Correlation of uterine artery Doppler flow velocimetry and β-human chorionic gonadotropin levels during postmolar evacuation surveillance: A pilot study in a tertiary hospital / Philippine Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Background@#During postmolar evacuation surveillance, beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) regression levels can predict invasive disease while Doppler ultrasound can assess in vivo tumor neovascularization and quantify uterine blood supply. As an ancillary tool to β-hCG monitoring, ultrasound can detect the early presence of viable trophoblastic tissues and identify patients at risk of developing postmolar gestational trophoblastic Neoplasia (PMGTN). @*Objective@#The objective of this study was to correlate uterine artery Doppler ultrasound with β-hCG levels during pre- and postmolar evacuation surveillance among patients with complete mole.@*Materials and Methods@#A cohort of patients with sonographic diagnosis of complete hydatidiform mole and managed with suction curettage in the same institution were prospectively followed up after evacuation. The pre- and postmolar evacuation surveillance period was at days 1, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35. Monitoring of serum β-hCG levels was based on the standard regression curve. For Doppler ultrasound parameters, monitoring of the systolic/diastolic (S/D) ratio, pulsatility index (PI), resistance index (RI), and peak systolic velocity (PSV) was based on its relationship with its serum β-hCG levels. The ultrasound images generated were archived and reviewed by the authors. Descriptive and inferential statistics were utilized to analyze median differences. For the correlation of uterine artery Doppler flow parameters, analysis for the test of difference used Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression analysis for the odds ratio.@*Results@#Sixteen of the 23 enrolled patients completed the protocol (16 of 23, 69.50%). A majority had spontaneous remission (13; 81%) while 3 cases (19%) presented increasing and plateauing β-hCG levels. The pre- and post evacuation median β-hCG levels showed a significant decrease (P = 0.001). As post evacuation β-hCG levels decreased, PSV also decreased (r = 0.478, P = 0.061) while Doppler parameters, RI, PI, and S/D ratio increased. However, when post evacuation β-hCG levels rose or plateaued, Doppler parameters decreased. These changes had statistical correlation (all P < 0.05). Moreover, the magnitude of the relationship for β-hCG and Doppler parameters was moderate and ranged from 0.524 to 0.581. Among the Doppler parameters, the S/D ratio and RI of the right uterine artery strongly predicted a rise in β-hCG levels. The odds ratio of predicting increased β-hCG levels and risk of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia by the right S/D ratio were − 2683.67 (confidence interval [CI] = −271.692–5095.655; P = 0.034) and by the right RI − 66,193.34 (CI = −161,818.107–29,431.433; P = 0.046). Notably, Doppler parameter changes appeared early at day 14 up to day 35 and before the appearance of abnormal β-hCG regression patterns.@*Conclusion@#There is a strong correlation between uterine artery Doppler flow changes and β-hCG levels during postmolar evacuation surveillance. The inverse relationship of the S/D ratio, PI and RI, and β-hCG regression patterns confirms spontaneous remission of the disease. For patients with abnormal β-hCG patterns, this relationship is altered. The Doppler changes become erratic, unpredictable, and significantly decreased. These changes were detected as early as 2 weeks post evacuation. Thus, the use of ultrasound as an adjunct to β-hCG post evacuation surveillance can predict abnormal β-hCG regression patterns and identify patients at risk of developing postmolar gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (PMGTN).

Manejo de la neoplasia trofoblástica gestacional. A propósito de un caso

La enfermedad trofoblástica gestacional es definida como un grupo heterogéneo de lesiones, las cuales surgen a partir del epitelio trofoblástico de la placenta luego de una fertilización anormal. Se presenta el caso de una paciente de 35 años de edad, con diagnóstico de neoplasia trofoblástica gestacional posmolar en etapa I, que se detectó tras estudios imagenológicos de seguimiento y determinación de la hormona gonadotropina coriónica humana, para lo cual llevó tratamiento con quimioterapia y terapéutica de mantenimiento con metotrexato por 5 días o metotrexato/ácido folínico por 8 días, hasta la normalización de la gonadotropina coriónica humana. Lo más relevante es que, aunque estos tumores abarcan menos del 1 % de los tumores ginecológicos, representan una amenaza para la vida de las mujeres en edad reproductiva.

Gestational trophoblastic disease is defined as a heterogeneous group of lesions, which arise from the trophoblastic epithelium of the placenta after abnormal fertilization. The case of a 35-year-old female patient is presented with a diagnosis of posmolar gestational trophoblastic neoplasia in stage I, which was detected after follow-up imaging studies and determination of human chorionic gonadotropin, for which she underwent chemotherapy treatment and maintenance therapy with methotrexate for 5 days or methotrexate/folinic acid for 8 days, until normalization of human chorionic gonadotropin The most relevant thing is that, although these tumors comprise less than 1% of gynecological tumors, they represent a threat to the life of women of reproductive age.

