Actualización del enfrentamiento y manejo del embarazo ectópico tubario / Update of the confrontation and management of tubal ectopic pregnancy

INTRODUCCÍÓN Y OBJETIVOS: El embarazo ectópico es una condición potencialmente mortal, con una incidencia del 1 al 2%. El 97% se produce en las tubas uterinas, y el 80% de éstos se encuentran en la región ampular. El objetivo de esta revisión es exponer una actualización del enfrentamiento y manejo del embarazo ectópico tubario. MÉTODOS: Mediante el uso de la base de datos Epistemonikos, Scielo, Cochrane y Pubmed, se revisó la literatura existente sobre embarazo ectópico tubario. RESULTADOS: El diagnóstico de embarazo ectópico tubario implica una combinación de síntomas clínicos, serología y ultrasonido. El manejo médico es una opción segura y efectiva en la mayoría de las pacientes hemodinámicamente estables. En caso de fracaso de tratamiento médico, paciente incapaz de mantener seguimiento, embarazo ectópico roto o embarazo heterotópico, debe ser manejado con tratamiento quirúrgico idealmente por laparoscopía. Independiente del tratamiento utilizado, existe gran probabilidad de éxito y escasas complicaciones. CONCLUSIONES: Esta actualización describe la incidencia, factores de riesgo, diagnóstico, y manejo del embarazo ectópico tubario. Es importante un diagnóstico y tratamiento temprano, para reducir complicaciones asociadas a esta patología.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Ectopic pregnancy is a potencially lethal condition, it has an incidence of 1-2%. 97% occurs in uterine tubes, and 80% in the ampulla. The objetive of this review is to update management of this pathology. METHODS: Existent literature was reviewed in different data base: Epistemonikos, Scielo, Cochrane and Pubmed. RESULTS: Tubal Ectopic Pregnancy Diagnostic implies a combination of clinical features, serology and ultrasound. Medical management is a safe and effective alternative in most of hemodinamically stable patients. When medical treatment fails, or patient is not able to stay in observation, or ectopic/heterotopic pregnancy is diagnosed, surgical management is needed specially by laparoscopy. Regardless of the treatment, there is a high chance of success and low rate of complications. CONCLUSIONS: This update describes incidence, risk factors, diagnostic and management of tubal ectopic pregnancy. An early diagnostic and treatment are crucial to reduce complications due to this pathology.

Evaluation of high-dose vitamin A treatment in postmolar patients with low and plateauing serum human chorionic gonadotropin levels / Avaliação de alta dose de vitamina A em pacientes pósmola hidatiforme, com valores baixos e em platô de gonadotrofina coriônica humana

Abstract Objective To compare the effect of high-dose vitamin A (HD Vit-A) use during postmolar follow-up of patients with low and plateauing (L&P) serum human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels, from the moment serum hCG plateaued (P-hCG) to the first normal serum hCG value (< 5IU/L). Methods The present retrospective series case study compared two nonconcurrent cohorts of patients. Control group (CG): 34 patients with L&P serum hCG levels who underwent expectant management for 6 months after uterine evacuation, from 1992 to 2010; study group (SG): 32 patients in similar conditions who received 200,000 IU of Vit-A daily, from the identification of a P-hCG level to the first normal hCG value or the diagnosis of progression to gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN), from 2011 to 2017. The present study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the institution where it was conducted. Results In both groups, the prevalence of persistent L&P serum hCG levels was < 5%. In the SG, hCG levels at plateau were higher (CG = 85.5 versus SG = 195 IU/L; p = 0.028), the rate of postmolar GTN was lower (CG = 29.4% versus SG = 6.3%, p = 0.034) and follow-up was shorter (CG = 14 versus SG = 10 months, p < 0.001). During GTN follow-up, there were no differences in GTN staging or treatment aggressiveness in both groups. High-dose Vit-A use did not have any relevant toxic effect. There were no GTN relapses or deaths. Conclusion The limited use of HD Vit-A seems to have a safe and significant effect on the treatment of postmolar patients with L&P serum hCG levels and may decrease the development of postmolar GTN in this population.

