Occurrence of acute retrobulbar hemorrhage during birth

OBJECTIVE

 Presentation of acute retrobulbar subperiostal hemorrhage (hematoma) in the course of delivery. The occurrence, possible threats and recommended methods of treatment are described. Introduction: Acute retrobulbar hemorrhage is always a serious condition. Even if not connected with other ocular trauma, it could cause permanent blindness. The reason is based on constriction of the eye, decreasing of the blood supply and thus disruption of the oxygen supply to sensitive retinal tissues. After a short time, these tissues start to deteriorate and lose their natural function. This event is often connected with exophthalmia and diplopia. The primary diagnostic procedure is to measure intraocular pressure (IOP). Even if the ideal diagnostic tools are not accessible, performing a lateral canthotomy (event. with inferior cantholysis) is recommended to relieve IOP in acute situations. Normal intraocular pressure is considered to be 8-21 mmHg. Case report: Our 29-year-old female patient was in the second stage of delivery and suddenly got retrobulbar hemorrhage, resulting in exophthalmia and diplopia. Her baby was delivered shortly after the event. The following delivery course was normal, including her perineum repair and puerperium. Our patient was fortunate because her visual acuity and IOP were normal. Therefore, we chose an observational treatment strategy. After 5 weeks, we noted successful disintegration of the hematoma and decreased exophthalmia and diplopia without other consequences. Conclusion: We described retrobulbar subperiostal bleeding in our patient in the course of delivery. We depicted possible threats that could result in blindness and described recommended methods of treatment. Even if such a situation is extremely rarely, we believe that knowledge of these guidelines could help medical professionals broaden their treatment options. This particularly occurs when a trained eye surgeon is not available.

Uterovesical fistula and its treatment in Sub-Saharan Africa

AIM

 Aim of the study to summarize the current information on diagnostic and treatment options for uterovesical fistula as a consequence of iatrogenic complication. Methods: Literature review of available information on surgical treatment options for uterovesical fistula resulting from previous caesarean section and comparison with our own experience in the developing world. Conclusion: Uterovesical fistula is an abnormal communication between the bladder and uterus. The cause of this pathology in most cases is an iatrogenic complication, most commonly arising after a caesarean section. The incidence of this pathology varies significantly geographically. In developed countries, these fistulas are rather rare. On the other hand, in developing countries, uterovesical fistulas are more common with a significant impact on the subsequent life of the patient due to generally inaccessible health care.

Chemoradiotherapy in the treatment of cervical cancer - a single institution retrospective review

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is a retrospective analysis of treatment outcomes and toxicity in a group of patients with cervical cancer who underwent (chemo) radiotherapy at the Institute of Radiation Oncology in Bulovka University Hospital in Prague in the period 2014-2017.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

During this period, 141 patients were treated, 105 (74.5%) of them underwent combined (chemo) radiotherapy with radical intent and palliative radiotherapy was performed in 36 (25.5%) cases. According to the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) 2009 classification, the most numerous stages were IIB in 39 (27.7%) and IIIB in 64 (45.4%) cases; according to FIGO 2018, a significant number of newly established stages is evident: IIIC1 in 55 (39.0%) patients and IIIC2 in 22 (15.6%) cases.

RESULTS

The median progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) reached 31.3, resp. 40.1 months in the whole group. In the subgroup of patients treated with radical intent, the median PFS was 44.0 months and OS 48.8 months; in the palliative subgroup, the median PFS was 9.4 months and OS 14.8 months. In a radically treated subgroup, 7 (6.7%) patients had gastrointestinal or genitourinary manifestations of G3-4 toxicity, and overall acute toxicity (including skin and haematological reactions) of G3-4 occurred in 18 (17.1%) patients. Late toxicity of G3-4 was reported in 13 (12.4%) cases. Patients who underwent complete brachytherapy (BRT) showed significantly better survival compared to patients with a lower number of BRT fractions. The prognostic potential of PS (performance status) and anemia was confirmed; significantly longer overall survival was observed in patients in good general condition or in those without anemia.

CONCLUSION

Our results confirmed the key role of BRT for the delivery of the curative dose to the target volume. The prognostic role of PS and anemia is evident. The side effects were in acceptable limits but we expect improvements because of the use of modern radiotherapy technologies.

Current FIGO Staging for Carcinoma of the Cervix Uteri and Treatment of Particular Stages

BACKGROUND

Here, we present a review of the revised FIGO (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics) staging system for carcinoma of the cervix uteri, explaining the reasons for the changes and summarizing suitable diagnostic methods and treatment options for particular stages of disease according to current guidelines.

AIM

The FIGO staging system has been revised as follows. Measurement of lateral extension has been removed from stage IA; the only criterion is a measurement for the deepest invasion of < 5.0 mm. Stage IB has been divided into three subgroups: IB1, tumors with a largest diameter measuring 5 mm and < 2 cm; IB2, tumors measuring 2-4 cm; IB3, tumors measuring 4 cm. Stage IIIC includes an assessment of retroperitoneal lymph nodes: IIIC1 if only pelvic lymph nodes are involved, and IIIC2 if para-aortic nodes are infiltrated. The revised staging system does not mandate the use of a specific imaging method or surgical assessment of the extent of the tumor. The method used to assign a stage should be recorded and reported. The European Society of Gynaecological Oncology, the European Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology, and the European Society of Pathology have developed clinically relevant and evidence-based guidelines to improve the quality of care for women with cervical cancer. These guidelines cover comprehensive staging, management, and follow-up for patients with cervical cancer. The guidelines are intended for use by gynaecologic oncologists, general gynaecologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, pathologists, clinical oncologists, radiologists, general practitioners, palliative care experts, and other health professionals.

CONCLUSION

We summarize the new FIGO classification system, including diagnostic methods and treatments for particular stages. We also discuss the main changes and their clinical impact. This work was supported by the Charles University project UNCE 204065. The authors declare they have no potential conflicts of interest concerning drugs, products, or services used in the study. The Editorial Board declares that the manuscript met the ICMJE recommendation for biomedical papers.

A case report of acute apendicitis in puerperium

OBJECTIVE

This article stresses an impact of appropriate management work up in the diagnosis of acute apendicitis in puerperium. Atypical clinical symptoms may cause doubts in diagnosis and may delay necessary surgical intervention.

DESIGN

Case report.

SETTINGS

Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, and Hospital Na Bulovce, Prague.

METHODS

We present a case report describing an atypical presentation of acute apendicitis in early puerperium. Due to atypical course of the disease and atypical imaging locality and morphology, there were doubts about the diagnosis of acute apendicitis, patient was treated conservativelly and the disease later resulted in extensive surgical intervention.

CONCLUSION

Acute appendicitis is the most common cause of non-urogenital morbidity in puerperium. Management of work up and timing of surgical intervention have key impact on maternal mortality and morbidity.

The changes in FIGO staging for carcinoma of the cervix uteri

INTRODUCTION

The carcinoma of the cervix uteri is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide and more than 85% of these cases occur in developing countries. Altogether 822 new cases were found in the Czech Republic during 2016 which means the incidence 15,3 new diseases/100,000 women.

OBJECTIVE

To provide an overview of changes in FIGO (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics) staging for carcinoma of the cervix uteri with an incorporation of possible imaging methods and/or pathological findings, and clinical assessment of tumor size and extent.

SETTINGS

Gynecologic Oncology Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Hospital Na Bulovce and 1st Medical School of Charles University, Prague; Gynecologic Oncology Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, General Faculty Hospital and 1st Medical School of Charles University, Prague; Institute of Radiation Oncology, Hospital Na Bulovce, Prague.