An Effective Management for Thalassaemic Patients during Pregnancy

Background : Presence of thalassaemia is considered high risk in pregnancy. The present study find out the role of antenatal and intrapartum care to improve the outcome of pregnancy in thalassaemia. Materials and Method : The prospective longitudinal study was carried out on 25 patients. CBC, LFT, Ferritin, Hb electrophoresis, serial USG was done. Chorionic villous sampling was offered to thalassaemic women to decrease the number of babies born with Thalassaemia. Furthermore, management and treatment options provided to mother to overcome the incidence of maternal and neonatal complications during current pregnancy. Results : 44% of thalassaemic pregnant women had HbE ? thalassaemia, 8% ? thalassaemia major and others had thalassaemia carriers, while only 20% of their partners showed ? thalassaemia trait. All patients were anemic and during delivery mean Hb% were 8.42 g/dl, MCH 22.09 pg, MCV 73.56 fl, MCHC 29.86 g/dl and ferritin 241.51 ng/ ml. Third trimester USG exhibited 32% developed IUGR (Intrauterine growth restriction). 40% patients received blood transfusion after delivery. ? thalassaemia trait was identified in 20% babies at 6 month. Conclusion : Postpartum haemorrhage is a major complication of thalassaemia in pregnancy. After delivery a thorough neonatal check-up and haematological work-up is important for prevention of neonatal mortality and early detection of thalassaemia.

Double trouble in an ectopic pregnancy / Philippine Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

@#Gestational trophoblastic diseases are histologically different types of tumors originating from the placenta with an incidence of 0.2–5.8/1000 pregnancies. Ectopic pregnancy is the implantation of the fertilized ovum outside the uterine cavity, and a 0.64% incidence is reported. Ectopic cornual pregnancy and molar pregnancy are rare cases, and a combination of these two rare entities occurring simultaneously is even rare and very few cases have been reported in the literature. A cornual pregnancy refers to the implantation and development of a gestational sac in one of the upper and lateral portions of the uterus, whereas an interstitial pregnancy is a gestational sac that implants within the proximal, intramural portion of the fallopian tube that is enveloped by the myometrium. We present one of the rare combinations of molar pregnancy and cornual/interstitial ectopic pregnancy in a 30‑year‑old G3 P1 who presented with a triad of amenorrhea, vaginal bleeding, and abdominal pain. Laparotomy was done in view of an ultrasound which was suggestive of a well‑defined complex thick‑walled lesion of size 3.2 × 3.3 with a gestational sac and no cardiac activity in the right fallopian tube/adnexa suggesting tubal ectopic pregnancy. Beta‑human chorionic gonadotropin (β‑hCG) levels were done and noted to be as high as 9998 mIU/mL. Intraoperatively, a cornual ectopic pregnancy was found with no hemoperitoneum which was excised. Histopathology showed chorionic villi with variable size and hydropic change, myxoid stromal changes, and cistern formation with polar trophoblastic proliferation, based on which a diagnosis of molar pregnancy was made. Although ultrasonography and higher than usual serum β‑hCG levels are diagnostic of uterine molar pregnancy, they do not yield a proper diagnosis in ectopic molar pregnancy, hence, making it difficult to distinguish between an early ectopic molar pregnancy from a nontrophoblastic tubal pregnancy. The final diagnosis is usually made only after histopathology. A high degree of clinical suspicion of cornual pregnancy followed by histopathological examination of the products of conception is the standard for arriving at an appropriate diagnosis. Serial serum β‑hCG level follow‑up is recommended to rule out its malignant potential.

Correlation Between Blastocyst Morphology Score， Early Serum β-hCG Concentrations and Live Birth After Thawed Single Blastocyst Transfer / 中山大学学报(医学科学版)

ObjectivesTo assess the correlation between blastocyst morphology score， serum human chorionic gonadotropin β subunit （β-hCG） levels on day 12 after transfer and live birth outcomes among cycles tested HCG-positive after thawed single blastocyst transfer； to analyze the predictive value of serum β-hCG levels on live birth. MethodsWe reviewed the data of 519 frozen-thawed single blastocyst transfer cycles （FET） that had been tested HCG-positive from January 2016 to May 2020 at our IVF center. These FET cycles were firstly divided into 4 groups （AA， AB， BA， and BB） according to Gardner's grading system of inner cell mass （ICM） and trophectoderm cell （TE）， and then 4 groups （stages 3， 4， 5 and 6） according to the degree of blastocyst expansion. Serum β-hCG concentrations on day 12 after transfer and live birth rates were compared among groups transferred with different blastocysts grading and expansion stage. The relationship between Gardner’s grading or expansion stage of blastocysts and serum β-hCG levels was determined by correlation test， and ROC curves were plotted to determine the threshold values of serum β-hCG for predicting live birth. Results（1） The serum β-hCG concentration in the AA group and AB group on the 12th day after the transfer was significantly higher than that in the BB group （P <0.001， P <0.001）. However， there was no significant difference in the live birth rate when different ICM/TE-graded blastocysts were transferred （P = 0.120）. There were no significant differences in serum β-hCG concentration on day 12 after transfer and live birth rate among blastocysts with different expansion stages （P = 0.091， P = 0.557）. （2） There was a significant weak correlation between blastocyst ICM/TE grading and serum β-hCG concentration on day 12 （rs = -0.221， P <0.001）， and even after controlling for confounding factors （ rs = -0.228， P <0.001）；There was no significant correlation between blastocyst’s expansion stage and serum β-hCG concentration on day 12 after the transfer （rs = -0.052， P = 0.240）， and the association remained insignificant after controlling for confounding factors （rs = -0.029， P = 0.508）. （3） ROC curve analysis showed that the cut-off value for predicting live birth by serum β-hCG on day 12 was 657.5 mU/mL （P < 0.001）. ConclusionsNeither the ICM/TE grade nor the expansion stage of blastocysts affect the live birth rate，there is significant difference in the level of β-hCG produced by blastocyst with different ICM/TE grade；Our results suggest that early serum β-hCG level can predict live birth.

Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia coexisting with cervical carcinoma: A case report / Philippine Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

@#Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) with a concurrent cervical malignancy is very rare, making the case both a diagnostic dilemma and a therapeutic challenge. Currently, there has only been one reported case worldwide. We present a case of GTN Stage I:11 with non‑keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix Stage II‑B. Initial treatment, in the form of chemotherapy, was directed toward the GTN, as this appeared to be the more aggressive disease. Surgery was not feasible during diagnosis due to the cervical carcinoma. However, the GTN proved resistant to chemotherapy due to the increasing beta human chorionic gonadotropin titers. An attempt to decrease the size of the cervix for surgery to be possible through chemoradiation was instituted, but due to complications and tumor progression to the lungs, she succumbed to the malignancy.

Association of ultrasound morphological features with serum β subunit human chorionic gonadotrophin and histopathology among sonologically diagnosed cases of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia in a tertiary hospital / Philippine Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Background@#Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) presents as vascular mass of varying morphology on ultrasound and confirmed through quantitative serum β subunit human chorionic gonadotrophin (β‑hCG). In regions with limited access to β‑hCG, ultrasound plays a crucial role in the initial diagnosis for timely management.@*Objectives@#This study aimed to investigate the associations between ultrasound vascular morphologic features, serum β‑hCG levels, and histopathology in GTN cases.@*Methodology@#A cross‑sectional review was conducted on 113 cases with ultrasound impression of GTN over an 8‑year period. The patient data were extracted from case records, and ultrasound images were categorized based on the distinct features. Associations with β‑hCG levels and histopathology were analyzed using the Chi‑square test and Mann–Whitney U‑test. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.@*Results@#A significant association was observed between ultrasound category and serum β‑hCG (P < 0.0001). The compact and diffuse types were more prevalent with β‑hCG levels between 104 to <105 mIU/mL, while the lacunar type was common among patients with ≥105 mIU/mL. However, there was no significant association between ultrasound categories and mean β‑hCG levels. Regarding histopathology, the lacunar type was more common in invasive moles, whereas the compact and diffuse types tended to be seen with choriocarcinoma, although these were not statistically significant (P = 0.182).@*Conclusions@#Morphologic types of GTN by gray scale and Doppler ultrasound vary across the different levels of serum β‑hCG and may suggest the histopathological diagnosis. This study provides valuable insights into the ultrasonographic characteristics of GTN, which can aid in its diagnosis and management.

Comparison of beta‑human chorionic gonadotropin‑based prognostic models on the clinical outcomes of gestational trophoblastic disease patients in the Philippines / Philippine Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Objective@#Despite the widespread use and measurement of beta‑human chorionic gonadotropin (β‑HCG) among hydatidiform mole (HM) patients, models derived from this biomarker to predict the remission or postmolar gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) rarely perform well. The study aimed to generate cutoff points for postevacuation β‑HCG levels and evaluate their performance among women with complete molar pregnancies@*Methods@#A retrospective cohort study composed of women with complete HM underwent bivariate procedures comparing characteristics between the comparison groups. Cut points using Liu’s and Youden’s indices were estimated, and their performance was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Cox regression to compare time‑to‑progression across these proposed β‑HCG cutoffs was also performed.@*Results@#The incidence of postmolar GTN among the 155 women in the study was 15.5% (95% confidence interval: 10.2%–22.2%). Postevacuation HCG levels had a better prediction of disease status than preevacuation and HCG ratio models (χ2 : 163.07, P < 0.01). A cutoff at 508 mIU/mL the 3rd‑week postevacuation (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.89, sensitivity: 87.5%, specificity: 90.1%) was comparable with the 185 mIU/mL cutoff at the 5th‑week postevacuation (AUC: 0.89, sensitivity: 91.7%, specificity: 87%). The hazards ratio of postmolar GTN was 29.74 (8.53–103.71) and 39.89 (8.82–180.38) for the 3rd and 5th weeks HCG after evacuation adjusting for clinically relevant variables@*Conclusion@#The first 3rd‑ and 5th‑week postevacuation levels of β‑HCG demonstrated potential in predicting postmolar GTN. However, further refinement and adjustment for clinically relevant risk factors are still needed.