Resumo Objetivo Comparar o efeito de alta dose de vitamina A (VitA) no seguimento pósmolar de pacientes com gonadotrofina coriônica humana (hCG) sérica apresentando valoresbaixoseem platô(L&P). Métodos Estudo retrospectivo de série de casos comparando duas coortes não simultâneas. Grupo controle (CG): 34 pacientes com títulos de hCG sérico L&P submetidos a manejo expectante por 6 meses após o esvaziamento uterino, de 1992 a 2010; Grupo de Estudo (SG): de 2011 a 2017, 32 pacientes em condições semelhantes de hCG receberam Vit-A na dose de 200.000 IU por dia, do momento da identificação dohCG em platôate o primeirohCG normaloudiagnóstico de progressão para neoplasia trofoblástica gestacional (NTG). O presente estudo foi aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética da Instituição na qual foi desenvolvido. Resultados Em ambososgrupos, aprevalência de hCGL&P foi < 5%. No SG, os níveis de hCGemplatô forammaiores (CG = 85.5 versus SG = 195 IU/L; p = 0,028), e foram significantemente menores tanto a prevalência de NTG pós-molar (CG = 29.4% versus SG = 6.3%, p = 0,034) como o tempo de seguimento (CG = 14 versus SG = 10 meses, p < 0.001). Na evolução para NTG não houve diferença no estadiamento da Interna tional Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO, na sigla em inglês) ou na agressividade do tratamento. Com altas doses de Vit-A não houve qualquer efeito tóxico relevante. Não houve casos de recidiva de NTG ou de óbito. Conclusão O uso limitado de altas doses de Vit-A parace ser seguro e apresenta efeitos significativos na evolução de pacientes em controle pós-molar com títulos de hCG sérico L&P, e pode diminuir o desenvolvimento de NTG pós-molar nessa população.

Hipertiroidismo como clave diagnóstica de un coriocarcinoma avanzado: Una asociación inusual / Hyperthyroidism as a diagnostic key to advanced choriocarcinoma. An unusual association

El hipertiroidismo es una condición relativamente frecuente con múltiples etiologías. La más común es la enfermedad de Graves, seguida del bocio multinodular y el adenoma tóxico. La asociación entre hipertiroidismo y cáncer es infrecuente en la práctica clínica. Presentamos el caso de un varón de 42 años con síntomas de hipertiroidismo de dos meses de evolución. Al examen físico se constató una marcada hepatomegalia de consistencia duro pétrea. El examen de testículos se reveló normal. Se llevó a cabo el diagnóstico de hipertiroidismo a través del dosaje hormonal. Los estudios por imágenes mostraron la presencia de múltiples lesiones sólidas compatibles con metástasis hepáticas. Luego de descartar las causas habituales de hipertiroidismo y las neoplasias primarias de la glándula tiroides, se consideró la posibilidad de mimetismo molecular a través de la producción ectópica de gonadotrofina coriónica humana. Se obtuvieron valores críticamente elevados de esta hormona y en un segundo tiempo se confirmó el diagnóstico histológico de coriocarcinoma a través de una biopsia hepática. Consideramos que el reconocimiento de este mecanismo poco frecuente de hipertiroidismo, puede ser una clave diagnóstica para arribar rápidamente al diagnóstico correcto, particularmente en los tumores extragonadales.

Hyperthyroidism is a relatively frequent condition with multiple causes. The most common cause is Graves' disease; followed by hyperthyroid multinodular goiter and toxic adenoma. Association between hyperthyroidism and cancer is infrequent in daily practice. We present the case of a 42-year-old man who developed severe symptoms of hyperthyroidism within a period of two months. Physical examination revealed significant hepatomegaly. Testicular examination proved normal. Imaging studies showed the presence of multiple hepatic solid lesions consistent with metastases. After discarding the most common causes of hyperthyroidism and primary thyroid gland neoplasm, the possibility of molecular mimicry was considered through human chorionic gonadotrophin production. Critical high values of this hormone were found and choriocarcinoma histological diagnosis was confirmed through a liver biopsy. We consider that the recognition of this rare mechanism of hyperthyroidism may be a clue permitting a faster diagnosis, particularly when extragonadal tumors are present.

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.