METHODS

For this review, we have used the results of studies, review articles, and guidelines of oncogynecologic organisations on the cervical cancer published in English. They were identified through a search of literature using PubMed, MEDLINE-Ovid, Scopus and Cochrane Library with the keywords. We summarize the new classification, main changes compared to the former one and their clinical impact.

CONCLUSION

Lateral extension measurement is removed in the stage IA, the only criterion is the measured deepest invasion.

Obstetric anal sphincter injuries - review of our date between 2015-2017

OBJECTIVE

Analysis of women undergoing vaginal birth with 3rd or 4th degree perineal tears.

TYPE OF STUDY

Review and analysis of the data from our department.

SETTING

Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, 1st Medical Faculty of Charles University and Hospital Na Bulovce, Prague.

INTRODUCTION

Obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS) belong to dreaded complications after vaginal delivery. The injury is associated with significant maternal morbidity. The most common difficulties are perineal pain, dyspareunia, flatulence and anal incontinence. OASIS are main cause of anal incontinence in women.

MAIN RESULTS

During monitored period 2015-2017 we performed 6185 childbirths in our ward. Cesarean section was performed at 21% of births, instrumental vaginal birth at 5,7% and 73,3% of women had a spontaneous vaginal birth. Our analysis included 4888 births. In our group 92,8% of women gave birth spontaneously regardless of injury and at 7,2% we performed an instrumental delivery. Perineal tears of 3rd and 4th degree were detected in 1,7% (83/4888) of vaginal births independent of vaginal ending. 85,5% were nulliparous women. In a group of instrumental deliveries the risk of OASI was higher. We have detected injury at 5,4% (19/352) of this type of delivery. The most detected perineal trauma in 47% was injury involving more than 50% of external anal sphincter thickness torn (3b). Surprising was a high incidence of mediolateral episiotomy in a group of women who sustained OASI. The most frequent symptoms three months after birth were flatus incontinence and dyspareunia.

CONCLUSION

Obstetric anal sphincter injury is associated with significant maternal morbidity. The most serious consequence is an anal incontinence. With other symptoms as a dyspareunia and a perineal pain it leads to psychosocial problems. Thorough treatment reduces the risk of complications.

[The relationship between cervicovaginal and oral HPV infection]

OBJECTIVE

To summarize current knowledge of the relationship of genital and oral HPV infection in women.

DESIGN

Review article.

SETTING

Gynecologic Oncology Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Hospital Na Bulovce and 1st Medical School of Charles University, Prague; Gynecologic Oncology Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, General Faculty Hospital and 1st Medical School of Charles University, Prague; ENT Department, Hospital Na Bulovce, Prague.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The infection of human papillomavirus (HPV) is strongly associated with the development of anogenital cancers and of a subset of head and neck squamous cell cancers, yet a quite little is known about the interrelationship between oral and cervicovaginal HPV infections. A key issue in oral HPV infection is whether it can be brought about a genital HPV infection, through sexual or other contact and by autoinoculation, or whether it can be considered a fully independent event. Pertinent to this issue is the frequency of oral HPV infection in women with a cervical HPV infection. Some studies show that females with genital HPV infection are at higher risk for oral infection and HPV genotype-concordance with genital infection are more prevalent than could be expected by chance. However, more data are needed to better understand the natural history of HPV infection at each anatomic site.

CONCLUSION

The relationship of oral to cervicovaginal HPV infection remains unclear. Nevertheless, published data suggest that HPV infections at these two sites are not entirely independent, although genotype-specific concordance is low.

Pelvic actinomycosis and IUD

OBJECTIVE

To summarize knowledge about the mana-gement in women with proven actinomyces in uterine cervix and inserted intrauterine device (IUD).

DESIGN

An overall review.

RESULTS

Actinomycosis is an uncommon but important subacute or chronic infection caused by anaerobic or microaerophilic bacteria, mainly within the Actinomyces genus. Actinomycosis can affect various organs and tissues in the human body, often manifesting draining sinuses, abscess formation and fibrosis. The pelvic form in women is the most common in the developed countries. Long-duration treatment with antibiotics can be completely effective even in cases of heavy disease. Although pelvic actinomycosis is predominantly associated with the longstanding use of intrauterine device, the risk of future symptomatic infection is extremly low even in women with a cervical Pap smear positive for actinomyces-like organisms (ALO). Therefore the identification of actinomycetes by cytology after cervical Pap smears is not diagnostic nor predictive of any disease because the actinomycetes normally reside in the female genital tract. In the absence of symptoms, patients with ALO on a Pap test do not need antimicrobial treatment or IUD removal. Nevertheless, women choosing an IUD for contraception should know that there is very low risk of developing the infection in later years after insertion.

CONCLUSION

The sources of literature conclude that removal of the intrauterine device in a patients with a positive ALO in the uterine cervix is not necessary and antibiotics treatment is not required. However, IUD must be changed at least every five years in order to limit the risk of the development of pelvic actinomycosis.

Comparison of groups with medical and surgical terminations of pregnancy

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to compare two cohorts of subjects who underwent termination of pregnancy up to 49 days of amenorrhoea by medical (pharmacological) termination (faUUT) and surgical instrumental termination of pregnancy (inUUT).

DESIGN

Prospective clinical study.

SETTING

Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Charles University in Prague, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Hospital Na Bulovce.

METHODS

From August 2014 to July 2017, a total of 838 terminations of pregnancy up to 49 days of amenorrhoea were performed at our department. Altogether 474 of subjects underwent faUUT and inUUT was performed in 364 of women. We compared the anamnestic, sociodemographic, and health characteristics of women and we evaluated the efficacy, required medical interventions, medication use, the number and characteristics of complications in both groups.

RESULTS

Women who underwent faUUT, were fewer with previous delivery (40.9% vs. 75.0%; p < 0.001), but they had more often previous artificial termination of pregnancy (27.8% vs. 19.5%; p = 0.003). The total number of outpatient visits was significant different between both cohorts, both in median (4 vs 1; p < 0.001) and arithmetic mean (3.8 vs. 1.2; p < 0.001). The usage of uterotonics was much higher in faUUT group (25.7% vs. 8.2%; p < 0.001). On the other side, the antibiotic use was similar in both groups (3.2% vs. 4.4%; p < 0.17). The surgical intervention (revisio cavi uteri instrumentalis, RCUI) required after termination of pregnancy was performed in 7.4% of faUUT cases and in 3.0% of inUUT group (p < 0.001). The failure of faUUT was found in 2 (0.4%) subjects.

CONCLUSION

The complications and other followed parameters were various between both groups. Medical termination of pregnancy is a safe method with some potential non life-threatening complications.

[Breast Cancer - Specifics of Gynecological Care and Counseling]

BACKGROUND

This paper summarizes current knowledge about clinically important aspects of gynecological care in female breast cancer patients. Despite the overall positive acceptance of oral contraceptives and hormone replacement drugs, hormone therapy may raise fears of developing breast cancer. Specifics of gynecological care of fertile patients are discussed as these patients face ovarian failure when undergoing oncological treatment of breast cancer. Tamoxifen is used in adjuvant therapy of breast cancer, in metastatic breast cancer or as prophylaxis of breast cancer in high-risk patients.

