Search

Introduction: Acute right iliac fossa (RIF) pain is a common presenting symptom in surgical patients, with a wide range of differentials, particularly in premenopausal females. This study explores ultrasound usage in the management of women aged 16–55 years presenting with RIF pain. Methods: A total of 1,082 patients who presented to a tertiary hospital over 12 months were included. Data were collected from patients' electronic records, including initial clinical impression, imaging, management, operative findings, histology and subsequent hospital attendances within 6 weeks and within 6 months. Results: Following clinical assessment, 607 (56%) of patients underwent an ultrasound. Of these, 280 (25.9%) patients received no radiological imaging on initial presentation, and 252 (42%) had pathology identified on ultrasound. The most common finding was an ovarian cyst, closely followed by unexplained free pelvic fluid. Of the 607 patients scanned, 29 (4.8%) had an ultrasound diagnosis of appendicitis; 254 of 1,082 (23.5%) patients underwent operative management. Of the 254 patients who had surgery, 179 (70.5%) had preoperative imaging. Of the 29 (11.4%) cases where the intraoperative finding was gynaecological, 15 (51.7%) cases had not had any preoperative imaging. The negative appendicectomy rate was 21.3% (45/211). Of the 45 patients who had a histologically normal appendix, 22 (48.9%) had not had any previous imaging. Ultrasound had a specificity of 78% for diagnosing appendicitis. Conclusions: In patients who underwent operative management, a negative finding or finding not requiring surgical management was associated with no preoperative imaging. This supports the use of ultrasound scans as an adjunct in a multimodal approach to the assessment of women presenting with RIF pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adnexal masses are uncommon in children but are increasingly recognized due to advancements in diagnostic facilities. Such masses in the pediatric population often raise concerns about malignancy. Typically, these masses are small and can resolve spontaneously; however, larger ones can pose a diagnostic dilemma due to their signs and symptoms, requiring clinicians to be particularly vigilant. Simple ovarian cysts are seen in 1 in 2500 live births. They are commonly diagnosed prenatally as intra-abdominal masses by ultrasonography. While there are no established guidelines for management, larger cysts are generally managed surgically (either open or laparoscopic) with the aim of protecting the ovaries and ensuring future fertility. Herein, we present a case of an unusually large congenital ovarian cyst in a newborn that mimicked an abdominal mass, leading to respiratory compromise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Benign adnexal masses represent a significant clinical concern, with diverse etiologies and potential for acute complications. This study aims to provide insights into the surgical management of these masses and associated emergencies in a tertiary care setting. Objectives: To evaluate the outcomes, efficacy, and safety of surgical interventions for benign adnexal masses and related acute emergencies in a cohort of women. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted on 94 women who underwent surgical treatment for benign adnexal masses and related emergencies at a tertiary care center. Patient demographics, clinical presentations, surgical procedures, outcomes, and complications were analyzed. Results: The study population primarily consisted of reproductive age grouped women, with a median age of 35 years. The most common presenting symptoms were abdominal pain and discomfort. Laparoscopy was the predominant surgical approach, used in 70% of cases. The majority of the masses were ovarian cysts. Postoperative complications were minimal, with a low rate of conversion to open surgery. The overall success rate of the surgeries was high, with a significant improvement in symptoms and minimal postoperative morbidity. Conclusion: Surgical management of benign adnexal masses and related emergencies in a tertiary care setting is safe and effective, with minimal complications and favorable outcomes. This study underscores the importance of tailored surgical approaches based on individual patient presentations and emphasizes the role of minimally invasive techniques in enhancing patient recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key content: All patients with ovarian endometriosis should be offered an individualised, shared decision‐making approach informed by clinical history, symptoms and fertility status.Surgical management of ovarian endometriosis can be effective in treating endometriosis‐associated pelvic pain and infertility, but there is no current evidence that surgery for ovarian endometriosis increases the success of in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment.Ovarian reserve tests should be considered before any ovarian surgery and can help guide the patient towards the optimal treatment.The Endometriosis Fertility Index should be incorporated into pre‐operative consultations as a validated tool that estimates the likelihood of spontaneous conception following surgical intervention.Surgeons should be trained in different surgical techniques, types of diathermy and haemostatic agents that can minimise the risk of inadvertent injury to normal ovarian cortex. Learning objectives: To facilitate informed decision‐making regarding the treatment of ovarian endometriosis.To gain insight into the possible surgical techniques available to manage ovarian endometriosis and the evidence behind them.To understand the impact of each technique on endometriosis‐associated pain, fertility outcomes and recurrence rates. Ethical considerations: Should fertility preservation be offered to all women of reproductive age with fertility aspirations and a diagnosis of endometriomas?Should integrated care boards (ICBs) devise specific criteria to offer funding for fertility preservation as an option before surgery for ovarian endometriosis? [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To prospectively determine the nature of adnexal masses diagnosed during pregnancy and investigate whether ultrasound was a reliable means of assessing these. Methods: A single-centre prospective observational cohort study was conducted in a large tertiary referral hospital in London. Pregnant women with an adnexal mass detected at or prior to the 12-week routine ultrasound received a detailed ultrasound by a level II ultrasound practitioner at the time of detection; at 12 weeks; 20 weeks; and 6 weeks postpartum. The following outcomes were recorded: subjective impression of the mass; International Ovarian Tumor Analysis simple rules classification; resolution and intervention rate; and the incidence of complications related to the mass. Results: A total of 28,683 pregnant patients were scanned and an adnexal masses was detected in 277 patients, yielding an incidence of 1%. 274 participants were included in the analysis. Subjective impression was as follows: simple 75.9%; dermoid 29.1%; endometrioma 6.6%; haemorrhagic 3.3%; para-ovarian 2.6%; torted simple 0.7%; decidualized endometrioma 0.4%; fibroma 0.4%; theca luteal 0.4%; and borderline ovarian tumour: 0.7%. There was a significant reduction in the volume at each scan (p < 0.0001). Approximately 74.2% of the masses resolved spontaneously. Surgery was performed in 14/274: 2 antenatally, 6 at caesarean section, and 6 postpartum. In 5/247 (2%), there were complications due to the mass. Using IOTA simple rules, 272/274 (99.3%) (p < 0.0001) were classifiable. Only 1/274 (0.4%) had malignant features as per IOTA (p = 0.05). As there were no confirmed malignancies, the accuracy of IOTA simple rules could not be calculated. Conclusions: Adnexal masses in pregnancy are uncommon and the majority spontaneously resolve. Malignancy is rare, as are complications. In the absence of concerns regarding malignancy or cyst accident, there is no need for additional monitoring of these masses during pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Artificial intelligence, especially ChatGPT, has been used in various aspects of medicine; however, whether ChatGPT can be used in case report writing is unknown. This study aimed to provoke discussion and provide a platform for it. Methods: I wrote a theoretical case report where cyst aspiration cured a twisted ovarian cyst (Manuscript 4). I tasked ChatGPT with generating case reports by inputting information at three different levels: (1) key message and case profile, (2) addition of