Embarazo ectópico roto con fracción beta de la hormona gonadotropina coriónica humana negativa: reporte de caso / Ruptured ectopic pregnancy with negative human chorionic gonadotropin hormone beta fraction: case report

Resumen El embarazo ectópico roto es una emergencia quirúrgica cuyo diagnóstico, gracias a la interrelación de la cuantificación de la fracción beta de la hormona gonadotropina coriónica humana (HCG-β) y los hallazgos ultrasonográficos, se ha hecho más preciso. Sin embargo, el diagnóstico se vuelve difícil cuando clínicamente se encuentran datos sugestivos de embarazo ectópico con una HCG-β negativa. Presentamos el caso de una mujer de 25 años acude a valoración por referir 12,2 semanas de retraso menstrual, asociado a sangrado transvaginal y signos de irritación peritoneal, que cuenta con HCG-β negativa (< 5 mUI/ml). Se realizó un rastreo ultrasonográfico encontrando abundante líquido libre en cavidad, sin evidencia de embarazo intrauterino. Ante la alta sospecha de embarazo ectópico se realizó laparotomía exploradora, encontrando hallazgos sugestivos de embarazo ectópico roto, y se realizó salpingectomía. Finalmente, en el estudio posoperatorio se confirmó por histopatología un embarazo ectópico roto. Existen muy pocos reportes en la literatura internacional de pacientes con características clínicas de embarazo ectópico roto, con HCG-β negativa. Es importante la difusión de este tipo de casos con la finalidad de mejorar los abordajes diagnósticos y no restar importancia ante la sospecha clínica, a pesar de presentar una HCG-β negativa.

Abstract Broken ectopic pregnancy is a surgical emergency that due to the relation between the serum quantification of the of the beta subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin (β-HCG) and the ultrasonographic findings, there have been improvements to reach a precise diagnosis. However, there are very few reported cases in the literature where a broken ectopic pregnancy is described with negative serum results in β-HCG. We present a case report of a 25-year-old patient came to the evaluation for referring 12.2 weeks of menstrual delay, associated with transvaginal bleeding and data of peritoneal irritation, she had a negative β-HCG fraction (< 5 mIU/ml). A scan was performed ultrasound finding abundant free fluid in the cavity, without evidence of intrauterine pregnancy. Given the high suspicion of ectopic pregnancy, an exploratory laparotomy was performed, finding findings suggestive of a ruptured ectopic pregnancy, a salpingectomy was performed. Finally, in the postoperative study, a ruptured ectopic pregnancy was confirmed by histopathology. There are very few reported internationally were found a patient with clinical characteristics of broken ectopic pregnancy, with a β-HCG negative. It is important the scientific diffusion of this type of cases with the purpose of improving the diagnostic approaches and not underestimating importance to the clinical suspicion, despite presenting negative β-HCG results.

Clinical analysis of 30 cases of basal ganglia germinoma in children / 北京大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVE@#To summarize and analyze the clinical characteristics of children with basal ganglia germinoma and to improve the level of early clinical diagnosis.@*METHODS@#The clinical data of children diagnosed with basal ganglia germinoma admitted to the Pediatric Surgery Ward of Peking University First Hospital from January 2013 to December 2020 were retrospectively analyzed, and descriptive statistics were used to analyze the clinical characteristics of children with basal ganglia germinoma.@*RESULTS@#A total of 30 patients were included in the study, 28 were male, 2 were female, the mean age at onset was (9.7±2.2) years, the median disease duration was 7 months, 27 had unilateral disease, and 3 had bilateral disease. The clinical manifestations were decreased limb muscle strength, cognitive function disorders, polydipsia, precocious puberty, intracranial hypertension, dysphonia and swallowing dysfunction. The serum and cerebrospinal fluid tumor marker alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) were normal in the 30 patients, and the serum and cerebrospinal fluid tumor marker β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-HCG) were normal in 8 patients.The serum β-HCG was normal in 11 patients but the cerebrospinal fluid β-HCG was slightly elevated, and the serum and cerebrospinal fluid β-HCG were slightly elevated in 11 patients. A total of 33 lesions with irregular shapes were found by imaging examination, including 15 (45.5%) patchy lesions, 10 (30.3%) patchy lesions, and 8 (24.2%) round-like high-density lesions. Tumors showed obvious high-density shadows on computed tomography (CT) scan. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the tumors showed low or isointensity on T1WI and isointensity on T2WI, accompanied by mild peritumoral edema, hemispheric atrophy, cerebral peduncle atrophy, calcification, cystic degeneration, ventricular dilatation and wallerian degeneration. On contrast-enhanced scans, the tumor showed no enhancement or heterogeneous enhancement.@*CONCLUSION@#The main age of onset of germ cell tumors in the basal ganglia in children is about 10 years old, and males are absolutely dominant. The clinical features and imaging manifestations have certain characteristics. With both combined, the early diagnosis of germ cell tumors in the basal ganglia can be improved.

Impact of Plasmatic Progesterone on the Day of Frozen Embryo Transfer in Hormone-induced Cycles / Impacto da progesterona plasmática no dia da transferência de embriões congelados em ciclos induzidos por hormônios