AIM

We aim to study the influence of hormonal treatment on breast cancer development in women with and without congenital predisposition. The main risk factors for developing breast cancer are family history, increased density of breast tissue, atypical hyperplasia of the breast and previous radiotherapy to the chest area. All these factors increase the relative risk of cancer more than four times. Contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy show generally less than two-fold or no increase at all (RR 0.96-1.6). We concentrate with safety of hormonal therapy in breast cancer patients after they finish breast cancer treatment in pre- and postmenopausal period. We discuss fertility-sparing methods for preservation of ovarian function due to oncological treatment. Those methods are cryopreservation of embryos, oocytes in metaphase II and ovarian tissue. Simultaneous administration of GnRH agonists may protect ovarian function before gonadotoxic chemotherapy. We describe in detail the effects of tamoxifen on gynecological organs in both pre- and postmenopausal women in relation to the potential risk of developing secondary malignancy. In premenopausal women, tamoxifen has no increased risk of cancer of the uterine body. In postmenopausal patients, the risk after five years of tamoxifen is increased 2-3 times. Transvaginal sonography is not the screening tool for detection of the pathology in the uterine cavity during tamoxifen therapy, and so we only recommend looking for symptoms. Hysteroscopy is the golden standard for the examination of the uterine cavity in symptomatic postmenopausal patients using tamoxifen.

CONCLUSION

This paper summarizes the current knowledge in areas where oncological and gynecological cares for breast cancer patients mingle. It should lead to greater understanding and deepening cooperation between clinical oncologists and oncogynecologists for the benefit of our patients.Key words: adjuvant hormonal therapy - fertility preservation - GnRH analogs - contraceptives - endometrial hyperplasia - hormone replacement therapy - breast neoplasm - tamoxifenThis work was supported by the Czech Ministry of Health - RVO (FNBr, 65269705).The authors declare they have no potential confl icts of interest concerning drugs, products, or services used in the study.The Editorial Board declares that the manuscript met the ICMJE recommendation for biomedical papers.Submitted: 6. 6. 2016Accepted: 22. 7. 2016.

[Contribution of sentinel lymph-node biopsy to treatment of locally advanced stages of cervical cancers]

OBJECTIVE

Usage of sentinel lymph-node (SLN) concept in locally advanced cervical cancers might help to individualise management. According to SLN status could be patients refered to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) with subsequent surgery or to primary chemoradiation. The aim of our study was to evaluate sensitivity of SLN detection in locally advanced cervical cancers and to assess the impact of NAC on frequency of their metastatic involvement.

DESIGN

Retrospective clinical study.

SETTING

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, General Faculty Hospital and 1st Medical Faculty, Charles University, Prague.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Included were patients with cervical cancer stages FIGO IB1 (> 3 cm), IB2, IIA2 and selected cases of stages IIB with incipient parametrial involvement. Patients were distributed into two different protocols - patients in group NAC-SLN were refered to radical hysterectomy with SLN biopsy after 3 cycles of NAC, other patients (group SLN) underwent SLN biopsy and NAC was administered only in SLN-negative cases.

RESULTS

Altogether 101 patients were included (group SLN = 62, group NAC-SLN = 39). Detection of SLN in whole cohort reached 90.1% per patient and 68.3% bilaterally. No differences were found between SLN group and NAC-SLN group in frequency of per patient SLN detection (90.3% vs 89.7%) and bilateral detection (69.4% vs 66.7%). Prevalence of macrometastases, micrometastases and ITC in the SLN group was 37.1% (23/62), 11.3% (7/62) and 8.1% (5/62), respectively. In the NAC-SLN group macrometastases in SLN were detected in 17.9% (7/39) patients, in 1 patient was detected micrometastis in SLN and no patient had ITC. Difference in frequency of metastases in SLN was significant (p = 0,013). No patient had progressed during NAC, complete response was seen in 15.1% (11/73) patients and reduction of tumour volume > 30% in 84.9% (62/73) patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Detection of SLN in locally advanced cervical cancers reached comparable results to early stages. NAC did not influence frequency of SLN detection, but it significantly decreased prevalence of metastatic SLN involvement.

[Gynecological Care and Prevention of Gynecological Malignancies in BRCA1 and BRCA2 Mutation Carriers]

This paper summarizes the current knowledge of gynecological care aspects in women with inherited predisposition to breast and ovarian cancer, i.e. BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers, and proposes guidelines for furher management of these women, addressing follow-up recommendations, prophylactic surgery indications and preimplantation genetic conseling. It evaluates cancer risk and severity of ovarian cancer in particular with regards to its high mortality resulting from aggressive biological behavior of the tumor and late detection rates. BRCA-positive women should be enrolled in prevention programs including carefull surveillance, prophylactic surgery or pre-implantation genetic counseling. Follow-up care consists of gynecological examination, expert oncogynecological ultrasound and tumor marker CA125 examination every six months. However, the most effective strategy for mortality reduction in ovarian cancer is prophylactic surgery--salpingo-oophorectomy (and hysterectomy). The optimal age for surgery is between 35 to 40 years. Prophylactic salpingo-oophorectomy performed in premenopausal women was proved to reduce the risk of ovarian as well as breast cancer. Symptoms of estrogen deficiency after prophylactic surgery can be suppressed by administration of hormone replacement therapy without increasing the risk of breast cancer. Preimplantation genetic diagnosis is an effective way to prevent the trans--mission of hereditary predisposition to the next generation. The management of patients with hereditary suspceptibility to ovarian cancer should be confined to specialized centres.

[Ultrasound-guided minimally invasive interventions in gynecologic oncology]

OBJECTIVE

To present our experience with ultrasound-guided minimally invasive bioptic techniques in gynecologic oncology.

SUBJECT

Original paper.

SETTING

Gynecological Oncology Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Charles University, First Faculty of Medicine and General Faculty Hospital, Prague.

SUBJECT AND METHOD

Minimally invasive ultrasound-guided biopsy may be done in patients with primary inoperable disease, suspicious recurrence of gynecological or non-gynecological malignancy or in case of diagnostic uncertainty of pelvic tumor origin.

CONCLUSION

Ultrasound-guided minimally invasive bio-psy represents an accessible and relatively simple method useful in many indications, not only in gynecologic oncology.

[Ultrasound staging of endometrial cancer - recommended methodology of examination]

The extent of the staging surgery in cases of histologically proven endometrial cancer depends on whether the tumor is of high risk or low risk for extrauterine spread and recurrence. There are several significant prognostic factors - histological subtype and grade of dediferentiation from preoperative biopsy and local stage of uterine involvement based on imaging methods. The depth of myometrial invasion and presence of cervical stromal infiltration (local staging) can be assessed by ultrasound with the overall accuracy comparable to that of magnetic resonance. Transvaginal ultrasound enables to vizualize detailed pelvic anatomy and that is why it is considered to be a suitable tool for assessment of local stage of endometrial cancer. It is advisable to use the standardized terminology defined by International Endometrial Tumor Analysis group (IETA) to describe ultrasound findings. The standardized methodology of ultrasound preoperative staging examination based on prearranged protocols is recommended.

[Ultrasonic staging cervical cancer -a proposal for the standard procedure]

OBJECTIVE

To develop guidelines for the ultrasound examination of cervical cancer, including a unified ultrasound terminology.

SUBJECT

Original paper.

SETTING

Gynecological Oncology Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Masaryk University and General Faculty Hospital Brno, and Gynecological Oncology Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Charles University in Prague - First Faculty of Medicine and General Faculty Hospital Prague.

SUBJECT AND METHOD

The standard diagnostic algo-rithm for examination of cervical cancer in oncogynecology centers in the Czech Republic is based on published studies, own experience (Oncogynecological Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics,1st Medical Faculty, Charles University) and the experiences of a group of ultrasonographers involved in the grant project IGA MZ ČR NT13070 focused on the implementation of an oncogynecological ultrasound into clinical practice. Standard ultrasound examination includes two-dimensional real-time ultrasound examination (sagittal and transverse views). Transrectal or transvaginal ultrasound examination is combined with transabdominal ultrasound. Prerequisites are quality ultrasound equipment, a high frequency microconvex linear probe and abdominal convex and linear probe. The examination is performed by an experienced sonographer (level 2 or 3 according to the recommendations of the Ultrasound division of the Czech Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Czech Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology). Intravenous administration of contrast material or three-dimensional ultrasound examination do not influence accuracy of the examination and is not a prerequisite.