key introduction information (including known facts and problems to be solved), and (3) further addition of main discussion points. These inputs resulted in the creation of Manuscripts 1–3, which were subjected to analysis. Manuscript 3, generated by ChatGPT with the deepest information input, was compared with Manuscript 4, the human‐authored counterpart. Results: With the least information, Manuscript 1 can stand on its own, but its content is superficial. The more detailed data input, the more readable and reasonable the manuscripts become. A human‐written manuscript involves personal experience and viewpoints other than obstetrics‐gynecology. Conclusions: Better input produced more reasonable and readable case reports. Human‐written paper, compared with ChatGPT‐generated one, can involve "human touch." Whether such human touch enriches the case report awaits further discussion. Whether ChatGPT can be used in case report writing, and if it can, to what extent, should be worthy of further study. I encourage every doctor to form their own stance towards ChatGPT use in medical writing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiple risk-prediction models are used in clinical practice to triage patients as being at low risk or high risk of ovarian cancer. In the ROCkeTS study, we aimed to identify the best diagnostic test for ovarian cancer in symptomatic patients, through head-to-head comparisons of risk-prediction models, in a real-world setting. Here, we report the results for the postmenopausal cohort. In this multicentre, prospective diagnostic accuracy study, we recruited newly presenting female patients aged 16–90 years with non-specific symptoms and raised CA125 or abnormal ultrasound results (or both) who had been referred via rapid access, elective clinics, or emergency presentations from 23 hospitals in the UK. Patients with normal CA125 and simple ovarian cysts of smaller than 5 cm in diameter, active non-ovarian malignancy, or previous ovarian malignancy, or those who were pregnant or declined a transvaginal scan, were ineligible. In this analysis, only postmenopausal participants were included. Participants completed a symptom questionnaire, gave a blood sample, and had transabdominal and transvaginal ultrasounds performed by International Ovarian Tumour Analysis consortium (IOTA)-certified sonographers. Index tests were Risk of Malignancy 1 (RMI1) at a threshold of 200, Risk of Malignancy Algorithm (ROMA) at multiple thresholds, IOTA Assessment of Different Neoplasias in the Adnexa (ADNEX) at thresholds of 3% and 10%, IOTA SRRisk model at thresholds of 3% and 10%, IOTA Simple Rules (malignant vs benign, or inconclusive), and CA125 at 35 IU/mL. In a post-hoc analysis, the Ovarian Adnexal and Reporting Data System (ORADS) at 10% was derived from IOTA ultrasound variables using established methods since ORADS was described after completion of recruitment. Index tests were conducted by study staff masked to the results of the reference standard. The comparator was RMI1 at the 250 threshold (the current UK National Health Service standard of care). The reference standard was surgical or biopsy tissue histology or cytology within 3 months, or a self-reported diagnosis of ovarian cancer at 12 month follow-up. The primary outcome was diagnostic accuracy at predicting primary invasive ovarian cancer versus benign or normal histology, assessed by analysing the sensitivity, specificity, C -index, area under receiver operating characteristic curve, positive and negative predictive values, and calibration plots in participants with conclusive reference standard results and available index test data. This study is registered with the International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number registry (ISRCTN17160843). Between July 13, 2015, and Nov 30, 2018, 1242 postmenopausal patients were recruited, of whom 215 (17%) had primary ovarian cancer. 166 participants had missing, inconclusive, or other reference standard results; therefore, data from a maximum of 1076 participants were used to assess the index tests for the primary outcome. Compared with RMI1 at 250 (sensitivity 82·9% [95% CI 76·7 to 88·0], specificity 87·4% [84·9 to 89·6]), IOTA ADNEX at 10% was more sensitive (difference of –13·9% [–20·2 to –7·6], p<0·0001) but less specific (difference of 28·5% [24·7 to 32·3], p<0·0001). ROMA at 29·9 had similar sensitivity (difference of –3·6% [–9·1 to 1·9], p=0·24) but lower specificity (difference of 5·2% [2·5 to 8·0], p=0·0001). RMI1 at 200 had similar sensitivity (difference of –2·1% [–4·7 to 0·5], p=0·13) but lower specificity (difference of 3·0% [1·7 to 4·3], p<0·0001). IOTA SRRisk model at 10% had similar sensitivity (difference of –4·3% [–11·0 to –2·3], p=0·23) but lower specificity (difference of 16·2% [12·6 to 19·8], p<0·0001). IOTA Simple Rules had similar sensitivity (difference of –1·6% [–9·3 to 6·2], p=0·82) and specificity (difference of –2·2% [–5·1 to 0·6], p=0·14). CA125 at 35 IU/mL had similar sensitivity (difference of –2·1% [–6·6 to 2·3], p=0·42) but higher specificity (difference of 6·7% [4·3 to 9·1], p<0·0001). In a post-hoc analysis, when compared with RMI1 at 250, ORADS achieved similar sensitivity (difference of –2·1%, 95% CI –8·6 to 4·3, p=0·60) and lower specificity (difference of 10·2%, 95% CI 6·8 to 13·6, p<0·0001). In view of its higher sensitivity than RMI1 at 250, despite some loss in specificity, we recommend that IOTA ADNEX at 10% should be considered as the new standard-of-care diagnostic in ovarian cancer for postmenopausal patients. UK National Institute of Heath Research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mature ovarian dermoid cysts (ODCs) are the most common benign ovarian tumors diagnosed in children. However, there is minimal data on management of ODCs in premenarchal patients. This study assesses characteristics associated with expectant (EM) vs surgical (SM) management in premenarchal patients and the growth rate of ODCs in EM patients at a single institution. Forty-four premenarchal patients, either post-surgical with pathologically-confirmed ODC or having radiologic findings consistent with ODCs, were included. Data collected included demographics, cyst characteristics, imaging findings, presence of symptoms, surgical procedure performed, and ovarian torsion occurrence. Patient age at diagnosis was similar between groups (SM: 8.8 vs EM: 8.0, P =.55). At presentation, 36 patients (82%) underwent SM and 8 (18%) underwent EM. There was a significant difference in cyst size between groups (SM: 8.9 cm vs EM: 3.6 cm, P =.004). Of SM patients, 30% underwent oophorectomy vs cystectomy, with a significant difference in ODC size between procedures (11.8 cm vs 7.7 cm, P =.016). Of EM patients, 75% had at least one and 60% had three follow-up ultrasounds, with average follow-up timeframes of 3.7 and 27 months respectively. Average yearly ODC growth rate for the latter group was 0.8 cm. The average yearly growth rate of ODCs in premenarchal patients within our institution was slower than in older cohorts, and both age and cyst size played significant roles in determining surgical procedure. Continued study on EM in premenarchal ODCs will help define parameters for recommending SM vs EM in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mullerian duct anomalies are common in females with anorectal malformations (ARMs), although there are no universally recommended screening protocols for identification. Historically, at our institution, we have recommended a screening pelvic ultrasound (PUS) 6 months after thelarche and menarche. We aimed to evaluate outcomes associated with our post-thelarche screening PUS in females with ARMs. An institutional review board–approved retrospective chart review was performed for all female patients 8 years old or older with ARMs and documented thelarche. Data were collected on demographic characteristics and clinical course. The primary outcome was adherence to the recommended PUS. Secondary outcomes included imaging correlation with suspected Mullerian anatomy and need for intervention on the basis of imaging findings. A total of 112 patients met the inclusion criteria. Of them, 87 (77.7%) completed a recommended post-thelarche screening PUS. There were no differences in completion on the basis of age, race, establishment with a primary care provider, insurance status, or type of ARM. Nine patients (10.3%) had findings on their PUS that did not correlate with their suspected Mullerian anatomy; five (5.7%) required intervention, with two requiring menstrual suppression, two requiring surgical intervention, and one requiring