Isthmocele: an overview of diagnosis and treatment

SUMMARY An isthmocele, a cesarean scar defect or uterine niche, is any indentation representing myometrial discontinuity or a triangular anechoic defect in the anterior uterine wall, with the base communicating to the uterine cavity, at the site of a previous cesarean section scar. It can be classified as a small or large defect, depending on the wall thickness of the myometrial deficiency. Although usually asymptomatic, its primary symptom is abnormal or postmenstrual bleeding, and chronic pelvic pain may also occur. Infertility, placenta accrete or praevia, scar dehiscence, uterine rupture, and cesarean scar ectopic pregnancy may also appear as complications of this condition. The risk factors of isthmocele proven to date include retroflexed uterus and multiple cesarean sections. Nevertheless, factors such as a lower position of cesarean section, incomplete closure of the hysterotomy, early adhesions of the uterine wall and a genetic predisposition may also contribute to the development of a niche. As there are no definitive criteria for diagnosing an isthmocele, several imaging methods can be used to assess the integrity of the uterine wall and thus diagnose an isthmocele. However, transvaginal ultrasound and saline infusion sonohysterography emerge as specific, sensitive and cost-effective methods to diagnose isthmocele. The treatment includes clinical or surgical management, depending on the size of the defect, the presence of symptoms, the presence of secondary infertility and plans of childbearing. Surgical management includes minimally invasive approaches with sparing techniques such as hysteroscopic, laparoscopic or transvaginal procedures according to the defect size.

RESUMO A istmocele ou nicho uterino é representada por uma descontinuidade miometrial ou um defeito anecoico triangular na parede uterina anterior, com a base se comunicando com a cavidade uterina no local de uma cicatriz anterior de cesárea. O defeito pode ser classificado como pequeno ou grande, dependendo da espessura da parede miometrial deficiente. Embora geralmente assintomático, seu principal sintoma é o sangramento uterino anormal ou pós-menstrual; a dor pélvica crônica também pode ocorrer. Infertilidade, placenta acreta ou prévia, deiscência de cicatriz, ruptura uterina e gravidez ectópica em cicatriz de cesárea prévia também podem aparecer como complicações dessa condição. Os fatores de risco para desenvolvimento da istmocele comprovados até o momento incluem útero retroverso e múltiplas cesarianas. No entanto, fatores como localização mais inferior de uma cesárea prévia, fechamento incompleto da histerotomia, aderências precoces na parede uterina e predisposição genética também podem contribuir para o desenvolvimento de um nicho. Como não existem critérios definitivos para o diagnóstico de uma istmocele, vários métodos de imagem podem ser usados para avaliar a integridade da parede uterina e, assim, diagnosticar uma istmocele. Entretanto, ultrassonografia transvaginal e sono-histerografia com infusão salina surgem como métodos específicos, sensíveis e custo-efetivos para o diagnóstico de istmocele. O tratamento inclui manejo clínico ou cirúrgico, dependendo do tamanho do defeito, da presença de sintomas, da presença de infertilidade secundária e de planos de gravidez. O manejo cirúrgico inclui abordagens minimamente invasivas como histeroscopia, laparoscopia ou transvaginal, de acordo com o tamanho do defeito.

Isthmocele: from risk factors to management / Istmocele: de fatores de risco ao manejo

Abstract Objective The aim of the present study was to perform a comprehensive review of the literature to provide a complete and clear picture of isthmocele-a hypoechoic area within themyometriumat the site of the uterine scar of a previous cesarean section-by exploring in depth every aspect of this condition. Methods A comprehensive review of the literature was performed to identify the most relevant studies about this topic. Results Every aspect of isthmocele has been studied and described: pathophysiology, clinical symptoms, classification, and diagnosis. Its treatment, both medical and surgical, has also been reported according to the actual literature data. Conclusion Cesarean section is the most common surgical procedure performed worldwide, and one of the consequences of this technique is isthmocele. A single and systematic classification of isthmocele is needed to improve its diagnosis and management. Further studies should be performed to better understand its pathogenesis.