Abstract Objective To establish a relationship between serum progesterone values on the day of frozen blastocyst transfer in hormone-replaced cycles with the probability of pregnancy, miscarriage or delivery. Methods This was an ambispective observational study including all frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles performed at our department following in vitro fecundation from May 2018 to June 2019. The outcomes evaluated were β human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG)-positive pregnancy and delivery. Groups were compared according to the level of serum progesterone on the day of embryo transfer: the 1st quartile of progesterone was compared against the other quartiles and then the 2nd and 3rd quartiles against the 4th quartile. Results A total of 140 transfers were included in the analysis: 87 with β-HCG>10 IU/L (62%), of which 50 (36%) delivered and 37 had a miscarriage (42%).Women with lower progesterone levels (< 10.7ng/mL) had a trend toward higher β-HCG-positive (72 versus 59%; p>0.05), lower delivery (26 versus 39%; p>0.05) and higher miscarriage rates (64 versus 33%; p<0.01). Comparing the middle quartiles (P25-50) with those above percentiles 75, the rate of pregnancy was similar (60 versus 57%; p>0.05), although there was a trend toward a higher number of deliveries (43 versus 31%; p>0.05) and a lower number of miscarriages (28 versus 45%; p>0.05). These differences were not statistically significant. Conclusion There were no differences in pregnancy and delivery rates related with the progesterone level when measured in the transfer day. The miscarriage rate was higher in the 1st quartile group.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar se existe alguma relação entre os valores plasmáticos de progesterona no dia da transferência de um blastocisto desvitrificado em ciclos hormonalmente substituídos e a taxa de gravidez, aborto ou nascido vivo. Métodos Estudo observacional, ambispectivo, incluindo todos os ciclos de transferência de blastocistos congelados no nosso departamento, entre maio de 2018 e junho de 2019. Avaliou-se a taxa de gravidez e de nascidos vivos após 24 semanas de gestação. Os grupos foram comparados de acordo com os valores de progesterona plasmáticos dosados no dia da transferência do blastocisto: comparou-se o 1° quartil com os outros e depois os 2° e 3° quartis com o 4°. Resultados Avaliaram-se 140 transferências: 87 com β gonadotrofina coriônica humana (β-HCG)>10 IU/L (62%), 50 das quais terminaram em nascido vivo (36% do total), enquanto 37 tiveram um aborto (42% das gravidezes). Verificou-se uma tendência para menor número de recém-nascidos nas transferências com níveis de progesterona no 1° quartil (<10.7ng/mL) (26 versus 39%; p>0.05) e ummaior número de abortos (64 versus 33%; p<0.01). Comparando o 2° e 3° quartis com o 4°, verificouse que nos casos em que a progesterona estava acima do percentil 75, apesar de uma taxa de gravidez semelhante (60 versus 57%; p>0.05), houve uma tendência para uma maior taxa de nascidos vivos (43 versus 31%; p>0.05) emenor número de abortos (28 versus 45%; p>0.05) abaixo do percentil 75. Estas diferenças não foram estatisticamente significativas. Conclusão Não se verificaram diferenças estatisticamente significativas para taxa de gravidez e de nascido vivo. A taxa de aborto foi maior no primeiro quartil.

Cervical heterotopic pregnancy: A case report / 中南大学学报(医学版)

Heterotopic pregnancies are rare and difficult to be diagnosed early. A patient with combined intrauterine pregnancy and cervical pregnancy was admitted in Qingdao Municipal Hospital in 2019. The patient complained of abnormal vaginal bleeding after menopause and was misdiagnosed as simple intrauterine pregnancy. She underwent artificial abortion and suffered intraoperative hemorrhage. To stop bleeding, she received the treatment of uterine artery embolization immediately. Afterwards, cervical residual pregnancy tissues started necrosis, blood β-human chorionic gonadotropin level and the cervix appearance gradually returned to normal. This report suggests that cervical heterotopic pregnancy inclines to be mis diagnosed. Correct diagnosis should be made as soon as possible. Selective uterine artery embolization is an effective measure to prevent and treat massive bleeding.

Manejo expectante de gestación ectópica abdominal tras fecundación in vitro en paciente con salpinguectomía bilateral: reporte de un caso / Expectant management of abdominal ectopic pregnancy following in vitro fertilization in a patient with previous bilateral salpinguectomy: a case report

ANTECEDENTES El embarazo ectópico abdominal es el menos habitual de los embarazos ectópicos, con una prevalencia situada entre el 0.9 - 1.4%. La mortalidad materna es elevada, alcanzando un 20% y la viabilidad fetal mínima. El manejo médico en estas situaciones es complicado ya que no está bien establecido debido a su baja frecuencia. CASO CLÍNICO Mujer de 35 años, con antecedente de esterilidad por endometriosis y salpinguectomía bilateral. Tras 5 fecundaciones in vitro (FIV) consigue una primera gestación, con finalización mediante cesárea por no progresión de parto. Acude a urgencias en su segundo embarazo, logrado tras 3 (FIV), con edad gestacional de 7 semanas. Presenta sangrado vaginal escaso y la ecografía demuestra a nivel de Douglas y hacia fosa iliaca izquierda un saco gestacional de 3 cm con embrión sin latido cardiaco de 5 mm. El nivel de β-hcg es de 1477 mUI/ml. Se diagnostica de gestación ectópica abdominal y se opta por actitud expectante dada la estabilidad clínica de la paciente. En un control a las 48h la β-Hcg es de 464 mUI/ml y la paciente se mantiene estable. En controles posteriores se observan niveles descendentes de β-Hcg y tras un mes la resolución es completa. CONCLUSIÓN El embarazo ectópico abdominal es una entidad poco frecuente pero con una alta tasa de mortalidad. Aunque lo más común es optar por un abordaje quirúrgico es necesario individualizar cada caso y basarse en la clínica y las diferentes pruebas diagnósticas para seleccionar aquellos casos que se pueden beneficiar de un manejo conservador.

