential gaps in research for these specific conditions, we also conducted a literature search to highlight studies focusing on women veterans published since the last systematic review. While the scientific knowledge base has grown for these chronic conditions among women veterans, the vast majority of the published literature remains descriptive and/or observational, with only a few studies examining gender differences and even fewer clinical trials. There is a need to conduct comparative effectiveness research on chronic conditions among women veterans to improve health and healthcare.

Platelet hyperactivity, neurobehavioral symptoms and depression among Indian women chronically exposed to low level of arsenic

The prevalence of neurobehavioral symptoms (NBS) and depression has been investigated in premenopausal rural women of West Bengal, India enrolled from arsenic (As) endemic (groundwater As 11-50 μg/L; n = 342) and control areas (As level ≤ 10 μg/L; n = 312). The subjective symptoms questionnaire and Beck's 21-point depression inventory-II were used for the detection of NBS and depression, respectively. Platelet P-selectin expression was measured by flow cytometry, plasma neurotransmitter activity with high performance liquid chromatography and groundwater As level by atomic absorption spectroscopy. The As level in groundwater was 2.72 ± 1.18 μg/L in control and 28.3 ± 13.51 μg/L in endemic areas (p < 0.0001). Women residing in endemic areas demonstrated a higher prevalence of depressive symptoms (39.8 vs. 19.9%, p < 0.001) and anxiety (43.3 vs. 18.0% in control, p < 0.001), fatigue (68.4 vs. 23.4%, p < 0.0001), reduced sense of taste (15.8 vs. 4.5%, p<0.0001) and smell (14.9 vs. 5.8%, p < 0.001); burning sensation (36.8 vs. 5.4%, p < 0.0001) and tingling or numbness in the extremities (25.1 vs. 5.1%, p < 0.0001); and transient loss of memory (69.9 vs. 28.2%, p < 0.001). As-exposed women had 1.6-times more plasma epinephrine and norepinephrine (p < 0.05), 1.8-times higher level plasma serotonin with 28.9% lower intraplatelet serotonin (p < 0.05 for both), but their plasma dopamine level was not significantly different (p>0.05) from that of controls. Moreover, women from endemic areas had 2.3-times more P-selectin-expressing platelets in their circulation (p < 0.001). After controlling the potential confounders, chronic low level As (11-50 μg/L) exposure showed a positive association with the prevalence of neurobehavioral symptoms and depression among Indian women in their child-bearing age.

Comparing the effects of dietary flaxseed and omega-3 Fatty acids supplement on cyclical mastalgia in Iranian women: a randomized clinical trial

Considering the negative side effects of chemical drugs, there is a great need for effective alternative treatment strategies to manage cyclical mastalgia. Therefore, this study aimed at comparing the effects of flaxseed diet and omega-3 fatty acids supplement on treatment of cyclical mastalgia. In this study, 61, 60, and 60 women, respectively, received flaxseed as bread, omega-3 fatty acids as pearl, and wheat bread as their diet for two menstrual cycles. At the baseline cycle and end of both interventional cycles, intensity of mastalgia was measured using visual analogue scale. Analysis of covariance showed a significant difference among the three groups regarding the mean intensity of cyclical mastalgia in the first and second cycles of the interventions (P < 0.001). Also, repeated measures analysis of covariance with adjustment of two variables of age and mastalgia intensity of the baseline cycle demonstrated that flaxseed bread was more effective compared to omega-3 and wheat bread (P < 0.001). The results of this study demonstrated that flaxseed bread diet was an effective approach in decreasing cyclical mastalgia and could be prescribed to women as a simple treatment with few complications.

Lifelong opioidergic vulnerability through early life separation: a recent extension of the false suffocation alarm theory of panic disorder

The present paper is the edited version of our presentations at the "First World Symposium On Translational Models Of Panic Disorder", in Vitoria, E.S., Brazil, on November 16-18, 2012. We also review relevant work that appeared after the conference. Suffocation-False Alarm Theory (Klein, 1993) postulates the existence of an evolved physiologic suffocation alarm system that monitors information about potential suffocation. Panic attacks maladaptively occur when the alarm is erroneously triggered. The expanded Suffocation-False Alarm Theory (Preter and Klein, 2008) hypothesizes that endogenous opioidergic dysregulation may underlie the respiratory pathophysiology and suffocation sensitivity in panic disorder. Opioidergic dysregulation increases sensitivity to CO2, separation distress and panic attacks. That sudden loss, bereavement and childhood separation anxiety are also antecedents of "spontaneous" panic requires an integrative explanation. Our work unveiling the lifelong endogenous opioid system impairing effects of childhood parental loss (CPL) and parental separation in non-ill, normal adults opens a new experimental, investigatory area.

