Importância do diagnóstico por imagem em pacientes com sangramento uterino anormal / Importance of diagnostic imaging in patients with abnormal uterine bleeding

O sangramento uterino anormal é diagnóstico sindrômico comum no consultório do ginecologista e pode comprometer substancialmente a qualidade de vida. O objetivo no diagnóstico de sangramento uterino anormal é distinguir pacientes com causas estruturais (anatômicas), como pólipo, adenomiose, leiomioma, malignidade e hiperplasia, de pacientes que apresentam anatomia normal, nas quais o sangramento pode ser devido a alteração dos mecanismos de coagulação, distúrbios ovulatórios, distúrbios primários do endométrio, iatrogenia, ou ter outra causa não classificada. O diagnóstico se inicia a partir de anamnese detalhada e exame físico geral e ginecológico completos, seguidos da solicitação de exames complementares (laboratoriais e de imagem), conforme indicado. O exame de imagem de primeira linha para identificação das causas estruturais inclui a ultrassonografia pélvica. Histerossonografia, histeroscopia, ressonância magnética e amostragem endometrial para exame de anatomia patológica são opções que podem ser incluídas no diagnóstico a depender da necessidade. O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar a relevância dos exames de imagem na investigação das causas de sangramento uterino anormal.

Abnormal uterine bleeding is one of the commonest presenting complaints encountered in a gynecologist's office and may substantially affect quality of life. The aim in the diagnosis of abnormal uterine bleeding is to distinguish women with anatomic causes such as polyp, adenomyosis, leiomyoma, malignancy and hyperplasia from women with normal anatomy where the cause may be coagulopathy, ovulatory disorders, endometrial, iatrogenic and not otherwise classified. Diagnosis begins with a thorough history and physical examination followed by appropriate laboratory and imaging tests as indicated. The primary imaging test for the identification of anatomic causes include ultrasonography. Saline infusion sonohysterography, magnetic resonance, hysteroscopy, endometrial sampling are options that can be included in the diagnosis depending on the need. The aim of this article is to present the relevance of imaging exams in the investigation of the causes of abnormal uterine bleeding.

Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of Nocardia rubra cell wall skeleton immunotherapy for cervical high-risk HPV persistent infection / 中华妇产科杂志

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Nocardia rubra cell wall skeleton (Nr-CWS) in the treatment of persistent cervical high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) infection. Methods: A randomized, double blind, multi-center trial was conducted. A total of 688 patients with clinically and pathologically confirmed HR-HPV infection of the cervix diagnosed in 13 hispital nationwide were recruited and divided into: (1) patients with simple HR-HPV infection lasting for 12 months or more; (2) patients with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) Ⅰ and HR-HPV infection lasting for 12 months or more; (3) patients with the same HR-HPV subtype with no CINⅡ and more lesions after treatment with CINⅡ or CIN Ⅲ (CINⅡ/CIN Ⅲ). All participants were randomly divided into the test group and the control group at a ratio of 2∶1. The test group was locally treated with Nr-CWS freeze-dried powder and the control group was treated with freeze-dried powder without Nr-CWS. The efficacy and negative conversion rate of various subtypes of HR-HPV were evaluated at 1, 4, 8, and 12 months after treatment. The safety indicators of initial diagnosis and treatment were observed. Results: (1) This study included 555 patients with HR-HPV infection in the cervix (included 368 in the test group and 187 in the control group), with an age of (44.1±10.0) years. The baseline characteristics of the two groups of subjects, including age, proportion of Han people, weight, composition of HR-HPV subtypes, and proportion of each subgroup, were compared with no statistically significant differences (all P>0.05). (2) After 12 months of treatment, the effective rates of the test group and the control group were 91.0% (335/368) and 44.9% (84/187), respectively. The difference between the two groups was statistically significant (χ2=142.520, P<0.001). After 12 months of treatment, the negative conversion rates of HPV 16, 18, 52, and 58 infection in the test group were 79.2% (84/106), 73.3% (22/30), 83.1% (54/65), and 77.4% (48/62), respectively. The control group were 21.6% (11/51), 1/9, 35.1% (13/37), and 20.0% (8/40), respectively. The differences between the two groups were statistically significant (all P<0.001). (3) There were no statistically significant differences in vital signs (body weight, body temperature, respiration, pulse rate, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, etc.) and laboratory routine indicators (blood cell analysis, urine routine examination) between the test group and the control group before treatment and at 1, 4, 8, and 12 months after treatment (all P>0.05); there was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions related to the investigational drug between the two groups of subjects [8.7% (32/368) vs 8.0% (15/187), respectively; χ2=0.073, P=0.787]. Conclusion: External use of Nr-CWS has good efficacy and safety in the treatment of high-risk HPV persistent infection in the cervix.

Analysis of natural regression and influencing factors of HSIL in the cervix of childbearing age patients / 中华妇产科杂志

Objective: To investigate the natural regression and related factors of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) in the cervix of childbearing age women, and to evaluate the applicability of conservative management for future fertility needs. Methods: This study included 275 patients of reproductive age with fertility needs, who were diagnosed as HSIL by biopsy from April 30, 2015 to April 30, 2022, including 229 cases (83.3%) cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) Ⅱ and 46 cases (16.7%) CIN Ⅱ-Ⅲ. They were followed-up without immediate surgery in the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University. The median follow-up time was 12 months (range: 3-66 months). The regression, persistence and progression of lesions in patients with HSIL were analyzed during the follow-up period, the influencing factors related to regression and the time of regression were analyzed. Results: (1) Of the 275 HSIL patients, 213 cases (77.5%, 213/275) experienced regression of the lesion during the follow-up period. In 229 CIN Ⅱ patients, 180 cases (78.6%) regressed, 21 cases (9.2%) persisted, and 28 cases (12.2%) progressed. In 46 CIN Ⅱ-Ⅲ patients, 33 cases (71.7%) regressed, 12 cases (26.1%) persisted, and 1 case (2.2%) progressed to invasive squamous cell carcinoma stage Ⅰ a1. There was no significant difference in the regression rate between the two groups (χ2=1.03, P=0.309). (2) The average age at diagnosis, age <25 years old at diagnosis were independent influencing factor of HSIL regression in univariate analysis (all P<0.05). There was no significant difference between HSIL regression and pathological grading, the severity of screening results, human papillomavirus (HPV) genotype, colposcopy image characteristics, number of biopsies during follow-up and pregnancy experience (all P>0.05). (3) The median regression times for patients aged ≥25 years and <25 years at diagnosis were 15 and 12 months, respectively. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that age ≥25 years at diagnosis significantly increased the median regression time compared to <25 years (χ2=6.02, P=0.014). Conclusions: For HSIL patients of childbearing age, conservative management without immediate surgical intervention is preferred if CINⅡ is fully evaluated through colposcopy examination. Age ≥25 years at diagnosis is a risk factor affecting the prognosis of HSIL patients.

