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Boero V, Cetera GE, Caia C, Merli CEM, Gramegna G, Pesce E, Barbara G, Ermelinda M, Vercellini P. Beyond vulvodynia: from a correct diagnosis to a multidisciplinary care program. A referral center experience. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2024:10.1007/s00404-024-07496-0. [PMID: 38634899 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-024-07496-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vulvodynia is a chronic pain condition without an identifiable cause. As such, it is a diagnosis of exclusion, and all other causes of vulvar pain should be excluded. Although a standard treatment for vulvodynia has not been established yet, multidisciplinary care programs appear to be effective. PUROPOSE The aim of this retrospective monocentric study was to analyze the prevalence of vulvodynia among women referred to our institution for a suspected diagnosis and to evaluate the efficacy of a multidimensional treatment plan. The primary outcome was the prevalence of vulvodynia following differential diagnosis. Secondary outcomes included: prevalence of the differential diagnoses, symptom resolution rate following treatment, and the relation between persistence of symptoms and (a) patients' age; (b) coexisting chronic overlapping pain conditions (COPCs). RESULTS After having ruled out all other causes of vulvar pain, only 40.1% of women were considered as affected by vulvodynia. The most frequent differential diagnoses included lower genital tract infections (25.3%), vulvar lichen sclerosus (17.6%) and vulvovaginal atrophy (8.2%). Following a multidisciplinary care program, resolution of symptoms was observed in 13.6% cases, improvement in 64.3% and persistence in 21.9%. We did not find a statistically significant association between persistence of symptoms and age > 38 years (OR 2.10; p = 0.30). Women with one or more COPCs other than vulvodynia had a 75% increased risk of not obtaining a resolution of symptoms (OR 1.75; p = 0.44). CONCLUSION A thorough differential diagnosis and a multidisciplinary care program may represent a first way out of the muddle in the management of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Boero
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Emily Cetera
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Academic Center for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Carlotta Caia
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
| | | | - Giada Gramegna
- Obstetric and Gynecological Emergency Unit and SVSeD (Service for Sexual and Domestic Violence), Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Pesce
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Giussy Barbara
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Academic Center for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Monti Ermelinda
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Vercellini
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Academic Center for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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Piccini M, Cetera GE, Nasini A, Vercellini P. Social networks and influencers as the main source of 'scientific' information on endometriosis: a medical class hara-kiri? Hum Reprod 2024; 39:856-857. [PMID: 38423532 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Martina Piccini
- Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
| | - Giulia Emily Cetera
- Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Anna Nasini
- Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
| | - Paolo Vercellini
- Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
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Boero V, Cetera GE, Caia C, Villa S, Montemurro T, Brambilla M, Monti E, Iorio M, Somigliana E, Vercellini P, Prati D. Is there a role for platelet rich plasma injection in vulvar lichen sclerosus? A self-controlled pilot study. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2024:10.1007/s00404-024-07424-2. [PMID: 38523203 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-024-07424-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Owing to the evidence that as many as 30-40% of patients with vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) fail to report a remission of symptoms with first-line corticosteroid treatment (TCS), especially as what regards dyspareunia, we aimed to analyze patients' satisfaction following vulvar injection of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP). This is intended as an adjunctive treatment, to be used following TCS, and appears to promote tissue repair. It may also possibly have immunomodulatory proprieties. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients with VLS were considered eligible for this pilot study if, despite having been treated with a 3-month TCS regimen, they reported a persistence of symptoms. PRP was produced in a referral center using a manual method and a standardized protocol. Each patient received three treatments 4 to 6 weeks apart. RESULTS A total of 50 patients with a median age of 53 years [IQR 38-59 years] were included in the study. 6 months after the last injection of PRP all patients were either satisfied or very satisfied with the treatment (100%; 95% CI 93-100%). Median NRS scores for itching, burning, dyspareunia and dysuria were significantly reduced (p < 0.05) and FSFI, HADS and SF-12 questionnaires revealed a significant improvement in sexual function, psychological wellbeing and quality of life (p < 0.05). The number of patients reporting the need for maintenance TCS treatment was reduced by 42% (p < 0.001) and an improvement in vulvar elasticity and color was reported in all patients. CONCLUSION Following standard medical therapy, PRP may be effective not only in improving symptoms, but also in restoring function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Boero
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Emily Cetera
- Academic Center for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' GrandaOspedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Carlotta Caia
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefania Villa
- Department of Transfusion Medicine and Hematology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Tiziana Montemurro
- Department of Transfusion Medicine and Hematology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Brambilla
- Plastic Surgery Service, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda-Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Ermelinda Monti
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Iorio
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Edgardo Somigliana
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Vercellini
- Academic Center for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' GrandaOspedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniele Prati
- Department of Transfusion Medicine and Hematology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
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Merli CEM, Cetera GE, Caia C, Facchin F, Vercellini P. "The sound of silence" Giving voice to endometriosis-related positional dyspareunia. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2024; 309:887-893. [PMID: 37689593 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-023-07205-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
Deep dyspareunia is one of the main symptoms of endometriosis. It appears to be submerged by a two-way disconnection between patients and their physicians. The aim of our review is to provide clear, ready-to-use advice on how to manage deep dyspareunia overcoming the gap in communication. Sexual history should always be taken as part of routine health care in these regards, using a patient-centered approach. An educational pelvic examination, which actively includes patients in the identification of painful areas, may prove useful to improve patients' understanding of their condition. Correlating painful pelvic areas with sexual positions and inviting patients to adopt alternative positions may represent a simple but extremely effective coping strategy to mitigate pain. Revealing and explaining to partners the nature of the pain is essential to allow them to take part in shared research of coping mechanisms, empowering the couple to make choices and changes. Couples who do not feel comfortable talking about intimacy by themselves may find that including a psychotherapist or a sexual therapist, may be a good way to start communication. Investigating and managing dyspareunia during medical encounters is a medical and ethical duty all healthcare practitioners should pursue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Erminia Maria Merli
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Commenda, 12, 20122, Milan, Italy.