Hipertiroidismo en una embarazada, posterior a una infección por SARS-CoV-2. Reporte de caso / Pregnant hyperthyroidism, after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Case report

Resumen ANTECEDENTES: El hipertiroidismo, en concurrencia con el embarazo, tiene una incidencia variable en los distintos trimestres de la gestación y puerperio. Predomina en el primer trimestre y a los 7 a 9 meses posparto. Se relaciona, principalmente, con enfermedad de Graves e hiperémesis gravídica por las concentraciones de gonadotropina coriónica humana. A partir del surgimiento de la infección por SARS-CoV-2 se documentó la asociación entre ambas enfermedades. CASO CLÍNICO: Paciente de 27 años, primigesta, con antecedente familiar materno de hipotiroidismo, con reporte de TSH pregestacional normal (2.3 mUI/mL). Al cabo de cuatro semanas de embarazo tuvo una infección no complicada por SARS-CoV-2, con prueba diagnóstica positiva de PCR. El diagnóstico y el tratamiento farmacológico fueron oportunos y se logró el estado eutiroideo que permitió suspender la medicación y mantener asintomática a la paciente desde el punto de vista endocrino. A las 36 semanas de embarazo se le diagnosticó preeclampsia severa, por lo que se decidió finalizar el embarazo mediante cesárea, con recién nacido masculino de 2550 g y 47 cm, sin complicaciones. En el seguimiento posparto la función tiroidea permaneció eutiroidea. CONCLUSIONES: En la paciente del caso fue aparente la relación entre la COVID-19 en el embarazo y el hipertiroidismo. El caso es de interés clínico porque permite analizar otros factores causales de la enfermedad tiroidea en el embarazo.

Abstract BACKGROUND: Hyperthyroidism associated with pregnancy has a variable incidence in different trimesters of pregnancy and puerperium. It predominates in the first trimester and at 7 to 9 months postpartum. It is mainly associated with Graves' disease and hyperemesis gravidarum due to human chorionic gonadotropin concentrations. Since the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 infection, the association between the two diseases has been documented. CLINICAL CASE: 27-year-old primigravida with a maternal family history of hypothyroidism and a reported normal pregestational TSH (2.3 mIU/mL). Four weeks into her pregnancy, she had an uncomplicated SARS-CoV-2 infection with a positive diagnostic PCR test. Diagnosis and pharmacologic treatment were timely, and euthyroid status was achieved, allowing discontinuation of the medication and keeping the patient asymptomatic from an endocrine standpoint. At 36 weeks' gestation, she was diagnosed with severe pre-eclampsia, and it was decided to terminate the pregnancy by cesarean section, with a male newborn weighing 2550 g and 47 cm without complications. At postpartum follow-up, thyroid function remained euthyroid. CONCLUSIONS: In the case patient, the association between COVID-19 in pregnancy and hyperthyroidism was evident. The case is of clinical interest because it allows the analysis of other causal factors of thyroid disease in pregnancy.

Fetal vascular malperfusion score is linked with developing preeclampsia in women with gestational diabetes mellitus: a retrospective cohort study

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: Fetal vascular malperfusion is associated with poor perinatal outcomes in women with preeclampsia and gestational diabetes mellitus. The aim of this study was to determine the association between fetal vascular malperfusion score and syncytiotrophoblast basement membrane thickness and clinicopathological variables, such as developing preeclampsia in women with gestational diabetes mellitus. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included 65 pregnant participants (34 with gestational diabetes mellitus and 31 controls) between January 2019 and January 2022. Gestational diabetes mellitus was diagnosed as ≥2 of 4 elevated values on a 3-h, 100-g oral glucose tolerance test. The fetal vascular malperfusion score was evaluated by endothelial CD34 positivity in the villous stroma of the placenta. The association between fetal vascular malperfusion score and syncytiotrophoblast basement membrane thickness with clinicopathological variables in women with gestational diabetes mellitus was evaluated. RESULTS: It was revealed that the gestational diabetes mellitus group had greater fetal vascular malperfusion scores than the control group (gestational diabetes mellitus group fetal vascular malperfusion score: 34.2±9.1 and control group fetal vascular malperfusion score: 26.5±8.7, respectively, p=0.0009). Syncytiotrophoblast basement membrane thickness was correlated with the development of preeclampsia, trophoblast proliferation, and fetal vascular malperfusions (0.3952, p=0.0129; 0.3487, p=0.0211; and 0.4331, p=0.0082, respectively). On the contrary, fetal vascular malperfusions were correlated with the development of preeclampsia, villous edema, and trophoblast proliferation (0.3154, p=0.0343; 0.2922, p=0.4123; and 0.3142, p=0.0355, respectively). CONCLUSION: The gestational diabetes mellitus group displayed significantly higher fetal vascular malperfusion scores and thickening of the syncytiotrophoblast basement membrane than the control group. There is a correlation between developing preeclampsia and the fetal vascular malperfusion scores and the syncytiotrophoblast basement membrane thickness.

Tumor trofoblástico de sitio placentario secundario a mola parcial. Reporte de un caso / Placental site trophoblastic tumor secondary to partial mole. Report of a case

Resumen ANTECEDENTES: La enfermedad trofoblástica gestacional es un padecimiento que incluye un grupo de tumores placentarios, consecuencia de una proliferación anormal del tejido del trofoblasto. Se caracteriza por una excesiva elevación de la gonadotrofina coriónica humana que se considera diagnóstica y un predictor pronóstico. CASO CLÍNICO: Paciente de 23 años con hiperémesis gravídica y aumento del tamaño del útero mayor para las siete semanas de gestación y cuantificación de las concentraciones de HGC anormalmente elevadas en comparación con su valor basal. Se descartaron los diagnósticos diferenciales de mola parcial hidatiforme, mola completa y embarazo múltiple. Se concluyó que se trataba de enfermedad trofoblástica gestacional. Se procedió a la evacuación de la cavidad uterina de la que se extrajeron abundantes porciones de tejido ovoconformacional y molariforme. El informe de Patología fue: útero arcuato con tumor de sitio placentario, endometritis crónica, cervicitis con metaplasia escamosa, quiste de Nabot y endometrio proliferativo tardío. CONCLUSIÓN: Puesto que las pacientes con enfermedad trofoblástica gestacional suelen tener un pronóstico sombrío se sugiere la histerectomía simple para llegar a la curación. Por la agresividad del tumor y resistencia a otros tratamientos es indispensable el monitoreo riguroso semanal de la cuantificación de la HCG.