CONCLUSION

Based on the consensus of experienced sonographers and a review of the literature, guidelines were created for ultrasound staging of cervical cancer.

[The importance of screening in oncogynecology]

Cervical cancer can be greatly prevented by the active search for precancerous lesions, by the effective screening. The DNA detection of high-risk human papillomavirus seems to be suitable primary screening tool, more effective than smear for cervical cytology. Organised mass screening for endometrial cancer is not held. The reason is very low prevalence of atypical hyperplasia and endometrial carcinoma in asymptomatic women and relatively low mortality rate, which is not influenced by the detection in asymptomatic stage. It is advisible to instruct all women to seek the gynecologist immediately in case of abnormal uterine bleeding and to emphasize the health education in population. Optimal protocol of the screening for hereditary endometrial malignities is debated currently. There is no effective screening for ovarian cancer in general population. Firstly, the global prevalence of the disease is low. Secondly, there is no screening modality to detect precursor lesions of the majority of malignant ovarian tumors (type II). Different strategies are tested as screening for hereditary ovarian cancer, but they cannot alternate profylactic surgery (bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy).

Ductal carcinoma in situ: analysis of 250 cases

BACKGROUND

In the mammography screening era, we experience increasing incidence of non-invasive lesions of the breast, particularly the ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). It is the authors' goal to better understand this disorder in order to be able to tailor therapy individually for each patient and, most of all, to avoid overtreatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The authors analyzed all cases of DCIS diagnosed within one mammography screening unit between 2007 and 2013. Medical reports as well as a detailed case conference protocol were used to gain all required data.

RESULTS

In a seven-year period, DCIS situ has been diagnosed 250 times in 249 women. Mostly the authors were able to obtain relevant information regarding tumor size, grade, biological characteristics, as well as surgery. This data was compared with current literature.

DISCUSSION

Participating women who screen positive constitute a large patient sample. Thus, we have a large amount of clinical and histological information available for planning and conducting studies regarding DCIS as well as invasive breast cancer.

[Laparoscopic lymph-node dissection in gynecological surgery]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze our experience with transperitoneal laparoscopic dissection of lymphatic nodes in women with gynecologic malignancies.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective clinical study.

SETTING

Center of gynecologic endoscopy and minimally invasive surgery; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, General Faculty Hospital and 1st Medical Faculty in Prague.

METHODS

Analysis of data from our laparoscopic procedures in the years 2006-2011. The following procedures have been included: systematic pelvic lymphadenectomy (PLN), paraaortic lymphadenectomy (PALN), pelvic sentinel node excision, focused dissection of bulky lymphatic nodes from pelvis or paraaortic area.

RESULTS

We performed 177 primarily laparoscopic procedures pointed at dissection of pelvic and/or paraaortic lymph-nodes. The mean operating time and the mean number of lymph-nodes was 82 minutes and 26.5 nodes in patients with PLN, and 75 minutes and 12.5 nodes in patients with PALN. The overall rate of laparo-conversions was 4.5%; the incidence of major complications was 6.8% and of serious bleeding 5.6%. Laparoscopic lymphadenectomy could not be performed or completed in 2.3% of cases. Complications were more frequently associated with PALN than with PLN.

SUMMARY

Laparoscopic approach to PLN and PALN is feasible in vast majority of patients. It provides adequate earnings of the lymphatic nodes, tolerable operative time, and relatively low complication rate. The highly experienced operation team for especially high infrarenal PALN is necessary.

[The rational preoperative diagnosis of ovarian tumors - imaging techniques and tumor biomarkers (review)]

The majority of patients who suffer from an early-stage or advanced-stage of ovarian cancer complain about symptoms, mainly gastrointestinal ones. The pelvic examination in ovarian cancer detection is limited by the adnexal position in the pelvis and frequent extraovarian spread of disease. Recently, any reliable tumor biomarker (CA 125 and/or HE4), which can be used in differential diagnosis between benign and malignant ovarian tumors, does not exist. According the results of the largest multicenter International Ovarian Trial Analysis (IOTA), ultrasound if performed by an experienced sonologist is an ideal diagnostic method in differential diagnosis between benign and malignant ovarian tumors. The experienced examiner is also able to detect extraovarian tumor spread and to assess tumor operability. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is used only to complement ultrasound in cases when high tissue resolution is needed. Computed tomography (CT) is a useful method for detection of extraovarian spread, especially in cases when an ultrasound examiner experienced in abdominal scanning is not available. Similarly, fusion of positron emission tomography with CT (PET/CT) is a highly accurate method for the detection of abdominal and extraabdominal tumor spread, but its use is limited by cost and the low availability of this method. On the other hand, PET/CT is not recommended for primary ovarian cancer detection because of its lower sensitivity in comparison to ultrasound and its high false positive rates as well.

Myxoid mixed low-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma and smooth muscle tumor of the uterus. Case report

We report the case of a 73-year-old female with myxoid mixed low-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma and smooth muscle tumor of the uterus. Grossly, the tumor sized 130 x 130 x 100 mm involved the uterine corpus almost in its entirety. Histologically, the tumor consisted of two cell types. In some areas, the tumor cells showed typical features of endometrial stromal tumors and resembled stromal cells of proliferative endometrium. In other areas, however, the tumor showed smooth muscle features and consisted of larger mostly epitheloid cells with a moderate amount of cytoplasm. In all areas, myxoid changes and multiple hyalinizing giant rosettes were present. The tumor infiltrated the myometrium in a pattern typical of low-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma. Immunohistochemically, the tumor cells showed expression of vimentin, estrogen and progesterone receptors and variable expression of CD10, α-smooth muscle actin, desmin, h-caldesmon, and cytokeratin AE1/AE3. Other markers examined including CD99, α-inhibin, cytokeratin CAM5.2, S-100 protein, and HMB45 were negative. To the best of our knowledge, mixed low-grade endometrial stromal and smooth muscle tumor with myxoid changes has not been described to date.

Prognostic significance of low volume sentinel lymph node disease in early-stage cervical cancer

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate prognostic significance of low volume disease detected in sentinel nodes (SN) of patients with early stages cervical cancer. Although pathologic ultrastaging of SN allows for identification of low volume disease, including micro-metastasis and isolated tumor cells (ITC), in up to 15% of cases, prognostic significance of these findings is unknown.

METHODS

A total of 645 records from 8 centers were retrospectively reviewed. Enrolled in our study were patients with early-stage cervical cancer who had undergone surgical treatment including SN biopsy followed by pelvic lymphadenectomy and pathologic ultrastaging of SN.

RESULTS

Macrometastasis, micrometastasis, and ITC were detected by SN ultrastaging in 14.7%, 10.1%, and 4.5% patients respectively. False negativity of SN ultrastaging reached 2.8%. The presence of ITC was not associated with significant risk, both for recurrence free survival and overall survival. Overall survival was significantly reduced in patients with macrometastasis and micrometastasis; hazard ratio for overall survival reached 6.85 (95% CI, 2.59-18.05) and 6.86 (95% CI, 2.09-22.61) respectively. Presence of micrometastasis was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival in a multivariable model.

CONCLUSION

Presence of micrometastasis in SN in patients with early stage cervical cancer was associated with significant reduction of overall survival, which was equivalent to patients with macrometastasis. No prognostic significance was found for ITC. These data highlight the importance of SN biopsy and pathologic ultrastaging for the management of cervical cancer.