BACKGROUND Abdominal ectopic pregnancy accounts for only 0.9-1.4% of all ectopic pregnancies. The maternal mortality rate is high (up to 20%) and fetal viability mínimum. The managment, specially the conservatory management of these cases is difficult because of our limited experiencie due to its low frecuency. CASE PRESENTATION 35-year-old woman, with history of sterility due to endometriosis that required bilateral laparoscopic salpinguectomy. Her first pregnancy (after 5 in vitro fertilization cicles (IVF)) finalized with a caesarean section because of to the lack of labour progresion. She was admitted to our emergency department during her second pregnancy (after 3 IVF cicles), with 7 weeks of gestational age. She had a little vaginal bleeding. Ultrasound scan showed a 5mm gestational sac with a 3mm embryo without cardiac activity in the pouch of Douglas. The β-Hcg level was 1477mUI/ml. The final diagnosis was ectopic abdominal pregnancy and it was decided to undertake an expectant management because she was clinically stable. The β-Hcg level after 48 hours was 464 mUI/ml. In subsequent examinations β-Hcg showed descending levels and after one month the resolution was completed. CONCLUSION Abdominal ectopic pregnancy is very infrequent but it has a high mortality rate. The most common approach is surgical but it is necessary to study all signs and diagnostic tests to select patients that could get profit from a conservatory management.

Testicular mixed germ cell tumor presenting with seizure as the initial symptom: a case report and literature review

Abstract Most patients with testicular germ cell tumor present with a painless scrotal mass. We report a 19-year-old patient who presented with neurological complains. Rapid clinical progression to coma was noted during the staging work up. A diagnosis of testicular mixed germ cell tumor with multiorgan metastasis (lymph node, lung, liver and brain) was made. Patients with brain metastasis should receive chemotherapy alone or combined with surgery or radiotherapy. Because the clinical symptoms deteriorated quickly, surgery was used upfront followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy for the brain tumor. After the first stage of treatment, the clinical symptoms, tumor markers and imaging findings were improved. The residual brain tumor was eliminated by chemotherapy, and only sparse degenerated tumor cells were noted in the brain tissue. Longer follow up is required to assess the impact of our treatment strategy.

Non-surgical treatment of ectopic pregnancy

In the past few decades, ectopic pregnancy has been termed by medical practitioners has a global epidemic. With the questions lingering on everbody minds how this menace can be tamed. In a bid to reduce the mortality and financial burden brought by this evolving growing health concern, the medic has developed non-surgical alteratives to deal with ectopic pregnancy, i.e., treatment using methotrexate. In a bid to explore this topic further, these study goals were to share the experience of treating mothers who have un-ruptured ectopic pregnancies traditionally. Mothers who were found to have an ectopic pregnancy and fit the medical care were encompassed in the program, a total of 37 women. For instance, those with serum beta HCG in the range of 1000 mIU per liter were treatment expectantly whereas those with a level more than a thousand were given an injection of methotrexate. To monitor the response of experiment, beta HCG levels were monitored for each mother. The results of the current study established that 88.0% of women who underwent the study, only 12.0% of them exhibited full rsolution while the remaining lot resolved only after a sole dose of methotrexate. From the results of this study, it is evidently clear that a lot of pregnant mothers would be greatly helped if they are enrolled in such therapy at early days

Maternal weight variation in different intrauterine environments: an important role of hypertension / Variação de peso materno em diferentes ambientes intrauterinos: um papel importante da hipertensão

Abstract Objective Different intrauterine environments may influence the maternal prepregnancy body weight (BW) variation up to 6 months postpartum. The objective of the present study was to verify the association of sociodemographic, obstetric, nutritional, and behavioral factors with weight variation in women divided into four groups: hypertensive (HM), diabetic (DM), smokers (SM), and control mothers (CM). Methods It was a convenience sample of 124 postpartum women recruited from 3 public hospitals in the city of Porto Alegre, state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, between 2011 and 2016.Multiple linear regressions and generalized estimating equations (GEE) were conducted to identify the factors associated with maternal weight variation. For all GEE, the maternal weight measurements were adjusted for maternal height, parity, educational level, and the type of delivery, and 3 weight measurements (prepregnancy, preceding delivery, and 15 days postpartum) were fixed. Results A hierarchical model closely associated the maternal diagnosis of hypertension and a prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) classified as overweight with maternal weight gain measured up to the 6th month postpartum (the difference between the maternal weight at 6months postpartum and the prepregnancy weight). These results showed that the BW of the HM group and of overweight women increased ~ 5.2 kg 6 months postpartum, compared with the other groups. Additionally, women classified as overweight had a greater BW variation of 3.150 kg. Conclusion This evidence supports the need for specific nutritional guidelines for gestational hypertensive disorders, as well as great public attention for overweight women in the fertile age.

Resumo Objetivo Diferentes ambientes intrauterinos podem influenciar a variação de peso corporal pré-gestacional materno até 6 meses pós-parto. O objetivo do presente estudo foi verificar a associação de fatores sociodemográficos, obstétricos, nutricionais e comportamentais com a variação de peso em mulheres divididas em quatro grupos: hipertensas (HM), diabéticas (DM), tabagistas (SM) e controles (CM). Métodos Amostra de conveniência de 124 puérperas recrutadas em 3 hospitais públicos da cidade de Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, entre 2011 e 2016. Regressões lineares múltiplas e modelos de equações de estimativas generalizadas (GEE) foram realizados para identificar os fatores associados à variação do peso materno. Para todas as GEE, as medidas de peso materno foram ajustadas para a estatura materna, paridade, escolaridade e tipo de parto, e três medidas de peso (prégravidez, anterior ao parto e 15 dias pós-parto) foram fixadas. Resultados Um modelo hierárquico associou o diagnóstico materno de hipertensão e o índice de massa corporal (IMC) pré-gestacional de sobrepeso com ganho de peso materno medido até o 6° mês pós-parto (diferença entre o peso materno aos 6 meses pós-parto e o peso pré-gestacional). Estes resultados mostraram que o grupo HM e mulheres comsobrepeso aumentaram o peso corporal em ~ 5,2 kg 6 meses pós-parto, em comparação com os demais grupos. Além disso, as mulheres classificadas com sobrepeso tiveram uma variação maior de peso corporal, de 3,150 kg. Conclusão Evidenciou-se a necessidade de diretrizes nutricionais específicas para distúrbios hipertensivos gestacionais, bem como de maior atenção dos serviços de saúde públicos para mulheres com excesso de peso em idade fértil.