Cooking with biomass increases the risk of depression in pre-menopausal women in India

Cooking with biomass fuel, a common practice in rural India, is associated with a high level of indoor air pollution (IAP). The aim of this study was to investigate whether IAP from biomass burning increases the risk of depression. For this cross-sectional study, we enrolled a group of 952 women (median age 37 years) who cooked regularly with biomass and a control group of 804 age-matched women who cooked with cleaner fuel (liquefied petroleum gas). Depression was assessed using the second edition of Beck's depression inventory (BDI-II). Platelet P-selectin expression was assessed by flow cytometry and platelet serotonin was measured by ELISA. Particulate matter having diameter of less than 10 and 2.5 μm (PM(10) and PM(2.5), respectively) in indoor air was measured by real-time aerosol monitor. Carbon monoxide (CO) in exhaled breath was measured by CO monitor. Compared with the control group, women who cooked with biomass had a higher prevalence of depression and depleted platelet serotonin, suggesting altered serotonergic activity in the brain. In addition, P-selectin expression on platelet surface was up-regulated implying platelet hyperactivity and consequent risk of cardiovascular disease. Biomass-using households had increased levels of PM(10) and PM(2.5), and biomass users had elevated levels of CO in expired air. Controlling potential confounders, cooking with biomass was found to be an independent and strong risk factor for depression. IAP from cooking with biomass is a risk for depression among rural women in their child-bearing age.

Systematic review of prevalence, correlates, and treatment outcomes for chronic non-cancer pain in patients with comorbid substance use disorder

Recent data suggest that comorbid substance use disorders (SUDs) are common among chronic non-cancer pain (CNCP) patients; however, prevalence rates vary across studies and findings are limited regarding treatment options for CNCP patients with comorbid SUD. The purpose of this systematic review is to assess the prevalence, associated demographic and clinical characteristics, and treatment outcomes for CNCP patients with comorbid SUD. We conducted searches from Ovid MEDLINE, PsychINFO, and PubMED from 1950 through February 2010 and retrieved the references. Thirty-eight studies met inclusion criteria and provided data that addressed our key questions. Three to forty-eight percent of CNCP patients have a current SUD. There are no demographic or clinical factors that consistently differentiate CNCP patients with comorbid SUD from patients without SUD, though SUD patients appear to be at greater risk for aberrant medication-related behaviors. CNCP patients with SUD are more likely to be prescribed opioid medications and at higher doses than CNCP patients without a history of SUD. CNCP patients with comorbid SUD do not significantly differ in their responses to treatment compared to CNCP patients without SUD, though the quality of this evidence is low. Limited data are available to identify predictors of treatment outcome. Although clinical experience and research suggests that SUDs are common among CNCP patients, only limited data are available to guide clinicians who treat this population. Research is needed to increase understanding of the prevalence, correlates, and responses to treatment of CNCP patients with comorbid SUDs.

Is there an association between mastalgia and fibromyalgia? Comparing prevalence and symptom severity

To determine the prevalence of mastalgia in patients with fibromyalgia (FM) and the prevalence of FM in patients with mastalgia in order to investigate coexistence, and to compare the pain patterns in the case of mastalgia or FM alone versus the two in combination. Fifty consecutive patients with mastalgia and 50 consecutive patients with FM were assessed and examined both for the existence and severity of mastalgia and FM. A high proportion of patients with mastalgia (36%) fulfilled the criteria for FM and 42% had mastalgia in the FM group. Two distinctive entities mastalgia and FM, being both unexplained pain syndromes, seem to frequently coexist. Patients with mastalgia or FM should be thoroughly questioned considering each of the diseases so that in case of coexistence an appropriate therapy might be implemented for a successful pain management.