[Transabdominal ultrasound examination in gynecology]

OBJECTIVE

To present structured guidelines to transabdominal ultrasound examination in gynecology.

SUBJECT

Practical guide.

SETTING

Oncogynecological Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Charles University in Prague - First Faculty of Medicine and General Faculty Hospital, Prague.

SUBJECT AND METHOD

After having gone over the now-a-days literature and summarized our experience, we present description of normal and more frequent and common pathological findings on transabdominal ultrasound.

CONCLUSION

Entire examination takes usually a couple of minutes, but gives much more information to distinguish between potential causes of patient's difficulties and allows for focusing an adequate diagnostic and therapeutic management.

[Ultrasound-guided minimally invasive interventions in gynecologic oncology]

OBJECTIVE

To present our experience with ultrasound-guided minimally invasive interventions in gynecologic oncology.

SUBJECT

Original paper.

SETTING

Oncogynecological Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Charles University in Prague - First Faculty of Medicine and General Faculty Hospital, Prague.

SUBJECT AND METHOD

We provide minimally invasive punction interventions under ultrasound guidance using either abdominal or vaginal probe in three indication groups - diagnostics (tru-cut biopsy), therapy (punction drainage of lymphocyst) and palliation (insertion of permanent peritoneal catheter).

CONCLUSION

Ultrasound-guided minimally invasive interventions represent a group of accessible and relatively simple methods useful in many indications, not only in gynecologic oncology. Adoption of these methods allows to broadening the spectrum of interventions offered and decreasing patient's stress.

[Risk-reducing surgery in women at hereditary risk of gynaecological cancer]

OBJECTIVE

To present up-to-date knowledge concerning risk-reducing surgery in carriers of susceptibility mutations among hereditary breast/ovarian cancer syndrome and Lynch syndrome.

SUBJECT

Review.

SETTING

Oncogynecological Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Charles University in Prague - First Faculty of Medicine and General Faculty Hospital, Prague.

SUBJECT AND METHOD

After having reviewed the now-a-days literature and summarized our experience we present here an overview of risk-reducing strategies in gynecology and a proposal of guidelines to risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy and hysterectomy.

CONCLUSION

Risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy or hysterectomy is the most effective strategy for gynecological cancer prevention in susceptibility gene mutation carriers so far. This type of surgery, however, requires specific indication work-up and techniques different from those standardly used.

[Hereditary susceptibility to endometrial cancer]

OBJECTIVE

To present up-to-date knowledge concerning field of hereditary susceptibility to endometrial cancer as a part of hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (Lynch syndrome).

SUBJECT

Review.

SETTING

Oncogynecological Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Charles University in Prague, First Faculty of Medicine and General Faculty Hospital, Prague.

SUBJECT AND METHOD

After having gone over the now-a-days literature and summarized our experience with management of high risk women of Lynch syndrome families we present up-to-date overview of this field problematics.

CONCLUSION

Although endometrial cancer arising due to germ-line susceptibility account for a small part of these malignancies only, they represent disease with clearly defined and detectable serious risk factor. Management approach for these women is now defined and allows for early detection or lowering the risk. Educated gynecologist, as a field specialist, has good chance to identify women at risk and manage them in an appropriate way.

[Molecular characterization of epithelial ovarian borderline tumors with respect to clinical management and prognosis]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze up-to-data knowledge in the field of molecular characterization of epithelial ovarian borderline tumors with respect to clinical management and prognosis.

DESIGN

Review.

SETTING

Oncogynecological Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Charles University in Prague, First Faculty of Medicine, and General Faculty Hospital, Prague.

METHODS

Based on literature search and own experimental data in the field of molecular biology of ovarian cancer and borderline tumors of ovary, we summarize up-to-date knowledge of molecular differences and specific features of BTO with respect to implementation of these knowledge into the clinical management.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

We suppose that spectrum of genomic changes (i.e. genetic and epigenetic) causing tumor transformation is limited and these changes take place in stem or progenitor cell. Analysis of genomic changes can help to define certain subtypes of BTO and, correlated to clinical characteristics, to identify subtypes with different biological behavior. Such molecular typing of BTO allows to individualize treatment.

[Ultrasound-guided intervention in the treatment of abdomino-pelvic advanced tumors]

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study was to evaluate the accuracy and safety of ultrasound-guided tru-cut biopsy in advanced abdomino-pelvic tumors in a sufficiently large cohort.

DESIGN

Prospective study.

SETTING

Oncogynecological Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, General Faculty Hospital of Charles University, Prague.

METHODS

Patients indicated for tru-cut biopsy were those with primarily inoperable tumors, with advanced tumors and compromised performance status preventing a primary surgical procedure, and with recurrent pelvic tumors requiring histological verification. All were referred to the Oncogynecological Center between January 2005 and June 2007. Tru-cut biopsy was taken either from pelvic tumor or from its metastatic sites transvaginally or transabdominally under ultrasound guidance. Sample adequacy was evaluated.

RESULTS

Altogether, 119 patients were referred for tru-cut biopsy during a study period. Only 4 cases were found unsuitable for tru-cut biopsy and the patients were referred for laparoscopy instead. Samples were obtained transvaginally in 67 patients (58.3%) and transabdominally in 48 patients (41.7%). The biopsy was taken from pelvic tumor in 59 patients (51.3%), omental cake in 14 patients (12.2%), from peritoneal visceral or parietal carcinomatosis in 37 patients (32.2%) and from other localities in 5 patients (4.3 %). The diagnostic adequacy of ultrasound-guided tru-cut biopsy reached 94.8% (95% CI, 94.17-99.40%). There were only two tru-cut biopsy-related complications: The first case involved bleeding from tumor in a patient with mild thrombocytopenia that required laparotomy; in the second case, diagnostic laparoscopy was indicated after a minor bleeding occurred in the biopsy site on ultrasound, however, no significant pelvic bleeding was confirmed by the procedure.

CONCLUSION

Ultrasound-guided tru-cut biopsy is a safe, reliable, fast, and cost-effective diagnostic method for histological verification of both advanced primary and recurrent abdomino-pelvic tumors. It can be performed in an outpatient setting without the need for general anesthesia, causing a minimal discomfort to the patient in comparison with laparoscopy or laparotomy. The risk of complications is low and the main advantage is the acquirement of a sample adequate for further immunohistochemical examination, which is a necessary requirement for the choice of optimal oncological treatment.

[Use of transrectal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging in the staging of early-stage cervical cancer]

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study was to compare the accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)--a standard method--and transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) in the staging and determination of significant prognostic parameters in early-stage cervical cancer. The following prognostic parameters were evaluated: identification of residual tumor in the cervix after cone-biopsy, tumor volume, and early parametrial infiltration.

DESIGN

Prospective study.

SETTING

Oncogynecological Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, General Faculty Hospital of Charles University, Prague.

METHODS

Patients referred to Oncogynecological Center from January 2004 to February 2006, in whom early-stage cervical cancer (T1a1-T2a) was diagnosed by clinical examination, were prospectivelly enrolled in the study. Only those patients who were examined by both MRI and TRUS with following surgical treatment were included. Imaging results were compared with pathology findings.

RESULTS

Data from 95 patients were evaluated. The accuracy of tumor detection in 95 patients was 93.7% for TRUS and 83.2% for MRI (P < or = 0.006). In small tumors (< or = 1 cm3), the accuracy of tumor detection by TRUS was 90.5% and 81.1% by MRI (P < or = 0.049). The accuracy of parametrial infiltration detection by TRUS and MRI was 98.9% and 94.7%, respectively (P < or = 0.219). The accuracy was not influenced by body mass index values.