Pregnancy of unknown location

Pregnancy of unknown location is a situation in which a positive pregnancy test occurs, but a transvaginal ultrasound does not show intrauterine or ectopic gestation. One great concern of pregnancy of unknown location is that they are cases of ectopic pregnancy whose diagnosis might be postponed. Transvaginal ultrasound is able to identify an ectopic pregnancy with a sensitivity ranging from 87% to 94% and a specificity ranging from 94% to 99%. A patient with pregnancy of unknown location should be followed up until an outcome is obtained. The only valid biomarkers with clinical application and validation are serum levels of the beta fraction of hCG and progesterone. A single serum dosage of hCG is used only to determine whether the value obtained is above or below the discriminatory zone, that means the value of serum hCG above which an intrauterine gestational sac should be visible on ultrasound. Serum progesterone levels are a satisfactory marker of pregnancy viability, but they are unable to predict the location of a pregnancy of unknown location: levels below 5 ng/mL are associated with nonviable gestations, whereas levels above 20 ng/mL are correlated with viable intrauterine pregnancies. Most cases are low risk and can be monitored by expectant management with transvaginal ultrasound and serial serum hCG levels, in addition to the serum progesterone levels. To minimize diagnostic error and intervene during progressive intrauterine gestation, protocol indicates active treatment only in situations when progressive intrauterine pregnancy is excluded and a high possibility of ectopic pregnancy exists.

Caso Clínico: Mola Hidatiforme Parcial. Resolución Obstétrica / Case Report: Partial Hydatiform Mole Obstetric Resolution

INTRODUCCIÓN: La mola hidatiforme parcial es una enfermedad del tejido trofoblástico que se caracteriza por presentar sobrecrecimiento del mismo, con feto presente, sus manifestaciones tanto clínicas como de laboratorio indican que puede transformarse en tumor de características malignas. CASO CLÍNICO: Paciente de 28 años de edad de 17.1 Semanas de Gestación (SG) por fecha de última menstruación (FUM), con presencia de sangrado rojo rutilante hace 9 horas, vómitos postprandiales durante todo embarazo, niveles de hormona gonadotropina coriónica fracción B (BHCG) 90000 mUI/ml, ecografía que reporta placenta multiquística en patrón de racimo de uvas con presencia de feto vivo. EVOLUCIÓN: Paciente es sometida a un aborto terapéutico modo parto y legrado, presenta un valor de BHCG 25000 mUI/ml, se realiza evaluación periódica de BHCG, a los 15 días después del procedimiento presenta un nivel de BHCG de 470 mUI/ml, al mes presenta un valor de BHCG de 183 mUI/ml. Se optó por administrar manejo anticonceptivo mediante Drospirenona + Etinilestradiol mínimo por 6 meses, al segundo mes de BHCG disminuye a 86 mUI/ml, ecografía de control con reporte normal, a los 4 meses el valor de BHCG reportado es < 1 mUI/ml por lo cual oncología decide el alta médica definitiva. CONCLUSIONES: Según datos bibliográficos la presentación de la enfermedad es muy similar a la del caso expuesto, siendo una rara afección del tejido trofoblástico, que mediante un pronto diagnóstico y manejo, tuvo un desenlace y evolución favorable, llegando a una resolución completa de la enfermedad. (au)

BACKGROUND: The partial hydatidmole is a disease oftrophoblastic tissue characterized by trophoblastic overgrowth with a fetus present, both clinical and laboratory manifestations that indicate being able to transforminto a tumor ofmalignant characteristics. CASE REPORT A 28-year-old patient 17.1 gestation weeks, with red bleeding 9 hours ago, postprandial vomiting throughout pregnancy, BHCG 90000mUI/ml levels, ultrasound thatreports amulticystic placenta in the formof a honeycomb of bees with presence of vivid fetus. EVOLUTION: Patientis submitted to therapeutic abortion in themode of delivery and curettage presents a BHCG value of 25000 mUI/ml, a periodic evaluation of BHCG is performed, 15 days after the procedure has aBHCGlevel of 470mUI/ml, amonthlyBHCGvalue of 183 , it was decided to administer contraceptive management by means of Drospirenona + Etinilestradiol minimum for 6 months, the second month of BHCG decreases to 86 mUI/ml, control ultrasound with normal report, at 4 months the value of BHCG reported is < 1mUI/ml for which oncology decides high definitivemedical. CONCLUSIONS: According to bibliographical data the presentation of the disease is very similar to that of the exposed case, being a rare affection of the trophoblastic tissue, which through a prompt diagnosis and management had a favorable outcome and evolution, reaching a complete resolution ofthe disease.(au)