| | - Giulia Emily Cetera
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Commenda, 12, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Carlotta Caia
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Commenda, 12, 20122, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Facchin
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Vercellini
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Commenda, 12, 20122, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Cetera GE, Merli CEM, Barbara G, Caia C, Vercellini P. Questionnaires for the Assessment of Central Sensitization in Endometriosis: What Is the Available Evidence? A Systematic Review with a Narrative Synthesis. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:633-644. [PMID: 37751146 PMCID: PMC10912156 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01343-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
It has been suggested that central sensitization (CS) may be involved in the failure of standard medical and surgical treatment to relieve endometriosis-related pain. However, there is no gold standard for the diagnosis of CS, and self-reported questionnaires are used as diagnostic surrogates. The main objective of this review was to identify all CS questionnaires used in clinical endometriosis studies. The secondary objective was to qualitatively analyze strengths and weaknesses of each questionnaire. A PubMed and EMBASE systematic literature search conducted in April 2023 using the terms "endometriosis; central pain; central sensitization; questionnaire; patient-reported outcome measure; screening tool" identified 122 publications: six articles were included in the review. The Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI) is the most frequently used questionnaire for the detection of CS in patients with endometriosis. It has been validated in patients with endometriosis, in whom it appears to have good psychometric proprieties. The Fibromyalgia Survey Questionnaire (FSQ) has also been used, although it has not been specifically validated in endometriosis patients. The debate regarding these questionnaires' construct validity is still open and will be so until a gold standard diagnostic tool for CS is found. In fact, some authors argue these questionnaires are measuring psychological vulnerability and a hypervigilant state that is associated with pain, rather than CS itself. However, their use should not be discouraged as they are able to identify chronic pain patients which warrant further attention and who may benefit from broader treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Emily Cetera
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Giussy Barbara
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
- Obstetric and Gynecological Emergency Unit and SVSeD (Service for Sexual and Domestic Violence), Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
| | - Carlotta Caia
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Vercellini
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Cetera GE, Facchin F, Viganò P, Merli CEM, Frassineti A, Fiorini J, Somigliana E, Vercellini P. "SO FAR AWAY" How Doctors Can Contribute to Making Endometriosis Hell on Earth. A Call for Humanistic Medicine and Empathetic Practice for Genuine Person-Centered Care. A Narrative Review. Int J Womens Health 2024; 16:273-287. [PMID: 38405184 PMCID: PMC10894706 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s440542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
"SO FAR AWAY" * How Doctors Can Contribute to Making Endometriosis Hell on Earth [* by Knopfler M. In Dire Straits. Brothers in Arms. Vertigo Records, U.K., 1985]. Abstract The distance physicians may create within the relationship with their patients by not having a humanistic approach to their practice may strongly influence clinical outcomes. The purpose of this paper is to convey the well-known narrative of patient dissatisfaction into pro-action by discussing the aspects of dehumanization, which may occur in the relationship between physicians and women with endometriosis. Eight dimensions of dehumanization are examined and related to everyday scenarios occurring in endometriosis care settings and the possible downstream consequences on patients' clinical outcomes are described. Objectification, which may come across as minimization of pain, may not only increase patients' perception of pain but also lead to undertreatment of unrecognized forms of endometriosis, especially among adolescents. Passivity, that is not favoring shared decision-making nor self-management, may compromise adherence to treatment, reducing patients' trust in physicians and quality of life. The same consequences may result from homogenization, that is giving for granted that all patients have the same access to care. Both isolation, ie not practicing therapeutic empathy, and loss of meaning, ie not supporting patients in the re-definition of their life plans, may affect women's psychological wellbeing and further increase pain perception. Ignoring women's personal journey by not providing clear information on the consequences endometriosis may have on their lives may favor women's self-silencing. Not promoting an un-biased communication and not setting aside scientific polarization are the main features of dislocation, which may jeopardize patient empowerment. Lastly, having a reductionist approach to the body may contribute to chronicization of pain, thus compromising quality of life. This considered, taking time to listen to women with endometriosis and tailoring decisions on the basis of their individual needs should be fostered as a moral duty. Physicians should always keep in mind that they are not only deliverers of treatment; they are a form of treatment themselves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Emily Cetera
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Academic Center for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Facchin
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Viganò
- Academic Center for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Infertility Center, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Annalisa Frassineti
- Associazione Progetto Endometriosi Organizzazione di Volontariato, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Jessica Fiorini
- Associazione Progetto Endometriosi Organizzazione di Volontariato, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Edgardo Somigliana
- Academic Center for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Infertility Center, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Vercellini
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Academic Center for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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Vercellini P, Bandini V, Viganò P, Ambruoso D, Cetera GE, Somigliana E. Proposal for targeted, neo-evolutionary-oriented secondary prevention of early-onset endometriosis and adenomyosis. Part II: medical interventions. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:18-34. [PMID: 37951241 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2024] [Indexed: 11/13/2023] Open
Abstract
According to consistent epidemiological data, the slope of the incidence curve of endometriosis rises rapidly and sharply around the age of 25 years. The delay in diagnosis is generally reported to be between 5 and 8 years in adult women, but it appears to be over 10 years in adolescents. If this is true, the actual onset of endometriosis in many young women would be chronologically placed in the early postmenarchal years. Ovulation and menstruation are inflammatory events that, when occurring repeatedly for years, may theoretically favour the early development of endometriosis and adenomyosis. Moreover, repeated acute dysmenorrhoea episodes after menarche may not only be an indicator of ensuing endometriosis or adenomyosis, but may also promote the transition from acute to chronic pelvic pain through central sensitization mechanisms, as well as the onset of chronic overlapping pain conditions. Therefore, secondary prevention aimed at reducing suffering, limiting lesion progression, and preserving future reproductive potential should be focused on the age group that could benefit most from the intervention, i.e. severely symptomatic adolescents. Early-onset endometriosis and adenomyosis should be promptly suspected even when physical and ultrasound findings are negative, and long-term ovulatory suppression may be established until conception seeking. As nowadays this could mean using hormonal therapies for several years, drug safety evaluation is crucial. In adolescents without recognized major contraindications to oestrogens, the use of very low-dose combined oral contraceptives is associated with a marginal increase in the individual absolute risk of thromboembolic events. Oral contraceptives containing oestradiol instead of ethinyl oestradiol may further limit such risk. Oral, subcutaneous, and intramuscular progestogens do not increase the thromboembolic risk, but may interfere with attainment of peak bone mass in young women. Levonorgestrel-releasing intra-uterine devices may be a safe alternative for adolescents, as amenorrhoea is frequently induced without suppression of the ovarian activity. With regard to oncological risk, the net effect of long-term oestrogen-progestogen combinations use is a small reduction in overall cancer risk. Whether surgery should be considered the first-line approach in young women with chronic pelvic pain symptoms seems questionable. Especially when large endometriomas or infiltrating lesions are not detected at pelvic imaging, laparoscopy should be reserved to adolescents who refuse hormonal treatments or in whom first-line medications are not effective, not tolerated, or contraindicated. Diagnostic and therapeutic algorithms, including self-reported outcome measures, for young individuals with a clinical suspicion of early-onset endometriosis or adenomyosis are proposed.