Analysis of the Excess of Papanicolaou Tests in Brazil from 2006 to 2015 / Análise do excesso de testes de Papanicolaou no Brasil entre 2006 e 2015

Abstract Objective To analyze the quantity of cervical smears, also designated Papanicolaou tests, between 2006 and 2015 in all the Federal units of Brazil, as well as to verify the quantity of exams collected outside the recommended age range and the economic impact of such excess. Methods The data was collected from the Ministry of Health's database called Sistema de Informação do Câncer do Colo de Útero (SISCOLO), which contains all the test results collected nationwide by the Unified Health System (SUS, in the Portuguese acronym). From that, the number of exams and the age range of thewomen who underwent them were analyzed; besides, these numbers were stratified according to the state of where the exam was performed. The quantity of exams collected outside the recommended age range was verified, and, so, the economic impact generated was noted. Results Between 2006and2015, 87,425,549Papanicolaoutestswere collected in Brazil. Of these, 20,215,052 testswere collected outside the age range recommended by the Brazilian Ministry of Health; this number corresponded to 23.12% of all exams. From such data, considering that each Pap smear collected by SUS generates a cost of BRL 7.30 to the government, according to the information in the Tabela SUS dated September 2018, there was a total charge of BRL 147,569,880 for tests collected outside the protocol. Conclusion In Brazil, according to the Ministry of Health's protocol about the recommended practices on collecting Pap smears, whose newest edition dates of 2016, it is recommended that Pap smears are collected inwomen from a specific age range, inwhom the potential diagnosing advantages overcome the onus of overdiagnosis or of a lesion with great regression potential. However, such protocols have not been correctly followed, promoting more than 20 million tests in excess, and an exorbitant cost for the Brazilian public health system. It is relevant to take measures to correctly use the official protocol, reducing the patients risks, as well as the economic impact for SUS.

Resumo Objetivo Analisar a quantidade de exames cérvico-vaginais, também chamados de Teste de Papanicolau, entre os anos de 2006 e 2015 em todos os estados brasileiros, bem como verificar o número de exames realizados fora da faixa etária indicada, e o impacto econômico desse excesso. Métodos Os dados foram coletados a partir da base de dados do Ministério da Saúde chamada Sistema de Informação do Câncer do Colo de Útero (SISCOLO), que reúne os resultados de exames realizados em todo o Brasil pelo sistema único de saúde (SUS). A partir disso, foi analisado o número de exames e a faixa-etária de realização dos mesmos; além disso, esses números foram estratificados de acordo com o estado brasileiro de origem do exame. Foi verificada a quantidade de exames fora da idade recomendada, e, assim, foi observado o impacto econômico gerado. Resultado Entre 2006 e 2015, 87.425.549 exames de Papanicolau foram realizados no Brasil. Deste montante, 20.215.052 testes foram realizados fora da faixa-etária preconizada pelo Ministério da Saúde do Brasil, o que equivale a 23,12% do total. A partir desse número, considerando que cada exame cérvico -vaginal realizado pelo SUS gera um custo de R$ 7,30 para o governo, de acordo com informações na Tabela SUS datada de setembro de 2018, foram gastos R$ 147.569.880 em exames realizados sem indicação. Conclusão No Brasil, no protocolo do Ministério da Saúde sobre as práticas adequadas em coleta de exames cérvico-vaginais, sendo sua edição mais recente de 2016, a recomendação é realizar o teste de Papanicolau em mulheres dentro de uma faixaetária específica, na qual a chance de se diagnosticar uma lesão supera o ônus de um sobrediagnóstico ou uma lesão com grande potencial de regressão. Entretanto, essa recomendação não tem sido seguida corretamente, gerando mais de 20 milhões de exames excedentes e umcusto monetário exorbitante para o sistema público de saúde. É importante que medidas sejam tomadas para que o protocolo seja empregado corretamente a fim de reduzir riscos para a paciente, bem como a redução de gastos desnecessários para o SUS.

Cervical Primary Ewing's Sarcoma:Report of One Case / 中国医学科学院学报

Ewing's sarcoma in the cervix is characterized by extremely rare occurrence,high degree of malignancy,and rapid progression.The diagnosis of this disease is based on pathology and immunohistochemistry. The main image of the case reported in this paper showed the cervical cyst with solid mass,large volume,and uneven density and signal,and the solid part can be strengthened in enhanced scanning.Because of the rapid growth,the lesion is prone to liquefaction necrosis and bleeding.Since the metastasis occurs early,timely diagnosis is essential.