Abstract BACKGROUND: Gestational trophoblastic disease is a condition that includes a group of placental tumors resulting from abnormal proliferation of trophoblast tissue. It is characterized by an excessive elevation of human chorionic gonadotropin which is considered diagnostic and a prognostic predictor. CLINICAL CASE: 23-year-old patient with hyperemesis gravidarum and uterine enlargement greater than 7 weeks' gestation and abnormally elevated HGC levels compared to baseline. The differential diagnoses of hydatidiform partial mole, complete mole and multiple pregnancy were ruled out. It was concluded that it was gestational trophoblastic disease. The uterine cavity was evacuated and abundant portions of ovoconformal and molariform tissue were extracted. The pathology report was: arcuate uterus with placental site tumor, chronic endometritis, cervicitis with squamous metaplasia, Nabot's cyst and late proliferative endometrium. CONCLUSION: Since patients with gestational trophoblastic disease usually have a dismal prognosis simple hysterectomy is suggested to reach cure. Because of the aggressiveness of the tumor and resistance to other treatments, rigorous weekly monitoring of HCG quantification is indispensable.

Significado clínico del diagnóstico prenatal de la protuberancia corial en el tamizaje del primer trimestre de la gestación / Clinical significance of prenatal diagnosis of chorionic bump in the first trimester screening

Resumen OBJETIVO: Determinar el significado clínico y el desenlace obstétrico y perinatal luego de la detección de una protuberancia corial en el estudio de tamizaje del primer trimestre de la gestación. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio de cohorte prospectiva efectuado, de abril del 2019 a diciembre 2021, en pacientes referidas para tamizaje del primer trimestre a una unidad de Medicina y Cirugía Fetal de tercer nivel de referencia (Prenatalia Medicina Fetal San Javier, Guadalajara, Jalisco, México). Criterio de inclusión: pacientes con medición de la longitud cráneo caudal comprendida entre 45 y 84 mm durante el tamizaje prenatal del primer trimestre. Se reportaron los hallazgos ecográficos, se obtuvieron información y datos clínicos relevantes de los expedientes electrónicos y cuando se consideró necesario se contactó al ginecoobstetra tratante y a las pacientes. Se utilizó estadística descriptiva con medidas de tendencia central y dispersión. Para el análisis comparativo se utilizó χ2 y U de Mann Whitney para contrastar diferencias entre grupos. RESULTADOS: Se evaluaron 1359 embarazos y la protuberancia corial se documentó en 19 de ellos. En 9 de 19 casos se asoció con sangrado del primer trimestre, previo a la exploración ecográfica. En 16 de 19 casos se encontraron dimensiones de la protuberancia corial mayores a 10 mm. Además, la protuberancia se asoció con episodios de amenaza de parto pretérmino en 13 de los 19 casos. CONCLUSIONES: La protuberancia corial es un hallazgo poco frecuente durante el tamizaje del primer trimestre que se asocia con sangrado y episodios de amenaza de parto pretérmino.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: To determine the clinical significance and obstetric and perinatal outcome after detection of a chorionic protrusion in the first trimester screening study. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Prospective cohort study performed in patients referred for first trimester screening to a third level referral Fetal Medicine and Surgery unit (Prenatalia Medicina Fetal San Javier, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico) from April 2019 to December 2021. Patients with craniocaudal length measurements between 45 and 84 mm during first-trimester prenatal screening were included. Ultrasound findings were reported, relevant clinical information and data were obtained from electronic records, and the treating obstetrician-gynecologist and patients were contacted when necessary. Descriptive statistics with measures of central tendency and dispersion were used. For comparative analysis, 2 and Mann Whitney U were used to contrast differences between groups. RESULTS: 1359 pregnancies were evaluated and chorionic protrusion was documented in 19 of them. In 9 of 19 cases it was associated with first trimester bleeding prior to ultrasound examination. Chorionic protrusion was found to be larger than 10 mm in 16 out of 19 cases. In addition, the protrusion was associated with episodes of threatened preterm labour in 13 of 19 cases. CONCLUSIONS: Chorionic protrusion is a rare finding during first trimester screening that is associated with bleeding and episodes of threatened preterm labour.