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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
| | - Deborah Ambruoso
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
| | - Giulia Emily Cetera
- 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
| | - 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
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Cetera GE, Merli CEM, Facchin F, Barbara G, Caia C, Libutti G, Boero V. "Time is on my side". Disease trajectory of vulvodynia: a systematic review with a narrative synthesis. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2024; 309:1-8. [PMID: 36869940 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-023-06984-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this systematic review was to shed light on the disease-trajectory of vulvodynia and identify potential risk factors which may affect such trajectory. METHODS We searched Pubmed to identify articles providing evidence on vulvodynia trajectory (i.e., remission, relapse or persistence rates) with a minimum follow-up of 2 years. A narrative approach was used for data synthesis. RESULTS Four articles were included (total participants: 741 women with vulvodynia; 634 controls). At a 2-year follow-up, 50.6% of women reported remission, remission with relapse was observed in 39.7% and persistence throughout time occurred in 9.6%. A decrease in pain was observed in 71.1% of patients at a 7-year follow-up. Mean pain scores and depressive symptoms resulted lower at 2-year follow-up, whereas sexual function and satisfaction were increased. Factors associated with remission of vulvodynia were greater couple cohesion, decreased reporting of pain after intercourse and lower levels of worst pain. Risk factors for symptom persistence included marriage, more severe pain ratings, depression, pain with partner touch, interstitial cystitis, pain with oral sex, fibromyalgia, older age and anxiety. Recurrence was associated with: longer duration of pain, more severe ratings of the worst pain ever and pain described as provoked. CONCLUSIONS Symptoms of vulvodynia seem to improve over time, regardless of treatment. This finding contains a key message for patients and their physicians, considering the deleterious consequences of vulvodynia on women's lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- G E Cetera
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
| | - C E M Merli
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - F Facchin
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milan, Italy
| | - G Barbara
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - C Caia
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - G Libutti
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - V Boero
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
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Cetera GE, Merli CEM, Boero V, Caia C, Facchin F, Barbara G, Monti E, Vercellini P. Central Sensitization in Vulvodynia and Endometriosis: What Have We Been Overlooking So Far? Obstet Gynecol Surv 2023; 78:745-758. [PMID: 38134340 DOI: 10.1097/ogx.0000000000001183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Importance Women experience more frequent and greater pain than men, although they receive less adequate treatment and are perceived as more anxious than males. Recent clinical research has lead to hypothesize a common etiology for overlapping chronic pain conditions and mood disorders, namely, central sensitization, which originates from an alteration of pain processing pathways in the central nervous system. Objective The aim of this review was to collect all available evidence regarding the potential role of central sensitization in vulvodynia and endometriosis. Evidence Acquisition A systematic literature search was performed between July and August 2022 using the electronic database PubMed. The extracted data were summarized using a narrative approach. Results Ten articles were chosen for the review. Participants' mean age was 39.2 years (SD = 5.1). Among serum markers of central sensitization, nitric oxide levels were greater in women with endometriosis than in controls, whereas brain-derived neurotrophic factor and S100B levels differed among pain conditions with structural anomalies and those without. Functional magnetic resonance imaging showed different resting state networks between patients with endometriosis and controls. In neurophysiology studies, cases had reduced pain thresholds, compared with healthy controls. Lastly, self-reported questionnaires suggested a central component of pain in women with endometriosis-related dyspareunia and associated bladder/pelvic floor tenderness. Conclusions and Relevance The management of vulvodynia and endometriosis may benefit from a new perspective, which considers their possible central etiology. It is compelling that treatment of pain starts to be considered a therapeutic goal in its own right.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Emily Cetera
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Veronica Boero
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Carlotta Caia
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Facchin
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milan, Italy
| | - Giussy Barbara
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Ermelinda Monti
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Vercellini
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Monti E, Salmaso M, Alberico D, Emily Cetera G, Viscardi A, Boero V, Di Loreto E, Libutti G, Roncella E, Barbara G. Prevalence of high-grade anal intraepithelial neoplasia in immunocompetent women treated for high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2023; 291:82-87. [PMID: 37852112 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2023.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of high-grade anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN2-3) among immunocompetent women treated for high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN2-3). Such knowledge is strongly needed to establish whether a screening program should be recommended in this group of patients. METHODS This prospective study included a cohort of consecutive women with no known causes of immunosuppression treated with LEEP (loop electrosurgical excision procedure) for a histopathological diagnosis of CIN2-3 in our center between 2019 and 2021. Following the procedure, all patients were invited to undergo anal cytology and anal high-risk HPV-DNA testing (aHPV-DNA). In cases in which one or both tests resulted positive, a high-resolution anoscopy with a biopsy of suspicious lesions was performed. All women also completed a questionnaire on sexual habits. RESULTS At total of 100 women were enrolled in the study. Among these, eight patients had a concomitant or past diagnosis of anogenital warts, while one patient had received a previous diagnosis of high-grade vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia. Anal Pap smears were positive for low-grade lesions in three patients, while 73 women tested positive for aHPV-DNA. Histological examinations revealed the presence of AIN2-3 lesions in four patients (6.5%; 95% C.I., 1.8 to 15.7%), who subsequently underwent excisional treatment. CONCLUSIONS Women with a history of high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia have an intermediate risk of developing high-grade anal intraepithelial neoplasia. Future studies are needed in order to assess an ideal screening approach for this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ermelinda Monti
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, via della Commenda 12, Milan, Italy.
| | - Marta Salmaso
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, via della Commenda 12, Milan, Italy.
| | - Daniela Alberico
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, via della Commenda 12, Milan, Italy.
| | - Giulia Emily Cetera
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, via della Commenda 12, Milan, Italy.
| | - Anna Viscardi
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, via della Commenda 12, Milan, Italy.
| | - Veronica Boero
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, via della Commenda 12, Milan, Italy.
| | - Eugenia Di Loreto
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, via della Commenda 12, Milan, Italy.
| | - Giada Libutti
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, via della Commenda 12, Milan, Italy.
| | - Elena Roncella
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, via della Commenda 12, Milan, Italy.
| | - Giussy Barbara
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, via della Commenda 12, Milan, Italy; Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, via della Commenda 12, Milan, Italy.