The influence of phytoestrogens or estrogens on the proliferation of the rat endocervical mucosa

SUMMARY INTRODUCTION Although estrogen therapy is widely used against post-menopausal symptoms, it can present adverse effects, including endometrial cancer. Soy isoflavones are considered a possible alternative to estrogen therapy. However, there are still concerns whether isoflavones exert trophic effects on the uterine cervix. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the histomorphometric and immunohistochemical alterations in the uterine cervix of ovariectomized rats treated with soy isoflavones (Iso). METHODS Fifteen adult Wistar rats were ovariectomized (Ovx) and divided into three groups: Group I (Ovx), administered with vehicle solution; Group II (OVX-Iso), administered with concentrated extract of Iso (150 mg/kg) by gavage; and Group III (OVX-E2), treated with 17β-estradiol (10 µg/kg), subcutaneously. After 30 days of treatments, the uterine cervix was fixed in 10% formaldehyde and processed for paraffin-embedding. Sections were stained with Hematoxylin and eosin for morphological and morphometric studies or subjected to immunohistochemistry for detections of Ki-67 and vascular endothelial growth factor-A (Vegf-A). The data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis (p ≤ 0.05). RESULTS We noted an atrophic uterine cervix in GI, whereas it was more voluminous in GII and even more voluminous in GIII. The thickness of the cervical mucosa was significantly higher in GIII, as compared to GI and GII. The cell proliferation (Ki-67) was significantly elevated in the estradiol and isoflavones treated groups, whereas Vegf-A immunoexpression was significantly higher in GIII, as compared to groups GII and GI. CONCLUSIONS Soy isoflavones cause less trophic and proliferative effects in the uterine cervix of rats as compared to estrogen.

RESUMO INTRODUÇÃO Embora a terapia estrogênica seja amplamente utilizada contra sintomas pós-menopausais, ela pode apresentar efeitos adversos, incluindo câncer de mama e endometrial. Assim, as isoflavonas da soja são consideradas uma alternativa possível à terapia estrogênica. No entanto, ainda há controvérsias se estes compostos exercem efeitos tróficos significativos no colo do útero. OBJETIVOS Avaliar as alterações histomorfométricas e imuno-histoquímicas no colo do útero de ratas ovariectomizadas tratadas com isoflavonas da soja (iso). MÉTODOS Quinze ratas Wistar adultas foram ovariectomizadas bilateralmente (Ovx) e separadas em três grupos: Grupo I (Ovx) - veículo (propilenoglicol); Grupo II (Ovx-Iso) - receberam extrato concentrado de Iso (150 mg/kg) e Grupo III (Ovx-E2) - tratado com 17β-estradiol (10 µg/kg); as soluções foram administradas via gavagem por 30 dias consecutivos. Posteriormente, os colos uterinos foram retirados, fixados em formaldeído a 10% tamponado e processados para inclusão em parafina. Cortes (4 µm) foram coradas com hematoxilina e eosina para estudo morfológico e morfométricos, enquanto outros foram submetidos à imuno-histoquímica para detecção de Ki-67 e do fator de crescimento endotelial vascular-A (Vegf-A). Os dados obtidos foram submetidos à análise estatística (p≤0,05). RESULTADOS Observamos a presença de colo uterino atrófico no GI (Ovx), sendo este mais volumoso no GII (Ovx+Iso) e ainda mais volumoso no GIII (Ovx+E2). A espessura da mucosa cervical foi significativamente maior no GIII (Ovx-E2), em comparação ao GI (Ovx) e ao GII (Ovx-Iso). A proliferação celular (Ki-67) foi significativamente mais elevada nos grupos tratados com estradiol e isoflavonas, enquanto a imunoexpressão de Vegf-A foi significativamente maior no GIII (Ovx-E2), em comparação ao GII (Ovx-Iso) e ao GI (Ovx-E2). CONCLUSÕES As isoflavonas da soja causam menos efeitos tróficos e proliferativos no colo do útero de ratas em comparação ao estrogênio.

Doença inflamatória do colo do útero: indicador indireto da saúde reprodutiva da mulher / Inflammatory disease of cervix uteri: indirect indicator of women's reproductive health / Cervicitis: indicador indirecto de la salud reproductiva de las mujeres

Objetivo: analisar as internações por doença inflamatória do colo do útero e os fatores que influenciam a sua ocorrência. Método: estudo seccional, prospectivo, baseado em um inquérito de morbidade hospitalar realizado em 2013, com amostra de 429 mulheres internadas em hospitais no município de Guarapuava. Os dados foram analisados por meio de análise bivariada e regressão logística. O projeto foi aprovado por Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa. Resultados: do total de mulheres internadas, 45 (10,4%) foram por doença inflamatória do colo do útero. Pertencer ao público alvo, ter realizado o exame no mínimo uma vez, procurar o serviço regularmente para o controle de saúde e apresentar o resultado dentro dos limites de normalidade em 1 ano atuaram como fatores de proteção contra a ocorrência dessas internações. Conclusão: o conhecimento dos fatores que se relacionam ao desfecho fornece subsídios para a readequação dos serviços que prestam assistência às mulheres, a fim de prevenir as internações.

Objective: to examine hospital admissions for inflammatory disease of the cervix uteri and the related factors. Method: this prospective, cross-sectional study based on a hospital morbidity survey was conducted in 2013 with a sample of 429 women admitted to hospitals in the city of Guarapuava. Data were analyzed by bivariate analysis and logistic regression. The project was approved by the institution's research ethics committee. Results: 45 (10.4%) of the women were hospitalized for inflammatory disease of the cervix uteri. Protective factors against the occurrence of such hospitalizations included belonging to the target public, having performed the examination at least once, attending the service regularly for a health check and returning a result within normal limits in the prior year. Conclusion: knowledge of the factors relating to the outcome provides input for adjusting women's care services in order to prevent hospitalizations.