Uterine artery Doppler flow velocimetry parameters for predicting gestational trophoblastic neoplasia after complete hydatidiform mole, a prospective cohort study

OBJECTIVES: Doppler ultrasonography can be used to assess neoangiogenesis, a characteristic feature of postmolar gestational trophoblastic neoplasia. However, there is limited information on whether uterine artery Doppler flow velocimetry parameters can predict gestational trophoblastic neoplasia following a complete hydatidiform mole. The purpose of this study was as follows: 1) to compare uterine blood flow before and after complete mole evacuation between women who developed postmolar gestational trophoblastic neoplasia and those who achieved spontaneous remission, 2) to assess the usefulness of uterine Doppler parameters as predictors of postmolar gestational trophoblastic neoplasia and to determine the best parameters and cutoff values for predicting postmolar gestational trophoblastic neoplasia. METHODS: This prospective cohort study included 246 patients with a complete mole who were treated at three different trophoblastic diseases centers between 2013 and 2014. The pulsatility index, resistivity index, and systolic/diastolic ratio were measured by Doppler flow velocimetry before and 4-6 weeks after molar evacuation. Statistical analysis was performed using Wilcoxon’s test, logistic regression, and ROC analysis. RESULTS: No differences in pre- and post-evacuation Doppler measurements were observed in patients who developed postmolar gestational trophoblastic neoplasia. In those with spontaneous remission, the pulsatility index and systolic/diastolic ratio were increased after evacuation. The pre- and post-evacuation pulsatility indices were significantly lower in patients with gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (odds ratio of 13.9-30.5). A pre-evacuation pulsatility index ≤1.38 (77% sensitivity and 82% specificity) and post-evacuation pulsatility index ≤1.77 (79% sensitivity and 86% specificity) were significantly predictive of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia. CONCLUSIONS: Uterine Doppler flow velocimetry measurements, particularly pre- and post-molar evacuation pulsatility indices, can be useful for predicting postmolar gestational trophoblastic neoplasia.

Marcadores séricos del primer trimestre y riesgo obstétrico en una población con alta prevalencia de obesidad / First-trimester serum markers and obstetric risk in a population with a high prevalence of obesity

Objetivo: La detección precoz del riesgo de complicaciones de la gestación como preeclampsia, parto pretérmino, y aborto, permitiría evitar morbimortalidad y secuelas. Hemos estudiado la relación entre niveles bajos de PAPP-A y BhCG con malos resultados obstétricos en una población con alta prevalencia de obesidad. Material y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo de casos y controles anidado en una cohorte de pacientes que acudieron para tamizaje de aneuploidías el I trimestre. Los casos fueron las pacientes con MoM PAPPA y/o BhCG por debajo del percentil 5 y el grupo control una muestra aleatorizada de pacientes con marcadores normales. Se ajustó por obesidad, edad, paridad, tabaquismo, y técnicas de reproducción. Resultados: La cohorte estuvo formada por 9111 pacientes. Se obtuvieron 382 casos con MoM PAPP-A inferior al percentil 5 y 325 con MoM BhCG por debajo del percentil 5, y 50 casos con ambos marcadores por debajo del percentil 5. Se tomaron 1417 controles. La prevalencia de obesidad fue del 20,7% y de sobrepeso el 28,4%. Los niveles bajos de PAPP-A se relacionaron con abortos, preeclampsia, crecimiento intrauterino retardado, pequeños para la edad gestacional, parto pretérmino y diabetes gestacional. Los niveles de BhCG por debajo del percentil 5 se relacionaron con la enfermedad hipertensiva gestacional. Los niveles de ambos marcadores por debajo del percentil 5 tuvieron relación significativa con aborto, preeclampsia precoz y parto pretérmino. Conclusión: Los niveles bajos de PAPP-A y BhCG se relacionan con malos resultados obstétricos en una población de alta prevalencia de obesidad.