Resumo Objetivo O objetivo do presente estudo foi realizar uma revisão abrangente da literatura a fim de fornecer um quadro completo e claro da istmocele-uma área hipoecoica dentro domiométrio no local da cicatriz uterina de uma cesariana anterior- aprofundando todos os aspectos desta condição Métodos Uma revisão abrangente da literatura foi realizada para identificar os estudos mais relevantes sobre este tema. Resultados Todos os aspectos da istmocele foram estudados e descritos: fisiopatologia, sintomas clínicos, classificação e diagnóstico. Os tratamentos médico e cirúrgico também foram relatados de acordo com os dados reais da literatura. Conclusão A cesárea é o procedimento cirúrgico mais comum realizado em todo o mundo, e uma das consequências desta técnica é a istmocele. Uma classificação única e sistemática da istmocele é necessária para melhorar seu diagnóstico e manejo. Novos estudos devem ser realizados para melhor entender sua patogênese.

Vesicouterine fistula (Youssef syndrome): case report and literature review / Fístula vesico-uterina (síndrome de Youssef): descrição de caso e revisão da literatura

Abstract Objective To describe a case of vesicouterine fistula and to review the literature related to this condition. Methods For the review, we accessed the MEDLINE, BIREME and LILACS databases; the references of the searched articles were also reviewed. Results A 38-year-old woman, in the 1st day after her 3rd cesarean, presented heavy hematuria, which was considered secondary to a difficult dissection of the bladder. A total of 6 months after delivery, she failed to resume her regular menstrual cycles and presented cyclic menouria and amenorrhea. At this time, she had two episodes of urethral obstruction by blood clots. She remained without a correct diagnosis until about two years postdelivery, when a vesicouterine fistula was confirmed through cystoscopy. A surgical correction through open abdominal route, coupled with hysterectomy, was performed. After the surgery, the symptoms disappeared. The review showed a tendency of change in the relative frequency of the different types of genitourinary fistulae. Vesicovaginal fistulae, usually caused by inadequate care during labor, are becoming less frequent than those secondary tomedical procedures, such as vesicouterine fistulae. The most common cause of this latter kind of fistula is cesarean section, especially repeated cesarean sections. The diagnosis is confirmed through one or more imaging exams, or through cystoscopy. The most common treatment is surgical, and the routes are: open abdominal, laparoscopic, vaginal or robotic. There are some reports of success with the conservative treatment. Conclusion Vesicouterine fistulae are becoming more common because of the increase in the performance of cesarean sections, and the condition must be considered a possible complication thereof.

Resumo Objetivo Apresentar um caso de fístula vesico-uterina e realizar revisão da literatura sobre esta condição. Métodos Revisão realizada consultando-se as bases MEDLINE, BIREME e LILACS, além das referências dos artigos consultados. Resultados Uma mulher de 38 anos, após sua terceira cesárea, no puerpério imediato, apresentou hematúria importante, que foi atribuída a uma dificuldade na dissecção da bexiga durante o procedimento. Seis meses pós-parto, emvez de retomar os ciclos menstruais regulares, apresentou menúria cíclica e amenorreia (síndrome de Youssef). A paciente chegou a apresentar obstrução uretral por coágulos, e permaneceu sem diagnóstico correto até cerca de anos pós-parto, quando este foi feito por cistoscopia. Ela foi então submetida a correção cirúrgica por via abdominal, associada a uma histerectomia, com desaparecimento dos sintomas. A revisão mostrou que tem havido mudança na frequência dos vários tipos de fístulas urogenitais. As fístulas vesicovaginais, normalmente secundárias à má assistência durante o parto, têm sido mais raras, enquanto aquelas secundárias a procedimentos médicos, como as vesicouterinas, têm sido mais frequentes. A causa mais comum deste tipo de fístula é a cesárea, especialmente a de repetição. A apresentação pode ser de amenorreia e menúria e/ou perda urinária. O diagnóstico é feito por um ou maismétodos de imagem ou cistoscopia. O tratamento mais comum é cirúrgico, por via abdominal aberta, laparoscópica, transvaginal ou robótica. Existem relatos de cura com tratamento conservador. Conclusão As fístulas vesicouterinas têm sido mais comuns devido ao aumento da proporção de cesáreas. Deve-se ter em mente a possibilidade deste diagnóstico e considerá-las uma das possíveis complicações da cesárea.

Síndrome de McKittrick-Wheelock: una causa infrecuente de hipokalemia e injuria renal aguda. Caso clínico / McKrittick-Wheelock syndrome: report of one case

McKittrick-Wheelock syndrome is caused by chronic water and electrolyte hypersecretion from an intestinal tumor, usually a villous adenoma, located in the rectum or sigmoid. Patients often have dehydration, hypovolemic shock and kidney failure associated with hypokalemia, hyponatremia, hypochloremia and metabolic acidosis. We report a 62-year-old male, suffering chronic diarrhea for eight years who was admitted after a syncope. He had severe hypokalemia, hyponatremia, metabolic acidosis, hypovolemia and acute renal failure. After his metabolic disorders were corrected, a colonoscopy showed a large rectosigmoid tumor with the characteristics of a villous adenoma. During the follow up after the complete tumor resection, the patient has remained asymptomatic.