Objetivo: analizar las internaciones por cervicitis y los factores que influencian su ocurrencia. Método: estudio seccional, prospectivo basado en una encuesta de morbilidad hospitalaria realizada en 2013, con muestra de 429 mujeres internadas en hospitales en el municipio de Guarapuava. Los datos se analizaron por medio de análisis bivariado y regresión logística. El estudio fue aprobado por Comité de Ética en Investigación. Resultados: del total de mujeres internadas, 45 (10,4%) lo fueron por cervicitis. Pertenecer al público objetivo, haber realizado el examen al menos una vez, buscar el servicio regularmente para el control de salud y presentar el resultado dentro de los límites de la normalidad en 01 año actuaron como factores de protección respecto a la ocurrencia de estas hospitalizaciones. Conclusión: el conocimiento de los factores que se relacionan al desenlace propo

Evaluation of the cervicovaginal environment in asymptomatic Human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 infected women

ABSTRACT Introduction: Human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is sexually transmitted and causes persistent infection. This virus induces activation of the immune system and production of inflammatory cytokines. This study aimed to assess the cytokine profile and cytopathological findings in the cervicovaginal fluid of asymptomatic HTLV-1-infected women. Methods: HTLV-1-infected and uninfected women were selected at the Centro de Atendimento ao Portador de HTLV in Salvador-Brazil. None of the included HTLV-1-infected women reported any HTLV-1-associated diseases. All volunteers underwent gynecological examination to collect cervicovaginal fluid. Cytokine quantification was performed using the Cytometric Bead Array (CBA) Human Th1/Th2/Th17 kit. Light microscopy was used to evaluate cervicovaginal cytopathology. In addition, proviral load in cervicovaginal fluid and peripheral blood was measured by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Results: 112 women (63 HTLV-1-infected and 49 uninfected) were evaluated. No differences were found with respect to cytopathological cervicovaginal findings between the groups. IL-2, TNF, IL-4, IL-10, and IL-17 levels were significantly higher in cervicovaginal fluid of the HTLV-1-infected women than in uninfected women (p < 0.05). Conversely, IFN-γ was found to be lower in the HTLV-1-infected women (p < 0.001) compared to uninfected individuals. Cervicovaginal proviral load was detectable in 53% of the HTLV-1-infected women and was found to be consistently lower than the proviral load in peripheral blood. Conclusions: HTLV-1 infection induces immune activation in cervicovaginal environment, characterized by elevated concentrations of Th1, Th2, and IL17 in the cervicovaginal fluid.

Performance of conventional cytology and colposcopy for the diagnosis of cervical squamous and glandular neoplasias / Desempenho da citologia convencional e da colposcopia para o diagnóstico de neoplasias cervicais escamosas e glandulares

Abstract Objective To estimate the cytological and colposcopic performances for the diagnosis of cervical neoplasias. Methods Cross-sectional retrospective study with data from patients' charts. The participants underwent colposcopy, guided biopsies, and excision when needed. The cytological and colposcopic categorization followed the Bethesda System and the international colposcopic terminologies. The cytology and colposcopy performances were evaluated by sensitivity (SE), specificity (SP), positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) analyses with 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Results From 1,571 participants, a total of 1,154 (73.4%) were diagnosed with cervical squamous intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or worse (CIN 2+), 114 (7.2%) with adenocarcinoma in situ or worse (AIS+), 615 (39.2%) presented atypical squamous cells, cannot exclude high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion or worse (ASC-H+) cytology, and 934 (59.4%) presented major or suspicious for invasion colposcopic abnormalities. The SE, SP, PPV, and NPV of ASC-H+ for diagnoses of CIN 2+ and AIS+ were, respectively: 44% (95% CI: 41-47) and 72% (95% CI: 67-76), 79% (95% CI: 77-81) and 79% (95% CI: 75-83), 88% (95% CI: 87-90) and 55% (95% CI: 50-60), and 28% (95% CI: 26-31) and 88% (95% CI: 85-91). The SE, SP, PPV, and NPV of major or suspicious for invasion colposcopic abnormalities for diagnoses of CIN 2+ and AIS+were, respectively: 62% (95% CI: 60-65) and 86% (95% CI: 83-89), 59% (95% CI: 57-62) and 59% (95% CI: 55-64), 85% (95% CI: 83-87) and 44% (95% CI: 40-49), and 29% (95% CI: 27-32) and 92% (95% CI: 89-94). Conclusion The SE analyses results of ASC-H+ and major or suspicious for invasion colposcopic abnormalities were higher for diagnoses of glandular neoplasias. These results confirm the role of cytology in identifying women at risk who will have their final diagnoses settled by colposcopy and histology.

Resumo Objetivo Estimar o desempenho da citologia e colposcopia no diagnóstico das neoplasias cervicais. Métodos Estudo retrospectivo de corte transversal com dados coletados em prontuários. Foram incluídas participantes que foram submetidas a colposcopia, biópsia e excisão quando necessário. A categorização da citologia e da colposcopia seguiram a terminologia de Bethesda e a classificação colposcópica internacional. Os desempenhos da citologia e colposcopia foram avaliados por análises de sensibilidade (S), especificidade (E), valor preditivo positivo (VPP) e valor preditivo negativo (VPN), com intervalos de confiança de 95% (IC 95%). Resultados Das 1.571 participantes, um total de 1.154 (73,4%) foram diagnosticadas com neoplasia intraepitelial escamosa cervical de grau 2 ou mais grave (NIC 2+), 114 (7,2%) com adenocarcinoma in situ ou mais grave (AIS+), 615 (39,2%) apresentaram células escamosas atípicas de significado indeterminado, quando não se pode excluir lesão intraepitelial de alto grau ou mais grave (ASC-H+) e 934 (59,4%) tiveram achados colposcópicos maiores ou suspeitos de invasão. Os valores de S, E, VPP e VPN das ASCH + para o diagnóstico de NIC 2+ e AIS+ foram, respectivamente: 44% (IC 95%: 41-47) e 72% (IC 95%: 67-76), 79% (IC 95%: 77-81) e 79% (IC 95%: 75-83), 88% (IC 95%: 87-90) e 55% (IC 95%: 50-60) e 28% (IC 95%: 26-31) e 88% (IC 95%: 85-91). Os valores de S, E, VPP e VPN dos achados colposcópicos maiores ou suspeitos de invasão para o diagnóstico de NIC 2+ e AIS+ foram, respectivamente: 62% (IC 95%: 60-65) e 86% (IC 95%: 83-89), 59% (IC 95%: 57-62) e 59% (IC 95%: 55-64), 85% (IC 95%: 83-87) e 44% (IC 95%: 40-49) e 29% (IC 95%: 27-32) e 92% (IC 95%: 89-94). Conclusão Os resultados das análises de S de ASC-H+ e achados colposcópicos maiores ou suspeitos de invasão foram mais elevados para o diagnóstico das neoplasias glandulares. Esses resultados confirmam o papel da citologia na identificação de mulheres em risco que terão seus diagnósticos definidos por colposcopia e histologia.