CONCLUSION

Our results show TRUS achieving comparable or even higher accuracy than the more commonly used MRI in staging of early-stage cervical cancer.

[Current knowledge of ductal carcinoma in situ]

OBJECTIVE

With respect to an increasing incidence of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) of the breast and thus growing importance of this disease we want to review the current data about the diagnostics and therapy of this leasion. We will also try to outline the future development of the management of this disease.

DESIGN

Review article describing the current knowledge of ductal carcinoma in situ.

SETTING

Department of Gyneacology and Obstetrics, MEDINOS Clinic, Sonneberg, Germany.

METHODS

Study of the current literature.

CONCLUSION

Evidence-based guidelines for therapy of this disease are still not available. Up-to-date management is based on the theory of linear progression, which means that DCIS is an obligate precursor of invasive breast carcinoma. Consequently, we treat this leasion vigorously in order to prevent future recurrences or invasive disease. Existing prognostic and predictive markers do not allow a sufficient classification of low-grade and high-grade patients. Further studies are necessary in order to distinguish women who need only an observation from those who require a full-scale therapy.

Sentinel node (SLN) biopsy in the management of locally advanced cervical cancer

OBJECTIVES

Sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy can significantly contribute to the management of locally advanced cervical cancers with high risk of lymph node (LN) positivity. However, low detection rate and sensitivity were reported in larger tumors, albeit on a small number of cases. It was the aim of our study to verify the SLN reliability in large tumors, with modified dye application technique and a careful identification of side-specific lymphatic drainage.

METHODS

The study involved 44 patients with tumors 3 cm in diameter or larger, stages IB1 to IIA, or selected IIB. In cases where SLN could not be detected, systematic pelvic lymphadenectomy was performed on the respective side. Systematic pelvic lymphadenectomy was performed during the second step radical procedure if not already done.

RESULTS

Detection rate in the whole cohort reached 77% per patient and 59% bilaterally. No significant difference was found whether a blue dye or a combined method was used (75% vs 80%, and 55% vs 67%). Systematic pelvic lymphadenectomy was performed in cases with undetected SLN unilaterally in 8 and bilaterally in 10 women. A systematic pelvic lymphadenectomy was included in the second step radical procedure in 19 cases and no positive LN were found. There was no case of false-negative SLN result in patients who underwent surgical treatment.

CONCLUSION

Detection rate in locally advanced cervical cancer could be improved by a careful dye application technique. Low false-negative SLN rate could be achieved if pelvic lymphatic drainage is evaluated on a side-specific principle by performing systematic lymphadenectomy if SLN is not detected.

[Analyses of LOH and expression in healthy gland, DCIS and invasive breast cancer gland]

OBJECTIVE

To characterize molecular pattern differences (LOH and expression) between DCIS and invasive breast cancer.

DESIGN

Original paper.

SETTING

Oncogynecologic center, Clinic of Obstetrics and gynecology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and General Teaching Hospital, Prague.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We analyzed LOH in 3 genes (BRCA1, BRCA2 and p53) and expression of 2 genes (VEGF and Bcl-2) in fresh frozen tissue samples of DCIS and invasive breast cancer. Each sample was evaluated by pathologist before sampling and analysis.

RESULTS

Molecular pattern analysis was performed in three types of tissue: healthy breast gland (65 samples), DCIS (25 samples) and invasive breast cancer (42 samples). LOH in BRCA1 was detected in 22.3% of invasive cancer samples and in 13.4% of DCIS; BRCA2 LOH in 32.1% of invasive cancer samples and in 14.1% of DCIS; p53 LOH in 35.6% of invasive cancer samples and in 33.2% of DCIS. VEGF was overexpressed in 15.3% of invasive cancer samples and in 8.3% of DCIS. Overexpression of Bcl-2 was detected in 13.2% of invasive breast cancer samples and in 7.1% of DCIS.

CONCLUSION

We confirmed that substantial part of DCIS has molecular pattern similar to invasive cancer. These molecular changes could serve as potential markers of DCIS progression to invasive cancer or they could identify subgroup of DCIS with latent invasion.

[Prerequisites for preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD in carriers of mutations responsible for hereditary cancers]

BACKGROUNDS

Carriers of hereditary mutations in cancer susceptibility genes represent a limited but high-risk population characterized by a high probability of cancer development, frequently with its manifestation in early age and with a 50% chance of pathogenic allele inheritance by offspring. In case of monogenic disorders, preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) could be used for characterization of the DNA region affected by pathogenic mutation in the early stages of an embryo created by in vitro fertilization (IVF). Therefore, the transfer of unaffected embryos could be performed based on the results of PGD genotyping, enabling the development of offspring not carrying the pathogenic alteration.

AIM

Here we present the consensus of the collaborative group of the Society for Medical Genetics, the Czech Society for Oncology and other professionals for use of PGD in the Czech Republic for carriers of mutations in cancer susceptibility genes. We address the conditions, prerequisites, and limits of practical application of this method. We also point out specific issues of ovarian hyperstimulation in carriers of mutations in BRCA1, BRCA2, and p53, anticipating the increased risk of hormonally dependent breast and ovarian cancers development.

CONCLUSIONS

We assume that a narrow but non-negligible subgroup of cancer susceptibility gene mutation carriers may benefit from PGD.They are mainly individuals deciding to undergo IVF and PGD recruited from mutation carriers with extreme concerns about transmitting the mutation to their children. The PGD in these individuals should be managed by a closely cooperating multidisciplinary team of professionals responsible for indication of PGD, giving complete information regarding the IVF and PGD procedures including their limits, evaluating individual risks and performing instrumental and laboratory procedures with respect to up-to-date good laboratory and clinical practice.

[Molecular biology of preinvasive and invasive breast tumors]

OBJECTIVE

To present an overview of molecular characteristics and differences of and between preinvasive and invasive breast tumors.

DESIGN

Review.

SETTING

Oncogynecologic center, Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and General Teaching Hospital, Prague.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Review of literature.

CONCLUSION

Identification of genetic and epigenetic changes in preinvasive and invasive breast tumors can help to better classify these lesions and improve and tailor their clinical management. Due to completely different biological behavior of morphologically identical lesions, it is clear that the matter of classification and clarification of their clinical behavior is hidden inside the entire genome or proteome.

[Inactivation of BRCA1, BRCA2 and p53 genes in sporadic ovarian cancer]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze loss of heterozygosity (LOH), loss of expression and somatic mutations of BRCA1, BRCA2 and p53 genes in sporadic epithelial ovarian cancer samples.

DESIGN

Original paper.

SETTING

Oncogynecologic center, Clinic of Obstetrics and gynecology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and General Teaching Hospital, Prague.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We used genomic DNA and total RNA from peripheral blood and fresh frozen tumor as a template for LOH, loss-of-expression and mutation analyses.

RESULTS

LOH in at least one region was found in 60% of tumors. Majority of these alterations occurred not solely, but in conjunction with other region deletions.

CONCLUSION

Our study confirms high frequency of somatic alteration of BRCA1, BRCA2 and p53 genes in sporadic epithelial ovarian cancer.

[Detection of HPV DNA in lymph nodes in early stages cervical cancers]

OBJECTIVE

Review recent knowledge concerning significance of detection of DNA HPV in regional lymph nodes in cervical cancer patients.

TYPE OF THE STUDY

Literature review.

SETTING

Department of Obstetrics and Gyneacology, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General Teaching Hospital, Prague.