Health-related quality of life in vacuum-assisted breast biopsy: short-term effects, long-term effects and predictors

BACKGROUND

The impact of Vacuum-assisted breast biopsy (VABB, 11-Gauge) upon Health-related Quality of Life (HRQoL) remains an open field. This study aims to: i) assess short-term (4 days after VABB) responses in terms of HRQoL after VABB, ii) evaluate long-term (18 months after VABB) responses, if any, and iii) examine whether these responses are modified by a variety of possible predictors (anthropometric, sociodemographic, lifestyle habits, breast-related parameters, reproductive history, VABB-related features and complications, seasonality).

METHODS

This study included 102 eligible patients undergoing VABB and having benign lesions. A variable number of cores (24-96 cores) has been excised. HRQoL was assessed by EQ-5D and SF-36(R) questionnaires: i) in the morning of the VABB procedure day (baseline measurement), ii) four days after VABB (early post-biopsy measurement) and iii) 18 months after VABB (late post-biopsy measurement). Statistical analysis comprised two steps: i. evaluation of differences in EQ-5D/SF-36 dimensions and calculated scores (baseline versus early post-biopsy measurement and baseline versus late post-biopsy measurement) and ii. assessment of predictors through multivariate linear, logistic, ordinal logistic regression, as appropriate.

RESULTS

At baseline patients presented with considerable anxiety (EQ-5D anxiety/depression dimension, EQ-5D TTO/VAS indices, SF-36 Mental Health dimension). At the early post-biopsy measurement women exhibited deterioration in Usual Activities (EQ-5D) and Role Functioning-Physical dimensions. At the late measurement women exhibited pain (EQ-5D pain/discomfort and SF-36 Bodily Pain), deterioration in Physical Functioning (SF-36 PF) and overall SF-36 Physical Component Scale (PCS). Mastalgia, older age and lower income emerged as significant predictors for baseline anxiety, whereas seasonality modified early activities-related responses. Pain seemed idiosyncratic.

CONCLUSIONS

The HRQoL profile of patients suggests that VABB exerts effects prior to its performance at a psychological level, immediately after its performance at a functioning-physical level and entails long-term effects associated with pain.

Irritable bowel syndrome symptoms and health related quality of life in female veterans

BACKGROUND

The status and determinants of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in female veterans with and without irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are unknown.

AIM

To compare HRQOL in female veterans with and without IBS symptoms and examine the contribution of post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety to HRQOL.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study of 339 female veterans. Self-report questionnaires were used to evaluate IBS symptoms, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety and HRQOL.

RESULTS

Symptoms consistent with IBS were present in 33.5% of participants. Female veterans with IBS symptoms had significant reductions in physical component score and 5 of 8 Health Related Quality of Life subscales and on 7 of 8 Irritable Bowel Syndrome Quality Of Life subscales than female veterans without IBS symptoms. Compared with the US general female population, female veterans had significantly lower Health Related Quality of Life physical component score and mental component scores (MCS) irrespective of IBS symptom status. Differences in the MCS score were most explained by depression, while those in the physical component score were most explained by anxiety.

CONCLUSIONS

Irritable bowel syndrome symptoms in female veterans are associated with considerable reduction in HRQOL. However, female veterans, regardless of IBS symptom status, have lower HRQOL compared with the general US female population.

Gender differences in veterans health administration mental health service use: effects of age and psychiatric diagnosis

PURPOSE

The objective of this study was to compare gender differences in mental health disease burden and outpatient mental health utilization among veterans utilizing Veterans Health Administration (VHA) mental health services in fiscal year 1999 (FY99), after the first Gulf War and significant restructuring of VHA services.

METHODS

We used logistic regression to examine the relationships among gender, age, diagnostic groups, and utilization of mental health and specialty mental health services in a national sample of veterans. The sample included 782,789 veterans with at least 1 outpatient visit in the VHA in FY99 associated with a mental health or substance abuse (SA) diagnosis. Subgroup analyses were performed for 4 diagnostic categories: 1) posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), 2) SA disorders, 3) bipolar and psychotic disorders, and 4) mood and anxiety disorders.

MAIN FINDINGS

Younger women veterans (<35 years old) were significantly less likely and older women (> or =35) more likely to use any mental health services in comparison with their male counterparts. Similar findings were observed for younger women diagnosed with SA or mood and anxiety disorders, but not among veterans with PTSD or bipolar and psychotic disorders, among whom no there were no gender or age differences. In the case of specialized services for SA or PTSD, women younger than 55 with SA or PTSD were significantly less likely to use services than men.