External quality monitoring of the cervical cytopathological exams in the Rio de Janeiro city / Monitoramento externo da qualidade dos exames citopatológicos cervicais na cidade do Rio de Janeiro

Abstract Objective To discuss the implementation and contributions of the External Quality Monitoring in the city of Rio de Janeiro and to analyze the performance of the main providers of cervical cytopathology in this city from September 2013 to March 2017, here referred to as "Alpha laboratory" and "Beta laboratory." Methods Observational, cross-sectional, retrospective study using information from the Cervical Cancer Control Information System (SISCOLO, in the Portuguese acronym), municipal coordinationmodule, External QualityMonitoring report. The proportions of false positives, false negatives, unsatisfactory samples and rejected samples were estimated. The agreement among the observers was analyzed through the Kappa index and the reduction of disagreements in the period for each laboratory studied, comparing the results of each cycle. Results A total of 19,158 examinations were selected, of which 19,130 (99.85%) were monitored, 16.649 (87, 03%) were reviewed by the External Quality Monitoring Unit, 2,481 (12,97%) were rejected and 441 (2,65%) were considered unsatisfactory. The "Beta laboratory" presented excellent concordance in all cycles; the "Alpha laboratory" had good concordance in the first two cycles (K = 0.76 and 0.79), becoming excellent in the following four cycles. The average Kappa index was 0.85, with median of 0.86. The percentage of diagnostic disagreement was 6.63% of the reviewed exams, of which 5.38% required a change of conduct Conclusion External Quality Monitoring is an exercise in diagnostic improvement, and its implementation was fundamental to ensure the reliability of the cytopathological exams in the city of Rio de Janeiro.

Resumo Objetivo Discutir a implementação e as contribuições do Monitoramento Externo da Qualidade na cidade do Rio de Janeiro e analisar o desempenho dos principais provedores de citopatologia cervical nessa cidade no período de setembro de 2013 a março de 2017, aqui denominado "laboratório Alfa" "e" "laboratório Beta." Métodos Estudo observacional, transversal, retrospectivo, utilizando informações do Sistema de Informação de Controle do Câncer do Colo do Útero (SISCOLO), domódulo de coordenação municipal, e do relatório de Monitoramento da Qualidade Externa. As proporções de falsos positivos, falsos negativos, amostras insatisfatórias e amostras rejeitadas foramestimadas. A concordância entre os observadores foi analisada através do índice Kappa bem como a redução de divergências no período para cada laboratório estudado, comparando os resultados de cada ciclo. Resultados Foram selecionados 19.158 exames, dos quais 19.130 (99,85%) foram monitorados, 16.649 (87, 03%) foram revisados pela Unidade de Monitoramento da Qualidade Externa, 2.481 (12,97%) foram rejeitados e 441 (2,65%) foram considerados insatisfatório. O "laboratório Beta" apresentou excelente concordância em todos os ciclos; o "laboratório Alfa" apresentou boa concordância nos 2 primeiros ciclos (K = 0,76 e 0,79), tornando-se excelente nos 4 ciclos seguintes. O índice Kappa médio foi de 0,85, com mediana de 0,86. O percentual de discordância diagnóstica foi de 6,63% dos exames revisados, dos quais 5,38% necessitaram de mudança de conduta. Conclusão OMonitoramento Externo da Qualidade éum exercício de aprimoramento diagnóstico, e sua implementação foi fundamental para garantir a confiabilidade dos exames citopatológicos no município do Rio de Janeiro.

A high prevalence of human papillomavirus 16 and 18 co-infections in cervical biopsies from southern Brazil

ABSTRACT HPV types 16 and 18 were studied in paraffin-fixed cervical biopsy collected in southern Brazil. HPV 16, HPV 18 and co-infection HPV 16/18 were identified in 10/57 (17.5%), 4/57 (7%) and in 43/57 (75.4%) samples, respectively. Southern Brazil has one of the highest prevalence rates of HPV 16/18 reported.

Factors associated with abnormalities of the cytopathological uterine cervix test in South of Brazil / Fatores associados a alterações do exame citopatológico cérvico-uterino no Sul do Brasil

Abstract Objectives: to identify factors associated with abnormal cytopathological test uterine cervix. Methods: it is a analytical study with the participation of 390 women who presented abnormal cytopathological from a city in the state of Paraná in 2012. They were randomly selected through sampling plan. Sociodemographic information such as age, marital status, education level and ethnicity were considered independent variables while the high or low-grade cytological lesions as dependent variable. We analyzed the data statistically by Yates Corrected test, Fisher exact test and measures of association by odds ratio. For all analyzes was considered significance level of 5% and 95% confidence interval. Results: the mean age was 38.8 years, 72.9% were married or common-law marriage, 49.7% with low education level and 87.4% race/color white. HPV contamination was detected in 49.7% of women and high-grade cytological lesions in 18.2%. The low educa-tional level (95%OR=4.07) and non-white ethnicity (95%OR=2.22) were strongly associated with the development to cervical lesions (p<0.05). Conclusions: sociodemoghaphic characteristics were crucial to high-risk lesions and development of cervical cancer, especially in women with low educational level and race/color black or brown. These results confirm the persistence of diseases related to preventable and avoidable causes in the country.