further imaging. Most patients completed the recommended post-thelarche screening PUS. In a small subset of patients, PUS did not correlate with suspected Mullerian anatomy and generated a need for intervention. Post-thelarche PUS can be a useful adjunct in patients with ARMs to identify gynecologic abnormalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore the correlation and diagnostic value of serum phthalate ester chemicals (PAEs), carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125), and retinol binding protein-4 (RBP-4) with ovarian reserve function in patients with ovarian cysts. Methods: A total of 150 ovarian cyst patients admitted to our hospital from January 2020 to December 2022 were selected as the observation group, and another 150 healthy volunteers with physical examination in the same period were selected as the matched group. Compare the expression levels of serum PAEs (diethyl phthalate (DEP), dibutyl phthalate (DBP), and 2-ethylhexyl phthalate (di(2-ethylhexyl)) (Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP)}, CA125, RBP-4, and ovarian function related indicators between two groups of subjects. Use Pearson's test to analyze the expression levels of serum PAEs The correlation between CA125 and RBP-4 and ovarian reserve function in patients with ovarian cysts, and the establishment of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves to analyze the diagnostic value of serum PAES, CA125, and RBP-4 for ovarian cysts. Result: The total levels of serum PAEs, CA125, DEP, DBP, DEHP, and PAEs in the observation group were higher than those in the matched group (P<0.05); The levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) in the observation group were higher than those in the matched group, while the levels of estradiol (E2) were lower than those in the matched group(P<0.05); PAES, CA125, and RBP-4 were positively correlated with FSH and LH, and negatively correlated with E₂ (P<0.05); The area under the curve (AUC) from high to low is joint diagnosis (0.864), RBP-4 (0.721), CA125 (0.698), and PAEs (0.641). The combination of PAES, CA125, and RBP-4 has higher diagnostic sensitivity and specificity for ovarian cysts compared to a single diagnosis of the three. Conclusion: There is a significant relationship between serum PAEs, CA125, and RBP-4 levels and ovarian reserve function in patients with ovarian cysts. The higher the levels of these three, the worse the ovarian reserve function in patients with ovarian cysts. In addition, the combination of PAES, CA125, and RBP-4 has high diagnostic sensitivity and specificity for ovarian cysts, which can provide reliable basis for clinical diagnosis and disease judgment of ovarian cysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ovarian cysts are linked to hormone imbalances and altered gene expressions, but the connection between cysts and ion channel expression is understudied. This study explored the role of TWIK-related acid-sensitive K+ (TASK) channels in bovine ovarian cyst formation. The ovarian follicles were split into small (5 to 10 mm in diameter) and large (>25 mm in diameter) groups. Among the measured K+, Na+, and Cl− concentrations in follicular fluid (FF) obtained from small-sized follicles (SFs) and large-sized follicles (LFs), the K+ concentration was significantly lower in LFFF. Quantitative PCR, Western blot, and immunocytochemistry data revealed that TASK-3 expression levels significantly decreased by approximately 50% in LFs and granulosa cells obtained from LFs (LFGCs) compared to the corresponding controls. The TASK-3 protein was localized to the plasma membranes of GCs. The diameters of LFGCs were larger than those of SFGCs. The cell swelling response to exposure to a hypotonic solution (200 mOsm/L) was highly reduced in TASK-3-overexpressing cells compared to vector-transfected cells. TASK-3-knockdown cells showed arrested growth. Senescence markers were detected in LFGCs and TASK-3-knockdown cells. These findings suggest that reduced TASK-3 expression in LFs is associated with the inhibition of GC growth, leading to senescence and cyst formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although there are many benign tumors in the ovarian adnexal area, the four most common types are still luteal cyst, ovarian mature cystic teratoma (OMCT), ovarian endometriosis, and benign epithelial tumors of the ovary. Purpose: This study aimed to examine the correlation between six tumor markers (CEA, AFP, CA125, CA19-9, SCC, HE4) in the differential diagnosis of female adnexal benign masses and assess their diagnostic value. Patients and Methods: In this study, 135 patients with adnexal benign masses were treated in Zhengzhou first people's Hospital from January 2018 to January 2023. 135 patients were divided into four groups: luteal cyst (13.3%), OMCT (42.2%), ovarian endometriosis (23.7%) and benign epithelial tumors of the ovary (including mucinous cystadenoma and serous cystadenoma) in group D. The receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to assess the diagnostic value of each marker and combined detection. Results: The diameter of luteal cysts was significantly smaller than that of benign ovarian tumors (p < 0.001). ROC analysis showed that the combination of AFP, CA125, CA19-9, and SCC had a higher diagnostic rate for luteal cysts (AUC=0.871; sensitivity: 71.8%; specificity: 88.9). The SCC level in OMCT was significantly higher than in other benign ovarian tumors (p=0.007). ROC analysis indicated that the combination of AFP, HE4, and SCC had a higher diagnostic rate for OMCT (AUC=0.753; sensitivity: 65.4%; specificity: 75.4%). The CA125 level in ovarian endometriosis was significantly higher than in other accessory benign tumors (p < 0.001). ROC analysis demonstrated that the combination of AFP, CA125, and CA19-9 had a higher diagnostic rate for ovarian endometriosis (AUC=0.935; sensitivity: 76.7%; specificity: 96.9%). The tumor diameter of benign epithelial tumors of the ovary was significantly larger than that of other benign ovarian tumors (p < 0.001). ROC analysis revealed that the combination of CA125 and CA19-9 had a higher diagnostic rate for benign epithelial tumors of the ovary (AUC=0.792; sensitivity: 64.5%; specificity: 85.7%). Conclusion: The findings of this study demonstrate that the combined use of tumor markers (CEA, AFP, CA125, CA19-9, SCC, and HE4) has value in diagnosing benign ovarian tumors, including luteal cysts, OMCT, ovarian endometriosis, and benign epithelial tumors of the ovary. However, it is important to acknowledge the limitations of this study, which include its single-center nature and the small sample size. Despite these limitations, the results highlight the potential utility of these markers in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key Clinical Message: Ovarian hyperthecosis (OH) is a benign pathology, less common in premenopause. Literature is poor on its ultrasound (US) characteristics. We suggest that a heterogeneous ovary at US, with a central vascularisation and follicles to the periphery, with or without hyperandrogenism, should lead to consider OH in the hands of experts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In 2021, the American Vein and Lymphatic Society convened a multi-disciplinary group to develop a valid and reliable discriminative instrument for the classification of patients suffering from pelvic venous disorders (PeVD) referred to as the Symptoms-Varices-Pathophysiology (SVP) system. Limited data exists regarding the utility of this instrument in the care of patients with PeVD. The goal of this investigation is to apply the SVP classification system to a group of patients treated for PeVDs. Methods: From January 2018 to January 2019, we retrospectively reviewed the records of 70 female patients treated for a PeVD at the Center for Vascular Medicine. Age, race, gender, medical/surgical histories, CEAP classification and intervention types were assessed and patients were categorized according to their SVP classification. The prevalence of each S and V class, their association with gonadal or iliac vein obstructive lesions and the prevalence of lower extremity varicosities was evaluated. Results: The average age of the entire cohort was 47.4 ± 13.4. The race distribution was as follows: African American (6), Hispanic (1), and Caucasian (63). Of the 140 limbs, 57% were C3 or greater with an average rVCSS score of 4.53. At the time of intervention, 54 patients (77%) demonstrated CEAP class 2 disease or greater with 25 patients (35%) demonstrating lower extremity varicosities. Medical co-morbidities included the