CONCLUSION

Women veterans underutilized specialty mental health services in relation to men but receipt of mental health care overall in FY99 varied by age and diagnosis. Examining gender differences alone, without taking other factors into account, may not provide an adequate picture of women veterans' current mental health service needs.

Comparison of naproxen with placebo for the management of noncyclical breast pain: a randomized, double-blind, controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Breast pain is a common symptom in patients attending breast clinics. Although most patients experience mastalgia of mild to moderate severity, approximately 15% of patients suffer from severe pain that causes significant distress and some disturbance in their daily life that lead them to seek treatment. Despite a considerable number of drugs suggested for decreasing the severity of mastalgia, there is no standard treatment for the complaint. In this study, we investigated the effect of naproxen on reducing the complaint of breast pain compared with placebo.

METHODS

Eighty-one women suffering from noncyclic breast pain were recruited to a randomized, double-blind, clinical trial between January 2002 and September 2004. All patients were suffering from this complaint for at least 3 months before the study. Patients were randomly assigned to two groups. Patients in the case group received naproxen 250 mg BD. Patients in the placebo group took placebo in a similar manner. The intensity of mastalgia was assessed before and twice after intervention by using a Visual Analogue Scale.

RESULTS

Forty-two of 81 patients were recruited randomly as cases and the remaining 39 were assigned placebo. Of these 24 and 22 patients fulfilled the study protocol respectively. The mean age of patients was 35 (SD = 7.5; range, 19-55) years. The mean pain severity at the beginning of the study was 5.8 and 6.1 in naproxen and placebo groups, respectively. The severity of pain was decreased significantly at the end of the study in both groups (3.9 in patients and 3.7 in controls (P = 0.005 and 0.0001)). Although the decrease in pain severity in each individual group was statistically significant, it was not significant compared with one another (P = 0.64).

CONCLUSIONS

Breast pain is a complex symptom that can be relieved significantly with reassurance. According to the result of this study, naproxen has no superiority over placebo in reducing noncyclic breast pain.

Postoperative complications in the seriously mentally ill: a systematic review of the literature

OBJECTIVE

To determine the knowledge base on clinical outcomes of surgery among persons diagnosed with serious mental illness.

BACKGROUND

Despite a burgeoning literature during the last 20 years regarding perioperative risk management, little is known about intraoperative and postoperative complications among patients with schizophrenia and other serious mental illnesses.

METHODS

A systematic literature search of Medline (1966-August 2007) and review of studies was conducted. Eligible studies were of any design with at least 10 patients diagnosed with serious mental illness, reporting perioperative medical, surgical, or psychiatric complications.

RESULTS

The search identified 1367 potentially relevant publications; only 12 met eligibility criteria. Of 10 studies of patients with schizophrenia, 9 had fewer than 100 patients, whereas one large retrospective study reported higher rates of postoperative complications among 466 schizophrenia patients compared with 338,257 controls. These studies suggest that patients with schizophrenia, compared with those without mental illness, may have higher pain thresholds, higher rates of death and postoperative complications, and differential outcomes (eg, confusion, ileus) by anesthetic technique. Two studies evaluated outcomes in patients with major depressive disorder and found higher rates of postoperative delirium and postoperative confusion. Both schizophrenia and depression patients experienced more postoperative confusion or delirium when psychiatric medications were discontinued preoperatively. We identified no studies of perioperative outcomes in patients with bipolar or posttraumatic stress disorder.

CONCLUSIONS

There are few studies of perioperative outcomes in patients with serious mental illness. Future research should assess surgical risks among patients with serious psychiatric conditions using rigorous methods and well-defined clinical outcomes.

Comorbidity of fibromyalgia and psychiatric disorders

There are mounting data supporting comorbidity of fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) and psychiatric conditions. These include depression, panic disorders, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The nature of the relationship between depression and FMS is not fully understood, and it was hypothesized that chronic pain causes depression, or vice versa, and that chronic pain syndromes are variants of depression. A link between PTSD symptoms and FMS has been reported, and both conditions share similar symptomatology and pathogenetic mechanisms. Assessment of comorbid psychiatric disorders in FMS patients has clinical implications because treatment in these patients should focus both on physical and emotional dimensions of dysfunction.