Pregnancy of unknown location: the value of frozen section analysis and its relation to Beta-hCG levels and endometrial thickness

Abstract Objective Frozen section examination is a rapid method for identifying products of conception in endometrial curetting, yet its accuracy is inconclusive. The purposes of this study is to determine the accuracy of frozen section analysis of endometrial curetting in pregnancies of unknown location, and to verify the relation of β-human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) level and endometrial thickness to the assessed accuracy. Methods We reviewed data from January 2009 to December 2014 of diagnostic curettages from women with suspected ectopic pregnancies sent for frozen section examination at a medical center. A frozen section diagnosis was considered accurate if it concurred with the final pathologic diagnosis. Results Of 106 frozen section studies, the diagnosis was accurate in 94 (88.7%). Of 79 specimens interpreted as negative on frozen sections (no products of conception noted), 9 (11.4%) were positive on final pathologic review. Three of the 27 (11.1%) specimens interpreted as positive by a frozen section failed to demonstrate products of conception on a final pathologic section. The sensitivity of frozen sections in the diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy was 72.7%, specificity 95.9%, positive predictive value 88.9%, negative predictive value 88.6%, and accuracy 88.6%. A statically significant correlation was found between β-hCG level and high accuracy of the frozen section technique (p< 0.001). No correlation was found between endometrial thickness and the accuracy of the frozen section technique. Conclusion The accuracy of frozen section examination was high and was found to correlate with β-hCG level, but not with endometrial thickness.

Supposed pituitary-production of human chorionic Gonadotropin induced by androgen deprivation therapy

ABSTRACT Introduction: The main cause of slightly elevated human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) after successful treatment of male germ cell tumors is considered to be pituitary-derived HCG. It is well known that pituitary-derived HCG is frequently detected in postmenopausal women. We evaluated the status of serum HCG in men with elevated gonadotropins, which were induced by androgen deprivation therapy, using commercially available assays. Materials and Methods: We enrolled 44 patients with prostate cancer, who underwent luteinizing-hormone releasing hormone agonist treatment. We measured serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), serum luteinizing hormone (LH), serum total HCG, serum free HCG-β subunit, and urine total HCG 3 times per patient, on the day of treatment initiation, the next day, and 3 months after. Results: On the day after treatment initiation, serum and urine HCG was detected in 61% and 73% of patients, respectively. Markedly strong correlations were observed between serum/urine HCG and FSH/LH. In particular, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis indicated excellent area under the curve (0.977, 95% confidence interval 0.951-1.003)) for serum HCG-detectable LH. At the cutoff value of 21.07 mIU/mL for serum HCG-detectable LH, the sensitivity and specificity were 96.7% and 95.3%, respectively. Serum HCG-β was not detectable at any times in any patients. Conclusions: Suggested pituitary-derived HCG can be frequently detected in patients with elevated gonadotropins, and there is a firm association between HCG detection and gonadotropin levels.

Teratoma tímico productor de beta-HCG: una causa infrecuente de pubertad precoz periférica / Beta-hCG-producing thymic teratoma: an uncommon cause of peripheral precocious puberty

INTRODUCCIÓN: Entre las causas de pubertad precoz periférica en el varón están los tumores secretores de betagonadotrofina coriónica humana (Β-HCG), como hepatoblastomas, disgerminomas, corio-carcinomas y teratomas inmaduros. En pediatría los teratomas mediastínicos son raros, representan el 7-10% de los teratomas extragonadales. OBJETIVO: Describir caso de un paciente que cursa con pubertad precoz periférica debida a teratoma tímico secretor de Β-HCG. CASO CLÍNICO: Escolar masculino de 7 años 10 meses consultó por cuadro de 3 meses de cambios de la voz, ginecomastia, aparición de vello pubiano y aumento de volumen genital. En exámenes destacaba edad ósea de 9 años, testosterona total 9,33ng/ml (< 0,4ng/ml), dehidroepiandrosterona sulfato (DHEAS), 17-hidroxi-progesterona (17-OH-P) y prueba de hormona adrenocorticotrofina (ACTH) normales, hormona luteinizante (LH) y hormona folículo estimulante (FSH) basales bajas, Β-HCG 39,5mU/ml (< 2,5 mUI/ml), alfa fetoproteína (α-FP) 11,2ng/ml (0,6-2,0 ng/ml). Estudio de imágenes para determinar origen de secreción de Β-HCG incluye: ecografía testicular y tomografla axial computarizada (TAC) torácica, abdominal y pelviana normales; resonancia cerebral y selar sin hallazgos significativos. Tomografía por emisión de positrones/tomografía computada (PET SCAN) evidenció imagen de tumor en mediastino antero-superior. Se resecó el tumor, cuya biopsia evidenció teratoma quístico inmaduro en timo. Evolución postoperatoria fue satisfactoria, con normalización de niveles hormonales. CONCLUSIÓN: La presentación de un teratoma en paciente pediátrico es infrecuente, aún más, si es inmaduro, su localización es tímica y es secretor de Β-HCG. Es relevante considerarlo dentro de diagnósticos diferenciales frente a pubertad precoz, de modo que pueda efectuarse un manejo oportuno.