Lower Uterine Segment Fibroid Complicating Pregnancy: A Case Report.

Th e uterine fi broids are very common in the reproductive age group. During pregnancy, it may undergo rapid growth and red degeneration. It may get infected during puerperium. Most of the fi broids are asymptomatic. Women with fi broids may have infertility, a tendency for miscarriage, pre-term labor, placental abruption, placenta previa, fetal growth restrictions, fetal anomalies, postpartum hemorrhage, uterine dystocia, malpresentations and increased risk of caesarean. Here, we present 26-year-old primigravida who was admitted with 9 months of amenorrhea and anterior lower uterine segment intramural fi broid of size 7.2 cm × 7.1 cm on the right side. She conceived immediately after marriage. All Investigations were normal. She was delivered by a cesarean section. An alive female baby of 2.5 kg with good Apgar score. Th e indication was lower uterine segment fi broid. Th e liquor was meconium stained. Th ere was no sign of intrauterine growth restriction of the baby. Th e Doppler study, cardio-topography was normal before section. Th e post-operative period was uneventful. Th e patient was discharged and came for follow-up after a month and was found to be alright.

Pólipo endometrial, una causa infrecuente de sangrado genital anormal en la adolescencia / Endometrial polyp, a rare cause of abnormal genital bleeding in adolescence

Antecedentes: El sangrado genital anormal es una causa frecuente de consulta en la adolescencia. En este período, la principal causa de sangrado es la metrorragia asociada a ciclos anovulatorios producto de la inmadurez del eje hipotálamo-hipofisario-gonadal. Dentro de las causas infrecuentes de sangrado genital anormal en ese período está el pólipo endometrial. Caso clínico: Presentamos el caso de una niña de 13 años cuya causa de sangrado correspondió a un pólipo endometrial, sospechado por ultrasonografía, resecado mediante histeroscopia y confirmado mediante estudio histológico. Discusión: Pese a su baja incidencia, los pólipos endometriales deben ser considerados como parte del diagnóstico diferencial en adolescentes que consultan por trastorno menstrual, particularmente en aquellos casos sin respuesta a la terapia hormonal y donde la ultrasonografía muestra engrosamiento endometrial.

Background: Abnormal genital bleeding is a common cause of medical consultation in patients during adolescence. In this period, the main cause of genital bleeding is metrorrhagia in relation to anovulatory cycles due to immaturity of hypothalamus- pituitary-gonadal axis. Among the uncommon causes of bleeding at this age is the endometrial polyp. Case report: We report a 13 year old girl with abnormal uterine bleeding due to endometrial polyp, suspected during a pelvic ultrasound, removed by hysteroscopy, and confirmed by histological analysis. Discussion: Despite its low incidence, endometrial polyps should be included in the differential diagnosis of adolescents presenting menstrual disorders, particularly in those with no response to hormonal therapy and endometrial thickness in ultrasound.

Tamoxifeno y afecciones endometriales en pacientes con cáncer de mama / Tamoxifen and endometrial disease in patients with breast cancer

Los objetivos fueron evaluar la prevalencia de afecciones endometriales en pacientes tratadas con tamoxifeno (TAM) y analizar los aspectos epidemiológicos, ecográficos, histeroscópicos e histopatológicos. Desde enero de 1999 a diciembre 2008 se estudiaron 152 pacientes con cáncer de mama tratadas con TAM (20 mg/día), sintomáticas (con sangrado) o asintomáticas, pre y postmenopáusicas, incluidas en forma consecutiva. El diseño fue prospectivo y observacional. Los métodos diagnósticos usados fueron ecografía transvaginal, histeroscopía y biopsia. Las pacientes fueron seguidas durante 5 años con ecografía cada 12 meses e histeroscopia con biopsia en casos que lo justificaran. Edad: 62.76 ± 10.24 años y tiempo de tratamiento: 36.2 ± 19.9 meses. El adenocarcinoma se observó en 3/87 (3.45%) pacientes con factores de riesgo y en 1/65 (1.54%) sin ellos (RA: 1.91, IC 95% 1.88 a 1.94). Las afecciones benignas se hallaron en 148 pacientes (97.37% y los adenocarcinomas en 4 (2.63%),1 en un pólipo de aspecto benigno. Los 4 se observaron en mujeres postmenopáusicas (2 asintomáticas) con grosor endometrial igual o mayor a 16 mm. El riesgo de cáncer fue significativamente mayor en sintomáticas (2.36 versus 0.42 en asintomáticas). Tres adenocarcinomas se detectaron entre 24 y 48 meses del tratamiento. Recomendamos un seguimiento con ecografía transvaginal de las pacientes asintomáticas, resección de los pólipos evaluando factores de riesgo y tiempo de exposición, en especial luego de los 24 meses. Consideramos aceptable un cut-off = 10 mm en el grosor del endometrio en postmenopáusicas asintomáticas para realizar histeroscopía y biopsia.

