1
|
Keckstein S, Dippon J, Hudelist G, Koninckx P, Condous G, Schroeder L, Keckstein J. Sonomorphologic Changes in Colorectal Deep Endometriosis: The Long-Term Impact of Age and Hormonal Treatment. ULTRASCHALL IN DER MEDIZIN (STUTTGART, GERMANY : 1980) 2024; 45:285-292. [PMID: 38101445 DOI: 10.1055/a-2209-5653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The progression of deep endometriosis (DE) in women of reproductive age is highly variable. This study aimed to analyze the sonomorphological changes of rectal endometriosis over long periods of time and the influence of hormonal treatment. METHODS This retrospective study included premenopausal women with rectal DE treated conservatively between 2002 and 2021. The lesion length and thickness of the nodule were evaluated at regular intervals over time. We created statistical models with mixed effects to identify potential factors influencing lesion progression and regression. RESULTS 38 patients were monitored over a mean period of 7.2 (± 4.2) years with a mean of 3.1 (± 2.1) check-ups within the observation period. We detected a significant increase in lesion length until the end of the fourth decade of life. In addition, we found a substantial decrease in the length and thickness of the nodule depending on the length of hormonal treatment. CONCLUSION In conservatively managed patients with rectal endometriosis, without hormonal therapy, lesion size can exhibit a moderate increase up to the end of the fourth decade of life, after which it appears to stabilize. This increase does not follow a linear pattern. Hormonal therapy is crucial in impeding further progression, resulting in either a cessation or a regression of lesion growth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simon Keckstein
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, LMU University Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | - Juergen Dippon
- Institute for Stochastics and Applications, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | | | - Philippe Koninckx
- Department for Gynecology, Latifa Hospital, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - George Condous
- Acute Gynecology, Early Pregnancy & Advanced Endoscopic Surgery Unit, University of Sydney - Sydney Medical School Nepean, Sydney, Australia
| | - Lennard Schroeder
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, LMU University Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | - Joerg Keckstein
- (SEF), Stiftung Endometrioseforschung, Westerstede, Germany
- Gynecological Clinic, Gynecological Clinic Drs Keckstein, Villach, Austria
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ulm University Hospital, Ulm, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Naem A, Krentel H, Moawad G, Naem J, Venezia R, Etrusco A, Terzic S, Laganà AS. Hormonal Therapies before in vitro fertilization in women with endometriosis: The Minotaur's Labyrinth and the Ariadne's Thread. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2024:102500. [PMID: 38772765 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2024.102500] [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: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
Endometriosis-related infertility is one of the most debated topics in reproductive medicine. In recent years, prolonged pre-cycle hormonal regimens gained attention as a mean of improving the assisted reproduction technologies (ART) success rates in endometriosis patients. GnRH agonists, dienogest, medroxyprogesterone acetate, and aromatase inhibitors are the most studied medications. Conflicting results and a high risk of bias exist in almost all of the conducted studies in the field. However, current evidence suggests that pre-cycle treatment with GnRH agonists may be beneficial for patients with stage III/IV endometriosis. Dienogest and medroxyprogesterone acetate-based progestin-primed ovarian stimulation protocol was shown to be comparable to the prolonged GnRH agonists protocol. Finally, aromatase inhibitors seem to be of limited benefit to the assisted reproductive outcomes of endometriosis patients. Although it is challenging to draw any clinical conclusions, pre-cycle hormonal treatments seem to be best indicated in endometriosis patients who had previously failed ART treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Naem
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Gynecologic Oncology and Senology, Bethesda Hospital Duisburg, 47053 Duisburg, Germany; Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Bremen, 28359 Bremen, Germany.