INTRODUCTION: Among the causes of peripheral precocious puberty in men are the beta- human cho rionic gonadotropin (Β-HCG)-secreting tumors, such as hepatoblastomas, dysgerminomas, chorio carcinomas, and immature teratomas. In pediatrics, the mediastinal teratomas are rare, representing the 7-10% of extragonadal teratomas. OBJECTIVE: To describe the case of a patient with peripheral precocious puberty due to a Β-HCG -secreting thymic teratoma. CLINICAL CASE: A seven-years-old schoolboy presents a three-months history of voice changes, gynecomastia, pubic hair appearance, and increased genital volume. In the exams, bone age of nine years, total testosterone 9.33ng/ml (< 0.4ng/ml), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP), and normal adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) test stand out; luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) with low basal levels, P-HCG 39.5mU/ml (< 2.5 mUI/ml), alpha feto protein (Α-FP) 11,2ng/ml (0.6-2.0 ng/ml). Imaging study to determine the origin of P-HCG secretion shows normal testicular ultrasound and thoracic, abdominal, and pelvic computerized axial tomo graphy (CAT); brain and sellar resonance without significant findings. The positron emission tomography/computed scan (PET SCAN) shows a tumor image in the anterosuperior mediastinum. The tumor is resected, and the biopsy shows an immature cystic teratoma in the thymus. Post-operatory evolution was satisfactory, with normalization of hormonal levels. CONCLUSION: The appearance of a teratoma in a pediatric patient is rare, even more if it is immature, with thymic location and Β-HCG- secretor. It is important to consider it within the differential diagnosis facing precocious puberty, as a better way to handle appropriately.

Factores de riesgo, diagnóstico histológico y concentraciones de beta-hCG en pacientes con mola hidatiforme / Risk factors, histological diagnosis and beta-hCG concentrations in patients with hydatidiform mole

Resumen Introducción: La mola hidatiforme es la forma más común de enfermedad trofoblástica gestacional. La cuantificación de beta-hCG sérica tiene importante valor en su diagnóstico y pronóstico, no obstante en Colombia no se cuenta con referencias de sus niveles según el tipo de mola o factores de riesgo. Objetivo: Estudiar el comportamiento de los valores de beta-hCG según el tipo de mola y los factores de riesgo. Materiales y Métodos: Se estudiaron 74 casos con diagnóstico de mola hidatiforme en el departamento de patología de la Universidad Industrial de Santander entre los años 2005 y 2014. Se registró a partir de los datos proporcionados por la historia clínica: hábito de fumar, hemoclasificación, indicación de régimen EMA-CO, antecedentes sociodemográficos y ginecoobstétricos y la concentración de beta-hCG previa al tratamiento evacuador. Resultados: 63 casos presentaron mediciones válidas de beta-hCG. En el análisis se utilizaron pruebas no paramétricas con un nivel de significancia del 10%. La mediana de beta-hCG para mola completa y parcial fue 270 852 UI/L y 40 379 UI/L respectivamente. Hubo una diferencia significativa para los valores de beta-hCG entre grupos de mola (p<0,0001). Para el diagnóstico de mola completa un punto de corte de 170 000 U/L presentó una sensibilidad del 91,5% y una especificidad del 75%. La indicación de EMA-CO presentó una asociación significativa con los valores de beta-hCG (p=0,066); no alcanzaron significancia las asociaciones con el tabaquismo (p=0,118) y la multiparidad (p=0,111). Conclusión: La cuantificación de beta-hCG ayuda a clasificar el tipo de mola aunque su rendimiento diagnóstico es modesto. MÉD.UIS. 2018;31(1):39-46.

Abstract Introduction: Hydatidiform mole is the most common form of gestational trophoblastic disease. The quantification of serum beta-hCG has important value in its diagnosis and prognosis, however in Colombia there are no references of its values according to the type of mole or risk factors. Objective: To study the behavior of beta-hCG values according to the type of mole and the risk factors. Materials and Methods: 74 cases with diagnosis of hydatidiform mole were studied in the pathology department of the Industrial University of Santander between 2005 and 2014. It was recorded from the data provided by the clinical history: smoking habit, blood sample, indication of the EMA-CO regimen, sociodemographic and gyneco-obstetric antecedents and the beta-hCG concentration prior to the evacuation treatment. Results: 63 cases presented valid measurements of beta-hCG. In the analysis nonparametric tests with a level of significance of 10% were used. The median beta-hCG for complete and partial mole was 270 852 IU / L and 40 379 IU / L respectively. There was a significant difference for beta-hCG values between mola groups (p <0.0001). For the diagnosis of complete mole, a cut-off point of 170,000 U / L showed a sensitivity of 91.5% and a specificity of 75%. The EMA-CO indication showed a significant association with beta-hCG values (p = 0.066); associations with smoking (p = 0.118) and multiparity (p = 0.111) were not significant. Conclusion: The quantification of beta-hCG helps to classify the type of mole although its diagnostic performance is modest. MÉD.UIS. 2018;31(1):39-46.

Gestação heterotópica: diagnóstico ultrassonográfico com gravidez ectópica não rota em serviço de emergência - Relato de caso / Heterotopic pregnancy: ultrasonographic diagnosis with non - route ectopic pregnancy in emergency service - Case report

A gravidez heterotópica é uma entidade rara, caracterizada por uma gravidez tópica associada a uma gravidez ectópica, sobretudo quando ocorre de forma espontânea. Os fatores de risco são semelhantes aos vistos em ectópicas, sendo a maior incidência nas mulheres que se submetem a técnicas de reprodução assistida. O diagnostico é feito com ß-HCG positivo e exame ultrassonográfico, geralmente após quadro de abdome agudo hemorrágico decorrente do rompimento da prenhez ectópica, com o tratamento divergindo em relação ao quadro e da idade gestacional da paciente. (AU)

The heterotopic pregnancy is a rare disease characterized by a topical pregnancy associated with an ectopic pregnancy, especially when it occurs spontaneously. Risk factors are similar to those seen in ectopic pregnancy, with the highest incidence in women undergoing assisted reproduction techniques . Diagnosis is made with a positive ß -HCG and ultrasound examination, usually after hemorrhagic acute abdomen due to the rupture of the ectopic pregnancy, with treatment differing in relation to the frame and the gestational age of the patient. (AU)

Although it induces synchronized ovulation, hCG reduces the fertility of Santa Ines ewes submitted to TAI / Embora induza a ovulação sincronizada, hCG reduz a fertilidade de ovelhas Santa Inês submetidas à IATF