The objectives were to evaluate prevalence of endometrial disease in patients treated with tamoxifen (TAM) and analyze the epidemiological, sonographic, hysteroscopic and histopathological findings. From January 1999 to December 2008, 152 breast cancer patients treated with TAM (20 mg/day), symptomatic (with bleeding) or asymptomatic, pre- and postmenopausal, were included consecutively in a prospective and observational follow-up study Diagnostic methods were (TV) transvaginal ultrasound, hysteroscopy and curettage biopsy. TV ultrasound was performed every 12 months for 12 to 60 months. The patients´ age were 62.76 years ± 10.24 the TAM-time: 36.24 ± 19. Adenocarcinoma was observed in 3/87 patients (3.45%) with risk factors and in 1/65 (1.54%) without them (RA 1.91, IC 95% 1.88-1.94). We found benign disease in 148 patients (97.37%) and adenocarcinomas in 4 (2.63%), one within a polyp. The 4 adenocarcinomas were detected in postmenopausal women (2 asymptomatic) with endometrial thicknesses equal or greater than 16 mm. The cancer risk was significantly increased in symptomatic (2.36 versus 0.42 in asymptomatic). Three adenocarcinomas were observed between 24 and 48 months of treatment. In conclusion, we suggest an adequate transvaginal ultrasound monitoring of asymptomatic patients treated with TAM, with removal of polyps, because atypia can be present hidden within, considerin risk factors and exposure time. We suggest as an acceptable cut-off = 10 mm in asymptomatic postmenopausal patients.

Huge uterine-cervical diverticulum mimicking as a cyst.

Here we report an incidental huge uterine-cervical diverticulum from a total abdominal hysterectomy specimen in a perimenopausal woman who presented with acute abdominal pain. The diverticulum was mimicking with various cysts present in the lateral side of the female genital tract. Histopathological examination confirmed this to be a cervical diverticulum with communication to uterine cavity through two different openings. They can attain huge size if left ignored for long duration and present a diagnostic challenge to clinicians, radiologists, as well as pathologists because of its extreme rarity. Therefore, diverticula should also be included as a differential diagnosis. Its histopathological confirmation also highlights that diverticula can present as an acute abdomen, requiring early diagnosis with appropriate timely intervention. Immunohistochemistry CD 10 has also been used to differentiate it from a mesonephric cyst.

Hysteroscopic findings in patients with post-menstrual spotting with prior cesarean section / Achados histeroscópicos em pacientes com sangramento pós-menstrual tipo escape com cesárea anterior

Objective: To identify uterine hysteroscopic findings among patients with prior cesarean section and whom had post-menstrual bleeding spotting type. Methods: We conducted a descriptive and prospective study between June 2008 and December 2009 involving women admitted to our clinic in Ji-Paraná (RO), Brazil, and who complained of prolonged genital bleeding after menstrual period. A total of 20 women with the simultaneous following characteristics were selected: at least one prior cesarean section, aged between 18 and 45 years, no use of hormonal contraceptives, and no history of uterine surgery that could change the cavity anatomy. All participants underwent a hysteroscopic examination. Results: During hysteroscopy, in 90% of the patients, the presence of a cesarean section scar was observed in the last third of the cervix. This scarring causes an anomaly in the uterine cavity anatomy, characterized by the viewing of an enlargement followed by a retraction of the anterior wall, which affords the presence of a pseudocavity with depth and lumen narrowing in variable degrees. Two patients did not present the pseudocavity. Conclusion: Pseudocavities in cesarean section scar are usually found in hysteroscopic examination of patients with prior cesarean section and abnormal uterine spotting.