| | - Harald Krentel
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Gynecologic Oncology and Senology, Bethesda Hospital Duisburg, 47053 Duisburg, Germany
| | - Gaby Moawad
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20037, USA; The Center for Endometriosis and Advanced Pelvic Surgery, Washington, DC 22101, USA
| | - Joelle Naem
- Faculty of Medicine of Damascus University, Damascus, Syria
| | - Renato Venezia
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Paolo Giaccone" Hospital, Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Andrea Etrusco
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Paolo Giaccone" Hospital, Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Sanja Terzic
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Nazarbayev University, Zhanybek-Kerey Khans Street 5/1, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Antonio Simone Laganà
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Paolo Giaccone" Hospital, Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Yuan X, Tan Y, Bajinka O, Jammeh ML, Dukureh A, Obiegbusi CN, Abdelhalim KA, Mohanad M. The connection between epigenetics and gut microbiota-current perspective. Cell Biochem Funct 2024; 42:e3941. [PMID: 38379252 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Both the epigenetic changes and gut microbiota (GM) have attracted a growing interest in establishing effective diagnostics and potential therapeutic strategies for a number of diseases. These disorders include metabolic, central nervous system-related diseases, autoimmune, and gastrointestinal infections (GI). Despite the number of studies, there is no extensive review that connects the epigenetics modifications and GM as biomarkers that could confer effective diagnostics and confer treatment options. To this end, this review hopes to give detailed information on connecting the modifications in epigenetic and GM. An updated and detailed information on the connection between the epigenetics factors and GM that influence diseases are given. In addition, the review showed some associations between the epigenetics to the maternal GM and offspring health. Finally, the limitations of the concept and prospects into this new emerging discipline were also looked into. Although this review elucidated on the maternal diet and response to offspring health with respect to GM and epigenetic modifications, there still exist various limitations to this newly emerging discipline. In addition to integrating complementary multi-omics data, longitudinal sampling will aid with the identification of functional mechanisms that may serve as therapeutic targets. To this end, this review gave a detailed perspective into harnessing disease diagnostics, prevention and treatment options through epigenetics and GM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xingxing Yuan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Heilongjiang Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
- Department of First Clinical Medicine, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Yurong Tan
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Central South University Changsha, Changsha, China
- Department of Medical Science, School of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of The Gambia, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Ousman Bajinka
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Central South University Changsha, Changsha, China
- Department of Medical Science, School of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of The Gambia, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Modou L Jammeh
- Department of Medical Science, School of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of The Gambia, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Abubakarr Dukureh
- Department of Medical Science, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chidera N Obiegbusi
- Department of Medical Science, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Khalid A Abdelhalim
- Industrial Research and Development, Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir, Turkiye
| | - Mahmoud Mohanad
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Central South University Changsha, Changsha, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Rokhsartalab Azar P, Karimi S, Haghtalab A, Taram S, Hejazi M, Sadeghpour S, Pashaei MR, Ghasemnejad-Berenji H, Taheri-Anganeh M. The role of the endometrial microbiome in embryo implantation and recurrent implantation failure. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 162:104192. [PMID: 38215650 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104192] [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: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
There is a suggested pathophysiology associated with endometrial microbiota in cases where repeated implantation failure of high-quality embryos is observed. However, there is a suspected association between endometrial microbiota and the pathogenesis of implantation failure. However, there is still a lack of agreement on the fundamental composition of the physiological microbiome within the uterine cavity. This is primarily due to various limitations in the studies conducted, including small sample sizes and variations in experimental designs. As a result, the impact of bacterial communities in the endometrium on human reproduction is still a subject of debate. In this discourse, we undertake a comprehensive examination of the existing body of research pertaining to the uterine microbiota and its intricate interplay with the process of embryo implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarmad Karimi