The aim of this study was to evaluate hCG treatment on ovarian response and on pregnancy rate using a 9-day oestrus synchronization protocol in Santa Ines ewes. On a random oestrus cycle day, ewes received an intravaginal progesterone device (Primer-PR®, Tecnopec, Brazil). Nine days later (Day 9), 30µg of d-cloprostenol (Prolise®, Syntex, Argentina) and 250IU of eCG (Folligon®, Intervet, Brazil) were administered and the progesterone device was removed. This moment, the ewes were randomly assigned on two groups: Control Group and hCG Group. In the hCG Group, the ewes received 500IU of hCG (Vetecor®, Hertape-Calier, Spain) 24h after device removal. In the Control Group, the ewes did not receive any ovulation inductor. Control and hCG Groups ewes were inseminated 60h and 48h after device removal, respectively. There was no difference between the groups regarding the first ovulatory follicle diameter and the second ovulatory follicle. hCG Group ewes had shorter interval between device removal and ovulation (Control: 79.9±15.4h and hCG: 54.7±4.9h; P=0.001) and more synchronized ovulations. However, the treatment with hCG decreased the pregnancy rate after TAI (P=0,009). In conclusion, hCG administration improves ovulatory synchronisation, but causes a decrease in the pregnancy rate.(AU)

Avaliou-se o tratamento com hCG na resposta ovariana e na taxa de prenhez utilizando protocolo de sincronização do estro de nove dias em ovelhas Santa Inês. As ovelhas receberam um dispositivo intravaginal de progesterona em fase aleatória do ciclo (dia zero= D0). No momento da remoção do dispositivo (D9), as fêmeas receberam 30µg de d-cloprostenol (Prolise®, Syntex, Argentina) e 250UI de eCG (Folligon®, Intervet, Brasil). Nesse momento, as ovelhas foram aleatoriamente distribuídas em dois grupos de tratamento: controle sem indução de ovulação e tratamento com 500UI hCG para indução de ovulação. As ovelhas dos grupos controle e hCG foram inseminadas 60h e 48h após a remoção do dispositivo, respectivamente. Não houve diferença entre os grupos para o diâmetro do primeiro e do segundo folículo pré-ovulatório. As avelhas do grupo hCG apresentaram menor intervalo entre a remoção do dispositivo e a ovulação (grupo controle: 79.9±15.4h e grupo hCG: 54.7±4.9h; P=0.001) e maior sincronização das ovulações. No entanto, o tratamento com hCG diminuiu a taxa de prenhez após a IATF (P=0,009). Conclui-se que, apesar de a administração de hCG aumentar a sincronização da ovulação, reduz a taxa de prenhez.(AU)

Enfermedad trofoblástica gestacional en un centro oncológico de Caldas - Colombia durante el periodo 2001 - 2014 / Gestational trophoblastic disease in oncological center on Caldas - Colombia during 2001 - 2014

RESUMEN Introducción: La enfermedad trofoblástica gestacional representa un espectro de enfermedades con un denominador común que sirve de marcador diagnóstico, control y pronóstico, la Subunidad Beta Gonadotrofina Coriónica Humana. Se pretende revisar el patrón clínico de la enfermedad trofoblástica gestacional en un centro oncológico de tercer nivel. Materiales y Métodos: Se constituyó una cohorte retrospectiva de pacientes remitidas a la institución en la sede del departamento de Caldas entre enero de 2001 a diciembre de 2014, con diagnóstico de enfermedad trofoblástica gestacional, en la cual se analizaron variables de tratamiento y evolución de la enfermedad. Resultados: Se obtuvieron 25 pacientes con edad media de 30 años; 68% tenían síntomas previos al diagnóstico de menos de tres meses; 84% se diagnosticaron por ecografía y 80% por legrado; 52% con mola persistente y 24% con coriocarcinoma; 80% en etapa clínica I, 8% en etapa III y 8% en etapa IV con metástasis en 36% al pulmón, 18% a sistema nervioso central y 9% a hígado; 76% clasificadas como bajo riesgo. la media de seguimiento entre diagnóstico y remisión fue 6,3 meses, entre cirugía y remisión 6,4 meses y entre la primera quimioterapia y la remisión 2,9 meses. Sobrevida global de 92%. Conclusión: Los factores de mayor importancia en la ocurrencia y evolución de la enfermedad trofoblástica gestacional son el nivel de Gonadotrofina Coriónica Humana, la histología, la presencia o no de enfermedad metastásica, el uso de multiagentes en quimioterapia y finalmente el índice pronóstico internacional. MÉD.UIS. 2017;30(3):39-49.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The gestational trophoblastic disease represents a spectrum of diseases with a common denominator that serves as a marker for diagnosis, monitoring, prognoses and follow-up, the Subunit Beta Human Chorionic Gonadotropin. We review the behavior of gestational trophoblastic disease in a cancer center of third level. Materials and Methods: A retrospective cohort of patients referred to the institution on Caldas department from january 2001 to december 2014, with a diagnosis of gestational trophoblastic disease for analyzing treatment and evolution variables. Results: From 25 patients with median age of 30 years; 68% had symptoms for less than three months; 84% are diagnosed by ultrasound and 80% by curettage; 52% with persistent mole and 24% with choriocarcinoma; 80% clinical stage I, stage III 8% and 8% in stage IV with metastatic to lung 36%, 18% to central nervous system and 9% to liver; 76% classified as low risk; mean follow-up between diagnosis and remission was 6.3 months, between surgery and remission of 6.4 months and between the first chemotherapy and remission 2.9 months. The overall survival was 92%. Conclusion: The factors of greater importance in the occurrence and evolution of gestational trophoblastic disease are the level of the Subunit Beta Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, histology, presence or non-metastatic disease, the use of multi-agent chemotherapy and finally the international prognostic index. MÉD.UIS. 2017;30(3):39-49.