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Boero V, Brambilla M, Di Loreto E, Cetera GE, Cipriani S, Boggio F, Monti E, Libutti G, Caia C, Parazzini F. Fat Grafting in Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus: Long Term Follow-Up. J Low Genit Tract Dis 2023; 27:365-372. [PMID: 37551790 DOI: 10.1097/lgt.0000000000000766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The rationale for the use of autologous fat grafting in the treatment of vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) consists in reduction of inflammation, regeneration of tissues, volume increase, and pain fiber control. The main outcome of this study was the evaluation of patients' satisfaction after treatment. Secondary outcomes included modifications in symptoms, psychosexual wellbeing, vulvar hydration, and histology after surgery. METHODS Eligible for this study were women aged 18-85 years with a histological diagnosis of VLS who underwent at least one autologous vulvar fat grafting at the authors' center, between 2010 and 2019. In 2021, all women underwent a clinical reevaluation, comprehensive of vulvoscopy, vulvar biopsy, and handing out of validated questionnaires. RESULTS Overall, 88.7% of patients declared themselves very satisfied/satisfied with the procedure. All symptoms were improved postsurgery; in particular, the difference was statistically significant for pruritus, burning, and dyspareunia ( p < .05). Sexual function was also improved at time of reevaluation, as were depressive and anxiety symptoms ( p < .05). No cases of vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia or cancer occurred during follow-up and vulvar architecture remained stable, although patients reported a significantly reduced need for topical steroids ( p < .0001). Lastly, in postoperative biopsies, inflammatory infiltrate was stable or reduced, and the distribution of elastic fibers was comparable or restored in most patients. CONCLUSIONS Patient satisfaction with fat grafting is detectable up to 11 years after surgery, and as such, it may represent a valid therapeutic option in selected cases of VLS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Boero
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Brambilla
- Plastic Surgery Service, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Eugenia Di Loreto
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Emily Cetera
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Sonia Cipriani
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Boggio
- Department of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Ermelinda Monti
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giada Libutti
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Carlotta Caia
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Milano, Milan, Italy
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12
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Monti E, Matozzo CMM, Cetera GE, DI Loreto E, Libutti G, Boero V, Caia C, Alberico D, Barbara G. Correlation Between Colposcopic Patterns and Histological Grade of Vaginal Intraepithelial Neoplasia: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Anticancer Res 2023; 43:4637-4642. [PMID: 37772563 DOI: 10.21873/anticanres.16658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia (VaIN) is a rare human papillomavirus (HPV)- related premalignant condition. VaIN lesions are diagnosed histologically through colposcopy-guided biopsies of suspicious areas, conduced by gynecologists with expertise in lower genital tract diseases. The present study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of colposcopy in the diagnosis of VaIN of any grade. PATIENTS AND METHODS We conducted a retrospective analysis on a cohort of 149 women diagnosed with low grade (LG)-VaIN (VaIN1) and high grade (HG)-VaIN (VaIN2-3) between 2010 and 2022 at the "Regional Referral Center for Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of HPV-related Genital Disorders", Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy. All women had been referred to our center for an abnormal Pap smear or as part of routine follow-up of other HPV-related diseases and had undergone a vaginal biopsy under colposcopic guidance. RESULTS The distribution of the histological grades of VaIN lesions was the following: 62 women (41.6%) were diagnosed with VaIN1, 51 (34.2%) with VaIN2, and 36 (24.2%) with VaIN3. Grade II (major) abnormal colposcopic patterns were recorded in 71 cases (47.7%) and were more commonly observed in women with VaIN3 (80.6%). However, we found a poor and not statistically significant association between colposcopic and histological grade of VaIN. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of colposcopy for histologically confirmed VaIN were 56.3%, 64.5%, 69% and 51.2%, respectively. The overall diagnostic accuracy of colposcopy was 59.7%. CONCLUSION Colposcopy-guided biopsy plays an important role in the diagnosis of VaIN and in the distinction between low and high-grade lesions. Our data show that major colposcopic abnormalities moderately correlate with HG-VaIN and that grade I colposcopic findings do not exclude HG-VaIN, especially VaIN2. Targeted biopsies of suspicious vaginal areas must be performed in all women with an abnormal Pap smear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ermelinda Monti
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Maria Michela Matozzo
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy;
| | - Giulia Emily Cetera
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Eugenia DI Loreto
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Giada Libutti
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Veronica Boero
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Carlotta Caia
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniela Alberico
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Giussy Barbara
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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13
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Cetera GE, Merli CEM, Boero V, Caia C, Vercellini P. Topical estrogens for the treatment of superficial dyspareunia related to genitourinary syndrome of menopause in women with a history of endometriosis: A clinical dilemma. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2023; 288:12-17. [PMID: 37421742 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2023.06.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
Estrogen withdrawal, which occurs with the cessation of ovulation, causes genitourinary syndrome of menopause in up to 50-85% of women. Symptoms may profoundly impact quality of life and sexual function, interfering with enjoyment of sex in up to three out of four individuals. Topical estrogens have been found to provide symptom relief with minimal systemic absorption and appear to be superior to systemic therapy as what regards genitourinary symptoms. However, conclusive data on their appropriateness in postmenopausal women with a history of endometriosis is not available and the hypothesis that exogenous estrogen stimulation may reactivate endometriotic foci or even promote their malignant transformation is still open. On the other hand, endometriosis affects around 10% of premenopausal women, many of which may be exposed to an acute hypoestrogenic depletion even before spontaneous menopause occurs. This considered, excluding on principle patients with a history of endometriosis from first-line treatment for vulvovaginal atrophy would mean excluding a considerable percentage of the population from adequate care. More robust evidence is urgently needed in these regards. Meanwhile, it would appear reasonable to tailor the prescription of topical hormones in these patients, taking into account the entity of symptoms and the impact such symptoms have on patients' quality of life, as well as the form of endometriosis and the possible risks hormonal may entail. Moreover, the application of estrogens on the vulva instead of the vagina could be efficacious, while outweighing the possible biological cost of hormonal treatment in women with a history of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- G E Cetera
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - C E M Merli
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
| | - V Boero
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - C Caia
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - P Vercellini
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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14
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Cetera GE, Merli CEM, Facchin F, Viganò P, Pesce E, Caprara F, Vercellini P. Non-response to first-line hormonal treatment for symptomatic endometriosis: overcoming tunnel vision. A narrative review. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:347. [PMID: 37391793 PMCID: PMC10311799 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02490-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023] Open
Abstract