Background: Early identification of pregnant women at risk of developing intrauterine growth restriction, preeclampsia, preterm birth, stillbirth, among other complications would allow more intensive surveillance to reduce the risk of severe disease. We aimed to study whether low levels of maternal serum markers PAPP-A and BHCG are associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes in an obese population. Methods: Cases were obtained from a cohort of 9111 patients who attended first trimester screening. We included women with PAPP-A and/or BHCG below the 5th percentile. A randomized group of women with serum markers above the 5th percentile was used as control group. Results were adjusted for age, parity, smoking status, BMI or reproductive techniques. Results: Prevalence of obesity was 20,7%. We found 382 women with PAPP-A below the 5th percentile, 325 with BHCG below the 5th percentile, 50 with both markers low, and recruited 1417 controls. The cases with low PAPP-A were significantly more likely to experience abortion, preeclampsia, low birth weight, preterm birth, or gestational diabetes. Low BHCG was significantly associated with gestational hypertension. Low BHCG and PAPP-A in the same patient correlated with abortion, early preeclampsia and preterm birth. Conclusions: Low levels of maternal serum markers correlate with adverse pregnancy outcomes in an obese population. We recommend to develop further calculators of obstetric risk to improve positive predictive value and to establish a maternal-fetal surveillance plan.

Neoplasia trofoblástica gestacional após normalização espontânea da gonadotrofina coriônica humana em paciente com mola hidatiforme parcial / Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia after spontaneous normalization of human chorionic gonadotropin in patient with partial hydatidiform mole

Neste relato, é apresentado um caso de neoplasia trofoblástica gestacional após normalização espontânea de gonadotrofina coriônica humana em paciente com mola hidatiforme parcial. Trata-se da segunda ocorrência publicada desse evento e a primeira em que há comprovação imuno-histoquímica. No bojo dessa apresentação, ademais de mostrar o tratamento para essa intercorrência da gravidez, discute-se a possibilidade de redução da duração do seguimento pós-molar, assim como estratégias para o precoce reconhecimento da neoplasia trofoblástica gestacional após a remissão espontânea da gravidez molar.

We report here a case of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia after spontaneous normalization of human chorionic gonadotropin in a patient with a partial hydatidiform mole. This is the second occurrence of this event to be reported and the first one with proven immunohistochemical evidence. Besides showing the treatment for this pregnancy complication, this case report discusses the possibility of reducing the duration of post-molar follow-up, as well as strategies for early recognition of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia after spontaneous remission of molar pregnancy.

Prediction of ectopic pregnancy in early pregnancy of unknown location

Women having pregnancies of unknown location [PUL] can be defined as those having positive pregnancy test when no pregnancy is visualized on transvaginal ultrasound [TVS]. To identify diagnostic parameters which are predictive of ectopic pregnancies in women with early pregnancies of unknown location. We undertook a prospective observational study of pregnant women with suspected early pregnancy complications. Ninety-four patients were classified as having a pregnancy of unknown location [PUL] by transvaginal ultrasound; blood sample was taken on presentation to measure the serum human chorionic gonadotrophin [,-HCG] and progesterone levels. All collected data were tested by univariate analysis and then analyzed in a stepwise procedure to form a logistic model for predicting ectopic pregnancy. A total of 2675 women were referred for suspected early pregnancy was unknown. Three parameters were found to be statistically significant for predicting ectopic pregnancy: progesterone level, vaginal bleeding associated with pain and the presence of free fluid in the pouch of Douglas. The overall model described by these variables offer a sensitivity of 79 %and a specificity of 59% in the prediction of ectopic pregnancy. Logistic regression model can help in the clinical decision-making in women with pregnancy of unknown location

Ovarian hemangioma with stromal luteinization and HCG-producing mononucleate and multinucleate cells of uncertain histogenesis: A rare co-existence with therapeutic dilemma.