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Arian Haghtalab
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Saman Taram
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Milad Hejazi
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Sonia Sadeghpour
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Pashaei
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Hojat Ghasemnejad-Berenji
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
| | - Mortaza Taheri-Anganeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Vercellini P, Bandini V, Viganò P, Di Stefano G, Merli CEM, Somigliana E. Proposal for targeted, neo-evolutionary-oriented, secondary prevention of early-onset endometriosis and adenomyosis. Part I: pathogenic aspects. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:1-17. [PMID: 37951243 PMCID: PMC10876119 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The potential for repeated ovulation and menstruation is thought to have provided a Darwinian advantage during the Palaeolithic. Reproductive conditions remained relatively stable until the pre-industrial era, characterized by late menarche, very young age at first birth, multiple pregnancies, and prolonged periods of lactational amenorrhoea. For hundreds of thousands of years, menstruators experienced few ovulatory cycles, even though they were genetically adapted to ovulate and menstruate every month. In the post-industrial era, the age at menarche gradually declined, the age at first birth progressively increased, and breastfeeding became optional and often of short duration. This created a mismatch between genetic adaptation and socio-environmental evolution, so that what was initially a probable reproductive advantage subsequently contributed to increased susceptibility to diseases associated with lifetime oestrogen exposure, such as ovarian, endometrial and breast cancer and, hypothetically, also those associated with the number of ovulatory menstruations, such as endometriosis and adenomyosis. The incidence of endometriosis shows a steep and progressive increase around the age of 25 years, but given the consistently reported delay in diagnosis, the actual incidence curve should be shifted to the left, supporting the possibility that the disease has its roots in adolescence. This raises the question of whether, from an evolutionary point of view, anovulation and amenorrhoea should not still be considered the physiological state, especially in the postmenarchal period. However, an increase in the frequency of endometriosis in recent decades has not been demonstrated, although this deserves further epidemiological investigation. In addition, as endometriosis occurs in a minority of individuals exposed to retrograde menstruation, other important pathogenic factors should be scrutinised. Research should be resumed to explore in more detail the transtubal reflux of not only blood, but also endometrial cells, and whether they are systematically present in the peritoneal fluid after menstruation. If repetitive ovulatory menstruation during the early reproductive years is shown to increase the risk of endometriosis and adenomyosis development and progression in susceptible individuals, hormonal interventions could be used as secondary prevention in symptomatic adolescents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Vercellini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Veronica Bandini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
| | - Paola Viganò
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Giorgia Di Stefano
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | | | - Edgardo Somigliana
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zografou MT, Naem A, Laganà AS, Krentel H. A Large Ovarian Endometrioma Occupying the Abdominal Cavity in a Postmenopausal Patient: A Case Report. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1398. [PMID: 37629688 PMCID: PMC10456325 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59081398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is defined by the presence of endometrial-like glands and/or stroma outside the uterus. The prevalence of endometriosis in postmenopausal women is reported to be 2.55%, which is much lower than that in reproductive-aged women. Ovarian endometriomas are the most common form of endometriosis. However, these form only 4.3% of ovarian masses in patients in the sixth decade of life. In this manuscript, we report the case of a 60-year-old patient who was referred to our department with an external diagnosis of an abdominal mass. The patient was in good general condition and asymptomatic. A computed tomography scan revealed the presence of a cystic mass originating from the right adnexa and measuring 26 cm. No signs of malignancy were observed. Due to the cyst's size, a midline laparotomy and a bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy were performed successfully. A postoperative histopathologic examination confirmed the diagnosis of an ovarian endometrioma with no signs of hyperplasia or atypia. Cases of postmenopausal large ovarian endometriomas are few. However, due to the risk of malignant transformation, an oophorectomy could be considered the treatment of choice, even in asymptomatic patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Themeli Zografou
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Gynecologic Oncology and Senology, Bethesda Hospital Duisburg, 47053 Duisburg, Germany; (M.T.Z.); (H.K.)
| | - Antoine Naem
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Gynecologic Oncology and Senology, Bethesda Hospital Duisburg, 47053 Duisburg, Germany; (M.T.Z.); (H.K.)
- Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Bremen, 28359 Bremen, Germany
| | - Antonio Simone Laganà
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Harald Krentel
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Gynecologic Oncology and Senology, Bethesda Hospital Duisburg, 47053 Duisburg, Germany; (M.T.Z.); (H.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Koninckx PR, Ussia A, Gordts S, Keckstein J, Saridogan E, Malzoni M, Stepanian A, Setubal A, Adamyan L, Wattiez A. The 10 "Cardinal Sins" in the Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment of Endometriosis: A Bayesian Approach. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4547. [PMID: 37445589 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12134547] [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: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Evidence-based data for endometriosis management are limited. Experiments are excluded without adequate animal models. Data are limited to symptomatic women and occasional observations. Hormonal medical therapy cannot be blinded if recognised by the patient. Randomised controlled trials are not realistic for surgery, since endometriosis is a variable disease with low numbers. Each diagnosis and treatment is an experiment with an outcome, and experience is the means by which Bayesian updating, according to the past, takes place. If the experiences of many are similar, this holds more value than an opinion. The combined experience of a group of endometriosis surgeons was used to discuss problems in managing endometriosis. Considering endometriosis as several genetically/epigenetically different diseases is important for medical therapy. Imaging cannot exclude endometriosis, and diagnostic accuracy is limited for superficial lesions, deep lesions, and cystic corpora lutea. Surgery should not be avoided for emotional reasons. Shifting infertility treatment to IVF without considering fertility surgery is questionable. The concept of complete excision should be reconsidered. Surgeons should introduce quality control, and teaching should move to explain why this occurs. The perception of information has a personal bias. These are the major problems involved in managing endometriosis, as identified by the combined experience of the authors, who are endometriosis surgeons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philippe R Koninckx
- Department of OBGYN, Faculty of Medicine, Katholieke University Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Department of OBGYN, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 2JD, UK
- Department of OBGYN, Faculty of Medicine, University Cattolica, del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Department of OBGYN, Faculty of Medicine, Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
- Latifa Hospital, Dubai 9115, United Arab Emirates
| | - Anastasia Ussia
- Department of OBGYN, Gemelli Hospitals, Università Cattolica, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Jörg Keckstein
- Endometriosis Centre, Dres. Keckstein, 9500 Villach, Austria
- Faculty of Medicine, University Ulm, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Ertan Saridogan
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London SW7 2BX, UK
| | | | - Assia Stepanian
- Academia of Women's Health and Endoscopic Surgery, Atlanta, GA 30328, USA
| | - Antonio Setubal
- Department of Ob/Gyn and MIGS, Hospital da Luz Lisbon, 1500-650 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Leila Adamyan
- Department of Operative Gynecology, Federal State Budget Institution V. I. Kulakov, Research Centre for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, 117198 Moscow, Russia
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry, 127473 Moscow, Russia
| | - Arnaud Wattiez
- Latifa Hospital, Dubai 9115, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Strasbourg, 67081 Strasbourg, France
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Gordts S, Puttemans P, Segaert I, Valkenburg M, Schutyser V, Campo R, Gordts S. Diagnosis and treatment of early-stage endometriosis by
Transvaginal Hydro laparoscopy. Facts Views Vis Obgyn 2023; 15:45-52. [PMID: 37010334 PMCID: PMC10392117 DOI: 10.52054/fvvo.15.1.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Transvaginal Hydro Laparoscopy (THL) is known as a minimal invasive procedure allowing endoscopic exploration of the female pelvis.
Objective: To evaluate the possibilities of the THL as a tool for early diagnosis and treatment of minimal endometriosis.
Materials and methods: A retrospective study of a consecutive series of 2288 patients referred for fertility problems to a tertiary centre for reproductive medicine was undertaken. Mean duration of infertility was 23.6 months (SD ±11-48), mean age of patients was 31.25 (SD± 3.8y). With normal findings at clinical and ultrasound examination patients underwent, as part of their fertility exploration, a THL.
Main outcome measures: Evaluation of feasibility, identified pathology and pregnancy rate.