One-fourth to one-third of women with endometriosis receiving first-line hormonal treatment lacks an adequate response in terms of resolution of painful symptoms. This phenomenon has been ascribed to "progesterone resistance", an entity that was theorized to explain the gap between the ubiquity of retrograde menstruation and the 10% prevalence of endometriosis among women of reproductive age.Nevertheless, the hypothesis of progesterone resistance is not free of controversies. As our understanding of endometriosis is increasing, authors are starting to set aside the traditionally accepted tunnel vision of endometriosis as a strictly pelvic disease, opening to a more comprehensive perspective of the condition. The question is: are patients not responding to first-line treatment because they have an altered signaling pathway for such treatment, or have we been overlooking a series of other pain contributors which may not be resolved by hormonal therapy?Finding an answer to this question is evermore impelling, for two reasons mainly. Firstly, because not recognizing the presence of further pain contributors adds a delay in treatment to the already existing delay in diagnosis of endometriosis. This may lead to chronicity of the untreated pain contributors as well as causing adverse consequences on quality of life and psychological health. Secondly, misinterpreting the consequences of untreated pain contributors as a non-response to standard first-line treatment may imply the adoption of second-line medical therapies or of surgery, which may entail non-negligible side effects and may not be free of physical, psychological and socioeconomic repercussions.The current narrative review aims at providing an overview of all the possible pain contributors in endometriosis, ranging from those strictly organic to those with a greater neuro-psychological component. Including these aspects in a broader psychobiological approach may provide useful suggestions for treating those patients who report persistent pain symptoms despite receiving first-line hormonal medical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Emily Cetera
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Federica Facchin
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Viganò
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Pesce
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Caprara
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Vercellini
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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15
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Boero V, Cavalli R, Caia C, Berrettini A, Cetera GE, Monti E, Barbara G, Albertini GC, Restelli E, Libutti G, Motta T, Lazzari C, Vercellini P. Pediatric vulvar lichen sclerosus: Does it resolve or does it persist after menarche? Pediatr Dermatol 2023; 40:472-475. [PMID: 36998082 DOI: 10.1111/pde.15308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Although data regarding the rates of remission and progression of the disease are still scarce, it is generally now acknowledged that pediatric vulvar lichen sclerosus (pVLS) can persist beyond puberty. Recent studies reveal that this condition may persist in as many as 75% of cases. The present study aims to answer the following query: how does pVLS evolve after menarche? METHODS This observational retrospective study conducted on premenarchal girls diagnosed with pVLS in our institution between 1990 and 2011 describes 31 patients who returned for multidisciplinary clinical evaluation following menarche. RESULTS The mean follow-up time was 14 years. At the post-menarche clinical examination, patients were classified as follows: 58% were still affected by VLS, 16% presented with a complete remission of disease, and 26% were completely asymptomatic although with persistent clinical signs of VLS. CONCLUSIONS In our series, pVLS persists following menarche in the majority of patients. These findings suggest the importance of a long-term follow-up even among patients who report resolution of symptoms following menarche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Boero
- Gynecology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Riccardo Cavalli
- Pediatric Dermatology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Carlotta Caia
- Gynecology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Alfredo Berrettini
- Pediatric Urology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Emily Cetera
- Gynecology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Ermelinda Monti
- Gynecology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Giussy Barbara
- Gynecology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Giorgia Carlotta Albertini
- Gynecology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Restelli
- Gynecology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Giada Libutti
- Gynecology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Tiziano Motta
- Gynecology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Caterina Lazzari
- Gynecology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Vercellini
- Gynecology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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D’Ambrosi F, Ruggiero M, Cesano N, Di Maso M, Cetera GE, Tassis B, Carbone IF, Ferrazzi E. Risk of stillbirth in singleton fetuses with advancing gestational age at term: A 10-year experience of late third trimester prenatal screenings of 50,000 deliveries in a referral center in northern Italy. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0277262. [PMID: 36812250 PMCID: PMC9946230 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0277262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The risk of intrauterine death (IUD) at term varies from less than one to up to three cases per 1,000 ongoing pregnancies. The cause of death is often largely undefined. Protocols and criteria to prevent and define the rates and causes of stillbirth are the subjects of important scientific and clinical debates. We examined the gestational age and rate of stillbirth at term in a 10-year period at our maternity hub to evaluate the possible favorable impact of a surveillance protocol on maternal and fetal well-being and growth. METHODS AND FINDINGS Our cohort included all women with singleton pregnancies resulting in early term to late term birth at our maternity hub between 2010 and 2020, with the exclusion of fetal anomalies. As per our protocol for monitoring term pregnancies, all women underwent near term to early term maternal and fetal well-being and growth surveillance. If risk factors were identified, outpatient monitoring was initiated and early- or full-term induction was indicated. Labor was induced at late term (41+0-41+4 weeks of gestation), if it did not occur spontaneously. We retrospectively collected, verified, and analyzed all cases of stillbirth at term. The incidence of stillbirth at each week of gestation, was calculated by dividing the number of stillbirths observed that week by the number of women with ongoing pregnancies in that same week. The overall rate of stillbirth per 1000 was also calculated for the entire cohort. Fetal and maternal variables were analyzed to assess the possible causes of death. RESULTS A total of 57,561 women were included in our study, of which 28 cases of stillbirth (overall rate, 0.48 per 1000 ongoing pregnancies; 95% CI: 0.30-0.70) were identified. The incidence of stillbirth in the ongoing pregnancies measured at 37, 38, 39, 40, and 41 weeks of gestation was 0.16, 0.30, 0.11, 0.29, and 0.0 per 1000, respectively. Only three cases occurred after 40+0 weeks of gestation. Six patients had an undetected small for gestational age fetus. The identified causes included placental conditions (n = 8), umbilical cord conditions (n = 7), and chorioamnionitis (n = 4). Furthermore, the cases of stillbirth included one undetected fetal abnormality (n = 1). The cause of fetal death remained unknown in eight cases. CONCLUSIONS In a referral center with an active universal screening protocol for maternal and fetal prenatal surveillance at near and early term, the rate of stillbirth was 0.48 per 1000 in singleton pregnancies at term in a large, unselected population. The highest incidence of stillbirth was observed at 38 weeks of gestation. The vast majority of stillbirth cases occurred before 39 weeks of gestation and 6 of 28 cases were SGA, and the median percentile of the remaining case was the 35th.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco D’Ambrosi
- Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- * E-mail:
| | - Marta Ruggiero
- Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicola Cesano
- Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Di Maso
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Branch of Medical Statistics, Biometry and Epidemiology “G.A. Maccacaro”, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Emily Cetera
- Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Beatrice Tassis
- Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Ilma Floriana Carbone
- Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Enrico Ferrazzi
- Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Cetera GE, D'Ambrosi F, Di Martino DD, Landi L, Criscuolo S, Caschera L, Cesano N, Ossola MW. An uncommon presentation of Wernicke-Korsakoff's syndrome in pregnancy: Case report. Radiol Case Rep 2022; 18:921-925. [PMID: 36593922 PMCID: PMC9803690 DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2022.11.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Wernicke's encephalopathy is an acute neuropsychiatric syndrome resulting from severe thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency. Symptoms occur with an acute onset and may vary according to the brain area involved. Altered consciousness is the most common clinical feature, together with ocular abnormalities and ataxia. We report the case of a pregnant women affected by pre-gestational hyperthyroidism that caused an uncommon presentation of Wernicke's encephalopathy. Symptoms differed from the classic triad and diagnosis was made possible by a thorough analysis of anamnestic factors and brain MRI. Alongside thiamine supplementation, a multidisciplinary approach which included physiokinesis and a phoniatric support was fundamental for the patient's recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Emily Cetera
- Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza, 35, Milan 20122 , Italy
| | - Francesco D'Ambrosi
- Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza, 35, Milan 20122 , Italy,Corresponding author.