A 21 year old female presented with amenorrhea, hirsutism and change in voice along with an elevated serum β-HCG (human chorionic gonadotrophin) level and normal CA-125 level. Laparotomy revealed an enlarged right ovary measuring 6 × 5 × 1 cms with presence of an ovarian hemangioma along with stromal luteinization and HCG producing mononucleate as well as multinucleate cells of uncertain histogenesis on histopathological examination. Immunohistochemistry for inhibin and calretinin were positive in the luteinized component whereas β-HCG and Ki-67 were positive in the multinucleate cell component. The diagnostic rarity and therapeutic dilemma of such a rare mixed tumor within a single ovary has proven to be an exceptional case and an excellent investigative opportunity.

Study the levels of AFP, HCG and UE3 in pregnant women and their relation with gestational age and the age of the pregnant woman

AFP considers as important factor in the prenatal diagnosis of malformations and genetic abnormalities in fetus, since its level, in pregnant women, changes in the case of fetus malformation. So our study aimed to evaluate the change of the levels of serum AFP during pregnancy, and the relation between the levels of AFP and the levels of HCG and unconjugated Estriol 3 with the prenatal diagnosis of fetus malformations, to evaluate this procedure as non invasive prenatal diagnosis method. When HCG and unconjugated Estriol 3 determination is combined with AFP determination, it increases the sensitivity and the specifity of the method more than only AFP determination, considering both of the pregnant woman age and the gestational age. The study included 84 woman distributed into the following groups: 20 unpregnant women aged between 20-35 years, 12 pregnant women aged between 16-20 years, 33 pregnant women aged between 21-30 years, 19 pregnant women older than 31 years old, also we divided the pregnant women according to the gestational age, which determined by Ultrasound into: 34 pregnant women in fourth month, 28 pregnant women in fifth month, 2 pregnant women in sixth month. The AFP and HCG were assayed by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA]. We found a strong correlation between gestational age and AFP levels [r = 0.86, p < 0.0001], between gestational age and HCG levels [r = 0.67, p < 0.0001], and between gestational age and uE3 [r = 0.85, p = 0.0001], but the correlation between the age of preganant woman and AFP levels was weak [r = 0.21, p = 0.088], also for the correlation between the age of pregnant woman and HCG levels [r = 0.30, p = 0.019], and no correlation between the age of pregnant woman and uE3 levels [r = 0.045, P = 0.8]

[Relationship between human chorionic gonadotrapin [HCG] level in second trimester pregnancy and preeclampsia]

Many researches have shown a relationship between levels of beta HCG in pregnancy and preeclampsia, which can be used as a method for early diagnosis. The aim of this study was to determine relationship between levels of HCG in second trimester of pregnancy and preeclampsia. This study was conducted as a Nested case control study. Blood samples were taken from 1200 pregnant women who were in their second trimester of pregnancy and were admitted for prenatal care in Arak prenatal clinics. After isolation of serums, blood samples were stored in-20°C until delivery time. Finally serum HCG levels, blood pressure, proteinurea, edema, seizure and neonate statue were analyzed in 50 preeclamptic women [case group] and were compared with 50 normotensive women [control group]. All women were complicated with mild preeclampsia. The mean of the beta HCG in preeclamptic women was 43.08 +/- 32.56 Iu/ml and means of HCG in normotensive women was 27.48 +/- 25.97 mu/ml [P<0.05], the mean of systolic blood pressure in case and control groups were 144.09 +/- 11.30 mmHg and 110.26 +/- 8.13 mmHg, respectively [P<0.001]. The mean of diastolic blood pressure in preeclamptic women was higher than normotensive women [90.45 +/- 4.34 mm/hg and 70 +/- 9.80 mm/hg] [P<0.001]. Our data showed a significant relationship between mean levels of HCG preeclampsia in second trimester. Therefore, screening of high risk group with HCG hormone and careful prenatal care should be considered during pregnancy

Performance Characteristics of the UniCel DxI 800 Immunoassay for the Maternal Serum Quadruple Test, Including Median Values for Each Week of Gestation, in Korean Women / 대한진단검사의학회지