Qualitative Determination of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin in Vaginal Washings for the Early Diagnosis of Premature Rupture of Fetal Membranes / Determinação qualitativa de gonadotrofina coriônica humana no lavado vaginal para o diagnóstico precoce de ruptura prematura de membranas fetais

Abstract Purpose This study aimed to evaluate and validate the qualitative human chorionic gonadotropin β subunit (β-hCG) test of the vaginal fluid washings of pregnant women with premature rupture of fetal membranes (PROM). Methods Cross-sectional study of pregnant women between gestational weeks 24 and 39 who underwent consultations in one of our institutions. They were divided into two groups: group A (pregnant women clinically diagnosed with PROM) and group B (pregnant women without loss of amniotic liquid). The patients were subjected to a vaginal fluid washing with 3 mL of saline solution, which was aspirated subsequently with the same syringe. The solution was immediately sent to the laboratory to perform the vaginal β-hCG test with cut-off points of 10 mIU/mL (β-hCG-10) and/or 25 mIU/mL (β-hCG-25). Results The β-hCG-10 test of the vaginal secretion was performed in 128 cases. The chi-squared test with Yates' correction showed a statistically significant difference between the 2 groups (p = 0.0225). The sensibility, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and accuracy parameters were 77.1%, 43.6%, 52.3%; 70.4%; and 58.6% respectively. The β-hCG-25 test of the vaginal washing was performed in 49 cases. The analysis by Fisher's exact test showed a statistically significant difference between the groups (p = 0.0175). The sensibility, specificity, PPV, NPV, and accuracy parameters were 44.4%, 87.1%, 66.6%; 72.9%; and 71.4% respectively. Conclusions The β-hCG-25 test showed better accuracy for the diagnosis of PROM, and can corroborate the early diagnosis of PROM because it is a simple and quick exam.

Resumo Objetivo Este estudo objetivou validar o exame qualitativo da subunidade β da gonadotrofina coriônica humana (β-hCG) em lavado vaginal de gestantes com ruptura prematura de membranas (RPM) fetais. Métodos Estudo transversal de gestantes com 24 a 39 semanas atendidas em um hospital de Maringá divididas em 2 grupos: grupo A (clinicamente diagnosticadas com RPM) e grupo B (gestantes sem perda de liquido amniótico). As pacientes foram submetidas a lavado vaginal com 3 mL de soro fisiológico, que logo em seguida foi aspirado de volta na mesma seringa e imediatamente enviado ao laboratório para a realização do exame de β-hCG vaginal com pontos de corte de 10 mIU/mL (β-hCG-10) e/ ou 25 mIU/mL (β-hCG-25). Resultados O teste de β-hCG-10 na secreção vaginal foi realizado em 128 casos, e o teste do qui-quadrado com correção de Yates mostrou diferença significante entre os dois grupos (p = 0,0225). Os parâmetros de sensibilidade, especificidade, valor preditivo positivo (VPP), valor preditivo negativo (VPN) e acurácia foram respectivamente 77,1%; 43,6%; 52,3%; 70,4%; e 58,6%. O teste de β-hCG-25 na secreção vaginal foi realizado em 49 casos, e a análise pelo teste exato de Fisher mostrou diferença significativa entre os grupos (p = 0,0175). Os parâmetros de sensibilidade, especificidade, VPP, VPN e acurácia foram respectivamente 44,4%; 87,1%; 66,6%; 72,9%; e 71,4%. Conclusões O β-hCG-25 apresentou melhor acurácia para o diagnóstico de RPM, e pode corroborar o diagnóstico precoce de RPM por se tratar de um exame simples e rápido.

“Somewhere up there”: A case Of pineal gland tumor in a 20-year-old male

@#<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>BACKGROUND:</strong> Pineal region tumor is a rare and reportable case. Incidence rate adults is 0.025 in 10,000 hence there is no established guidelines among adults  for diagnosis and management of this case.<br /><strong>CASE:</strong> A case of a 20-year-old male with a two-month history of  intermittent  headache,  occipital  area  with  VAS  5/10,increasing in severity. Until two days prior to admission with severe headache VAS 9-10/10, occipital, and nonradiating.Patient  noted  episodes  of  projectile  vomiting  hence,admitted. Patient presented with non-lateralizing symptoms but  noted  papilledema  and  parinaud  syndrome.Cranial  MRI with contrast revealed a 2.5cm pineal gland tumor with obstructive  hydrocephalus.  Serum  AFP  (alpha-fetoprotein  )  and  beta-HCG  (beta subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin) were requested and revealed elevated levels.The patient underwent endoscopic third ventriculostomy but no biopsy was done due to high risk of bleeding. Patient underwent series of radiotherapy and was advised to undergo chemotherapy but patient refused. Patient had improved upward gaze but with residuals, no recurrence of headache or vomiting, had normalization of the serum tumor markers but noted increase in size of the tumor despite radiotherapy.<br /><strong>CONCLUSION:</strong> Case  reports  of  pineal  region  tumors  will  help doctors  in  the  primary  hospitals  diagnose  such  cases  and differentiate it from benign causes of headache. This will aid in early referral to specialists and early intervention.</p>

"Somewhere up there": A case of pineal gland tumor in a 20-year-old male

BACKGROUND: Pineal region tumor is a rare and reportable case. Incidence rate adults is 0.025 in 10,000 hence there is no established guidelines among adults  for diagnosis and management of this case.CASE: A case of a 20-year-old male with a two-month history of  intermittent  headache,  occipital  area  with  VAS  5/10,increasing in severity. Until two days prior to admission with severe headache VAS 9-10/10, occipital, and nonradiating.Patient  noted  episodes  of  projectile  vomiting  hence,admitted. Patient presented with non-lateralizing symptoms but  noted  papilledema  and  parinaud  syndrome.Cranial  MRI with contrast revealed a 2.5cm pineal gland tumor with obstructive  hydrocephalus.  Serum  AFP  (alpha-fetoprotein  )  and  beta-HCG  (beta subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin) were requested and revealed elevated levels.The patient underwent endoscopic third ventriculostomy but no biopsy was done due to high risk of bleeding. Patient underwent series of radiotherapy and was advised to undergo chemotherapy but patient refused. Patient had improved upward gaze but with residuals, no recurrence of headache or vomiting, had normalization of the serum tumor markers but noted increase in size of the tumor despite radiotherapy.CONCLUSION: Case  reports  of  pineal  region  tumors  will  help doctors  in  the  primary  hospitals  diagnose  such  cases  and differentiate it from benign causes of headache. This will aid in early referral to specialists and early intervention.