Resumo Objetivos: identificar os fatores associados com alterações do exame citopatológico cérvico-uterino. Métodos: trata-se de um estudo analítico com participação de 390 mulheres que apresen-taram alterações citopatológicas em município do Estado do Paraná no período de 2012. Elas foram selecionadas aleatoriamente através de plano amostral. Informações sociode-mográficas como idade, estado civil, grau de escolaridade e etnia foram consideradas variáveis independentes enquanto que o alto ou baixo grau de lesão citológica como variável dependente. Analisaram-se os dados estatisticamente pelos Testes de Yates corrigido e Fisher e medidas de associação pela odds ratio. Para todas as análises considerou nível de significância de 5% e intervalo de confiança 95%. Resultados: a idade média foi de 38,8 anos sendo a maioria casada ou união estável (72,8%) e com baixa escolaridade (42,8%) e raça/cor branca (87,4%). A contaminação pelo HPV foi detectada em 49,7% das mulheres e lesões citológicas de alto grau em 18,2%. A baixa escolaridade (OR95%=4,07) e etnia não branca (OR95%=2,22) estiveram fortemente associadas ao desenvolvimento às lesões de colo uterino (p<0,05). Conclusão: características sociodemográficas foram determinantes para lesões de alto risco e desenvolvimento de câncer de colo uterino, especialmente nas mulheres de baixa escolaridade e raça/cor negra ou parda. Estes resultados confirmam a persistência de doenças por causas evitáveis e reduzíveis no país.

Elastografía: una nueva herramienta en obstetricia / ELASTOGRAPHY: A NEW TOOL IN OBSTETRICS

Elastography is a new method which is innovating its use in obstetrics. Elastography has been employed in different fields as a complement of the bidimensional sonography and has been widely studied. However, guidelines for the employement of elastography of the uterine cervix are not available at present. The limitations consist in that there is not a reference of the normel tissue, and of the pathological elasticity of the preterm labor delivery, and besides it is necessary in some types of elastographies an external force which is dependant operator for which the performance of elastographies with cut waves or quantitatives seems to be the most promising method for the evaluation of the elasticity of the cervix. The present utility, current status and future challenges are well docummented in the article. The diagnostic accuracy of cervical elastography in predicting labor induction success is reviewed. The wave elastography of placenta for in vivo quantation of placental elasticity is also considered.

El método CONO-UC: un protocolo integrado de toma de decisión y manejo de lesiones pre-invasoras del cuello uterino útil para especialistas jóvenes / The CONO-UC method: an integrated protocol for decision-making and management of pre-invasive cervical lesions useful for young specialists

OBJETIVOS: En la actualidad, existe una alta tasa de sobre-tratamiento de lesiones precursoras cervicales, la cual, en su causalidad, depende de la inexperiencia del operador que toma las decisiones. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue desarrollar un método estandarizado de ponderación/juicio de variables diagnósticas y tratamiento útiles de ser usadas por especialistas jóvenes a fin de minimizar el riesgo de manejo inadecuado. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Se incluyeron 471 pacientes referidos por citología anormal y tratados mediante asa de LEEP. Se calcularon la sensibilidad, la especificidad, los valores predictivos y las relaciones de probabilidad para el diagnóstico de NIE2+ para cada uno de los métodos de diagnóstico. A cada residente se le enseñó un protocolo estandarizado de tratamiento mediante asa. Una vez identificados los mejores predictores, se construyó una escala de puntaje que ponderaba las variables y se definió mediante curva ROC el major punto de corte para la predicción de NIE2+. Las diferencias entre los grupos se compararon mediante Chi-cuadrado, ANOVA o t-test. Se construyó curva de fallas mediante el método de 1-Kaplan Meier. RESULTADOS: La prevalencia de NIE2+ en esta cohorte fue 66%. La concordancia entre las pruebas diagnósticas fue baja, teniendo la colposcopia el peor valor predictivo positivo y el mayor riesgo de sobre-tratamiento. Para la escala de puntaje se incluyeron la edad, la citología, la colposcopia (estratificación basada en la extensión de compromiso por cuadrantes), la biopsia por mascada y la concordancia entre pruebas diagnósticas. Un puntaje≥ 9 asociado al uso de un protocolo estandarizado, obtuvo tasas de sobre-tratamiento <15%, de recurrencias de NIE2+ <5% a 5 años y una baja tasa de procedimientos sub-óptimos o con complicaciones (<2 %). CONCLUSIONES: El método CONO-UC al combinar un sistema de puntaje integrado (punto de corte) con un protocolo estandarizado de excisión, permite minimizar el riesgo de sobretratamiento o tratamiento inadecuado, por parte de especialistas jóvenes, de lesiones preinvasoras del cuello uterino, reduciendo además el número de procedimientos indicados innecesariamente y manteniendo una alta tasa de éxito terapéutico.

GOALS: Currently, there is a high rate of over-treatment of precursor cervical lesions, which, in their causality, depends on the inexperience of the decision-making operator. The objective of the present study was to develop a standardized method of weighting / judgment of diagnostic variables and treatment useful to be used by young specialists in order to minimize the risk of improper handling. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We included 471 patients referred by abnormal cytology and treated by LEEP. Sensitivity, specificity, predictive values and likelihood ratios for the diagnosis of CIN2+ were calculated for each of the diagnostic methods. Each resident was taught a standardized protocol to carry out a LEEP procedure. Once the best predictors were identified, a scoring scale was constructed that weighted the variables and the best cut-off point for the prediction of CIN2+ was defined by ROC curve. Differences between groups were compared using Chi-square, ANOVA or t-test. Failure curves were built up using the 1-Kaplan Meier method. RESULTS: The prevalence of CIN2+ in this cohort was 66%. The agreement between the diagnostic tests was low, with colposcopy having the worst positive predictive value and the highest risk of over-treatment. Age, cytology, colposcopy (stratification based on the extent of compromise by quadrants), punch biopsy, and agreement between diagnostic tests were included for building the scoring scale. A score ≥ 9 in association with the use of a standardized protocol obtained rates of over-treatment <15%, recurrences of CIN2+ <5% at 5-year follow-up and a low rate of suboptimal procedures or complications (<2%). CONCLUSIONS: The UC-CONE method, by combining an integrated scoring system with a standardized excision protocol, minimizes the risk of over-treatment or inadequate treatment of pre-invasive cervical lesions by young specialists, reducing the number of procedures indicated unnecessarily and maintaining a high rate of therapeutic success.

