1
|
Affdal AO, Salama M, Ravitsky V. Ethical, legal, social, and policy issues of ovarian tissue cryopreservation in prepubertal girls: a critical interpretive review. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:999-1026. [PMID: 38430324 PMCID: PMC11052756 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03059-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite the increasing number of childhood cancer survivors, significant advances in ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) technique and medical societies' recommendations, fertility preservation (FP) and FP discussions are not always offered as a standard of care in the pediatric context. The aim of this literature review is to understand what ethical, legal, social, and policy issues may influence the provision of FP by OTC in prepubertal girls with cancer. METHODS A critical interpretive review of peer-reviewed papers published between 2000 and January 2023 was conducted, guided by the McDougall's version of the critical interpretive synthesis (Dixon-Woods), to capture recurring concepts, principles, and arguments regarding FP by OTC for prepubertal girls. RESULTS Of 931 potentially relevant papers, 162 were included in our analysis. Data were grouped into seven thematic categories: (1) risks of the procedure, (2) unique decision-making issues in pediatric oncofertility, (3) counseling, (4) cultural and cost issues, and (5) disposition of cryopreserved reproductive tissue. CONCLUSION This first literature review focusing on ethical, legal, social, and policy issues surrounding OTC in prepubertal girls highlights concerns in the oncofertility debate. Although OTC is no longer experimental as of December 2019, these issues could limit its availability and the child's future reproductive autonomy. This review concludes that specific actions must be provided to enable the offer of FP, such as supporting families' decision-making in this unique and complex context, and providing pediatric patients universal and full access to free or highly subsidized OTC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vardit Ravitsky
- University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada
- The Hastings Center, Garrison, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wnuk K, Świtalski J, Miazga W, Tatara T, Religioni U, Olszewski P, Augustynowicz A. The Usage of Cryopreserved Reproductive Material in Cancer Patients Undergoing Fertility Preservation Procedures. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5348. [PMID: 38001608 PMCID: PMC10670543 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15225348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many cancer treatment methods can affect fertility by damaging the reproductive organs and glands that control fertility. Changes can be temporary or permanent. In order to preserve the fertility of cancer patients and protect the genital organs against gonadotoxicity, methods of fertility preservation are increasingly used. Considering that some patients ultimately decide not to use cryopreserved reproductive material, this review analysed the percentage of post-cancer patients using cryopreserved reproductive material, collected before treatment as part of fertility preservation. METHODS A systematic search of studies was carried out in accordance with the Cochrane Collaboration guidelines, based on a previously prepared research protocol. The search was conducted in Medline (via PubMed), Embase (via OVID), and the Cochrane Library. In addition, a manual search was performed for recommendations/clinical practice guidelines regarding fertility preservation in cancer patients. RESULTS Twenty-six studies met the inclusion criteria. The studies included in the review discussed the results of cryopreservation of oocytes, embryos, ovarian tissue, and semen. In 10 studies, the usage rate of cryopreserved semen ranged from 2.6% to 21.5%. In the case of cryopreserved female reproductive material, the return/usage rate ranged from 3.1% to 8.7% for oocytes, approx. 9% to 22.4% for embryos, and 6.9% to 30.3% for ovarian tissue. In studies analysing patients' decisions about unused reproductive material, continuation of material storage was most often indicated. Recovering fertility or death of the patient were the main reasons for rejecting cryopreserved semen in the case of men. CONCLUSION Fertility preservation before gonadotoxic treatment is widely recommended and increasingly used in cancer patients. The usage rate is an important indicator for monitoring the efficacy of these methods. In all of the methods described in the literature, this indicator did not exceed 31%. It is necessary to create legal and organizational solutions regulating material collection and storage and to create clear paths for its usage in the future, including by other recipients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Wnuk
- Department of Health Policy Programs, Department of Health Technology Assessment, Agency for Health Technology Assessment and Tariff System, 00032 Warsaw, Poland
- School of Public Health, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education of Warsaw, Kleczewska 61/63, 01826 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jakub Świtalski
- Department of Health Economics and Medical Law, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Warsaw, 01445 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Wojciech Miazga
- Department of Health Policy Programs, Department of Health Technology Assessment, Agency for Health Technology Assessment and Tariff System, 00032 Warsaw, Poland