Results: Endometriosis was diagnosed in 365 patients (16%); the localisation was higher on the left side (n=237) than on the right side (n=169). Small endometriomas, with diameters between 0.5 and 2 cm, were present in 24.3% (right side in 31, left side 48 and bilateral 10). These early lesions were characterised by the presence of active endometrial like cells and a pronounced neo-angiogenesis. Destruction of the endometriotic lesions with bipolar energy resulted in an in vivo pregnancy rate (spontaneous/IUI) of 43.8% (CPR after 8 months: spontaneous 57.7%; IUI/AID 29.7%).
Conclusion: THL allowed in a minimally invasive way an accurate diagnosis of the early stages of peritoneal and ovarian endometriosis with the possibility of offering treatment with minimal damage.
What is new? This is the largest series reporting the usefulness of THL for the diagnosis and treatment of peritoneal and ovarian endometriosis in patients without obviously visible preoperative pelvic pathology.
Collapse
|
9
|
Moslehi Z, Derakhshan R, Chaichian S, Mehdizadeh Kashi A, Sabet B, Rokhgireh S. Correlation of High-Risk Human Papilloma Virus with Deep Endometriosis: A Cross-Sectional Study. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 2023:6793898. [PMID: 37082187 PMCID: PMC10113060 DOI: 10.1155/2023/6793898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Background Recently, it has been suggested that microbial infections play a role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. One of the most commonly suggested infections associated with the pathogenesis of endometriosis is human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. The present study is aimed at evaluating the prevalence, types, and risk factors for HPV infection in women with endometriosis and at investigating the association of upper and lower genital tract involvement with HPV and the severity of endometriosis. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted on 81 patients with endometriosis, referred to Rasool Akram Medical Complex in Tehran, Iran, for laparoscopic surgery. The patients' demographic, clinical, and anthropometric data were extracted from their medical records, as well as interviews. The stage of disease was scored based on the revised American Society for Reproductive Medicine (rASRM) classification. The HPV-positive and HPV-negative cases were compared using the chi-square test for categorical variables and Student t-test for continuous variables. Results Twenty (24.69%) out of 81 women with endometriosis were infected with HPV (nine cases of pelvic HPV, nine cases of vaginal HPV, and two cases of both pelvic and vaginal HPV). The HPV-infected women had a significantly lower infertility rate (15% vs. 45.9%; P = 0.014). The VAS scores for dysmenorrhea and dyspareunia were relatively the same in the two groups (P > 0.05). HPV 6 and HPV 11 were the most common types of HPV, reported in 35% and 30% of endometriosis cases, respectively. Conclusion The prevalence of HPV was 24.69%, and low-risk genotypes were dominant. No significant association was found between HPV and the severity of endometriosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zohreh Moslehi
- Endometriosis Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Roya Derakhshan
- Endometriosis Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahla Chaichian
- Endometriosis Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Babak Sabet
- Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Smart University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samaneh Rokhgireh
- Endometriosis Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Koninckx P, Ussia A, Alsuwaidi S, Amro B, Keckstein J, Adamyan L, Donnez J, Dan M, Wattiez A. Reconsidering evidence-based management of endometriosis. Facts Views Vis Obgyn 2022; 14:225-233. [DOI: 10.52054/fvvo.14.3.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Without an adequate animal model permitting experiments the pathophysiology of endometriosis remains unclear and without a non-invasive diagnosis, information is limited to symptomatic women. Lesions are macroscopically and biochemically variable. Hormonal medical therapy cannot be blinded since recognised by the patient and the evidence of extensive surgery is limited because of the combination of low numbers of interventions of variable difficulty with variable surgical skills. Experience is spread among specialists in imaging, medical therapy, infertility, pain and surgery. In addition, the limitations of traditional statistics and p-values to interpret results and the complementarity of Bayesian inference should be realised.
Objectives: To review and discuss evidence in endometriosis management
Materials and Methods: A PubMed search for blinded randomised controlled trials in endometriosis.
Results: Good-quality evidence is limited in endometriosis.
Conclusions: Clinical experience remains undervalued especially for surgery.