Comparación entre las técnicas de cribado de patología cervical y las conizaciones de tres hospitales en España / Comparison between cervical pathology screening techniques and the conizations of three hospitals in Spain

OBJETIVO Analizar las características poblacionales y los métodos diagnósticos de patología cervical para la prevención del cáncer de cérvix de tres hospitales españoles para mejorar y unificar los programas de cribado y prevención. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS Estudio retrospectivo de las características demográficas y clínicas de 408 mujeres con patología cervical uterina diagnosticadas en 3 hospitales españoles. Se comparan los factores de riesgo, el proceso diagnóstico y la indicación de tratamiento de dos grupos: las que requirieron conización cervical (n=222) y las que no precisaron tratamiento quirúrgico (n=186). También se analizan las recomendaciones vacunales y su grado de cumplimiento. RESULTADOS Las mujeres conizadas usaron más anticoncepción hormonal y tienen un mayor hábito tabáquico mientras que el número de compañeros sexuales es mayor en pacientes no conizadas. Más del 50% de pacientes con biopsia cervical positiva presentaron un resultado igual o más grave en la anatomía patológica de la pieza quirúrgica. Existen diferencias significativas en sensibilidad y valor predictivo positivo de la citología y de la determinación de HPV entre hospitales. La recomendación de vacunación en ambos grupos fue similar, el porcentaje de mujeres que no la cumplieron fue elevado y significativamente mayor entre pacientes conizadas. CONCLUSIÓN En nuestro medio las mujeres conizadas tienen características clínicas y epidemiológicas diferentes a las no conizadas, existen diferencias entre las técnicas diagnósticas de distintos hospitales y sin embargo la concordancia entre biopsia y resultado del cono es elevada. Sigue siendo necesaria una correcta educación sanitaria en relación con la vacunación en mujeres con patología cervical.

BACKGROUND To analyse the characteristics of the population and diagnostic methods related to the cervical cancer prevention program in three different-level hospitals of a Spanish region in order to improve and unify the screening program. METHODS We retrospectively studied demographic and clinical characteristics of 408 women with cervical lesions diagnosed in three hospitals in Aragon (Spain). Correlation between risk factors, diagnosis process and conisation indication was analysed divided in two groups: conisation required (n=222) or non-conisation (n=186). We also assessed the number of vaccine recommendations made to the patients and the degree of compliance. RESULTS Conisaited women more frequently used a combined hormonal contraceptive method and are more smokers, while the sexual partners are more in women without conisation. More than 50% of women con positive biopsy was confirmed after surgical treatment. There are significant differences between sensibility and positive predictive value of pap-smear and HPV determination in different hospitals. The recombinant vaccine was recommended to both groups at a similar rate. The percentage of women who were recommended to receive the vaccine but chose not to do it, was high in both groups but significantly higher in the Conisation group. CONCLUSION In our environment conisaited women have different clinical and epidemiological profiles, there are differences between diagnosis techniques in different hospitals, however, the concordance between biopsy and definitive result is high. A good sanitary education is necessary in relation with the vaccination of women with cervical pathology.

Cytopathologic evaluation of patients submitted to radiotherapy for uterine cervix cancer / Avaliação citopatológica no seguimento de pacientes submetidas à radioterapia por câncer de colo uterino

Summary Cervical cancer is an important public health problem. Pap smear is the leading strategy of screening programs for cervical cancer worldwide. However, delayed diagnosis leads to more aggressive and less effective treatments. Patients with uterine cervix malignancies who are referred for radiotherapy have advanced-stage disease, which results in high rates of locoregional recurrence. The use of radiotherapy as a treatment for cervical cancer causes morphological changes in neoplastic and non-neoplastic epithelial cells, as well as in stromal cells, which make it difficult to diagnose the residual lesion, resulting in a dilemma in cytopathological routine. Based on the difficulties of cytopathologic evaluation for the follow-up of patients treated with radiotherapy for cervical cancer, our objective was to describe the actinic cytopathic effects. Our paper was based on a structured review including the period from June 2015 to April 2016, aiming at an exploratory-descriptive study. Bibliographic investigations were carried out through selection and analysis of articles, list of authors and keywords, selection of new articles focused on the analysis of bibliographic references to previously selected documents, as well as textbooks of recognized merit. The most incident actinic cytopathological alterations as described in the literature are: cellular gigantism, nuclear and cytoplasmic vacuolization, dyskeratosis, bi- and multinucleated (B/M) cells, macro and multiple nucleoli, anisokaryosis, anisonucleolosis and nuclear pyknosis. To date, a protocol has not been established that can precisely differentiate the morphological characteristics between benign cells with actinic effects from recurrent malignant cells on post-radiotherapy smears.

Resumo O câncer de colo uterino configura-se como um importante problema de saúde pública. O teste citopatológico é a principal estratégia de programas de rastreamento dessa neoplasia maligna em todo o mundo. Entretanto, a demora no diagnóstico ocasiona tratamentos mais agressivos e menos efetivos. Pacientes com neoplasia maligna de colo uterino que são encaminhadas para radioterapia apresentam doença em estádios avançados, e esse fato determina altos índices de recidiva locorregional. A utilização da radioterapia como tratamento do câncer do colo uterino provoca alterações morfológicas não só nas células epiteliais neoplásicas e não neoplásicas como também nas células estromais, o que dificulta o diagnóstico da lesão residual e resulta em um dilema na rotina citopatológica. Com base nas dificuldades da avaliação citopatológica do seguimento das pacientes pós-radioterapia, o objetivo deste trabalho foi descrever os efeitos citopáticos actínicos. O trabalho teve como base uma revisão estruturada no período de junho de 2015 a abril de 2016, visando a um estudo exploratório-descritivo. As investigações bibliográficas foram realizadas por meio de seleção e análise dos artigos, lista de autores e palavras-chave; seleção de novos artigos focada na análise de referências bibliográficas dos documentos previamente selecionados e livros-texto de relevância conceitual. As alterações citopatológicas actínicas mais incidentes descritas na literatura são: gigantismo celular, vacuolização nuclear e citoplasmática, disceratose, bi e multinucleações, macro e múltiplos nucléolos, anisocariose, anisonucleolose e picnose nuclear. Até o momento, não se conseguiu estabelecer um protocolo que possa diferenciar precisamente as características morfológicas entre células benignas com efeitos actínicos das células malignas recidivantes em esfregaços pós-radioterapia.