Objetivo: Identificar os achados histeroscópicos uterino em grupo de pacientes com operação cesariana anterior e sangramento pós-menstrual tipo escape. Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo descritivo e prospectivo, com mulheres que compareceram em consultório em Ji-Paraná (RO), entre junho de 2008 e dezembro de 2009, com queixa de sangramento genital prolongado tipo escape após período menstrual. Destas, foram selecionadas 20 mulheres que apresentavam, simultaneamente, as seguintes características: ao menos uma cesárea prévia; idade entre 18 e 45 anos; sem uso de método anticoncepcional hormonal; e ausência de qualquer outra cirurgia uterina capaz de alterar a anatomia da cavidade. As pacientes selecionadas foram submetidas a exame histeroscópico. Resultados: À histeroscopia, em 90% das pacientes, observou-se, no terço final do colo, a presença da cicatriz de cesárea. Essa cicatriz causa, no interior da cavidade uterina, uma anomalia em sua anatomia, caracterizada pela visualização, na parede anterior, de uma dilatação seguida de retração, que proporciona a presença de pseudocavidade com profundidade e oclusão da luz em graus variáveis. Já em duas pacientes, não foi detectada a pseudocavidade. Conclusão: A pseudocavidade na cicatriz da cesariana é o achado mais freqüente à observação histeroscópica em pacientes com cesárea prévia e sangramento uterino anormal pós-menstrual tipo escape.

[Diagnostic hysteroscopy]

It is an essential and necessary tool in the management of intrauterine pathologies. Indeed, it allows a better diagnosis and better distribution of therapeutics, more precisely targeted. It is a quick, minimally invasive, reproducible and reliable. Retrospective study on a series of 174 cases of diagnostic hysteroscopy performed between January 2004 and December 2006. The mean age was 42,6 years; abnormal uterine bleeding is the main symptom in 110 patients [63%], followed by infertility in 30 patients [17.2%], the abortive disease [7.5%], removal of the intrauterine device [6.9%], and others [5.1%]. Nine patients [5%] had a normal examination; intrauterine abnormalities found were: polyps [31.6%], endometrial hypertrophy [32%], submucous adenomyomas [13.8%], synechiae [12%], endometrial atrophy [9.7%], the intrauterine device [6.9%], uterine septum [6.3%], trophoblast retention [3.5%], intraluminal neoplasms [1.7%], and adenomyosis [1.7%]. The hysteroscopy is accurate, safe, with a low failure rate in the diagnosis of intrauterine abnormalities. It has better sensitivity and specificity compared with sonography and hysterosalpingography. It involves certain risks, but generally remains rare. This examination is currently the gold standard as a diagnostic technique for intracavitary uterine lesions

place of transvaginal color and pulsed Doppler sonography in the diagnosis of benign and malignant endometrial pathology in patients with post menopausal bleeding

Transvaginal color Doppler ultrasound [TVCDUS] may play significant role in diagnosis of endometrial pathology particulary endometrial carcinoma in women with postmenopausal bleeding [PMB]. Increasing experience in this field may help many women to overcome long waiting lists for surgery. In [65] women with postmenopausal bleeding we measured endometrial thickness [ET] [double layer] considering [8] mm as cut-off point to differentiate between benign and malignant endometrial lesions. We also looked for homogenicity, regularity of endometrium and integrity of sub endometrialhalo. [TVCDUS] was used to asses the vascularity, and vascular density of endometrium, myometrium and endometrial tumor. Resistance index [RI] and peak systolic velocity [PS] were also measured for endometrial, myometrial and uterine arteries. Correlation between [TVCDUS] and results of histopathology of endometrial specimens [24 hysterectomy and 41 D and C] was done. [ET] of [8] mm was found to be predictive for endometrial carcinoma with sensitivity of 100% and visualization rate of endometrial flow was significantly higher in case of carcinoma versus benign conditions of endometrium. Vascular density was significantly higher in case of carcinoma. [RI] of [0.42] was considered as cut-off point to differentiate between benign and malignant lesions with sensitivity of [80%]. [PI/ ] for myometrial and uterine arteries were not significantly different between cancer and benign conditions. TVCDUS has an important role in diagnosis of endometrial carcinoma especially in high risk group of women. Intra-tumoral blood flow is more sensitive marker of carcinoma than uterine blood flow. Adopting this method with increasing experience may result with considerable saving of both potential and economic costs

Pólipos endometriais: aspectos clínicos, epidemiológicos e pesquisa de polimorfismos / Endometrial polyps: clinical and epidemiological aspects and analysis of polymorphisms