What is new? Evidence-based medicine should integrate traditional statistical analysis and the limitations of P-values, with the complementary Bayesian inference which is predictive and sequential and more like clinical medicine. Since clinical experience is important for grading evidence, specific experience in the different disciplines of endometriosis should be used to judge trial designs and results. Finally, clinical medicine can be considered as a series of experiments controlled by the outcome. Therefore, the clinical opinion of many has more value than an opinion.
Collapse
|
11
|
Amro B, Ramirez Aristondo ME, Alsuwaidi S, Almaamari B, Hakim Z, Tahlak M, Wattiez A, Koninckx PR. New Understanding of Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention of Endometriosis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19116725. [PMID: 35682310 PMCID: PMC9180566 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19116725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
For 100 years, pelvic endometriosis has been considered to originate from the implantation of endometrial cells following retrograde menstruation or metaplasia. Since some observations, such as the clonal aspect, the biochemical variability of lesions and endometriosis in women without endometrium, the genetic-epigenetic (G-E) theory describes that endometriosis only begins after a series of cumulative G-E cellular changes. This explains that the endometriotic may originate from any pluripotent cell apart from the endometrium, that 'endometrium-like cells' can harbour important G-E differences, and that the risk is higher in predisposed women with more inherited incidents. A consequence is a high risk after puberty which decreases progressively thereafter. Considering a 10-year delay between initiation and performing a laparoscopy, this was observed in the United Arab Emirates, Belgium, France and USA. The subsequent growth varies with the G-E changes and the environment but is self-limiting probably because of the immunologic reaction and fibrosis. That each lesion has a different set of G-E incidents explains the variability of pain and the response to hormonal treatment. New lesions may develop, but recurrences after surgical excision are rare. The fibrosis around endometriosis belongs to the body and does not need to be removed. This suggests conservative excision or minimal bowel without safety margins and superficial treatment of ovarian endometriosis. This G-E concept also suggests prevention by decreasing oxidative stress from retrograde menstruation or the peritoneal microbiome. This suggests the prevention of vaginal infections and changes in the gastrointestinal microbiota through food intake and exercise. In conclusion, a higher risk of initiating endometriosis during adolescence was observed in UAE, France, Belgium and USA. This new understanding and the limited growth opens perspectives for earlier diagnosis and better treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bedayah Amro
- Latifa Hospital, Dubai 9115, United Arab Emirates; (B.A.); (M.E.R.A.); (S.A.); (B.A.); (Z.H.); (M.T.); (A.W.)
| | | | - Shaima Alsuwaidi
- Latifa Hospital, Dubai 9115, United Arab Emirates; (B.A.); (M.E.R.A.); (S.A.); (B.A.); (Z.H.); (M.T.); (A.W.)
| | - Basma Almaamari
- Latifa Hospital, Dubai 9115, United Arab Emirates; (B.A.); (M.E.R.A.); (S.A.); (B.A.); (Z.H.); (M.T.); (A.W.)
| | - Zeinab Hakim
- Latifa Hospital, Dubai 9115, United Arab Emirates; (B.A.); (M.E.R.A.); (S.A.); (B.A.); (Z.H.); (M.T.); (A.W.)
| | - Muna Tahlak
- Latifa Hospital, Dubai 9115, United Arab Emirates; (B.A.); (M.E.R.A.); (S.A.); (B.A.); (Z.H.); (M.T.); (A.W.)
| | - Arnaud Wattiez
- Latifa Hospital, Dubai 9115, United Arab Emirates; (B.A.); (M.E.R.A.); (S.A.); (B.A.); (Z.H.); (M.T.); (A.W.)
- Department of OBGYN, Faculty of Medicine, University Strasbourg, 6081 Strasbourg, France
| | - Philippe R. Koninckx
- Latifa Hospital, Dubai 9115, United Arab Emirates; (B.A.); (M.E.R.A.); (S.A.); (B.A.); (Z.H.); (M.T.); (A.W.)