Effect of follicular size on clinical outcomes of frozen-thawed embryo transfer induced by hCG on ovulation in natural cycles / 中华妇产科杂志

Objective:To investigate the effect of follicular size on the clinical outcomes of frozen-thawed embryo transfer induced by human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) of natural cycles on ovulation.Methods:Clinical data of 427 cycles of frozen-thawed single blastocyst transfer in Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital from January 2016 to December 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into 15-16 mm group (15≤diameter≤16 mm, n=66), 16-17 mm group (16<diameter≤17 mm, n=101), 17-18 mm group (17<diameter≤18 mm, n=125), 18-20 mm group (18<diameter≤20 mm, n=109),>20 mm group (diameter>20 mm, n=26), according to the maximum follicle diameter on the induction day of hCG ovulation induction. The estradiol and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, and clinical pregnancy rate, abortion rate and live birth rate were compared in five groups. Results:There were statistically significant differences in estradiol and LH levels among the five groups on the day of hCG induction (all P<0.05). Estradiol levels in 15-16 mm group to >20 mm group gradually increased on the day of hCG induction, and estradiol level in 15-16 mm group was significantly lower than those in 17-18 mm group, 18-20 mm group and >20 mm group (median: 1 002.3 vs 1 103.3 vs 1 171.2 vs 1 539.0 pmol/L), with statistical significances ( P=0.034, P<0.001, P=0.002). On the day of hCG induction, LH levels in 15-16 mm group to >20 mm group showed a decreasing trend, and LH level in 15-16 mm group was significantly higher than those in 17-18 mm group and >20 mm group (median: 37.73 vs 28.24 vs 24.11 U/L), with statistically significant differences ( P=0.007, P=0.006). There were no significant differences in clinical pregnancy rate, abortion rate and live birth rate in 15-16 mm group to >20 mm group (all P>0.05). Conclusion:In the natural cycle protocol of hCG induced ovulation, the small follicle group could achieve similar clinical outcomes compared with normal sized follicles in the single blastocyst transfer of frozen-thawed embryos.

Evaluation and Comparison of Mechanical Properties of Platelet-Rich Fibrin Membrane, Fish Collagen Membrane, Bovine Collagen Membrane and Chorionic Membrane – An SEM Study

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate and compare the mechanical properties of platelet?rich fibrin (PRF) membrane with that of commercially available collagen membranes and chorionic membranes. Materials and Methods: The modulus of elasticity and hardness of PRF membrane, bovine collagen membrane, fish collagen membrane, and chorionic membrane were assessed using a universal testing machine. The in vitro degradation rate was assessed by placing these membranes on a temperature?controlled shaker set for one week. The degradation profiles were expressed as the accumulated weight loss of the membrane. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) evaluation of these membranes was done under both low and high magnification. One?way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s post hoc tests were performed for statistical analysis. Results: A statistically significant difference in the tensile strength and hardness of membranes was observed. Bovine collagen membrane had the highest strength (84.11 MPa and 16.46 MPa) followed by fish collagen membrane, chorionic membrane, and least for PRF membranes observed. The degradation rate at one week was highest for the PRF membrane (55.6%), followed by the fish collagen membrane (32.5%). SEM evaluation showed that the bovine collagen membrane had significantly higher numbers of collagen fibres compared to the fish collagen membrane and chorionic membrane. Conclusion: Bovine collagen membrane had the highest mechanical properties with the maximum amount of collagen fibre meshwork. Only the PRF membrane had cellular distribution in its composition, while the commercially available membrane had significantly higher numbers of collagen fibres with the total absence of cellular components

Histomorphological Analysis of Gestational Trophoblastic Disease Spectrum with Clinicopathological Correlation at a Teaching Hospital

Introduction: Clinically, all trophoblastic lesions are frequently combined under a broad spectrum of gestational trophoblastic diseases (GTDs)without the use of specific pathological terms. However, studies now demonstrate that various forms of GTDs demonstrate differences in etiology, histogenesis, morphology, and clinical behavior. Thus, the need for diagnostic histopathology of these lesions to distinguish gestational trophoblastic neoplasms from nonneoplastic lesions and molar pregnancies and also for early anticipation for early anticipation, risk category stratification, prognostication, management, and prediction of persistent GTD. Our study aimed to study the histomorphological patterns of various types of GTD with light microscopy and the pattern of occurrence of GTDs in relation to age, parity, and gestation. MaterialsandMethods: The present study was conducted in the department of pathology, from January 2020 to April 2022. All GTDs confirmed by histopathological examination by hematoxylin‑ and eosin‑stained slides were included. Results: The spectrum of GTDs found in this study was seventy cases of hydatidiform mole (92.10%), three cases of exaggerated placental site (EPS) reaction (3.94%), and two cases of choriocarcinoma (2.63%) and one case (1.31%) of placental site trophoblastic tumor (PSTT). The most common presenting symptom was vaginal bleeding (93.42%). Conclusion: Hydatidiform mole forms the most common type of GTD with an incidence of complete moles more than partial moles. Histomorphological examination and analysis are helpful for confirmatory diagnosis. The most common clinical presentation of GTD was vaginal bleeding followed by amenorrhea. Emphasis on detailed descriptive morphological assessment can help in the histological distinction of benign lesions such as EPS reaction and placental site nodule and avert such cases from being erroneously diagnosed as neoplastic. The Ki‑67 proliferation index helped in distinguishing the EPS reaction from neoplastic lesions such as PSTT which requires surgical intervention and chemotherapy.