- School of Public Health, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education of Warsaw, Kleczewska 61/63, 01826 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Tomasz Tatara
- Department of Health Policy Programs, Department of Health Technology Assessment, Agency for Health Technology Assessment and Tariff System, 00032 Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Warsaw, 02091 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Urszula Religioni
- School of Public Health, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education of Warsaw, Kleczewska 61/63, 01826 Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Anna Augustynowicz
- Department of Health Economics and Medical Law, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Warsaw, 01445 Warsaw, Poland;
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zaami S, Stark M, Signore F, Gullo G, Marinelli E. Fertility preservation in female cancer sufferers: (only) a moral obligation? EUR J CONTRACEP REPR 2022; 27:335-340. [PMID: 35297279 DOI: 10.1080/13625187.2022.2045936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Advances in cancer diagnostics and therapeutics have thankfully led to high numbers of young cancer survivors, although some interventions may sometimes threaten fertility. The authors aimed to assess how evidence-based oncofertility counselling can be adequately fulfilled for the sake of female cancer patients, in light of its complexities and multidisciplinary nature, which require thorough counselling and consent pathways. MATERIALS AND METHODS A search has been conducted in the databases PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, EMBASE and Google Scholar via search strings such as fertility preservation, reproductive counselling, oncofertility, cancer survivors, in order to identify relevant meaningful sources spanning the 2010-2021 period. RESULTS Counselling needs to be implemented in compliance with international guidelines, so as to avoid medicolegal repercussions. Albeit fertility preservation is supported by most health care institutions, actual conditions at health care facilities often reflect several lingering difficulties in the oncofertility process. Oncofertility counselling should foster access to fertility preservation procedures. To best serve that purpose, it should be implemented in a manner consistent with ethical and legal standards, so that patients can make an informed decision based on comprehensive and relevant data. CONCLUSIONS Counselling needs to be rooted in a close cooperation of oncologists, reproductive endocrinologists, mental health counsellors and clinical researchers. The provision of oncofertility services is grounded in the moral obligation to uphold individual autonomy, which is essential in a free society, unless the exercise thereof could pose a risk to the children conceived or to others.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simona Zaami
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Michael Stark
- The New European Surgical Academy (NESA), Berlin, Germany
| | - Fabrizio Signore
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, USL Roma2, Sant'Eugenio Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Gullo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Villa Sofia Cervello Hospital, IVF UNIT, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Enrico Marinelli
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Coker Appiah L, Fei YF, Olsen M, Lindheim SR, Puccetti DM. Disparities in Female Pediatric, Adolescent and Young Adult Oncofertility: A Needs Assessment. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5419. [PMID: 34771582 PMCID: PMC8582476 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Advancements in cancer screening and implementation of targeted treatments have significantly improved survival rates to 85% for pediatric and AYA survivors. Greater than 75% of survivors will live to experience the long-term adverse outcomes of cancer therapies, termed late effects (LE), that disrupt quality of life (QoL). Infertility and poor reproductive outcomes are significant disruptors of QoL in survivorship, affecting 12-88% of survivors who receive at-risk therapies. To mitigate risk, fertility preservation (FP) counseling is recommended as standard of care prior to gonadotoxic therapy. However, disparities in FP counseling, implementation of FP interventions, and screening for gynecologic late effects in survivorship persist. Barriers to care include a lack of provider and patient knowledge of the safety and breadth of current FP options, misconceptions about the duration of time required to implement FP therapies, cost, and health care team bias. Developing strategies to address barriers and implement established guidelines are necessary to ensure equity and improve quality of care across populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leslie Coker Appiah
- Division of Academic Specialists in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, CO 80045, USA
- Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Denver, CO 80045, USA
| | - Yueyang Frances Fei
- Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA;
| | - Mallery Olsen
- Department of Medicine, The University of Wisconsin School of Medicine, Madison, WI 53705, USA; (M.O.); (D.M.P.)
- Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, American Family Children’s Hospital, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Steven R. Lindheim
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wright State University, Dayton, OH 45409, USA;
- School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Diane M. Puccetti
- Department of Medicine, The University of Wisconsin School of Medicine, Madison, WI 53705, USA; (M.O.); (D.M.P.)
- Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, American Family Children’s Hospital, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Oliveira RD, Maya BG, Nogueira MBS, Conceição GS, Bianco B, Barbosa CP. Fertility preservation in breast cancer with oral progestin: is it an option? A pilot study. EINSTEIN-SAO PAULO 2021; 19:eAO5859. [PMID: 34431852 PMCID: PMC8354590 DOI: 10.31744/einstein_journal/2021ao5859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the effectiveness of oral progestins and injectable gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist medication in cancer fertility preservation in patients with breast cancer. METHODS A cross-sectional study with 40 breast cancer patients submitted to cancer fertility preservation, who were divided into two groups according to histochemical analysis of progesterone receptors to define luteinizing hormone block: if positive, use of gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist, if negative, use of oral progestins. The mean age, medication days, antral follicle count, number of oocytes in metaphase II and the occurrence of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome were compared. RESULTS A total of 20 patients both in the group using gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist, and in the group with oral progestins, respectively, had a mean age of 33.9 (32-35.8) and 33.8 (32-35.6) years; days of medications of 11 (9.7-12.3) and 12.8 (11.6-13.9), p=0.037; antral follicle count of 9 (7.11-12) and 8.5 (6-11.9), p=0.370; metaphase II oocyte number of 4 (2.1-9.8) and 7.5 (3.1-10), p=0.348; and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome of 2 (10%) and 5 (25%) cases, p=0.212. CONCLUSION The use of oral progestins, in spite of requiring longer treatment time, is effective in relation to the protocol with gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist, and offers greater comfort at a lower cost in breast cancer patients with negative progesterone receptors, submitted to cancer fertility preservation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renato de Oliveira
- Sexual, Reproductive Health, and Population Genetics, Department of Community Health, Centro Universitário FMABC, Santo André, SP, Brazil
| | - Bárbara Gomes Maya
- Sexual, Reproductive Health, and Population Genetics, Department of Community Health, Centro Universitário FMABC, Santo André, SP, Brazil
| | - Mariana Bittencourt Silva Nogueira
- Sexual, Reproductive Health, and Population Genetics, Department of Community Health, Centro Universitário FMABC, Santo André, SP, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Seixas Conceição
- Sexual, Reproductive Health, and Population Genetics, Department of Community Health, Centro Universitário FMABC, Santo André, SP, Brazil
| | - Bianca Bianco
- Sexual, Reproductive Health, and Population Genetics, Department of Community Health, Centro Universitário FMABC, Santo André, SP, Brazil
| | - Caio Parente Barbosa
- Sexual, Reproductive Health, and Population Genetics, Department of Community Health, Centro Universitário FMABC, Santo André, SP, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Mulder RL, Font-Gonzalez A, van Dulmen-den Broeder E, Quinn GP, Ginsberg JP, Loeffen EAH, Hudson MM, Burns KC, van Santen HM, Berger C, Diesch T, Dirksen U, Giwercman A, Gracia C, Hunter SE, Kelvin JF, Klosky JL, Laven JSE, Lockart BA, Neggers SJCMM, Peate M, Phillips B, Reed DR, Tinner EME, Byrne J, Veening M, van de Berg M, Verhaak CM, Anazodo A, Rodriguez-Wallberg K, van den Heuvel-Eibrink MM, Asogwa OA, Brownsdon A, Wallace WH, Green DM, Skinner R, Haupt R, Kenney LB, Levine J, van de Wetering MD, Tissing WJE, Paul NW, Kremer LCM, Inthorn J. Communication and ethical considerations for fertility preservation for patients with childhood, adolescent, and young adult cancer: recommendations from the PanCareLIFE Consortium and the International Late Effects of Childhood Cancer Guideline Harmonization Group. Lancet Oncol 2021; 22:e68-e80. [PMID: 33539755 DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(20)30595-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Patients with childhood, adolescent, and young adult cancer who will be treated with gonadotoxic therapies are at increased risk for infertility. Many patients and their families desire biological children but effective communication about treatment-related infertility risk and procedures for fertility preservation does not always happen. The PanCareLIFE Consortium and the International Late Effects of Childhood Cancer Guideline Harmonization Group reviewed the literature and developed a clinical practice guideline that provides recommendations for ongoing communication methods for fertility preservation for patients who were diagnosed with childhood, adolescent, and young adult cancer at age 25 years or younger and their families. Moreover, the guideline panel formulated considerations of the ethical implications that are associated with these procedures. Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation methodology was used to grade the evidence and recommendations. In this clinical practice guideline, existing evidence and international expertise are combined to develop transparent recommendations that are easy to use to facilitate ongoing communication between health-care providers and patients with childhood, adolescent, and young adult cancer who might be at high risk for fertility impairment and their families.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renée L Mulder
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, Netherlands.