| | - Daniela Denis Di Martino
- Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza, 35, Milan 20122 , Italy
| | - Laura Landi
- Department of Pediatric anesthesia and resuscitation, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefania Criscuolo
- Postgraduational School of Radiodiagnostic, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Caschera
- Department of Neuroradiology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicola Cesano
- Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza, 35, Milan 20122 , Italy
| | - Manuela Wally Ossola
- Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza, 35, Milan 20122 , Italy
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Monti E, Libutti G, Di Loreto E, Boero V, Barbara G, Iorio M, Cetera GE, Cipriani S, Parazzini F. High-grade vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia and recurrence risk: analysis of an Italian regional referral center series. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2022; 308:201-206. [PMID: 36564638 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-022-06886-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The main aim of this study was to investigate the long-term risk of disease recurrence in women treated for high-grade vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia (HG-VaIN). METHODS We conducted a retrospective analysis on a cohort of 82 women diagnosed with HG-VaIN between 2010 and 2021 at the "Regional Referral Center for Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of HPV-related Genital Disorders", Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy. All women underwent either ablative treatment (CO2 laser ablation or electrocoagulation) or cold-knife excision. RESULTS In our series, the recurrence rate following treatment was 17%. The 5-year cumulative probability of recurrence was 30.4% and the median time to recurrence was 15.5 months. None of the patients progressed to invasive vaginal cancer during follow-up. A concomitant cervical or vulvar intraepithelial lesion was significatively associated with an increased risk of recurrence (p = 0.006). CONCLUSIONS The results of our study suggest that women with HG-VaIN are at high risk of developing disease recurrence after treatment, especially patients with a concomitant cervical or vulvar intraepithelial lesion. In these women strict monitoring is mandatory to obtain an early identification of recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ermelinda Monti
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Ca' Granda-Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Commenda, 12, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Giada Libutti
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Ca' Granda-Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Commenda, 12, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Eugenia Di Loreto
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Ca' Granda-Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Commenda, 12, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Veronica Boero
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Ca' Granda-Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Commenda, 12, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Giussy Barbara
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Ca' Granda-Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Commenda, 12, 20122, Milan, Italy.,Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Iorio
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Ca' Granda-Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Commenda, 12, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Emily Cetera
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Ca' Granda-Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Commenda, 12, 20122, Milan, Italy.
| | - Sonia Cipriani
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabio Parazzini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Buggio L, Dridi D, Barbara G, Merli CEE, Cetera GE, Vercellini P. Novel pharmacological therapies for the treatment of endometriosis. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2022; 15:1039-1052. [PMID: 36000243 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2022.2117155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Endometriosis is a chronic, estrogen-dependent, inflammatory disease associated with pelvic pain, infertility, impaired sexual function, and psychological suffering. Therefore, tailored patient management appears of primary importance to address specific issues and identify the appropriate treatment for each woman. Over the years, abundant research has been carried out with the objective to find new therapeutic approaches for this multifaceted disease. AREAS COVERED This narrative review aims to present the latest advances in the pharmacological management of endometriosis. In particular, the potential role of GnRH antagonists, selective progesterone receptor modulators (SPRMs), and selective estrogen receptors modulators (SERMs) will be discussed. We performed a literature search in PubMed and Embase, and selected the best quality evidence, giving preference to the most recent and definitive original articles and reviews. EXPERT OPINION Medical therapy represents the cornerstone of endometriosis management, although few advances have been made in the last decade. Most studies have focused on the evaluation of the efficacy and safety of GnRH antagonists (plus add-back therapy in cases of prolonged treatment), which should be used as second-line treatment options in selected cases (i.e. non-responders to first-line treatments). Further studies are needed to identify the ideal treatment for women with endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Buggio
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Commenda, 12, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Dhouha Dridi
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Commenda, 12, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Giussy Barbara
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Commenda, 12, 20122 Milan, Italy.,Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi, Milan, Italy
| | - C E E Merli
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Commenda, 12, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Emily Cetera
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Commenda, 12, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Vercellini
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Commenda, 12, 20122 Milan, Italy.,Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi, Milan, Italy
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20
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Seidenari A, Cavoretto PI, Carbone IF, Germano C, Iurlaro E, Gaeta G, Cetera GE, Amodeo S, Morano D, Masturzo B, Di Martino DD, Giambanco L, Candiani M, Farina A. The cumulative incidence of neonatal metabolic acidemia after terminal bradycardia in the 2nd stage of labor: a survival-based model. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2022; 307:1407-1414. [PMID: 35635618 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-022-06619-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of the study was to estimate by a survival analysis model the hazard function (HF) for neonatal metabolic acidemia (MA) throughout the 2nd stage of labor (2STG) at the time of occurrence of a terminal bradycardia ≥ 10 min requiring expedited delivery, and the cumulative incidence function (CIF) for MA according with the duration of bradycardia stratified in 10-12 min and > 12 min. METHODS Singleton pregnancies experiencing terminal fetal bradycardia requiring expedited delivery in the 2STG at 38 + 0-41 + 3 weeks and delivering in the year 2019, were identified. The presence of MA (pH < 7 and/or BE ≤ - 12 mmol/L) was determined based on the acid-base status in the umbilical artery cord blood. Survival analysis was used to assess the hazard function (HF) and the cumulative incidence function (CIF) for MA occurring after terminal fetal bradycardia, at the 2STG. RESULTS Out of a non-consecutive population of 12,331 pregnancies, there were 52 cases that fit the inclusion criteria. Twenty-four (46.2%) of those develop MA. Abnormal quantitative pH values and the HF for MA correlated with the duration of 2STG at the time of bradycardia onset, but not with bradycardia duration. After 60 min of duration of 2STG, the HF (or instantaneous rate of failure) increased dramatically (from 1.2 to 20 about at 120 min). At paired duration of 2STG, a higher CIF was observed for the terminal bradycardia > 12 min. CONCLUSION Forty-six percent of term fetuses with terminal bradycardia had MA at birth. Despite the low sensitivity and a non-significant association with quantitative pH values, the duration of terminal bradycardia in the 2STG is associated with a higher CIF for MA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Seidenari
- Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery (DIMEC), IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Ivo Cavoretto
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Department, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, University Vita-Salute, Milan, Italy
| | - Ilma Floriana Carbone
- Unit of Obstetrics, Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Mangiagalli Center, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Germano
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Sant'Anna Hospital, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Enrico Iurlaro
- Unit of Obstetrics, Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Mangiagalli Center, Milan, Italy
| | - Gerarda Gaeta
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Department, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, University Vita-Salute, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Emily Cetera
- Unit of Obstetrics, Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Mangiagalli Center, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Amodeo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, S. Antonio Abate Hospital, Trapani, Italy
| | - Danila Morano
- Section of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria S. Anna, University of Ferrara, Cona, Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Bianca Masturzo
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Sant'Anna Hospital, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Daniela Denis Di Martino
- Unit of Obstetrics, Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Mangiagalli Center, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Giambanco
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, S. Antonio Abate Hospital, Trapani, Italy
| | - Massimo Candiani
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Department, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, University Vita-Salute, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonio Farina
- Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery (DIMEC), IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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21
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Giovannini N, Cetera GE, Ercolino C, Miozzo MR, Parazzini F, Ferrazzi EM, Manzotti A, Colaceci S. MYNd&CO (Mindfulness, Yoga, Nutrition, development & Coaching, and Osteopathy) randomized controlled trial for a positive psychophysical experience in pregnancy and after birth: a study protocol. Acta Biomed 2021; 92:e2021032. [PMID: 34328141 PMCID: PMC8383226 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v92is2.11259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM The medicalisation of birth pathway may negatively impact on women's empowerment, enhancing distress even in cases of healthy pregnancies. We have built a program which is comprised of Mindfulness, Yoga, Nutrition, development & Counselling, Coaching, antenatal classes, and Osteopathic treatment (MYNd&CO). METHODS This study is a randomized controlled trial involving low-risk pregnant women. They will be randomized to the experimental (MYNd&CO intervention plus standard care) or control group (standard care). The primary (general health and wellbeing, maternal distress) and secondary outcome measures (urinary incontinence, sexual problems, and physical wellbeing) will be assessed via questionnaires at baseline and 6 months after childbirth. The independent-samples t-test and Chi-square will be used to detect changes in the outcomes between intervention and control group. DISCUSSION The trial is expected to increase knowledge about the effectiveness of a holistic approach in low-risk pregnant women, in terms of obstetrical and psychophysiological outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niccolò Giovannini
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
| | | | - Carolina Ercolino
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
| | - Monica Rosa Miozzo
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
| | - Fabio Parazzini
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
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22
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D'Ambrosi F, Rossi G, Soldavini CM, Maggi V, Cetera GE, Carbone IF, Di Martino D, Di Maso M, Ferrazzi E. Management of gestational diabetes in women with a concurrent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection, experience of a single center in Northern Italy. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2020; 152:335-338. [PMID: 33099770 PMCID: PMC9087777 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.13434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Objective In this study we describe the management of women with gestational diabetes (GD) and an ongoing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection. The aim of the study is to evaluate whether coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) can further complicate pregnancies, and if the protocol we usually use for GD pregnancies is also applicable to patients who have contracted a SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Methods This is a retrospective study analyzing all pregnant women with GD and concomitant COVID‐19 admitted to our institution for antenatal care between March 1 and April 30, 2020. Results Among pregnant women with GD and a concomitant SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, the mean age was 32.9 (SD 5.6) years. Two patients (33%) were of white racial origin and four (67%) were of non‐white racial origin. All patients were diagnosed with COVID‐19 during the third trimester of pregnancy. Two women were asymptomatic and four were symptomatic. Only two (33.3%) women received treatment with insulin. None of the patients required intensive care or mechanical ventilation. No complications were found among the neonates. Conclusion COVID‐19 was not found to worsen the prognosis of patients with GD or of their offspring. Glycemic monitoring, diet therapy, and insulin, when needed, are sufficient for good metabolic control and favorable maternal and fetal outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco D'Ambrosi
- Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Gabriele Rossi
- Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Maria Soldavini
- Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Valeria Maggi
- Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Emily Cetera
- Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Ilma Floriana Carbone
- Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniela Di Martino
- Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Di Maso
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Branch of Medical Statistics, Biometry and Epidemiology "G.A. Maccacaro", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Enrico Ferrazzi
- Department of Woman, Child and Neonate, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.,Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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23
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D'Ambrosi F, Ronzoni L, Villa R, De Marinis S, Cetera GE, Soldavini CM, Ferrazzi E. Ultrasound 2-D and 3-D diagnosis of Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome in a 21-week-old fetus. J Ultrasound 2020; 25:301-304. [PMID: 32557407 DOI: 10.1007/s40477-020-00491-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome is a rare genetic multisystem disorder with an estimated prevalence between 1 per 100,000-125,000 live births. Diagnosis is usually clinical and subsequent to birth. In fact, the rarity of the syndrome and the presence of aspecific morphologic anomalies make prenatal diagnosis challenging. The aim of our work is to analyze ultrasonographic findings, detectable with a combination of 2D and 3D techniques, which may increase the sensitivity of in utero diagnosis of this condition. We report a case of a sonographic prenatal diagnosis of broad and angulated thumbs and halluces and of an abnormal ductus venosus at 21 weeks of gestational age. These findings allowed us to suspect Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome. An accurate ultrasonographic examination may allow a prenatal diagnosis of those syndromes which are usually diagnosed after birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco D'Ambrosi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology "L. Mangiagalli", Fondazione IRCCS "Ca' Granda"- Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