OBJETIVO: avaliar as variáveis clínicas e epidemiológicas de risco para câncer de endométrio em mulheres com pólipos endometriais na pós-menopausa, bem como a presença do polimorfismo do receptor da progesterona (PROGINS). MÉTODOS: estudo caso-controle desenhado com 160 mulheres na pós-menopausa com pólipos endometriais, comparado a Grupo Controle de 400 mulheres na pós-menopausa. A genotipagem do polimorfismo PROGINS foi determinada pala reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR). Aspectos clínicos e epidemiológicos foram comparados entre as mulheres com pólipos endometriais benignos e 118 dos controles normais. Estas variáveis foram também comparadas entre mulheres com pólipos benignos e pólipos malignos. RESULTADOS: a comparação entre o grupo de pólipos benignos e o Grupo Controle mostrou diferença significativa (p<0,05) para as varáveis: idade, raça não-branca, anos da menopausa, paridade, hipertensão arterial, uso de tamoxifeno e antecedente de câncer de mama, todas mais prevalentes no grupo de pólipos endometriais. Após o ajuste para a idade, permaneceram com diferença significativa a paridade (OR=1,1), hipertensão arterial (OR=2,2) e o antecedente de câncer de mama (OR=14,4). Houve seis casos de pólipos malignos (3,7 por cento). A frequência de sangramento para pólipos benignos e malignos foi de 23,4 e 100 por cento, respectivamente, sendo o pólipo grande encontrado em 54,5 por cento dos casos benignos e em 100 por cento dos malignos. A frequência de hipertensão arterial foi de 54,5 por cento para pólipos benignos e 83,3 por cento para pólipos malignos. As frequências do polimorfismo PROGINS T1/T1, T1/T2 e T2/T2 foram 79,9 por cento, 19,5 por cento e 0,6 por cento respectivamente para pólipos benignos e 78,8 por cento, 20,8 por cento e 0,5 por cento para o Grupo Controle. CONCLUSÕES: os pólipos endometriais se mostraram mais frequentes em mulheres de idade avançada, hipertensas e com antecedente de câncer de mama. A presença do polimorfismo PROGINS não mostrou associação significativa com pólipos endometriais. A incidência de pólipos malignos foi baixa, estando fortemente associada à presença de sangramento, tamanho grande do pólipo e hipertensão arterial.

PURPOSE: to evaluate the clinical and epidemiological risk factors for endometrial cancer in postmenopausal women with endometrial polyps, as well as the genetic polymorphism of the progesterone receptor (PROGINS). METHODS: a case-control study was designed with 160 postmenopausal women with endometrial polyps, compared to a normal Control Group of 400 postmenopausal women. The genotyping of PROGINS polymorphism was determined by the polymerase chain reaction. Clinical and epidemiological data were compared between benign endometrial polyps and 118 of the control subjects. Variables were also compared with regard to benign and malignant endometrial polyps. RESULTS: comparison of the epidemiological variables between groups showed a significant difference for age, ethnicity, time since menopause, parity, tamoxifen use, hypertension and breast cancer, all of them more prevalent in the polyp group. After adjustment for age, statistical significance remained only for parity (OR=1.1), hypertension (OR=2.2) and breast cancer (OR=14.4). There were six cases of malignant polyps (3.7 percent). The frequency of bleeding was 23.4 percent for benign polyps and 100 percent for malignant polyps, with large polyps being detected in 54.6 percent of the benign cases and in 100 of the malignnat ones. The frequency of arterial hypertension was 54.5 percent for benign polyps and 83.3 percent for the malignant ones. The frequency of PROGINS T1/T1, T1/T2 and T2/T2 polymorphism was 79.9 percent, 19.5 percent and 0.6 percent, respectively, for the polyp group, and 78.8 percent, 20.8 percent and 0.5 percent for the Control Group. CONCLUSIONS: elderly age, hypertension, and breast cancer were significantly associated with endometrial polyps. The presence of PROGINS polymorphism was not significantly associated with endometrial polyps. The incidence of malignant polyps was low and strongly associated with bleeding, large-sized polyp and arterial hypertension.