| | - Anna Font-Gonzalez
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, Netherlands; Pediatric Oncology, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Eline van Dulmen-den Broeder
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, Netherlands; Pediatric Oncology, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Gwendolyn P Quinn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Population Health, and Division of Medical Ethics, New York University School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jill P Ginsberg
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Erik A H Loeffen
- Department of Pediatric Oncology/Hematology, Beatrix Children's Hospital, UMC Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Melissa M Hudson
- Department of Epidemiology and Cancer Control and Department of Oncology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Karen C Burns
- Cancer and Blood Disease Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Hanneke M van Santen
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, Netherlands; Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Claire Berger
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Saint-Étienne, Saint-Étienne, France; Host Research Team EA4607 Autonomic Nervous System, Epidemiology, Physiology, Exercise, and Health, Jean Monnet University of Saint-Étienne, Education and Research Cluster Lyon, Saint-Étienne, France
| | - Tamara Diesch
- Department of Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, University Children's Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Uta Dirksen
- Department of Pediatrics III, West German Cancer Centre, Essen University Hospital, Essen, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Partner Site, Essen, Germany
| | - Aleksander Giwercman
- Division of Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Clarisa Gracia
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sarah E Hunter
- Starship Blood and Cancer Centre, Starship Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | - James L Klosky
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA; Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Joop S E Laven
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Barbara A Lockart
- Division of Pediatric Surgery and Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Stem Cell Transplantation, Ann and Robert H Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Sebastian J C M M Neggers
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, Netherlands; Sophia Children's Hospital and Pituitary Center Rotterdam, Endocrinology Section, Department of Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Michelle Peate
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Women's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Bob Phillips
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Damon R Reed
- Adolescent Young Adult Oncology Program, H Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Eva Maria E Tinner
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University Children's Hospital, Inselspital, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Margreet Veening
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, Netherlands; Pediatric Oncology, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marleen van de Berg
- Pediatric Oncology, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Chris M Verhaak
- Department of Medical Psychology, Radboudumc Nijmegen, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Antoinette Anazodo
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Nelune Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia; School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kenny Rodriguez-Wallberg
- Division of Gynecology and Reproduction, Department of Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marry M van den Heuvel-Eibrink
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, Netherlands; Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Alexandra Brownsdon
- Children and Young Peoples' Cancer Service, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - W Hamish Wallace
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Daniel M Green
- Department of Epidemiology and Cancer Control and Department of Oncology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Roderick Skinner
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Haematology/Oncology, Great North Children's Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK; Newcastle University Centre for Cancer, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Riccardo Haupt
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics Unit and DOPO Clinic, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genova, Italy
| | - Lisa B Kenney
- Boston Children's Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jennifer Levine
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Wim J E Tissing
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, Netherlands; Department of Pediatric Oncology/Hematology, Beatrix Children's Hospital, UMC Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Norbert W Paul
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Population Health, and Division of Medical Ethics, New York University School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Leontien C M Kremer
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, Netherlands; Pediatric Oncology, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Julia Inthorn