Case report -Cesarean scar ectopic pregnancy

Cesarean scar ectopic pregnancy is one of the rarest of all ectopic pregnancy increase in number of cesarean section leads to increase in number of cesarean scar ectopic pregnancy. Early diagnosis and prompt management help in reducing mortality and morbidity occuring due to scar ectopic pregnancy. We are reporting a rare case of cesarean scar ectopic pregnancy G5P3L3D1 with period of gestation 7 weeks 3 days with previous all 4 deliveries by cesarean section. Cesarean scar ectopic pregnancy are life threatening as they pose a great risk of maternal hemorrhage as the patient vital are the stable patient managed medically with injection Methotrexate

Initial management of hydatidiform mole

Introduction: Hydatidiform mole is a type of gestational trophoblastic disease that results from the abnormal fertilization of an oocyte and causes nonspecific symptoms such as amenorrhea, metrorrhagia, and enlarged uterus. Although rare, its most characteristic symptoms include hyperemesis, early-onset pre-eclampsia, anemia, and respiratory distress. Case presentation: A 47-year-old Moroccan woman consulted the emergency department of the Hospital Clínico Universitario in Valladolid (Spain) after a month of persistent coughing and emesis. The patient reported epigastralgia and amenorrhoea for two months, as well as scant vaginal bleeding two days prior to consultation. Taking into account that the patient tested positive for pregnancy, that a heterogeneous intrauterine mass measuring 124x120mm was observed on transvaginal ultrasound, that no abnormal findings were reported on Doppler ultrasound, and that her serum ßhCG levels reached a value of 772.110 mIU/mL, a diagnosis of hydatidiform mole was suspected. Once informed about the possible therapeutic options, the patient decided to undergo a total hysterectomy, as she stated that she had already fulfilled her desire to be a mother. After the procedure, the patient's clinical condition improved, and the pathology report of the mass confirmed the diagnosis of partial hydatidiform mole. Conclusion: Early diagnosis of hydatidiform mole is paramount in order to provide adequate treatment and improve the prognosis of these patients. Therefore, despite its low incidence and non-specific clinical manifestations, it should be considered as a differential diagnosis for first-trimester metrorrhagia.

Introducción. La mola hidatiforme es un tipo de enfermedad trofoblástica gestacional que se presenta como resultado de la fertilización anormal de un ovocito y que ocasiona síntomas inespecíficos como amenorrea, metrorragia y aumento del tamaño del útero. Aunque infrecuentes, sus síntomas más característicos incluyen hiperémesis, preeclampsia de inicio temprano, anemia y distrés respiratorio. Presentación del caso. Mujer marroquí de 47 años que consultó al servicio de urgencias del Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valladolid debido a que había presentado tos y vómitos por un mes. La paciente refirió haber sufrido epigastralgia y amenorrea por dos meses, así como escaso sangrado vaginal en los últimos dos días. Teniendo en cuenta que la paciente dio positivo en una prueba de embarazo, que en la ecografía transvaginal se observó una masa intrauterina heterogénea de 124x120mm, que no se reportaron hallazgos anormales en la ecografía Doppler y que sus niveles séricos de ßhCG alcanzaron un valor de 772.110 mUI/mL, se sospechó un diagnóstico de mola hidatiforme. Una vez informada sobre las posibles alternativas terapéuticas, la paciente decidió someterse a una histerectomía total, pues refirió que ya había cumplido su deseo de ser madre. Luego de realizar procedimiento, la condición clínica de la paciente mejoró; además, el informe de patología de la masa permitió confirmar el diagnóstico de mola hidatiforme parcial. Conclusiones. El diagnóstico temprano de la mola hidatiforme es de gran importancia para ofrecer un tratamiento adecuado y, de esta forma, mejorar el pronóstico de estas pacientes. Por tanto, a pesar de su baja incidencia y sus manifestaciones clínicas inespecíficas, se debe considerar como diagnóstico diferencial de las metrorragias del primer trimestre.

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.

Higroma quístico retronucal como marcador de anomalías cromosómicas en el primer trimestre de la gestación - Actualización

Objetivo. Evaluar la asociación del higroma quístico retronucal (HQR) y anomalías cromosómicas fetales. Métodos. Estudio observacional retrospectivo de 323 fetos del primer trimestre con riesgo para anomalías cromosómicas diagnosticados por ecografía entre las 11 y 13,6 semanas. Resultados. De 323 fetos con riesgo para anomalías cromosómicas, se encontró 132 casos de anomalías cromosómicas (40,9%). Se identificaron 145 casos de HQR; en 64 (56,6%) se realizó biopsia de vellosidades coriales y en 81 (43,5%) amniocentesis, hallándose cariotipo anómalo en 82 (56,6%). De 88 fetos con HQR aislado, 33 casos (37,5%) tuvieron alguna anomalía cromosómica; en 58 fetos con HQR asociado a otros hallazgos anormales, se encontró que en 43 fetos (74,1%) hubo anomalías cromosómicas, y de ellos 24 (41,4%) tenían onda de flujo (OVF) anormal del ductus venoso, 17 (29,3%) tenían edema generalizado, 8 casos (13,8%) con cardiopatía, 7 (12,1%) ausencia del hueso nasal. Los valores predictivos del HQR fueron: sensibilidad (S) 62,1%, especificidad (E) 67%, valor predictivo positivo (VPP) 56,6%, valor predictivo negativo (VPN) 71,9%, p<0,001, OR: 3,3. El HQR asociado a otros hallazgos anormales, tuvo los siguientes valores predictivos: S 52,4%, E 76,2%, VPP 76,2%, OR: 3,5, LR+: 2,2, p<0,000. El edema generalizado y el ductus venoso anormal tuvieron los valores predictivos más altos: VPP 88,2% y 83,3%, respectivamente. Las anomalías cromosómicas encontradas con mayor frecuencia fueron: T21 (53,7%), monosomía X (18,3%), T18 (15,9%), T13 (6,1%). Conclusiones. El higroma quístico retronucal es un marcador de riesgo con alto valor predictivo para anomalías cromosómicas, siendo mayor cuando está asociado a otros hallazgos ecográficos anormales. La identificación ecográfica del HQR en el tamizaje prenatal del primer trimestre debería ser indicación para recomendar una prueba diagnóstica para anomalías cromosómicas.