CA125, progesterone & ß-hCG in prediction of first trimester abortion / CA125, progesterona e ß-hCG na previsão de aborto no primeiro trimestre

Introduction: Pregnancy loss is a common medical problem in reproductive-age as more than fifty percent of human pregnancies are aborted before term. The majority are unrecognized occurring before or with the expected next menses. About 10­12 percent of all clinically diagnosed pregnancies are lost as first-trimester or early second trimester. The rate of fetal death after 14 weeks' gestation is much lower than the rate of pre-embryonic and embryonic loss. CA125 is a member of the mucin family glycoproteins. CA125 has found application as a tumor marker or biomarker that its level may be increased in the serum of some patients with specific types of cancers. Some studies detected that the abortion risk is increased in pregnant women with higher CA125 levels. Progesterone belongs to the C21 group of progestogen. Its main source in humans is the corpus luteum. Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is a glycoprotein produced by syncytiotrophoblast. Aim of the work: The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of measuring maternal serum -HCG, progesterone, CA125 in prediction of first trimester abortion. Patients: The study included 90 pregnant women attending the ANC clinic in El-Shatby Maternity University Hospital. Patients were divided equally into two groups: Group I: 45 women with threatened abortion, subdivided into 2 subgroups: Subgroup A ­ Cases ended in abortion; Subgroup B ­ Cases continued as normal pregnancies. Group II: 45 pregnant women with normal pregnancy and were further subdivided into two subgroups: Subgroup C ­ Cases ended in abortion; Subgroup D ­ Cases continued as normal pregnancies. Exclusion criteria: (1) Multiple pregnancies; (2) Anembryonic pregnancy; (3) Pregnant women with prior treatment with progesterone; (4) History of endometriosis; (5) Fibromyoma with pregnancy. Methods: After clinical and sonographic examination, 3 mL venous blood have been taken once for estimation of serum level of -hCG, progesterone and CA125 by quantitative ELISA. Results: This is a case­control study. Out of the 90 pregnancies, 15 cases (16.6%) had aborted during follow-up, 9 cases (60%) of them had history of threatened abortion while 6 cases (40%) had no history of threatened abortion. Regarding Serum Progesterone level between studied groups, the calculated p value was <0.001. For Serum HCG, the calculated p value was <0.001. In Serum CA125 the calculated p value was <0.001.(AU)

Introdução: A perda da gravidez é problema clínico comum em mulheres em idade fértil, pois em mais de 50% das gestações humanas ocorre aborto antes do termo. Em sua maioria, tais abortos passam despercebidos; ocorrem antes da próxima menstruação ou juntamente com a próxima menstruação. Cerca de 10-12% de todos os abortos clinicamente diagnosticados ocorrem no primeiro trimestre ou no início do segundo trimestre. O percentual de mortes fetais após 14 semanas de gestação é muito mais baixo do que o percentual de abortos pré-embrionários ou embrionários. Foi constatado que CA125 tem aplicação como marcador tumoral ou como biomarcador, pois seu nível pode aumentar no soro de alguns pacientes portadores de tipos específicos de neoplasias. CA125 é um membro da família das glicoproteínas mucinas. Alguns estudos observaram que o risco de aborto aumenta em gestantes com níveis mais elevados de CA125. Progesterona pertence ao grupo C21 dos progestágenos. Em seres humanos, sua principal fonte é o corpo lúteo. Gonadotrofina coriônica humana (HCG) é uma glicoproteína produzida pelo sinciciotrofoblasto. Objetivo: Determinar a eficácia da determinação, no soro materno, de -HCG, progesterona e CA125 na previsão do aborto no primeiro trimestre. Pacientes: O estudo abrangeu 90 gestantes atendidas na clínica ANC na Maternidade do Hospital Universitário El-Shatby. As pacientes foram divididas equitativamente em dois grupos. Grupo I: 45 gestantes com ameaça de aborto, subdivididas em dois subgrupos: Subgrupo A ­ Casos que terminaram em aborto; Subgrupo B ­ Casos que tiveram continuidade como gestações normais. Grupo II: 45 gestantes com gestação normal, subdivididas em dois subgrupos: Subgrupo C ­ Casos que terminaram em aborto; Subgrupo D ­ Casos que tiveram continuidade como gestações normais. Critérios de exclusão: 1. Gestações múltiplas; 2. Gestação anembriônica; 3. Gestantes previamente tratadas com progesterona; 4. História de endometriose; 5. Fibromioma com gestação. Métodos: Após exame clínico e ultrassonográfico, 3 mL de sangue venoso foram coletados uma vez para estimar o nível sérico de -hCG, progesterona e CA125 por Elisa quantitativo. Resultados: Este é um estudo de casos-controle. Das 90 gestações, durante o seguimento ocorreram 15 (16,6%) casos de aborto; nove (60%) tinham história de ameaça de aborto, seis (40%) não tinham história de ameaça de aborto. Com relação ao nível sérico de progesterona entre os grupos estudados, calculamos p < 0,001. Para o nível sérico de CA125, calculamos p < 0,001.(AU)