- Institute for the History, Philosophy, and Ethics of Medicine, Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Gonçalves V, Ferreira PL, Quinn GP. Integration of partners of young women with cancer in oncofertility evidence-based informational resources. Cancer Med 2020; 9:7375-7380. [PMID: 32864852 PMCID: PMC7571813 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.3377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Oncofertility has evolved over the years, with a prodigious amount of research documenting the importance of fertility for young patients with cancer, and the potential impact that fertility impairments due to cancer treatments has on their Quality of Life (QoL). Multiple professional bodies and scientific societies have included fertility as an integral part of clinical management. Clinical guidelines advocate that health professionals have the duty to discuss the risk of infertility and fertility preservation options as early as possible and refer to fertility specialists when appropriate. Collectively, fertility decisions are regarded as difficult for both patients and providers. Since providing fertility‐related information is vital for better decision making, researchers and policy makers have concentrated their efforts in developing educational tools to aid decisions and guidelines to optimize the delivery of this information, focusing mainly on patients‐providers and largely neglecting the role and influence that partners play in this process. Here, we reflect on the importance of partners in fertility decisions, with a focus on the provision of fertility‐related information that is also geared towards partner. We highlight the need to involve partners in fertility discussions, and that their needs should be taken into account in both clinical guidelines and in the development of educational tools, for an optimal decision‐making process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vânia Gonçalves
- Centre for Health Studies and Research of the University of Coimbra (CEISUC), Faculty of Economics, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Pedro L Ferreira
- Centre for Health Studies and Research of the University of Coimbra (CEISUC), Faculty of Economics, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Gwendolyn P Quinn
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Population Health, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Hussein RS, Khan Z, Zhao Y. Fertility Preservation in Women: Indications and Options for Therapy. Mayo Clin Proc 2020; 95:770-783. [PMID: 32247351 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2019.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Fertility preservation (FP) is a vital issue for individuals in either reproductive or prepubescent stage of life when future fertility may be compromised. The objective of any FP intervention is to minimize or eliminate primary disease burden and to ensure maintaining or preserving reproductive health. Fertility potential can be affected by cancer therapy and numerous other factors, including advancing age, metabolic conditions, autoimmune diseases, specific surgical interventions, and sex affirmation procedures. A paradigm shift focusing on quality-of-life issues and long-term survivorship has emerged, especially because of advances in cancer diagnostics and treatment. Several FP techniques have been widely distributed, while others are still in the research stage. In addition, specific procedures and some potentially fertoprotective agents are being developed, aiming to minimize the hazards of gonadal damage caused by cancer therapy and decrease the need for more costly, invasive, and time-consuming FP methods. This review highlights the advances, indications, and options for FP, both experimental and well-established, in females of various age groups. An electronic search in PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar databases was conducted, including retrospective studies, prospective clinical trials, meta-analyses, original reviews, and online abstracts published up to June 30, 2019. The search terms used included fertility preservation, oncofertility, embryo cryopreservation, oocyte cryopreservation, and ovarian tissue cryopreservation. The meeting proceedings of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology were also hand searched.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reda S Hussein
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Zaraq Khan
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; Division of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Yulian Zhao
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; Division of Laboratory Genetics and Genomics, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Moravek MB, Appiah LC, Anazodo A, Burns KC, Gomez-Lobo V, Hoefgen HR, Frias OJ, Laronda MM, Levine J, Meacham LR, Pavone ME, Quinn GP, Rowell EE, Strine AC, Woodruff TK, Nahata L. Development of a Pediatric Fertility Preservation Program: A Report From the Pediatric Initiative Network of the Oncofertility Consortium. J Adolesc Health 2019; 64:563-573. [PMID: 30655118 PMCID: PMC6478520 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2018.10.297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2018] [Revised: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Infertility is known to decrease quality of life among adults. In some cases, infertility is caused by medical conditions and/or treatments prescribed in childhood, and using methods to protect or preserve fertility may expand future reproductive possibilities. Structured programs to offer counseling about infertility risk and fertility preservation options are essential in the care of pediatric patients facing fertility-threatening conditions or treatments, yet multiple barriers to program development exist. This report was developed from the institutional experiences of members of the Pediatric Initiative Network of the Oncofertility Consortium, with the intent of providing guidance for health care providers aiming to establish programs at institutions lacking pediatric fertility preservation services. The mechanics of building a fertility preservation program are discussed, including essential team members, target populations, fertility preservation options (both established and experimental), survivorship issues, research opportunities, and ethical considerations. Common barriers to program development and utilization, including low referral rates and financial concerns, are also discussed, and recommendations made for overcoming such barriers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Molly B Moravek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