Objective: To evaluate the association of retronucal cystic hygroma (RCH) and fetal chromosomal abnormalities. Methods: Retrospective observational study of 323 first trimester fetuses at risk for chromosomal abnormalities diagnosed by ultrasound between 11 and 13.6 weeks. Results: Of 323 fetuses at risk for chromosomal abnormalities, 132 cases of chromosomal abnormalities were found (40.9%). A total of 145 cases of RCH were identified; chorionic villus biopsy was performed in 64 (56.6%) and amniocentesis in 81 (43.5%); an abnormal karyotype was found in 82 (56.6%). Of 88 fetuses with isolated RCH, 33 (37.5%) had some chromosomal abnormality. In 58 fetuses with RCH associated with other abnormal findings, chromosomal abnormalities were found in 43 fetuses (74.1%) and of these 24 (41.4%) had abnormal ductus venosus flow wave (DVF), 17 (29.3%) had generalized edema, 8 cases (13.8%) with cardiopathy, 7 (12,1%) with absent nasal bone. The predictive values of RCH were sensitivity (S) 62.1%, specificity (Sp) 67%, positive predictive value (PPV) 56.6%, negative predictive value (NPV) 71.9%, p<0.001, OR: 3.3. RCH associated with other abnormal findings were S 52.4%, Sp 76.2%, PPV 76.2%, OR: 3.5, LR+: 2.2, p<0.000. Generalized edema and abnormal ductus venosus had the highest predictive values: PPV 88.2% and 83.3%, respectively. The most frequently found chromosomal abnormalities were T21 (53.7%), monosomy X (18.3%), T18 (15.9%), T13 (6.1%). Conclusions: Retronucal cystic hygroma is a risk marker with high predictive value for chromosomal abnormalities, being higher when associated with other abnormal ultrasound findings. Ultrasonographic identification of RCH in first trimester prenatal screening should be an indication to recommend diagnostic testing for chromosomal abnormalities.

Beta-gonadotropina coriónica humana cualitativa, herramienta diagnóstica de rotura prematura de membranas ovulares en Honduras / Qualitative human beta chorionic gonadotropin for the diagnosis of premature rupture of membranes in Honduras

RESUMEN Objetivo : Analizar la beta gonadotropina coriónica humana (β-hCG) cualitativa como método diagnóstico de rotura prematura de membranas ovulares (RPM). Métodos: Estudio de casos y controles, prospectivo, con muestra no probabilística por conveniencia, de 90 mujeres entre 24 y 40 semanas de gestación divididas en dos grupos: grupo de estudio (45 pacientes con diagnóstico clínico de RPM) y grupo control (45 pacientes hospitalizadas sin RPM). Se realizó lavado o aspirado vaginal para determinar cualitativamente la β-hCG en kits comerciales de medición β-hCG con umbral de 25 mUI/mL, así también la prueba en papel de nitrazina. Resultados: La sensibilidad, especificidad, valor predictivo positivo y valor predictivo negativo para la prueba de β-hCG-25 fueron 77,8% (IC95%, 63,7 a 87,5), 82,2% (IC95%, 68,7 a 90,7), 81,4% y 78,7%, respectivamente. La precisión diagnóstica fue de 80,0% (0,6 índice kappa Landis & Koch) versus 75,6% para la pH-metría con nitrazina. Conclusiones: La prueba cualitativa de β-hCG mostró un valor diagnóstico representativo y puede corroborar el diagnóstico temprano de RPM, recomendándola por ser una prueba simple, rápida, accesible y de bajo costo.

ABSTRACT Objective : To analyze qualitative human beta chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) as a diagnostic method for premature rupture of membranes (PROM). Methods : Prospective case-control study, with a non-probabilistic sample by convenience, of 90 women between 24 and 40 weeks of gestation divided into two groups: study group (45 patients with clinical diagnosis of PROM) and control group (45 patients hospitalized without PROM). Vaginal lavage or aspirate was performed to qualitatively determine β-hCG in commercial β-hCG measurement kits with threshold of 25 mUI/mL as well as nitrazine paper test. Results : The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value for the β-hCG-25 test were 77.8% (95% CI, 63.7-87.5), 82.2% (95% CI, 68.7-90.7), 81.4%, and 78.7%, respectively. Diagnostic accuracy was 80.0% (0.6 Landis & Koch kappa index) versus 75.6% for nitrazine pH-metry. Conclusions : The qualitative β-hCG test showed a representative diagnostic value and can corroborate the early diagnosis of PROM, recommending it as a simple, rapid, accessible and low-cost test.