- Department of OBGYN, Faculty of Medicine, Katholieke University Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Department of OBGYN, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 2JD, UK
- Department of OBGYN, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cattolica, 20123 Milano, Italy
- Department of OBGYN, Faculty of Medicine, Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Koninckx PR, Ussia A, Adamyan L, Gomel V, Martin DC. Peritoneal fluid progesterone and progesterone resistance in superficial endometriosis lesions. Hum Reprod 2021; 37:203-211. [PMID: 34849906 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Peritoneal fluid in ovulatory women is an ovarian exudate with higher estrogen and progesterone concentrations than in plasma. In the follicular phase, progesterone concentrations are as high as plasma concentrations in the luteal phase. After ovulation, estrogen and progesterone concentrations in the peritoneal fluid are 5-10 times higher than in plasma, both in women with and without endometriosis. The histologically proliferative aspect without secretory changes of most superficial subtle lesions is not compatible with the progesterone concentrations in the peritoneal fluid. Therefore, we have to postulate a strong progesterone resistance in these lesions. The mechanism is unclear and might be a peritoneal fluid effect in women with predisposing defects in the endometrium, or isolated endometrial glands with progesterone resistance, or subtle lesions originating from the basal endometrium: the latter hypothesis is attractive since in basal endometrium progesterone does not induce secretory changes while progesterone withdrawal, not occurring in peritoneal fluid, is required to resume mitotic activity and proliferation. Hormone concentrations in the peritoneal fluid are an important factor in understanding the medical therapy of endometriosis. The effect of oestro-progestin therapy on superficial endometriosis lesions seems to be a consequence of the decreased estrogen concentrations rather than a direct progestin effect. In conclusion, the peritoneal fluid, being a secretion product of the ovarian follicule, deserves more attention in the pathophysiology and treatment of endometriosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philippe R Koninckx
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Latifa Hospital, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.,Prof Emeritus OBGYN, KULeuven, Leuven, Belgium.,University of Oxford-Hon Consultant, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oxford, UK.,Gemelli hospitals, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Cattolica, Roma, Italy.,Moscow State University, Obstetrics and gynecology, Moscow, Russia.,Gruppo Italo Belga, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Villa Del Rosario Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Anastasia Ussia
- Gemelli hospitals, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Cattolica, Roma, Italy.,Gruppo Italo Belga, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Villa Del Rosario Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Leila Adamyan
- Department of Operative Gynecology, Federal State Budget Institution V. I. Kulakov Research Centre for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia; Department of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry, Moscow, Russia
| | - Victor Gomel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Women's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Dan C Martin
- Professor Emeritus, University of Tennessee Health Science Centre, Memphis, TN, USA.,Institutional Review Board, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Poli-Neto OB, Carlos D, Favaretto A, Rosa-E-Silva JC, Meola J, Tiezzi D. Eutopic endometrium from women with endometriosis and chlamydial endometritis share immunological cell types and DNA repair imbalance: A transcriptome meta-analytical perspective. J Reprod Immunol 2021; 145:103307. [PMID: 33725527 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2021.103307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to identify the key similarities between the eutopic endometrium of women with endometriosis and chlamydia-induced endometritis taking into account tissue microenvironment heterogeneity, transcript gene profile, and enriched pathways. A meta-analysis of whole transcriptome microarrays was performed using publicly available data, including samples containing both glandular and stromal endometrial components. Control samples were obtained from women without any reported pathological condition. Only samples obtained during the proliferative menstrual phase were included. Cellular tissue heterogeneity was predicted using a method that integrates gene set enrichment and deconvolution approaches. The batch effect was estimated by principal variant component analysis and removed using an empirical Bayes method. Differentially expressed genes were identified using an adjusted p-value < 0.05 and fold change = 1.5. The protein-protein interaction network was built using the STRING database and interaction score over 400. The Molecular Signatures Database was used to analyse the functional enrichment analysis. Both conditions showed similarities in cell types in the microenvironment, particularly CD4+ and CD8+ Tem cells, NKT cells, Th2 cells, basophils, and eosinophils. With regards to the regulation of cellular senescence and DNA integrity/damage checkpoint, which are commonly enriched pathways, 21 genes were down-regulated and directly related to DNA repair. Compared to the endometriosis samples, some chlamydial endometritis samples presented a lack of enriched immune pathways. Our results suggest that both conditions show similar distributions of microenvironment cell types, the downregulation of genes involved in DNA repair and cell cycle control, and pathways involved in immune response evasion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Omero Benedicto Poli-Neto
- Gynecological and Obstetrics Department, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, 14049-900, SP, Brazil.