Metaplasia óssea endometrial: quadro clínico e seguimento após tratamento / Endometrial osseous metaplasia: clinical presentation and follow-up

OBJETIVO: apresentar o quadro clínico das pacientes com metaplasia óssea e avaliar os fatores de risco, as mudanças dos sinais e sintomas após a retirada do fragmento ósseo. MÉTODOS: foi realizado um estudo transversal com 16 pacientes diagnosticadas com fragmentos ósseos na cavidade uterina no período de julho de 2006 a janeiro de 2009. O critério de inclusão foi o achado de fragmento ósseo retirado da cavidade uterina. Todas as pacientes tiveram confirmação histológica de presença de tecido ósseo na cavidade endometrial. Obtivemos os dados de todas as pacientes antes e depois da retirada por meio de um questionário para avaliar o efeito da retirada sobre a sintomatologia das pacientes, além da pesquisa de possíveis fatores relacionados ao aparecimento da doença. RESULTADOS: metade das pacientes (8/16) tinha sintomas hemorrágicos e um terço (6/16) apresentava infertilidade. A retirada dos fragmentos foi efetiva na melhora das queixas, havendo desaparecimento dos sintomas em todos os casos de menorragia e dor pélvica. CONCLUSÃO: A retirada do fragmento ósseo pode restaurar a fertilidade em pacientes selecionadas e que tenham como causa a metaplasia óssea, além de ser bastante efetiva em proporcionar melhora nos casos que cursam com dor pélvica e menorragia.

PURPOSE: to describe the clinical signs and symptoms of patients with bone metaplasia and to assess the risk factors for changes in these symptoms after removal of the bone fragment. METHODS: a cross-sectional study was conducted on 16 patients with a diagnosis of bone fragments in the uterine cavity during the period comprising July 2006 to January 2009. The inclusion criterion was the detection of a bone fragment removed from the uterine cavity. The presence of bone tissue in the endometrial cavity was histologically confirmed in all patients. The data of all patients were obtained before and after removal by means of a questionnaire for the evaluation of the effect of removal on the symptoms and for the search of possible factors related to the onset of the disease. RESULTS: half the patients (8/16) had hemorrhagic symptoms and one third (6/16) were infertile. Removal of the fragments was quite effective in improving the complaints, with the disappearance of symptoms in all cases of hemorrhage and of pelvic pain. CONCLUSION: removal of bone fragments can restore the fertility of selected patients whose infertility is caused by bone metaplasia and is quite effective in leading to improvement in patients with pelvic pain and menorrhage.

MRI Appearance of Florid Cystic Endosalpingiosis of the Uterus: a Case Report

Endosalpingiosis is a non-neoplastic proliferation of ectopic tubal epithelium. It may be found incidentally or the patients may present with chronic pelvic pain. It may resemble a gynecologic malignancy on imaging findings and clinicians and radiologists should be aware of this benign entity to render a correct diagnosis and to avoid over-treatment. We report here the MR imaging appearance of a case of florid cystic endosalpingiosis.

Comparison of the TINTARA uterine manipulator with the Cohen cannula in gynecologic laparoscopy.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy of the TINTARA uterine manipulator and the Cohen cannula for gynecologic laparoscopy. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Sixty women scheduled for laparoscopy were randomized for use of TINTARA (n = 30) or Cohen (n = 30) as a uterine manipulator. The degree of anterior and lateral deviation of the uterus, operative time, surgical complications and ease of use were recorded and compared between the two groups. RESULTS: The mean ranges of anterior and lateral deviation of the uterus in TINTARA and Cohen groups were 61.17 +/- 19.37 vs. 49.33 +/- 22.58 degrees (p = 0.033) and 107.03 +/- 39.68 vs. 85.5 +/- 37.52 degrees (p = 0.035) respectively. The percentage of patients having dye leakage from the cervix in the Cohen group was greater than in the TINTARA group, but the difference was not statistically significant. Both instruments provided similar ease of use. Complications were not found in either group. CONCLUSION: TINTARA was found to have more advantages than the Cohen in moving the uterus in both anterior and lateral directions.

Hidatidosis uterina: una localización excepcional / Uterine hydatid cyst: an exceptional location

La hidatidosis es una zoonosis de distribución mundial producida por helmintos del género Echinococcus. En Chile representa un problema de salud pública no resuelto aún en su totalidad. La localización ginecológica es poco frecuente, pero debe considerarse en el diagnóstico diferencial de masas pélvicas, sobre todo, en pacientes con infertilidad. Se presenta un caso clínico de hidatidosis pélvica primaria de origen uterino como hallazgo operatorio. Se discute el manejo y seguimiento.