following: Endometriosis (n = 1), Uterine Fibroids (n = 1), Ovarian cysts (n = 4), history of venous thrombosis (n = 2) and prior lower extremity venous procedures (n = 3). Overall, 47 patients (67.1%) demonstrated S2 disease secondary to dyspareunia, post-coital pain, or dysmenorrhea. S2 alone was observed in 17 patients (24.3%), S2,3a and S2,3a,3b in nine patients each (12.9%), and S2,3b was in 12 patients (17.1%). Thirteen patients presented with isolated extra-pelvic symptoms (19%); four (5.7%) were classified as S3a,3b, and nine (12.9%) were classified as S3b only. Finally, 10 patients (14%) had no pelvic symptoms and thus were classified as S0. V0 disease was observed in 17 patients (24.3%) secondary to a high incidence of iliac vein stenoses (IVS). V1 disease was observed in 1 patient (1.43%). V2 disease was observed in 53 patients (74.3%) secondary to iliac or ovarian vein reflux. Of these, 45 patients (64.3%) presented with reflux in the iliac veins. Sixteen patients had reflux in the common iliac veins, 17 patients exhibited reflux of the external iliac veins, and 41 patients demonstrated reflux of the internal iliac veins. Thirty-two patients (45.7%) presented with V2 disease secondary to reflux of the ovarian veins, 8 of whom presented with isolated ovarian vein reflux without IVS. Bilateral ovarian vein reflux was observed in 6 patients (9%) and unilaterally in 26 (37%) patients with concomitant ovarian vein reflux and IVS observed in 31 patients (44%). In patients with ovarian vein reflux, 89% had a concomitant iliac vein stenosis: (96.9% in the common iliac vein, 81.3% in the external iliac vein and 3.1% in the internal iliac vein). Conclusion: In our patient cohort, 70 women demonstrated 14 different SV classifications. The most common was S2V2, found in 10 patients. Chronic pelvic pain of venous origin, S2 disease, was the most common symptom, present in 47 patients (67.1%); followed by extra-pelvic symptoms as 22 patients demonstrated symptoms of the external genitalia (S3a), and 21 patients had symptoms secondary to the non-saphenous leg veins (S3b). Pelvic varicosities, V2, were also the most common variceal pattern seen in 53 patients, and 17 patients did not have any varices noted by venogram. Non-thrombotic IVS either alone or with ovarian vein reflux was the most common cause of PeVD in this cohort and may reflect referral patterns to our center. To determine the true incidence of these SVP patterns, larger cohort studies are necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 58-year-old female presented with abdominal pain, vomiting and constipation. Laboratory tests indicated elevated white blood cell count and C-reactive protein levels. Imaging via CT scan revealed a large cystic mass in the right ovary, abscesses and generalized small bowel distension, which initially raised suspicion of the existence of ovarian cancer with peritoneal carcinomatosis. Despite conservative management, the patient's condition did not improve, prompting a laparotomy. Intraoperative findings included generalized peritonitis, significant small bowel dilation due to inflammatory adhesions and a perforated dermoid ovarian cyst. The cyst was resected and a prophylactic ileostomy was installed. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of a benign dermoid ovarian cyst. This case illustrates the rare presentation of a perforated dermoid cyst mimicking peritoneal carcinomatosis and emphasizes the importance of considering such complications in the differential diagnosis of bowel obstruction and peritoneal disease. Early recognition and appropriate surgical intervention are crucial for optimal outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome PCOS accounts for over 75%of anovulatory infertility. Letrozole is an effective alternative to clomiphene citrate as a first line drug for ovulation induction in women with PCOS. Letrozole has a definitive role in anovulatory women who have not responded to the clomiphene citrate therapy. Aim: The objective of this study is to compare the safety and efficacy of two doses of Letrozole 2.5 mg and 5 mg as ovulation induction drug in infertile women with PCOS. Materials and methods: This was a comparative observational study. After fulfilling the selection criteria, total 90 females of PCOS were enrolled and randomly divided into two equal groups. One is treated with Letrozole 2.5mg and other is 5mg, starting from the 2nd day of menses for 5 days. Socio-demographic parameters, duration of infertility, ovulation rate, number of matured follicles, endometrial thickness, primary and secondary outcome were measured Results: There is no statistical significant difference found between Letrozole 2.5mg and Letrozole 5mg group in terms of socio-demographic and clinical characteristics (P>0.05). The ovulation rate was slightly higher in Letrozole 2.5mg group (96%) as compared to Letrozole 5mg group (92%), but not statistically significant (p>0.05). There was no significant difference in number of days to achieve follicular maturity and mean endometrial thickness at hCG administration between both groups (p>0.05). The common side effects of Letrozole therapy were nausea, dizziness and ovarian cyst formation Conclusion: This study has shown that both the doses 2.5 mg and 5 mg Letrozole have equal effectiveness for ovulation induction and it recommends the use of 2.5 mg letrozole dose for initiation of ovulation induction in PCOS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the effects of barbed and conventional sutures on reproductive outcomes and ovarian reserve after laparoscopic treatment for benign non‐endometrioma ovarian cysts. Methods: This retrospective study was conducted at an affiliated women's hospital between May 2017 and December 2019. Patients with benign non‐endometriotic ovarian cysts undergoing laparoscopic cystectomy were included. Results: Patients received barbed sutures (221 patients) or conventional smooth sutures (203 patients) intraoperatively. The two groups had comparable baseline characteristics. The surgical duration and ovarian suturing time were significantly shorter in the barbed suture group than in the conventional smooth suture group (P < 0.001 and P = 0.002, respectively). The rate of postoperative hemoglobin decline and serum anti‐Müllerian hormone decline were similar between the two groups (P > 0.05). A total of 316 (74.53%) patients experienced at least one pregnancy postoperatively: 170 (76.92%) and 146 (71.92%) patients in the barbed suture and conventional smooth suture groups, respectively (χ2 = 1.395, P = 0.238). Multivariate Poisson regression demonstrated that barbed sutures had no significant effect on the overall postoperative pregnancy rate (adjusted incidence rate ratio, 1.10; 95% confidence interval, 0.93–1.36; P = 0.382). Conclusion: In patients with benign non‐endometriotic ovarian cysts undergoing laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy, barbed sutures had a reproductive outcome similar to that of conventional smooth sutures while providing higher surgical efficiency without adverse effects on the postoperative ovarian reserve. Barbed sutures are probably a viable option to conventional smooth sutures. Synopsis: The reproductive outcome of barbed sutures was similar to that of conventional smooth sutures in patients with benign non‐endometriotic ovarian cysts undergoing laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex condition characterized by high male hormone levels, irregular menstrual cycles, lack of ovulation, and sometimes small ovarian cysts. Often underdiagnosed, PCOS leads to significant health issues, making timely and efficient identification crucial. Recently, machine learning (ML) has shown promise in medical diagnoses, but the perceived "black box" nature of ML models necessitates explanations of key parameters influencing predictions. This study aims to provide global explanations using SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) to ensure the efficiency, effectiveness, and reliability of the ML model. An open-access dataset with 300 PCOS patients was utilized to predict whether a patient's luteinizing hormone (LH) to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) ratio is up to 1 or more than 1. The study employed ML classifiers including AdaBoost, XGBoost, CatBoost, and Bagging methods, with Bagging performing the best. The modeling process used a 5-fold cross-validation approach, splitting the dataset into 80% training and 20% testing sets. The model's performance was evaluated using accuracy (ACC), balanced accuracy (b-ACC), specificity (SP), sensitivity (SE), negative predictive value (npv), positive predictive value (ppv), and F1-score. The Bagging method yielded the following performance metrics: ACC (99.0%), b-ACC (99.0%), SE (98.8%), SP (99.1%), ppv (97.7%), npv (99.5%), and F1-score (98.3%). SHAP analysis identified the top predictors for distinguishing between LH: FSH ratio categories as TTng/dL, BMI, AMH, age, family history, and menstrual cycle regulation. This study demonstrates that incorporating SHAP explanations enhances the interpretability and reliability of ML models in diagnosing PCOS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent and intricate endocrine disorder affecting a substantial proportion of the female population. This condition is characterized by a constellation of symptoms, encompassing irregular menstrual cycles, physical manifestations like excess hair growth or acne, and hormonal imbalances, such as elevated androgen levels. The diagnosis of PCOS is often challenging due to the heterogeneity of its symptoms and the need for a multidimensional assessment. The proposed system seeks to revolutionize PCOS diagnosis by amalgamating two potent technologies: Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) and Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) with meticulous feature selection. XGBoost handles structured clinical data, capturing intricate relationships, while CNNs extract features from medical images, crucial for identifying ovarian cysts, a common PCOS indicator. This fusion offers a holistic assessment, empowering healthcare professionals to make more accurate diagnoses, thereby improving patient care. By bridging structured and unstructured data, our system aims to enhance PCOS understanding and streamline diagnostics, benefiting women globally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Adnexal torsion is characterised by the rotation of the ovary and, occasionally, the fallopian tube around their supporting ligaments by more than 45 degrees. It predominantly occurs during the first and second trimesters of pregnancy, with an incidence of up to 0.1% in the third trimester. Dermoid and functional ovarian cysts, most commonly associated with benign serous cystadenomas, are frequently identified among the torted adnexal masses. Case Presentation: We report the case of a 32-year-old primigravida with a known ovarian cyst diagnosed in the first trimester, which was managed conservatively throughout the pregnancy. At 36 weeks of gestation, she presented with abdominal pain and was subsequently managed with an emergency caesarean section at 37 weeks due to the development of an acute surgical abdomen. During the procedure, a torted left tubo-ovarian complex was excised, with partial preservation of the healthy-appearing ovarian tissue. Histopathological examination identified the mass as a benign serous cystadenoma. Conclusions: Ovarian torsion during pregnancy poses a significant diagnostic challenge. The decision between conservative management and surgical intervention is primarily guided by a high index of suspicion for torsion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Hydatidosis is a severe parasitic disease caused by tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus widely spread in some endemic areas all over the world that primarily targets liver, lung, bones, muscles well as pelvis in casuistic cases. Due to the lack of pathognomonic signs as well as low prevalence rate of hydatid cysts in such anatomic sites, a differential diagnosis for relevant gynecological pathologies may be substantially complicated. Compared with common gynecological disease such as uterine fibroids, ovarian cyst and malignancies uterine hydatidosis may be identified only in 0.16 % cases.Aim: to present a clinical case of uterine hydatid cyst in order to optimize algorithms for differential diagnosis of primary pelvic echinococcosis and gynecological pathology, which is necessary for successfully conducted timely surgical treatment.Clinical case. In 2023, patient K. complained of dysuric phenomena and a feeling of heaviness in the pelvic area. Based on the anamnesis, clinical picture, laboratory and instrumental research methods, it was decided to perform surgical treatment. The patient underwent laparoscopic hysterectomy and removal of ¾ hydatid cyst. The obtained material was used for histological examination to verify the diagnosis.Results. Differential diagnosis of uterine echinococcosis is most often carried out with cystic or dysembryogenetic tumors, purulent or tuberculous abscesses, ovarian cysts, ovarian tumors, and uterine fibroids. Features of the MR picture, such as a thick compacted wall, the lack of internal septa, parietal and papillary outgrowths, as well as a solid component, allowed to suspect parasitic genesis of the neoplasm.Conclusion. While treating patients with cystic neoplasms of the pelvic area referred from endemic areas, echinococcosis should be included in the list of differential diagnostic searches.

Ovarian cysts pose significant health risks including torsion, infertility, and cancer, necessitating rapid and accurate diagnosis. Ultrasonography is commonly employed for screening, yet its effectiveness is hindered by challenges like weak contrast, speckle noise, and hazy boundaries in images. This study proposes an adaptive deep learning-based segmentation technique using a database of ovarian ultrasound cyst images. A Guided Trilateral Filter (GTF) is applied for noise reduction in pre-processing. Segmentation utilizes an Adaptive Convolutional Neural Network (AdaResU-net) for precise cyst size identification and benign/malignant classification, optimized via the Wild Horse Optimization (WHO) algorithm. Objective functions Dice Loss Coefficient and Weighted Cross-Entropy are optimized to enhance segmentation accuracy. Classification of cyst types is performed using a Pyramidal Dilated Convolutional (PDC) network. The method achieves a segmentation accuracy of 98.87%, surpassing existing techniques, thereby promising improved diagnostic accuracy and patient care outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Design Setting Population Methods Main Outcome Measures Results Conclusions To correlate the clinical history with imaging findings of women with Mayer–Rokitansky–Küster–Hauser (MRKH) syndrome.Retrospective cohort study.A UK IOTA and ESGO‐certified tertiary referral centre for disorders of reproductive development.All patients with a diagnosis of MRKH and who had undergone an MRI pelvis between 1 January 2011 and 31 April 2021 were included.MRI images were analysed by specialist gynaecological radiologists. Clinical data was extracted from an electronic patient record system. Statistical analysis was computed in R (version 4.1.2), R base stats package and ggstatsplot (v0.5.0).Clinical history and predefined imaging features.One hundred and thirty‐four patients were included. Median age at MRI was 18 years (10–64 years). Half (48.2%) of women presenting had a history of pain, most often abdominal (84.6%) or vaginal (9.2%). Remnants were identified in 91.8% of women (n = 123). 4.5% of women had imaging features of endometriosis (n = 6). Women with a functional remnants were significantly more likely to experience pain (p < 0.001). Pain history was not strongly associated with ectopic ovarian position. Common gynaecological pathology such as endometriosis, ovarian cysts and fibroids were also identified.We identify that majority of women with MRKH will have uterine remnants with a connecting fibrous band, and an ectopic ovarian position 44.0% of cases. Abdominal pain was significantly associated with functional remnants on MRI. Further work is required to identify how other gynaecological pathology impacts women with MRKH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Non-puerperal uterine inversion (NPUI) is a rare gynaecological entity with unknown actual incidence. It presents diagnostic and surgical challenges, due to its rarity and lack of clinical experience. Methods: Case series of 5 NPUI cases. Case Description: (1) A 44-year-old P3A0 presented with chronic profuse vaginal bleeding and a prolapsed pedunculated fibroid measuring 9x8x7 cm. In theatre, the pedunculated fibroid was extirpated. Haultain procedure was performed to reposition the uterus, followed by suturing the uterus. (2) A 65-year-old P4A0 presented with a solid vaginal mass, with brisk bleeding measuring 10x10x8 protruding from the introitus. In theatre, the mass was excised, followed by Kustner procedure and a subtotal hysterectomy. (3) A 46-year-old P1A1 presented with a large pedunculated