| | - Daniela Carlos
- Biochemistry and Immunology Department, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Aureo Favaretto
- Gynecological and Obstetrics Department, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, 14049-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Julio Cesar Rosa-E-Silva
- Gynecological and Obstetrics Department, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, 14049-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Juliana Meola
- Gynecological and Obstetrics Department, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, 14049-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Daniel Tiezzi
- Gynecological and Obstetrics Department, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, 14049-900, SP, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Koninckx PR, Fernandes R, Ussia A, Schindler L, Wattiez A, Al-Suwaidi S, Amro B, Al-Maamari B, Hakim Z, Tahlak M. Pathogenesis Based Diagnosis and Treatment of Endometriosis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:745548. [PMID: 34899597 PMCID: PMC8656967 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.745548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the pathophysiology of endometriosis is changing our diagnosis and treatment. Endometriosis lesions are clones of specific cells, with variable characteristics as aromatase activity and progesterone resistance. Therefore the GE theory postulates GE incidents to start endometriosis, which thus is different from implanted endometrium. The subsequent growth in the specific environment of the peritoneal cavity is associated with angiogenesis, inflammation, immunologic changes and bleeding in the lesions causing fibrosis. Fibrosis will stop the growth and lesions look burnt out. The pain caused by endometriosis lesions is variable: some lesions are not painful while other lesions cause neuroinflammation at distance up to 28 mm. Diagnosis of endometriosis is made by laparoscopy, following an experience guided clinical decision, based on history, symptoms, clinical exam and imaging. Biochemical markers are not useful. For deep endometriosis, imaging is important before surgery, notwithstanding rather poor predictive values when confidence limits, the prevalence of the disease and the absence of stratification of lesions by size, localization and depth of infiltration, are considered. Surgery of endometriosis is based on recognition and excision. Since the surrounding fibrosis belongs to the body with limited infiltration by endometriosis, a rim of fibrosis can be left without safety margins. For deep endometriosis, this results in a conservative excision eventually with discoid excision or short bowel resections. For cystic ovarian endometriosis superficial destruction, if complete, should be sufficient. Understanding pathophysiology is important for the discussion of early intervention during adolescence. Considering neuroinflammation at distance, the indication to explore large somatic nerves should be reconsidered. Also, medical therapy of endometriosis has to be reconsidered since the variability of lesions results in a variable response, some lesions not requiring estrogens for growth and some being progesterone resistant. If the onset of endometriosis is driven by oxidative stress from retrograde menstruation and the peritoneal microbiome, medical therapy could prevent new lesions and becomes indicated after surgery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philippe R. Koninckx
- Latifa Hospital, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Prof Emeritus Obstet Gynecol (OBGYN), Catholic University Leuven (KU), Leuven, Belgium
- University of Oxford-Hon Consultant, Oxford, United Kingdom
- University Cattolica, Roma, Italy
- Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
- Gruppo Italo Belga, Villa Del Rosario, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Philippe R. Koninckx,
| | - Rodrigo Fernandes
- Instituto do Cancer do Estado de São Paulo, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Anastasia Ussia
- University Cattolica, Roma, Italy
- Gruppo Italo Belga, Villa Del Rosario, Rome, Italy
| | - Larissa Schindler
- Dubai Fertility Centre of the Dubai Health Authority, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Arnaud Wattiez
- Latifa Hospital, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Prof Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | | | | | | | | | - Muna Tahlak
- Latifa Hospital, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| |
Collapse
|