RESULTS

Metastatic involvement of pelvic lymph nodes is the most important prognostic parameter in early stages cervical cancer. Still, almost 20% of patients with negative pelvic nodes experience recurrence. Detection of HPV DNA in lymph nodes might be a marker of occult metastatic involvement. However, published data are limited, mostly due to inconsistent methodology. Only 3 prospective studies evaluating HPV from fresh or frozen tissue were published till now, all other retrospective studies extracted HPV DNA from paraffin embedded samples. A few papers showed correlation between HPV DNA and metastatic involvement of pelvic lymph nodes. DNA HPV identification in histopatology-negative nodes was considered as a risk factor for recurrence. Presence of DNA HPV 18 in histopathology-negative pelvic nodes was described as a poor prognostic factor; however prognostic significance of individual genotype is still unclear.

CONCLUSION

Detection of high risk HPV DNA in regional lymph nodes is a good candidate for prognostic parameter in early stages cervical cancers. The group of women with both absence of metastatic involvement and negative HPV DNA evaluation of regional lymph node should represent a cohort of patients with particularly good prognosis.

[Ductal approaches in mammary diagnostics]

OBJECTIVE

Information about new possibilities of early diagnostics in mammary lesions.

TYPE OF STUDY

Review.

SETTING

Gynecology-Obstetrics Clinic, 1st Medical Faculty and General Teaching Hospital, Prague.

SUBJECT AND METHODS

Most malignant tumors of the breast originate from ductal epithelium. A direct examination of the ductal system, could significantly improve diagnostics of breast cancer as well as its preinvasive stages (DCIS) and to influence mortality. The concept of ductal approaches includes several techniques and ductal lavage and duscoscopy.

CONCLUSIONS

Ductal approaches represent an attractive area for minimal load upon the patients. Specificity and sensitivity of these methods have some limits, which will be subject to change in relation to understanding of carcinogenesis and in a close relation to the knowledge of biomarkers, genomics and proteomics. Ductoscopy appears to be the ideal method for the future due to possibilities of direct visualization of epithelium in combination with biopsy and ductal lavage. It other advantages include minimal invasiveness, minimal risk and the origin of possible complications for the patient.

[Contribution of neoadjuvant chemotherapy for operability of cancers of the uterine cervix]

OBJECTIVE

To compare per-operative and post-operative morbidity in patients undergoing radical surgery for carcinoma of the uterine cervix after administration of a neoadjuvant chemotherapy, and for primarily small cervical tumour.

TYPE OF THE STUDY

A retrospective case-control study.

SETTING

Department of Obstetrics and Gyneacology, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General Teaching Hospital, Prague.

METHODS

The study included 24 patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the uterine cervix who underwent radical hysterectomy including systematic pelvic lymphadenectomy after previous administration of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) during the period between 1/2004 and 6/2006. The control group of 24 patients was selected retrospectively from the population of women after radical surgery carried out in the same period, nevertheless, the controls underwent the surgery for primarily small carcinoma of the uterine cervix, stages IA2 or IB1. The tumour size consistent with the reduced tumour after NACT administration was the criterion for selection of the control group. The following parameters were monitored in both groups--duration of the surgery, blood loss objectivised by a difference in pre-operative and post-operative haemoglobin and haematocrit values, the need of blood transfusion, per-operative complications, early post-operative complications (up to 6 weeks after the surgery), duration of hospitalization and retaining the inserted epicystotostomy due to hypotonic bladder after discharge.

RESULTS

A therapeutic response allowing the radical surgery was achieved in 92% patients after NACT. After NACT the original tumour volume was reduced by 70% on the average (58% - 100%). No significant differences between the group of patients treated with NACT and undergoing subsequent radical hysterectomy and the control group were reported in terms of duration of the surgery (165 min. vs. 160 min.), blood loss (the difference in pre-operative and post-operative haemoglobin values 18 g/l vs. 19 g/l, the difference in pre-operative and post-operative haematocrit values 0.056 vs. 0.064), administration of blood transfusion (25% vs. 21%) and duration of hospitalization (9.5 days vs. 9.6 days). A significant difference was reported only in the need to retain the inserted epi-cystostomy after discharge (67% vs. 47%).

CONCLUSION

There were no significant differences in the evaluated parameters of per-operative and postoperative morbidity in patients after NACT and in control patients, except for the necessary duration of artificial urine derivation in patients after NACT due to the fact that their surgery was more radical in the parametria. Administration of NACT regimen involving ifosfamide/cisplatin (IP) improved surgical conditions in the bulky squamous cell carcinoma of the uterine cervix.

[Glandular premalignant lesions of the uterine cervix]

OBJECTIVE

Review of diagnostical and therapeutical methods in glandular premalignant lesions of the uterine cervix.

DESIGN

Review article.

SETTING

Department of Obstetrics and Gyneacology, 1st Medical Faculty, Charles University and General Faculty Hospital, Prague.

RESULTS

The incidence of invasive adenocarcinomas of the uterine cervix is increasing. Incidence ratio between adenocarcinomas and spinocellular carcinomas is approximately 1:5; however ratio of premalignant lesions reaches only about 1:80. Glandular premalignant disease is usually found in the specimen taken for squamous disease. The coincidence of both types of premalignant lesions, so called "mixed lesion", is revealed in about 46-72%. PAP-smear of AGC-NOS/-NEO or adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS) in combination with typical colposcopic appearance raise a suspicion of glandular lesion. Direct biopsy must be always performed to get definite diagnosis. Optimum biopsy technique requires cylindrical excision. A woman can be carefully followed if desires pregnancy and specimen margins are negative. Hysterectomy is indicated if reproductive plans are completed.

CONCLUSION

Diagnosis of glandular premalignat lesion of the uterine cervix is more complicated in comparison to spinocellular one, however it is getting more significant due to increasing incidence. Colposcopy and cytology are less reliable. Any suspicion on glandular premalignat leasion requires more active approach and radical procedure (hysterectomy) if possible.

[Hereditary ovarian cancer]

OBJECTIVE

This article reviews the topic of hereditary ovarian cancer, describes persons at risk of hereditary disposition to cancer and gives instructions for genetic counselling and molecular analysis, including contacts to specialized centres in the Czech Republic.

SUBJECT

Review.

SETTING

Institute of Biochemistry and Experimental Oncology, Charles University in Prague.

METHODS

Hereditary ovarian cancer occurs in three autosomal dominant syndromes: appropriate hereditary ovarian cancer (HOC), hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC) and hereditary non-poliposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC). Physician in practice or specialist at the clinic should focus interest on patients form families with frequent occurrence of breast and/or ovarian cancer, patients with early onset disease or tumour duplicity (breast and ovarian cancer). Hereditary disposition to ovarian (and breast) cancer could be assessed by molecular genetic analysis of two main susceptibility genes BRCA1 and BRCA2, or other genes in families with diverse tumours. Molecular genetic analysis should be in any cases indicated by experienced clinical genetic. In the Czech Republic, the consensus of genetic and clinical care of risk patients was published and specialized centres for families with hereditary predisposition were settled in Prague and Brno.

CONCLUSION

Persons with hereditary susceptibility to cancer constitute noted group where painstaking dispensarisation and preventive care may prevent malignancy or detect it in the early stage.

[Radical parametrectomy in women with invasive cervix cancer after previous simple hysterectomy]

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate technique, indications and limits of surgical procedure in the treatment of cervical cancer diagnosed from uterus specimen from simple hysterectomy.

DESIGN

Retrospective observational study, review of literature.

SETTINGS

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 1st Medical Faculty and General Faculty Hospital, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.

METHODS

Women following radical parametrectomy with upper vaginectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy were enrolled to the study. In all patients unexpected invasive cervical cancer was found from the uterus specimen after simple hysterectomy.