BACKGROUND: Maternal serum prenatal quadruple screening includes testing for alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG), unconjugated estriol (uE3), and dimeric inhibin A (DIA). We evaluated quadruple screening using an automated platform and looked for any ethnic differences in the median values of each marker. METHODS: We measured the concentrations of each quadruple test analyte using the UniCel DxI 800 system (Beckman Coulter, USA) in 788 Korean mid-trimester maternal serum samples and calculated their median values using Benetech software (Benetech, Canada). We also compared the results with those obtained using the Immulite 2000 assay (Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics, USA) or ELISA (DSL, USA) in 442 samples. RESULTS: We obtained mid-trimester median values for each marker. The following are the comparative results for each test using the Immulite 2000 assay or ELISA (x) and the UniCel DxI 800 immunoassay (y): AFP, y=1.10x+0.01, r=0.925; uE3, y=0.28x+0.24, r=0.885; hCG, y=1.22x-3047.8, r=0.944; and DIA, y=0.86x+15.31, r=0.833. Assay results for each of the four markers showed good correlations. However, significant biases necessitated new median calculations of prenatal risk estimates in all four tests. CONCLUSIONS: We established gestational age-specific second-trimester median values for four markers in Korean samples using the UniCel DxI 800 immunoassay system. Despite significant bias, there were good correlations between the results obtained using the UniCel DxI 800 immunoassay and those obtained using the Immulite 2000 assay.

Epithelioid trophoblastic tumor of uterus presenting as an ovarian mass: a diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma.

Epithelioid trophoblastic tumor (ETT) is a rare gestational trophoblastic tumor and often poses a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge to the involved clinicians. We report a case of epithelioid trophoblastic tumor in a young woman which involved the uterus, parametrium and the right ovary. Misdiagnosis as a choriocarcinoma led to improper treatment and progressive disease. Microscopically it revealed a relatively monotonous population of epithelioid cells arranged in nests with hyaline-like matrix surrounding the tumor cells. Differential diagnosis between placental site trophoblastic tumor and carcinoma was ruled out based on histology and immunohistochemistry. The patient developed lung and brain metastasis after 10 months and is alive with disease 1(1/2) years thereafter and is taking palliative chemotherapy. The patient had beta-HCG level of 85.1 mIU/mL at the time of diagnosis; but just before metastasis, the levels rose. Awareness of the histological features of ETT is essential to avoid misdiagnosis, as it represents a tumor which is primarily treated by surgery rather than with chemotherapy.

Molar pregnancy - experience at a tertiary care hospital of South Punjab

To determine the frequency, clinical presentation and management outcomes of molar pregnancy. Descriptive cases series. Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit-II. Bahawal Victoria Hospital, Bahawalpur, from January 2005 to December 2007. The case records of all the gestational trophoblastic cases during the study period were analyzed regarding their history, clinical examination, investigations, treatment and follow up. The main outcomes were measured in terms of duration, antecedent pregnancy, investigations, treatment and follow up. There were a total of 21499 admissions during study period which included 54 cases of molar pregnancy. Hence frequency of Molar pregnancy was 2.5/1000 pregnancies. Most of the patients belonged to the extremes of ages. Most common presenting complaint was bleeding per vagina in 39[72.2%]. Out of 54 patients, suction evacuation was done in 51[94.4%] patients and in only 3[5.5%] patients, ended up in hysterectomy. Forty one [75.9%] patients received no adjuvant therapy, 13[24.1%] received chemotherapy. Among all 54 cases, 51[94.4%] patients fully recovered and 3[5.6%] died because of extensive disease and reported late. In this series, frequency of molar pregnancy was as equal as in different parts of the world. Proper management in the early stages influences the outcome of the disease. Hence the key point of whole discussion is to detect the disease in early stage to decrease the mortality and morbidity of patients

comparative study of single dose, double-dose methotrexate and surgical management of ectopic pregnancy regarding safety, efficacy and tubal patency