| | - Leslie C Appiah
- The Ohio State University/Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, Ohio;,James Cancer Center, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Antoinette Anazodo
- Sydney Children’s Hospital, Sydney, Australia;,Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, Australia;,University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Karen C Burns
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Veronica Gomez-Lobo
- Washington Hospital Center/Children’s National Medical Center/Georgetown University, Washington, DC
| | | | | | - Monica M. Laronda
- Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital, Chicago, Illinois;,Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | | | - Lillian R Meacham
- Aflac Cancer Center/Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta/Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | | | | | - Erin E. Rowell
- Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital, Chicago, Illinois;,Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Andrew C Strine
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | | | - Leena Nahata
- The Ohio State University/Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Hanselin MR, Roybal DL, Leininger TB. Ethics and Oncofertility: A Call for Religious Sensitivity. J Oncol Pract 2017; 13:e582-e589. [DOI: 10.1200/jop.2016.020487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
For patients of reproductive age, treating cancer may come at the price of infertility. Literature regarding fertility preservation recommendations in this population has increased significantly, but this literature too often overlooks or insufficiently considers the relevance of religious preferences. Similarly, practice guidelines do not address the role of religion in the oncofertility discussion. The acceptance of oncofertility practices varies significantly among Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. A patient’s faith-based spirituality or secular morality may enhance his or her interpretation of the meaning of illness and should be incorporated into the informed-consent process. In this article, we describe the role of religious sensitivity in oncofertility care and argue for its importance in such care. We briefly summarize the views and moral reasoning about oncofertility in a few religions commonly encountered in many patient populations today. We recommend that clinicians discuss fertility options early in the decision process and, when relevant, incorporate the patient’s moral and religious preferences into the treatment plan. We encourage providers to be prepared to offer resources to patients who desire moral and spiritual guidance about fertility preservation options. Hospital chaplains should be able to provide such resources.
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
Adult survivors of pediatric cancers are at substantial risk for infertility. Oncofertility is an emerging field in medicine that has focused on the fertility preservation of these patients. As the field continues to develop, there are several areas in which our practice has improved. However, several ethical concerns still exist involving beneficence, nonmaleficence, informed consent, adolescent assent, and posthumous use of reproductive tissues. Because the field is still developing, great disparities exist in available options depending on age, ability to pay, and geographic location. Such discrepancies in access may lead to health disparities in the adolescent patient population. As the science continues to make future fertility more feasible, the ethical questions will continue to be more complex. The purpose of this article is to review some of the developments regarding oncoferility and address future directions for research and inquiry in specific areas.
Collapse
|
12
|
Gonçalves V, Quinn GP. Review of fertility preservation issues for young women with breast cancer. HUM FERTIL 2016; 19:152-65. [DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2016.1193228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Vânia Gonçalves
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Gwendolyn P. Quinn
- Department of Health Outcomes & Behavior, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer and Research Institute, Morsani College of Medicine, The University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loss of fertility is one of the many potential late effects of cancer treatment. For young men and women who have not yet started or completed building their families, this can be a source of considerable emotional distress. Advances in reproductive technology can enable many of these patients to preserve their fertility; however, discussions must be initiated early enough during treatment planning to enable them to take advantage of these options. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this article is to provide oncology nurses with information, strategies, and resources to discuss fertility with men and women starting cancer treatment. METHODS This article summarizes the literature on treatment-related fertility risks and fertility preservation options, and provides a systematic framework for nurses to integrate these discussions into practice. FINDINGS Oncology nurses can effectively collaborate with other members of the healthcare team to ensure that young men and women starting cancer treatment are informed of the potential risks to fertility from their planned treatment, understand options to preserve fertility before treatment, and, if interested, are referred to appropriate reproductive specialists.