RESULTS

Together 10 patients were enrolled to the study. CIN was the indication for primary hysterectomy in all but two patients. There were two operative complications, cystostomy in both cases, treated properly during surgery. In the specimen from radical procedure residual tumor in parametria was found in 2 cases, and metastasis to pelvic nodes in 4 cases. There was no postoperative complication. Adjuvant radiotherapy was recommended in 4 patients due to positive lymph nodes, in one case due to residual tumor in parametria, and in one case for both reasons.

CONCLUSIONS

Radical parametrectomy with upper vaginectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy should be considered as an alternative solution in patients following simple hysterectomy with unexpected finding of invasive cervical cancer. Morbidity of the procedure is higher in comparison to standard radical hysterectomy, however majority of complications are easy to repair. The most significant criteria for patient's selection for surgical approach is a depth of invasion to cervical stroma. In our group radical procedure obviated the need for radiotherapy in half of the patients.

[Prophylactic adnexectomy]

OBJECTIVE

Analysis of the issue of prophylactic bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (BSO): a) during pelvic surgery for benign diagnosis; b) in women with hereditary risk of ovarian cancer.

DESIGN

Review article.

SETTING

Department of Obstetric and Gynecology, Charles University.

METHODS

Critical review of published data.

CONCLUSION

During pelvic surgery for benign diagnosis a prophylactic BSO is indicated of the age over 45, in younger women an individual approach is required, considering many aspects, including history of ovarian and breast cancer. Another indication for BSO is an increased risk of familial ovarian cancer. The surgery significantly diminished the risk of epithelial cancer of ovary, fallopian tube, and simultaneously the risk of breast cancer. There is a continuing increased risk of peritoneal cancer following the surgery. Bilateral oophorectomy together with bilateral salpingectomy is recommended. The age limit for surgery is about 35 years after careful consideration of individual risk, reproductive plans, type of mutation and age at malignant disease manifestation in previous generation. Potential alternative for women who do not accept prophylactic surgery is tubal ligation. Screening of risk group or chemoprevention by oral contraceptives are not equivalent alternatives to prophylactic surgery.

[Hereditary predisposition for the development of breast and ovarian carcinoma]

Part of breast and ovarian cancer cases develops on the hereditary predisposition, i.e. mutation in one of predisposing genes. Although this proportion is relatively small, 5-10% of all breast and ovarian carcinomas, it represents a group with clearly defined etiologic factor. Predictive analysis of unaffected family members allows to identify individuals at high risk of cancer and to include them into the programme of primary and secondary cancer prevention. Following article presents basic review of the hereditary predisposition to breast and ovarian cancer focusing especially on BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which are responsible for almost three-quarters of those hereditary tumours.

[Detection and occurrence of BRCA 1 gene mutation in patients with carcinoma of the breast and ovary]

OBJECTIVE

The article presents a review of basic information on incidence and detection of BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 genes mutations. Results of investigation in a group of women with ovarian and breast cancer are presented.

DESIGN

Retrospective clinical-laboratory study and review.

SETTING

Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, 1st Medical Faculty of Charles University, Prague, Apolinárská 18, Czech Republic.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Investigated group consisted of 16 persons--12 patients with ovarian or breast cancer and 4 healthy relatives of a woman--breast cancer patient and a carrier of BRCA 1 gene mutation. Protein truncation test (PTT) was performed in order to detect BRCA 1 gene mutation. This test detects mutations leading to premature termination of protein synthesis. Truncated proteins are easily discriminated from full size.

RESULTS

Three BRCA 1 gene alterations were identified in the investigated group of women suffering from ovarian or breast cancer. One asymptomatic person--carrier of BRCA 1 gene mutation--was identified in this study. She was daughter of a woman, a carrier of BRCA 1 gene mutation, with early onset of breast cancer and positive family history.

CONCLUSIONS

BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 gene mutations are of particular importance in the increasing risk of ovarian cancer and early onset of breast cancer as well as some other malignancies. Genetic testing and counselling including investigation of some other genetic and environmental factors, related to cancer risk, may be of clinical significance in patients with increased risk of certain malignancies.

Mutations of the BRCA1 gene in hereditary breast and ovarian cancer in the Czech Republic

OBJECTIVE

Mutations in the BRCA1 gene confer a high risk for the development of breast or ovarian cancer. The aim of this study was to establish the frequency and spectrum of BRCA1 mutations in Czech breast or ovarian cancer families.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

We have screened 28 patients with early-onset cancer and 54 patients from risk families for germ-line mutations in BRCA1. All coding exons were analyzed by the protein truncation test (PTT) and the reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Detected variants were characterized by direct sequencing of PCR products.

RESULTS

Five distinct deleterious mutations have been identified in six families. All the mutations led to the premature termination of translation. One mutation was detected in a group of 11 (9.1%) patients with early-onset breast cancer. Two mutations were observed in 32 (6.3%) families with a history of breast cancer only. Three mutations were found in 22 (13.6%) families with both breast and ovarian cancer. The 5382insC mutation was the only abnormality detected twice. In addition, two variant transcripts, the loss of exon 5 and in-frame 3-bp deletion at the beginning of exon 8, were identified only at the cDNA level. Their biological significance remains unknown.

CONCLUSION

PTT analysis enables examination of long PCR products. The technique is useful for rapid detection of mutations in hereditary breast cancer.

[Complications of axillary dissection in breast carcinoma ]

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the work was to evaluate the incidence and type of postoperative complications after radical exenteration of the axilla in conjunction with an implemented surgical operation.

DESIGN

Retrospective clinical study.

SETTING

Gynaecological and Obstetric Clinic, First Medical Faculty Charles University and General Faculty Hospital Prague, Apolinárská 18, Prague.

METHOD

The authors made a retrospective analysis of postoperative complications in 116 selected patients, who underwent partial breast surgery or ablation of the breast with dissection of the axilla at the Gynaecological and Obstetric Clinic, First Medical Faculty Charles University and General Faculty Hospital in Prague in 1994-2000 on account of breast cancer stage I and II according to FIGO. The group comprised patients where radiotherapy or chemotherapy of the axilla was not used. The patients were at least 12 months after operation without signs of locoregional relapse of the disease and in the dissected axillary tissue at least 10 lymph nodes were found. The operations were implemented by nine different surgeons. Early (infection, seroma, haematoma) as well as late (oedema, paraesthesia, stiffness, pain, weakness of the upper extremity) complications were also evaluated. The authors compared the incidence of complaints in relation to age, the number of dissected nodes and extent of the breast surgery. The statistical significance of the phenomena was evaluated by Fisher's exact test.

RESULTS

At least one complication was recorded in 65% of the patients. In early complications (haematoma, infection, seroma) neither the correlation with the patient's age nor with the number of removed nodes was significant. There was a statistically significant relationship (P < 0.05) between the incidence of infection and the extent of the breast surgery which probably was associated with the wound area. As to late complications (oedema, paraesthesia, stiffness, pain and weakness of the upper extremity) a significant relationship was found with lower painfulness in patients above 55 years (P < 0.05) and lower sensation of weakness and paraesthesias in patients with partial breast operations (P < 0.05). The more frequent complaints of younger patients were probably due to their greater everyday physical activity as compared with older women. The higher number of subjective complications in patients after ablation of the breast is explained not only by the size of the wound area but also by psychosocial reasons.

CONCLUSION

Dissection of the axilla is part of standard surgical treatment of breast cancer. The surgical operation without radio- or chemotherapy is associated in 65% cases with long-term morbidity of the patients. With regard to the shift of diagnosis of breast cancer to earlier stages it is important to seek a less invasive staging method which will reduce the patient's morbidity. The sentinel node biopsy method seems perspective.