To evaluate the safety, efficacy of two Meth-otrexate [MTX] regimens for treatment of ectopic pregnancy [EP] and determine the future fertility after medical and surgical management of ectopic pregnancy. 75 cases with EP, 52 were stable and eligible for medical treatment. 24 cases received MTX 50mg/m2, additional dose was given one week later if B-HCG did not decline by 15% between day 4 and 7, while 28 cases received MTX 50mg/m[2] on days 0 and 4, additional doses were given on day 7 and/or on day 11 if HCG levels did not decrease by 15% during the follow-up period. 23 cases underwent surgery. Hysterosalpingogram [HSG] was performed to assess future fertility of patients after receiving treatment for EP. Overall success rate for single-dose and double-dose protocol was 79% and 85.7% respectively. The difference in success rate between the two regimens was most evident at B-HCG concentrations between 2000-5000mIU/mL; 75% for the single dose regimen and 85.7% for the two-dose regimen which favor using the two-dose regimen in this category of patients. Treatment was well tolerated in both groups, most side effects were mild and transient. Regarding future fertility; tubal patency was 94.2% after medical treatment and 82.6% after salpingectomy. The 2-dose protocol is a hybrid between the two previously established protocols; the single dose and the multi-dose MTX. It may optimize the balance between convenience and efficacy. Single-dose regimen is most suitable for low B-HCG <2000mIU/mL mIU/mL, the 2-dose regimen is more suitable for higher B-HCG 2000-5000, while B-HCG >5000mIU/mL has a high failure rate with medical treatment. In a limted number of patients, no safety concerns were noted with either the single-dose or the 2-dose protocols. Medical treatment should be offered to stable patients whenever feasible because it preserves their future fertility meanwhile cost effective

Insulin-like growth factors-I and -II and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-1 during normal pregnancy: pattern of secretion and correlation with other placental hormones.

OBJECTIVES: To describe pattern of secretion of insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I, IGF-II, IGF binding protein (IGFBP)-1 and their correlation with each other and major placental hormones during normal pregnancy. DESIGN: Longitudinal study. SETTING: Academic Institutions and a Tertiary Care Maternity Hospital. PARTICIPANTS: Healthy women with singleton uncomplicated pregnancies (N = 35). MEASUREMENTS: Serum levels of IGF-I, IGF-II, IGFBP-1, chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG), placental lactogen (HPL), prolactin, oestradiol and progesterone were studied thrice during the antenatal period and within 24 h of delivery. RESULTS: IGF-I, IGFBP-1, HPL, prolactin, oestradiol and progesterone increased and HCG decreased significantly with advancing gestation (Repeated measures ANOVA: P < 0.01 to 0.0001). IGF-II levels were not significantly affected by period of gestation. Significant negative correlations (multiple regression analysis) were seen between IGFBP-1 and prolactin at 28 +/- 2 (P = 0.0226) and 36 +/- 2 (P = 0.0417) weeks of amenorrhoea (WOA) and between oestradiol and IGF-II at 36 +/- 2 WOA (P = 0.037). Prolactin and IGF-I at 14 +/- 2 WOA (P = 0.0225) and progesterone and IGFBP-1 at 28 +/- 2 WOA (P = 0.0216) correlated positively. CONCLUSIONS: Maternal IGF-I and IGFBP-1 but not IGF-II significantly increase as pregnancy advances. Components of the IGF system regulate or are affected by some of the placental hormones and the effects vary with the period of gestation.

Uso adecuado del ensayo de gonadotrofina coriónica humana en el diagnóstico de embarazo. ¿Sangre u orina? / Adequate use of the human chorionic gonadotropin in the pregnancy diagnosis. Blood or urine?

Introducción: Los niveles de Gonadotrofina Coriónica humana (hCG) pueden detectarse en suero o en orina con métodos de distinta sensibilidad y permiten no solamente el diagnóstico del embarazo, sino también su seguimiento, la posibilidad de detección de embarazos ectópicos y las amenazas de aborto. Objetivos: 1) Demostrar la concordancia entre las pruebas para diagnóstico precoz de embarazo en muestras simultáneas de sangre y orina a niveles iguales o superiores a 25 mUI/ml. 2) Estimar el grado de sobreutilización del enzimoinmunoensayo en sangre y su repercusión sobre los costos. Material y métodos: Sesenta muestras consecutivasde suero y sus correspondientes de orina recolectadas el mismo día de la extracción de sangre. La determinación cuantitativa de hCG b total en sangre se efectuó por el método ELISA (MEIA) (Abbott. AXSYM System). En orina se utilizó un inmunoensayo cromatográfico cualitativo en un solo paso (Acon).