| | - Luisa Ronzoni
- Department of Medical Genetic Unit "L. Mangiagalli", Fondazione IRCCS "Ca' Granda"- Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberta Villa
- Department of Medical Genetic Unit "L. Mangiagalli", Fondazione IRCCS "Ca' Granda"- Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano De Marinis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology "L. Mangiagalli", Fondazione IRCCS "Ca' Granda"- Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Emily Cetera
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology "L. Mangiagalli", Fondazione IRCCS "Ca' Granda"- Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Maria Soldavini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology "L. Mangiagalli", Fondazione IRCCS "Ca' Granda"- Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Enrico Ferrazzi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology "L. Mangiagalli", Fondazione IRCCS "Ca' Granda"- Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.,Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, EU, Italy
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24
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Giovannini N, Crippa BL, Denaro E, Raffaeli G, Cortesi V, Consonni D, Cetera GE, Parazzini F, Ferrazzi E, Mosca F, Ghirardello S. The effect of delayed umbilical cord clamping on cord blood gas analysis in vaginal and caesarean-delivered term newborns without fetal distress: a prospective observational study. BJOG 2019; 127:405-413. [PMID: 31762140 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.16026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine variations in cord blood gas (CBG) parameters after 3-minute delayed cord clamping (DCC) in vaginal deliveries (VDs) and caesarean deliveries (CDs) at term without fetal distress. DESIGN Prospective observational study. SETTING University hospital. SAMPLE CBG from 97 VDs and 124 CDs without fetal distress. METHODS Comparison of paired arterial-venous CBG parameters drawn at birth from the unclamped cord and after 3-minutes DCC for VDs and CDs. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Base excess, bicarbonate, haematocrit and haemoglobin from both arterial and venous cord blood, lactate, neonatal outcomes, partial pressure of oxygen (pO2 ), partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2 ), pH, and postpartum haemorrhage. RESULTS Arterial cord blood pH, bicarbonate ( HCO 3 - , mmol/l), and base excess (BE, mmol/l) decreased significantly after 3-minute DCC both in VDs (pH = 7.23 versus 7.27; P < 0.001; HCO 3 - = 23.3 versus 24.3; P = 0.004; BE = -5.1 versus -2.9; P < 0.001) and CDs (pH = 7.28 versus 7.34; P < 0.001; HCO 3 - = 26.2 versus 27.2; P < 0.001; BE = -1.5 versus 0.7; P < 0.001). After 3-minute DCC, pCO2 increased in CDs only (57 versus 51; P < 0.001), whereas lactate increased more in CDs compared with VDs (lactate, +1.1 [0.9, 1.45] versus +0.5 [-0.65, 2.35]; P = 0.01). Postpartum maternal haemorrhage, neonatal maximum bilirubin concentration, and need for phototherapy were similar between the two groups. Newborns born by CD more frequently required postnatal clinical monitoring or admission to a neonatal intensive care unit. CONCLUSIONS After 3-minute DCC, the acid-base status shifted towards mixed acidosis in CDs and prevalent metabolic acidosis in VDs. CDs were associated with a more pronounced increase in arterial lactate, compared with VDs. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT By 3-minute DCC, acid-base status shifts towards mixed and metabolic acidosis in caesarean and vaginal delivery, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Giovannini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - B L Crippa
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, NICU, Milan, Italy.,Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - E Denaro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - G Raffaeli
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, NICU, Milan, Italy
| | - V Cortesi
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, NICU, Milan, Italy.,Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - D Consonni
- Epidemiology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - G E Cetera
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - F Parazzini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.,Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - E Ferrazzi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.,Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - F Mosca
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, NICU, Milan, Italy.,Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - S Ghirardello
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, NICU, Milan, Italy
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25
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Giovannini N, Cetera GE, Signorelli V, Parazzini F, Baini I, Cipriani S, Cetin I. Carbon monoxide (CO) and nitric dioxide (NO 2) exposure during fetal life: impact on neonatal and placental weight, a prospective study. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2019; 33:2137-2141. [PMID: 30409092 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2018.1542425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Objective: This prospective study aims to analyze how CO and NO2 exposure during pregnancy affects birth and placental weight as well as umbilical arterial pH.Study design: The population in study includes 3614 women born in Italy, living in Lombardia Region, consecutively admitted to the Clinica Mangiagalli for an elective cesarean section from January 2004 to December 2006. Outdoor air quality data was provided by the Department of the Regional Environmental Protection Agency and obtained by a network of fixed monitoring stations distributed in eight geographical areas across the region.Results: A positive association was found between birth weight and the concentration of CO to whom women were exposed during the last 10 d of pregnancy (mean change g + 28, 95% CI +1 to +55, p .04). Conversely, placental weight was not influenced by exposure to CO while a statistically significant weight reduction was related to an increase in NO2 exposure during the last trimester of pregnancy.Conclusion: Fetal weight was positively associated with an increased exposure to CO during the last 10 d of pregnancy. NO2 exposure was associated to a placental weight reduction. These findings underline the existence of a complex biological role of such pollutants, especially of CO, in cell oxygenation at a placental level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niccolò Giovannini
- Dipartimento Materno-Infantile, Clinica Ostetrica Ginecologica, IRCCS Fondazione Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Emily Cetera
- Dipartimento Materno-Infantile, Clinica Ostetrica Ginecologica, IRCCS Fondazione Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Signorelli
- Dipartimento Materno Infantile, Clinica Ostetrica, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Ospdeale dei Bambini V. Buzzi, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabio Parazzini
- Dipartimento Materno-Infantile, Clinica Ostetrica Ginecologica, IRCCS Fondazione Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.,Istituto Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, Milan, Italy
| | - Ilaria Baini
- Dipartimento Materno-Infantile, Clinica Ostetrica Ginecologica, IRCCS Fondazione Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Sonia Cipriani
- Dipartimento Materno-Infantile, Clinica Ostetrica Ginecologica, IRCCS Fondazione Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.,Istituto Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, Milan, Italy
| | - Irene Cetin
- Dipartimento Materno Infantile, Clinica Ostetrica, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Ospdeale dei Bambini V. Buzzi, Milan, Italy
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