Association of human papillomavirus and Chlamydia trachomatis with intraepithelial alterations in cervix samples

The influence of different infectious agents and their association with human papillomavirus (HPV) in cervical carcinogenesis have not been completely elucidated. This study describes the association between cytological changes in cervical epithelium and the detection of the most relevant aetiological agents of sexually transmitted diseases. Samples collected from 169 patients were evaluated by conventional cytology followed by molecular analysis to detect HPV DNA, Chlamydia trachomatis, herpes simplex virus 1 and 2,Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Mycoplasma genitalium, Trichomonas vaginalis, andTreponema pallidum, besides genotyping for most common high-risk HPV. An association between cytological lesions and different behavioural habits such as smoking and sedentariness was observed. Intraepithelial lesions were also associated with HPV and C. trachomatis detection. An association was also found between both simple and multiple genotype infection and cytological changes. The investigation of HPV and C. trachomatisproved its importance and may be considered in the future for including in screening programs, since these factors are linked to the early diagnosis of patients with precursor lesions of cervical cancer.

Detection of human papillomavirus in dental biofilm and the uterine cervix of a pregnant adolescent / Detecção do papilomavírus humano em biofilme dental e no colo uterino de uma adolescente grávida

CONTEXT: Adolescence and pregnancy are considered to be risk factors for human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. The relationship between this infection in the uterine cervix and oral HPV infection is controversial. CASE REPORT: This report describes a case of a pregnant 16-year-old adolescent who presented HPV infection in the uterine cervix and the mouth. Smears were collected from the cervix and the tongue/palate. Dental biofilm samples were also collected. The microarray technique was used to detect HPV. The HPV 56 subtype was observed in the cervical smear and HPV 6 in dental biofilm. CONCLUSION: In this pregnant adolescent, HPV infection was present in both the cervix and the mouth, but the HPV subtypes infecting these two areas were different.

CONTEXTO: A adolescência e a gestação são consideradas fatores de risco para a infecção pelo papilomavírus humano (HPV). A relação entre essa infecção no colo do útero e na boca num mesmo paciente é controversa. RELATO DE CASO: Descrever o caso de uma adolescente grávida de 16 anos que apresentou a infecção pelo HPV no colo do útero e na boca. Esfregaços foram realizados no colo do útero e em língua/palato. Amostras de biofilme dental também foram coletadas. Para detectar o HPV, foi utilizada a técnica do microarranjo. O HPV 56 foi o subtipo encontrado no esfregaço cervical e o tipo HPV 6 no biofilme dental. CONCLUSÕES: Observamos, nessa adolescente grávida, a presença do HPV na boca e no colo do útero, mas os subtipos virais que infectavam essas duas regiões eram distintos.

Retardo do tratamento de mulheres com câncer do colo do útero / Delayed treatment of women with cervical cancer

INTRODUÇÃO: O câncer do colo do útero é uma doença que apresenta um alto potencial de cura quando diagnosticado e tratado precocemente. Entretanto, sua morbimortalidade em todo o mundo ainda é elevada, constituindo-se um grande problema de Saúde Pública. O diagnóstico tardio desta neoplasia e o atraso no início do tratamento são fatores que comprometem a sobrevivência das mulheres acometidas. Assim, os determinantes para o retardo no atendimento especializado e no início do tratamento precisam ser melhor compreendidos para a efetiva assistência a essas mulheres. OBJETIVO: Descrever as características demográficas, socioeconômicas, clínicas e relacionadas ao acesso a serviços de saúde de mulheres com câncer do colo do útero e investigar a associação destas características com o retardo para um atendimento especializado e para o início do tratamento. METODOLOGIA: Trata-se de um estudo de coorte onde foram incluídas mulheres com câncer do colo do útero atendidas no Hospital Aristides Maltez, no período de 2011 a 2014...

INTRODUCTION: Cervical cancer is a disease that presents a high potential of cure when is diagnosed and treated early. However, their morbidity and mortality worldwide is still high, becoming a major public health problem. The late diagnosis of this tumor and the delay in the start of treatment are factors that compromise the survival of affected women. Thus, the decisive for the delay in specialized care and early treatment need to be better understood for effective assistance to these women. OBJECTIVE: To describe the demographic, socioeconomic , clinical and the access to health care characteristcs of women with cervical cancer and to investigate the association of these characteristics with the delay for specialized care and treatment initiation. METHODOLOGY: This is a cohort study where were included women with cervical cancer treated at Hospital Aristides Maltez, from 2011 to 2014...

Knowledge of HPV and Surgery among Women Who Underwent Cervical Conization: A Korean Multi-Center Study

PURPOSE: Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a well-known cause of cervical cancer, which, along with its precursors, can be diagnosed and treated with cervical conization (CC). This study aimed to assess HPV- and procedure-related knowledge among women who had undergone CC. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between February and May 2014, consecutive women who had undergone CC at five different educational hospitals were recruited. All patients had undergone a loop electrosurgical excision procedure as the method of CC. A survey was conducted with a self-developed, 29-item questionnaire, measuring knowledge related to HPV and CC. We analyzed the responses of 160 patients who completed the questionnaire. RESULTS: Mean total knowledge scores (±standard deviation) for HPV and CC were 5.2±3.0 of a possible 13.0 and 8.3±4.2 of a possible 16.0, respectively. While 73% of the patients knew that HPV is the main cause of cervical cancer, only 44% knew that HPV is sexually transmitted. The purpose of CC was correctly identified by 71% of the patients. However, 35% failed to indicate the anatomical area resected at the time of CC in the schematic diagram. Women who were younger (p<0.001), had higher education level (p<0.001), and higher family income (p=0.008) had higher knowledge scores. In contrast, neither interval from CC to survey nor disease severity were associated with total knowledge score. CONCLUSION: The level of knowledge related to HPV and CC was unexpectedly low in women who had undergone CC. Intuitive educational resources may improve this knowledge, and further cohort studies are warranted.