The hydatid disease is a worldwide distribution zoonotic infection caused by a tapeworm of the genus Echinococcus. In Chile, it is a public health probiem that hasn't been completely solved yet. It is very unlikely to be found in ginecology. Still it has to be considered within pelvic mass study, mostly between infertile patients. We now discuss a surgical finding of a pelvic primary hydatid disease of uterine origin clinical case, the management and follow-up.

Comparative evaluation of perimenopausal abnormal uterine bleeding by transvaginal sonography, hysteroscopy and endometrial biopsy.

To evaluate the causes of abnormal uterine bleeding in perimenopausal women and to achieve the greatest diagnostic accuracy with the least risk, a cross-sectional study was done among 85 patients between the ages 40 and 55 years. Transvaginal sonography, hysteroscopy and histopathological examination of endometrium were done in all the cases. Kappa statistics was calculated to show the agreement between the different investigations. Considering histopathological report to be the gold standard, for diagnosis of hyperplastic endometrium, transvaginal sonography and hysteroscopy showed fair agreement (k=0.34) and good agreement (k=0.51) and hysteroscopic diagnosis of polyp showed strong agreement (k=0.81). Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value for diagnosis of hyperplastic endometrium were 43.75%, 95.65%, 70% and 88% respectively whereas in polyp by transvaginal sonography they were 50%, 89.16%, 100%, 98.67% respectively; by hysteroscopy these were 50%, 95.78%, 70%, 90.36% respectively in hyperplasia and 71.43%, 100%, 100%, 94.67% respectively in polyp. Transvaginal sonography is most important for diagnosis of anatomical lesion. Hysteroscopy is most specific and sensitive for diagnosis of polyp but less specific for endometrial hyperplasia.

Prevalence of uterine synechia after abortion evacuation curettage

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) is a possible complication of uterine curettage following abortion. Because IUA is an important cause of infertility, some investigators have been advocating its inclusion in the routine investigational workup after every abortion curettage procedure. The aim of this study was to evaluate the uterine cavity of patients subjected to abortion curettage, in order to ascertain the prevalence of IUA and its association with social and clinical factors. DESIGN AND SETTING: This was a cross-sectional study at the Human Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp). METHODS: A total of 109 women were enrolled. The investigators searched the records of Unicamp's hospital for patients who had been subjected to uterine curettage following abortion. The hysteroscopy was performed 3 to 12 months after the curettage. The correlations between patients' characteristics and the prevalence of IUA were assessed by means of chi-squared and Fisher's exact test calculations. RESULTS: The prevalence of IUA was 37.6 percent. The number of previous abortions and curettage procedures did not correlate with the presence of IUA. Most of the women (56.1 percent) presented IUA grade I. CONCLUSIONS: In the present study, 37.6 percent of the women subjected to curettage following abortion had IUA, which was mostly mucous and grade I. None of the demographic and clinic characteristics evaluated were found to be associated with IUA. From this study, there is no firm evidence to justify carrying out routine diagnostic hysteroscopy following abortion evacuation.

CONTEXTO E OBJETIVO: As sinéquias uterinas são complicações que podem ocorrer após curetagem uterina por aborto. Como se trata de causa importante de infertilidade, muitos autores têm indicado uma investigação rotineira após curetagens uterinas por aborto. O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar a cavidade uterina de pacientes submetidas a curetagem após aborto para detectar a prevalência das sinéquias e a possível associação com alguns fatores sociais e clínicos. TIPO DE ESTUDO E LOCAL: Estudo de corte transversal, realizado na Unidade de Reprodução Humana do Departamento de Ginecologia e Obstetrícia da Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp). MÉTODOS: 109 mulheres foram submetidas a histeroscopia diagnóstica ambulatorial 3 a 12 meses após curetagem por aborto. Dados clínicos foram obtidos dos prontuários médicos. As correlações entre as características clínicas e a prevalência de sinéquias uterinas foram testadas através do cálculo do qui-quadrado e do teste exato de Fisher. RESULTADOS: A prevalência de sinéquias foi de 37,6 por cento. O número de abortos anteriores e de curetagens não se correlacionou com a presença de sinéquias. A maioria das mulheres (56,1 por cento) apresentou sinéquias grau I. CONCLUSÕES: Neste estudo, 37,6 por cento das mulheres submetidas a curetagem por aborto apresentaram sinéquias, a maioria delas do tipo mucoso e de grau I. Nenhuma das características clínicas e demográficas avaliadas associou-se às sinéquias. Os resultados deste estudo não autorizam indicação rotineira de histeroscopia diagnóstica em pacientes submetidas a curetagem uterina por aborto.