fibroid, hypovolemic shock and loss of consciousness. Upon presentation, she was in shock and severely anaemic (Hb 1.4 gr/dL). In theatre, the fibroid was excised followed by uterine repositioning. A large left ovarian cyst (Ø 10 cm) was identified. A subtotal hysterectomy and left salpingo-oophorectomy were performed. (4) A 34-year-old P3A0 presented with an acute vaginal lump measuring 10x6x5 cm. She had delivered her infant 2 months prior. In theatre, a Huntington procedure was performed to reposition the uterus, followed by a total abdominal hysterectomy. (5) A 60-year-old P3A0 presented with vaginal mass measuring 10× 10× 8 cm and chronic profuse vaginal bleeding. In theatre, uterine inversion was diagnosed. A Haultain procedure was performed, followed by a total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. All cases had presented with vaginal mass and bleeding to varying degrees. The degree of inversion required various procedures (eg, Kustner, Haultain, Huntington) and different forms of hysterectomy. Conclusion: Non-puerperal uterine inversion is a difficult pathology. Management is always surgical with different types of hysterectomy performed. With conservative surgery, Kustner, Huntington and Haultain procedures are indicated according to the severity and uterine position. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. In recent years, due to the increase in medical malpractice complaints, the Sicilian Regional Health System has adopted procedures for the direct management of claims by each health facility with the aim of reducing the costs of insurance premiums and related taxes. Mandatory sentinel event monitoring is a crucial part of this strategy to improve patient safety and quality of care. The reported case relates to a laparoscopic myomectomy surgery performed by means of morcellation, a controversial technique. After the FDA's intervention in 2014, it is believed that morcellation may worsen the staging of the disease by spreading malignancies such as leiomyosarcoma into the abdomen. Case report. A 28-year-old woman, underwent laparoscopic surgery for uterine fibroids and an ovarian cyst removal in August 2018. Post-surgery, she was diagnosed with Leiomyoma. She returned to the hospital due to metrorrhagia and was discharged after a week. Persistent symptoms led to her readmission and subsequent exploratory laparoscopic surgery at another hospital. This resulted in a total hysterectomy and the discovery of uterine leiomyosarcoma, with FIGO STAGE IIIB staging. Despite chemotherapy, she passed away six months later. Discussion and Conclusions. This case highlights medical-legal issues. Informed consent for morcellation and its risks was not obtained. The morcellation technique was used, increasing cancer spread risk. The histopathological process was inadequate, with three biopsies leading to misdiagnosis. This could be medical malpractice, making providers legally responsible for the patient's deteriorating condition and the anticipation of possible death. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) is a multifactorial syndrome that can substantially affect a patient's quality of life. Endometriosis is one cause of CPP, and alterations of the immune and microbiome profiles have been observed in patients with endometriosis. The objective of this pilot study was to investigate differences in the vaginal and gastrointestinal microbiomes and cervicovaginal immune microenvironment in patients with CPP and endometriosis diagnosis compared to those with CPP without endometriosis and no CPP. Methods: Vaginal swabs, rectal swabs, and cervicovaginal lavages (CVL) were collected among individuals undergoing gynecologic laparoscopy. Participants were grouped based on patients seeking care for chronic pain and/or pathology results: CPP and endometriosis (CPP-Endo) (n = 35), CPP without endometriosis (n = 23), or patients without CPP or endometriosis (controls) (n = 15). Sensitivity analyses were performed on CPP with endometriosis location, stage, and co-occurring gynecologic conditions (abnormal uterine bleeding, fibroids). 16S rRNA sequencing was performed to profile the microbiome, and a panel of soluble immune mediators was quantified using a multiplex assay. Statistical analysis was conducted with SAS, R, MicrobiomeAnalyst, MetaboAnalyst, and QIIME 2. Results: Significant differences were observed between participants with CPP alone, CPP-Endo, and surgical controls for body mass index, ethnicity, diagnosis of ovarian cysts, and diagnosis of fibroids. In rectal microbiome analysis, both CPP alone and CPP-Endo exhibited lower alpha diversity than controls, and both CPP groups revealed enrichment of irritable bowel syndrome-associated bacteria. CPP-Endo exhibited an increased abundance of vaginal Streptococcus anginosus and rectal Ruminococcus. Patients with CPP and endometrioma (s) demonstrated increased vaginal Streptococcus, Lactobacillus, and Prevotella compared to other endometriosis sites. Further, abnormal uterine bleeding was associated with an increased abundance of bacterial vaginosis-associated bacteria. Immunoproteomic profiles were distinctly clustered by CPP alone and CPP-Endo compared to controls. CPP-Endo was enriched in TNF⍺, MDC, and IL-1⍺. Conclusions: Vaginal and rectal microbiomes were observed to differ between patients with CPP alone and CPP with endometriosis, which may be useful in personalized treatment for individuals with CPP and endometriosis from those with other causes of CPP. Further investigation is warranted in patients with additional co-occurring conditions, such as AUB/fibroids, which add additional complexity to these conditions and reveal the enrichment of distinct pathogenic bacteria in both mucosal sites. This study provides foundational microbiome-immunoproteomic knowledge related to chronic pelvic pain, endometriosis, and co-occurring gynecologic conditions that can help improve the treatment of patients seeking care for pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is a scarcity of prospective clinical research evidence regarding the utilization of transvaginal natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (vNOTES) as a treatment option for ovarian cysts. The objective of this study was to assess the feasibility and safety of employing vNOTES for the management of ovarian cysts. Methods: Our study included women between the ages of 18 and 70 who intended to undergo surgical intervention for benign lesions. Stratified blocked randomization was employed to allocate participants into groups. The main objective was to assess whether the assigned group adhered to the recommended surgical technique for ovarian cystectomy or adnexectomy, without any deviation to alternative surgical methods. Results: A total of 196 patients were included in the study, with all surgeries in each group being conducted according to the assigned procedures. Among them, the ovarian cystectomy layer included 58 cases in the vNOTES group and 58 cases in the conventional laparoscopy (CL) groups. The adnexectomy layer included 40 cases in the vNOTES group and 40 cases in the CL group. Utilizing a sensitivity analysis, the two-sided 95% lower confidence limit was determined to be 5.5% for the disparity in proportions between the vNOTES groups and CL groups. These lower limits fell below the predetermined non-inferiority margin of 10%. Conclusions: The study findings demonstrate that vNOTES was not inferior to CL in terms of adnexectomy or ovarian cystectomy. vNOTES can be considered a more minimally invasive surgical approach, as it results in reduced postoperative pain, faster recovery, and absence of visible incisions. Overall, vNOTES proves to be a safe, feasible, and less invasive treatment option. Trial registration: This study retrospectively registered with the China Clinical Trial Registry with the registration number ChiCTR2100052223(22-10-2021). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The endocrine condition known as Poly Cystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is becoming more common in the local areas of Pakistan. Concerningly, the prevalence of PCOS among women who are fertile has been increasing. It plays a significant role in the worldwide population's infertility and subfertility. PCOS patients frequently exhibit a variety of symptoms, including ovarian cysts, hyperandrogenism, irregular menstruation, and ovulatory abnormalities. The symptoms are frequently misdiagnosed or disregarded, and they take longer to manifest. Due to PCOS's complex nature, its cause is yet unknown. Several scientific associations have developed diagnostic standards for PCOS and have identified three distinct phenotypes. The primary symptom of PCOS in all phenotypes is hyperandrogenism, or an excess of androgen production. This review focuses on hyperandrogenism and the several variables that cause hyperandrogenic states in Pakistani women with PCOS. Additionally, this review addresses and summarises new and prior research on the connection between hyperandrogenism and PC This review's objective is to evaluate the evidence-based relationship between hyperandrogenism and PCOS critically in Pakistan. The PRISMA flowchart approach was used to document the study selection process. The research from the last six years that exclusively addressed hyperandrogenism and PCOS met the inclusion criteria. Studies that do not concentrate on PCOS or hyperandrogenism are among the exclusion criteria. 34 of the first 50 studies that were found were included in the final evaluation following screening. Information was taken from Pakistani locals. Using qualitative methodologies, data was synthesised so that similar themes and patterns from several studies could be found. In the future, additional research into the fundamental causes of PCOS may open the door to more specialised and efficient therapies in the local areas of Pakistan. Patients with PCOS frequently have extra testosterone, which can have negative effects. However, more long-term research is needed to fully understand its implications for the treatment of this illness in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key content: Pelvic pathologies such as fibroids, polyps, congenital uterine anomalies, intrauterine adhesions, hydrosalpinges, adenomyosis, endometriosis and ovarian cysts may have a negative impact on fertility and the success of assisted reproductive technology (ART).If pelvic pathologies are identified during the course of investigations for subfertility, information based on the latest available evidence should be provided so that individuals can make informed decisions about how they wish to proceed.In some situations, surgical intervention prior to ART is strongly recommended, but in others, the evidence is more limited/conflicting. Learning objectives: To learn more about how and why pelvic pathologies such as fibroids, polyps, congenital uterine anomalies, intrauterine adhesions, hydrosalpinges, adenomyosis, endometriosis and ovarian cysts affect fertility and outcomes following ART treatment.To understand when surgical intervention is (and equally is not) indicated in the management of different pelvic pathologies in women with subfertility who are contemplating ART.To appreciate the different options on how to manage women with different pelvic pathologies identified before and during an ART cycle.To smooth the transition between secondary/tertiary NHS care and ART providers so that women are given consistent advice and managed according to evidence based recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to develop a deep learning model, using the ConvNeXt algorithm, that can effectively differentiate between ovarian endometriosis cysts (OEC) and benign mucinous cystadenomas (MC) by analyzing ultrasound images. The performance of the model in the diagnostic differentiation of these two conditions was also evaluated. A retrospective analysis was conducted on OEC and MC patients who had sought medical attention at the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University between August 2018 and May 2023. The diagnosis was established based on postoperative pathology or the characteristics of aspirated fluid guided by ultrasound, serving as the gold standard. Ultrasound images were collected and subjected to screening and preprocessing procedures. The data set was randomly divided into training, validation, and testing sets in a ratio of 5:3:2. Transfer learning was utilized to determine the initial weights of the ConvNeXt deep learning algorithm, which were further adjusted by retraining the algorithm using the training and validation ultrasound images to establish a new deep learning model. The weights that yielded the highest accuracy were selected to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the model using the validation set. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were generated, and the area under the curve (AUC) was calculated. Additionally, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, and odds ratio were calculated. Decision curve analysis (DCA) curves were plotted. Results: The study included 786 ultrasound images from 184 patients diagnosed with either OEC or MC. The deep learning model achieved an AUC of 0.90 (95 % CI: 0.85–0.95) in accurately distinguishing between the two conditions, with a sensitivity of 90 % (95 % CI: 84 %-95 %), specificity of 90 % (95 % CI: 77 %-97 %), a positive predictive value of 96 % (95 % CI: 91 %-99 %), a negative predictive value of 77 % (95 % CI: 63 %-88 %), a positive likelihood ratio of 9.27 (95 % CI: 3.65–23.56), and a negative likelihood ratio of 0.11 (95 % CI: 0.06–0.19). The DCA curve demonstrated the practical clinical utility of the model. The deep learning model developed using the ConvNeXt algorithm exhibits high accuracy (90 %) in distinguishing between OEC and MC. This model demonstrates excellent diagnostic performance and clinical utility, providing a novel approach for the clinical differentiation of these two conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Van Wyk–Grumbach syndrome (VWGS) refers to the development of peripheral precocious puberty, long-standing hypothyroidism, and gonadal masses; when not diagnosed, an unnecessary gonadectomy may be performed. Herein, we present a case of a 10-year-old girl with Down's syndrome, short stature, and vitiligo who presented to our hospital with vaginal bleeding and a palpable pelvic mass. Upon ultrasound and topographical examination, bilateral ovarian masses with negative tumor markers were detected. After bilateral gonadectomy, endocrine studies revealed profound hypothyroidism and peripheral puberty that led to the VWGS syndrome diagnosis (TSH 367.3 mUI/mL, isolated menstruation, indetectable LH, and elevated estradiol). Levothyroxine treatment improved obesity and short stature, and sexual hormone replacement began at 13 years of age. The literature on Van Wyk–Grumbach syndrome shows that it presents most often in women, and classic hypothyroidism symptoms always precede the diagnosis. Approximately 11% of patients have Down's syndrome, sometimes tumor markers are elevated, and some develop severe symptoms (myopathy, short stature, mental delay, ascites, pericardial effusion, Cullen's sign, pituitary hyperplasia, and severe anemia) that respond to levothyroxine treatment. Conclusions: Children with peripheral precocious puberty and gonadal masses must be studied for hypothyroidism before any radical decision is made. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ovarian endometriotic cysts (OEC) represent the primary manifestation of endometriosis, constituting a hormonally dependent inflammatory disorder in gynecology. It significantly affects the quality of life and reproductive health of women. It is worth noting that traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), especially Chinese herbal medicine (CHM), has been widely applied in mainland China due to its unique therapeutic system and commendable clinical efficacy, bringing new hope for preventing and managing OEC. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of CHM in the management of postoperative OEC. Simultaneously, it seeks to explore the medication laws, therapeutic principles, and specific treatment mechanisms of CHM. Methods: Eight electronic databases were searched from their inception to 01 November 2023. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the therapeutic effects and safety of CHM for postoperative OEC were included. The risk of bias for each trial was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration’s tool. The certainty of the evidence was evaluated using the GRADE profiler 3.2. Additionally, we extracted formulation from the included studies, conducting a thorough analysis. Results: (i) Twenty-two RCTs involving 1938 patients were included. In terms of the primary efficacy outcome, the CHM group demonstrated a potentially lower recurrence rate compared to both control (odds ratio (OR) = 0.25; 95% confidence intervals (CI): 0.10–0.64) and conventional western medicine (CWM) (OR = 0.26; 95% CI: 0.11–0.65) groups. Furthermore, the joint application of CHM and CWM resulted in a significant reduction in the recurrence rate (OR = 0.26; 95% CI: 0.17–0.40). (ii) Regarding secondary efficacy outcomes, (a) Total clinical efficacy rate: CHM showcased an augmentation in clinical effectiveness compared to both the control (OR = 4.23; 95% CI: 1.12–15.99) and CWM (OR = 2.94; 95% CI: 1.34–6.43) groups. The combined administration of CHM and CWM substantially enhanced overall clinical effectiveness (OR = 3.44; 95% CI: 2.37–5.00). (b) VAS Score: CHM exhibited the capacity to diminish the VAS score in comparison to surgery alone (Mean difference (MD) = −0.86; 95% CI: -1.01 to −0.71). Nevertheless, no substantial advantage was observed compared to CWM alone (MD = −0.16; 95% CI: -0.49 to 0.17). The integration of CHM with CWM effectively ameliorated pain symptoms (MD = −0.87; 95% CI: -1.10 to −0.65). (c) Serum Level of Cancer antigen 125 (CA125): the CHM group potentially exhibited lower CA125 levels in comparison to CWM alone (MD = −11.08; 95% CI: -21.75 to −0.42). The combined intervention of CHM and CWM significantly decreased CA125 levels (MD = −5.31; 95% CI: -7.27 to −3.36). (d) Pregnancy Rate: CHM exhibited superiority in enhancing the pregnancy rate compared to surgery (OR = 3.95; 95% CI: 1.60–9.74) or CWM alone (OR = 3.31; 95% CI: 1.40–7.83). The combined utilization of CHM and CWM demonstrated the potential to enhance pregnancy rates compared to CWM (OR = 2.99; 95% CI: 1.28–6.98). Concerning safety outcome indicators, CHM effectively decreased the overall incidence of adverse events and, to a certain extent, alleviated perimenopausal symptoms as well as liver function impairment. (iii) Most of CHMs were originated from classical Chinese herbal formulas. Prunus persica (L.) Batsch (Taoren), Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels (Danggui), Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Danshen), Paeonia lactiflora Pall. (Chishao), and Corydalis yanhusuo W.T.Wang (Yanhusuo) were most frequently used CHM. Conclusion: CHM may be a viable choice in the long-term management of postoperative OEC, with the potential to enhance clinical efficacy while decreasing recurrence and adverse effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Endometriosis is a heritable, complex chronic inflammatory disease, for which much of the causal pathogenic mechanism remain unknown.Despite the high prevalence of ovarian chocolate cyst, its origin is still under debate. Methods: Prevailing retrograde menstruation model predicts that ectopic endometrial cells migrate and develop into ovarian chocolate cyst. However, other models were also proposed. Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have proved successful in identifying common genetic variants of moderate effects for various complex diseases. Results: A growing body of evidence shows that the remodeling of retrograde endometrial tissues to the ectopic endometriotic lesions involves multiple epigenetic alterations, such as DNA methylation, histone modification, and microRNA expression.Because DNA methylation states exhibit a tissue specific pattern, we profiled the DNA methylation for ovarian cysts and paired eutopic endometrial and ovarian tissues from four patients. Surprisingly, DNA methylation profiles showed the ovarian cysts were closely grouped with normal ovarian but not endometrial tissues. Conclusions: These results suggested alterative origin of ovarian cysts or strong epigenetic reprogramming of infiltrating endometrial cells after seeding the ovarian tissue. The data provide contributing to the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of endometriosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endometriosis (EMs) is one of the leading causes of dysmenorrhea, chronic pelvic pain and infertility in women, and the long-term management of EMs should maximize the role of drug therapy. Progestogens are the first-line drugs for the treatment of EMs, among which dienogest has now been taken as the first choice of drug for long-term management of EMs. Dienogest not only effectively relieves EMs -associated pain and prevents postoperative recurrence, but also has been observed to reduced EMs lesion volume to some extent. For young patients with ovarian endometriotic cysts who have not yet given birth, patients with recurrent ovarian endometriotic cysts, and patients with deep-infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) who experience significant pain, dienogest can reduce the volume of lesions, delay or even avoid surgery. In this review, we provide an overview of dienogest′ s impact on the volume of ovarian EMs and DIE, aiming to provide a basis for individualized nonsurgical treatment of EMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To examine the associations between use of statins and risks of various ovarian, uterine, and cervical diseases, including ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, cervical cancer, ovarian cyst, polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, endometrial hyperplasia, endometrial polyp, and cervical polyp. Methods: We conducted a cohort study among female participants in the UK Biobank. Information on the use of statins was collected through verbal interview. Outcome information was obtained by linking to national cancer registry data and hospital inpatient data. We used Cox proportional hazards regression to examine the associations. Results: A total of 180,855 female participants (18,403 statin users and 162,452 non-users) were included. Use of statins was significantly associated with increased risks of cervical cancer (adjusted hazard ratio (HR), 1.55; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 1.05–2.30) and polycystic ovarian syndrome (adjusted HR, 4.39; 95% CI, 1.68–11.49). However, we observed no significant association between use of statins and risk of ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, ovarian cyst, endometriosis, endometrial hyperplasia, endometrial polyp, or cervical polyp. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that use of statins is associated with increased risks of cervical cancer and polycystic ovarian syndrome, but is not associated with increased or decreased risk of ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, ovarian cyst, endometriosis, endometrial polyp, or cervical polyp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lupus anticoagulant hypoprothrombinemia syndrome (LAHPS) is a rare entity characterized by the presence of lupus anticoagulant (LA) and prothrombin (factor II) deficiency. It may cause severe bleeding contrary to classical antiphospholipid syndrome. Here, we report a case of LAHPS presenting with a hemorrhagic ovarian cyst in a 17-year-old girl with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) nephritis. She had been followed up for 8 years. Her first manifestation of SLE was prolonged gingival bleeding after tooth extraction at 9 years of age. During the follow-up period, she had neither severe bleeding nor thrombotic complications despite a positive LA and a prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). At this visit, the patient presented with colicky abdominal pain, a hemorrhagic ovarian cyst, a prolonged prothrombin time, a prolonged aPTT, a low factor II level, and a positive LA, leading to the diagnosis of LAHPS. While a hemorrhagic ovarian cyst resolved completely in 3 months, she received oral pill, transfusions of red blood cells and plasma, and intravenous cyclophosphamide pulse therapy in combination with glucocorticoids due to persistent menorrhagia, anemia, prolonged aPTT, and lupus flaring. Thus, LAHPS needs to be considered in SLE patients with positive LA and prolonged aPTT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Struma ovarii is a rare type of ovarian teratoma primarily composed of over 50% thyroid tissue. Its occurrence is reported in 2–5% of all ovarian teratomas, with approximately 0.5% to 10% showing malignant transformation. Managing it during pregnancy poses significant challenges as pregnancy can promote the growth of malignant struma ovarii due to elevated levels of ovarian and pregnancy-related hormones, including estrogen, progesterone, and human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG). Most ovarian tumors, including struma ovarii, are detected during routine ultrasonography in the first and second trimesters, often as acute emergencies. Diagnosis during pregnancy is rare, with some cases incidentally discovered during cesarean section when inspecting the adnexa for ovarian cysts. This review explores the diagnostic, management, and therapeutic approaches to struma ovarii during pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]