Collapse
|
14
|
Abstract
Fertility preservation is the process by which either oocytes (eggs) or sperm undergo an intervention to preserve their use for future attempts at conception. Consideration of fertility preservation in the pediatric and adolescent population is important, as future childbearing is usually a central life goal. For postpubertal girls, both oocyte and embryo cryopreservation are standard of care and for postpubertal boys, sperm cryopreservation continues to be recommended. Although all the risks are unknown, it appears that fertility preservation in most cases does not worsen prognosis, allows for the birth of healthy children, and does not increase the chance of recurrence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie J Estes
- Donor Oocyte Program, Robotic Surgical Services, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pennsylvania State University, College of Medicine, Hershey Medical Center, Mail Code H103, 500 University Drive, Hershey, PA 17033-0850, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Meyer F, Farrell E. Ethical Dilemmas in Palliative Care: A Case Study of Fertility Preservation in the Context of Metastatic Cancer. J Palliat Med 2015; 18:661. [PMID: 26098359 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2015.0169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Fremonta Meyer
- 1 Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital , Boston, Massachusetts
- 2 Harvard Medical School , Boston, Massachusetts
- 3 Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute , Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Elizabeth Farrell
- 3 Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute , Boston, Massachusetts
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Fertility preservation and reproductive health in the pediatric, adolescent, and young adult female cancer patient. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2015; 26:372-80. [PMID: 25160517 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW As treatments for malignancies become increasingly successful, emphasis on quality of life in survivorship becomes important. Of equal importance is the role of gonadotoxic agents in the management of chronic medical conditions, such as nonmalignant blood disorders and rheumatologic and genetic conditions. Gonadotoxic agents have long-term effects to include ovarian insufficiency, pubertal arrest and subsequent infertility. RECENT FINDINGS In 2004, ovarian tissue cryopreservation emerged as an investigational but viable option for prepubertal patients and those unable to undergo ovarian stimulation. In 2012, oocyte preservation became standard therapy for patients without a partner or who elected not to use donor sperm or freeze embryos. Ovarian reserve testing with antimullerian hormone to assess fertility after gonadotoxic therapy is a rapidly growing area of interest with potentially significant benefits in personalizing the approach to fertility preservation. SUMMARY A systematic approach to fertility preservation prior to treatment in all patients receiving gonadotoxic agents optimizes care. Fertility preservation strategies can restore hormonal function and preserve reproductive potential. Future research in personalizing approach to care is critical to meeting the needs of this patient population.
Collapse
|
17
|
Levine JM, Kelvin JF, Quinn GP, Gracia CR. Infertility in reproductive-age female cancer survivors. Cancer 2015; 121:1532-9. [PMID: 25649243 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.29181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2014] [Revised: 10/02/2014] [Accepted: 10/03/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Improved survival rates among reproductive-age females diagnosed with cancer have increased the focus on long-term quality of life, including maintenance of the ability to conceive biological children. Cancer-directed therapies such as high-dose alkylating agents and radiation to the pelvis, which deplete ovarian reserve, radiation to the brain, which affects the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, and surgical resection of reproductive structures can decrease the likelihood of having biological children. Standard fertility preservation strategies such as embryo and oocyte cryopreservation before the onset of therapy offer the opportunity to conserve fertility, but they may not be feasible because of the urgency to start cancer therapy, financial limitations, and a lack of access to reproductive endocrinologists. Ovarian tissue freezing is considered experimental, with limited data related to pregnancies, but it minimizes treatment delay. Studies evaluating gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues have had mixed results, although a recent randomized, prospective study in women with breast cancer demonstrated a protective effect. Fertility preservation programs are increasingly being developed within cancer programs. In this article, we describe risks to infertility and options for preservation, raise psychosocial and ethical issues, and propose elements for establishing an effective fertility preservation program.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Levine
- Division of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, and Stem Cell Transplantation, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Moffat R, Güth U. Preserving fertility in patients undergoing treatment for breast cancer: current perspectives. BREAST CANCER-TARGETS AND THERAPY 2014; 6:93-101. [PMID: 25114587 PMCID: PMC4108258 DOI: 10.2147/bctt.s47234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Invasive breast cancer (BC) is the most frequent cancer of young women. Considering the trend toward postponing childbearing until the later reproductive years, the number of childless women at diagnosis of BC will continue to increase. The American Society of Clinical Oncology and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine have recommended that the impact of cancer treatments on fertility should be addressed with all cancer patients of reproductive age and that options for fertility preservation, such as cryopreservation of embryos and oocytes, ovarian tissue, in vitro maturation of immature oocytes, and ovarian suppression with gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs, should be discussed routinely. To optimally counsel patients on how to best weigh the risks and benefits of fertility preservation, both the health care provider and the patient must know about the options, their risks, and their likelihood of success. The aim of this review is to summarize current knowledge on fertility preservation options for young BC patients, surrogates of ovarian function, psychosocial aspects of infertility after cancer treatment, women’s attitudes towards childbearing after cancer treatment, and health care providers’ attitudes towards fertility preservation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Moffat
- Women's Hospital, Clinic for Gynecologic Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Uwe Güth
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Breast Center, SenoSuisse, Cantonal Hospital Winterthur, Winterthur, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|