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1.
Cureus ; 16(3): e56269, 2024 Mar.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38623138

ABSTRACT

Pregnancy-associated breast cancer (PABC) presents unique challenges due to its occurrence during or shortly after pregnancy. Pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) has emerged as a potential biomarker and regulator in PABC. This comprehensive review examines the role of PAPP-A in PABC, highlighting its involvement in tissue remodeling and cancer progression. Molecular mechanisms linking PAPP-A to breast cancer, including signaling pathways and interactions with other molecules, are explored. The review also discusses the diagnostic and therapeutic implications of PAPP-A dysregulation in PABC, emphasizing the need for further research to elucidate underlying mechanisms and develop targeted therapies. Collaborative efforts among researchers, clinicians, and industry stakeholders are essential for translating findings into clinically relevant interventions to improve outcomes for PABC patients.

2.
Cureus ; 16(2): e54950, 2024 Feb.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38544594

ABSTRACT

The journey of addressing fertility challenges, especially in the context of fallopian tubal issues, has witnessed remarkable advancements. This comprehensive review delves into microsurgery for fallopian tubal re-canalization within the era of in vitro fertilization (IVF). The review begins by providing the historical backdrop, tracing the evolution of this surgical technique, and highlighting the transformative impact of microsurgical methods and instrumentation on its precision and outcomes. Microsurgery for fallopian tubal re-canalization is characterized by a range of patient-specific considerations, diagnostic modalities, and factors influencing the choice between re-canalization and IVF. Microsurgical techniques are elaborated upon, showcasing the importance of laparoscopy and hysteroscopy, which not only diagnose but also treat tubal and uterine conditions. The review delves into the pivotal elements that steer the decision-making process, including patient preferences, medical necessity, ethical and religious considerations, financial constraints, and clinical evaluation. Furthermore, the intricate complications and risks associated with tubal re-canalization, both intraoperative and postoperative, are elucidated. Insights into recent advances in microsurgery, emerging research, and promising future directions set the stage for innovative and effective solutions. Recognizing the significance of patient counseling, shared decision-making, ethical considerations, and informed consent, the review underlines the critical role of healthcare providers in guiding individuals and couples through the complexities of fertility treatment choices. Finally, the conclusion synthesizes the key findings, implications for clinical practice, and future research directions, emphasizing the importance of tailored and patient-centered approaches to address fertility challenges in the modern era.

3.
Cureus ; 15(11): e48414, 2023 Nov.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38073922

ABSTRACT

Uterine leiomyomas are benign uterine tumors arising from the smooth muscle cells of the myometrium. Most of them are asymptomatic, and rarely do they present with symptoms like infertility, abdominal distension, and acute abdomen. According to experts, the most common cause of acute abdomen is torsion of a pedunculated subserosal leiomyoma, which is an extremely rare and life-threatening surgical emergency. Here, we discuss a case of torsion of a subserosal leiomyoma where the patient, a 40-year-old female with severe abdominal pain, was misdiagnosed with a twisted ovarian cyst. Ultrasonography and contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) revealed a right-sided ovarian tumor and a twisted subserosal myoma, respectively. Thus, surgical intervention with myomectomy was done.

4.
Cureus ; 15(11): e48538, 2023 Nov.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38074049

ABSTRACT

Choline, an essential nutrient, is pivotal in supporting maternal and fetal health during pregnancy. In this comprehensive review, we explore the current evidence and the implications of choline supplementation in pregnancy. Choline is indispensable for neural tube formation, brain development, and the overall well-being of expectant mothers, rendering it a cornerstone of prenatal care. Inadequate choline intake is associated with neural tube defects, cognitive deficits in offspring, and maternal health complications. This review highlights the potential benefits of choline supplementation as demonstrated by clinical studies, including the reduction of congenital disabilities and improvements in cognitive outcomes. However, it is important to acknowledge the presence of methodological challenges, ethical considerations, and variations in study findings. To harness the full potential of choline in maternal nutrition, we advocate for increased awareness, continued research, and the development of ethical guidelines. In the broader context, policymakers must consider integrating choline recommendations into dietary guidelines. This step would ensure equitable access to this vital nutrient for all pregnant women, regardless of socioeconomic status. In conclusion, choline supplementation shows promise in enhancing both maternal and fetal health. However, its full benefits can only be realized through further research and concerted efforts in raising awareness.

5.
Cureus ; 15(11): e49265, 2023 Nov.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38143695

ABSTRACT

Background Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) pose significant risks to maternal and fetal health. The utility of Doppler indices in predicting adverse fetal outcomes in HDP patients remains an area of active research. This observational study aimed to assess the correlation between abnormal uterine artery Doppler indices and adverse fetal outcomes in HDP patients. Methods Over a two-year period, we enrolled 138 pregnant women with HDP beyond 28 weeks of gestation and singleton pregnancies. Detailed clinical assessments, laboratory investigations, and Doppler studies of the uterine artery were conducted. The Doppler indices that were assessed included the systolic/diastolic (S/D) ratio, resistance index (RI), and pulsatility index (PI). Adverse fetal outcomes were classified based on appearance, pulse, grimace, activity, and respiration (APGAR) scores, birth weight, NICU admissions, and perinatal deaths. Statistical analyses were performed to evaluate the predictive value of Doppler indices. Results Abnormal uterine artery Doppler indices, specifically an elevated S/D ratio and the presence of a diastolic notch showed a positive correlation with adverse fetal outcomes. However, Doppler indices such as PI and RI did not demonstrate a significant correlation with adverse fetal outcomes in HDP patients. These findings suggest that the S/D ratio and the presence of a diastolic notch in uterine artery Doppler studies hold potential as predictive markers for adverse fetal outcomes in HDP patients. Conclusion Uterine artery Doppler indices, specifically the S/D ratio and the presence of a diastolic notch, appear to be valuable predictors for adverse fetal outcomes in patients with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. These findings underscore the importance of regular monitoring of uterine artery Doppler flow in the management of HDP to identify pregnancies at higher risk for adverse fetal outcomes.

6.
Cureus ; 15(11): e48929, 2023 Nov.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38106751

ABSTRACT

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disorder affecting a significant portion of the female population, characterized by hormonal imbalances, oxidative stress, sleep disturbances, and mood disorders. This review explores the multifaceted role of melatonin, a hormone primarily known for regulating circadian rhythms, in PCOS management. Melatonin's potential impact on hormonal balance, oxidative stress, sleep quality, and mood is comprehensively examined. It has been shown to enhance insulin sensitivity, regulate sex hormones, and influence gonadotropins, offering promise in addressing the intricate hormonal imbalances common in PCOS. As a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, melatonin mitigates oxidative stress and its associated complications. Its role in improving sleep quality and mood can significantly enhance the psychological well-being and daily functioning of PCOS patients. We discuss the potential implications of melatonin as a complementary or adjunct therapy, alongside existing PCOS treatments, and its significance in improving the overall quality of life for individuals with this syndrome. While further research is needed, melatonin's multifaceted effects promise a brighter future for PCOS patients.

7.
Cureus ; 15(5): e39027, 2023 May.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37378206

ABSTRACT

Background Oligohydramnios and fetal growth restriction have been known for ages, with increased risk of disease and death during antenatal, neonatal, and adult life leading to operative interventions and perinatal mortality and morbidity. The amniotic fluid index varies with gestational age and is used to detect fetal well-being. Various oral and IV hydration and amino acid infusion therapies are studied to improve amniotic fluid index (AFI) and fetal weight. Objective To study the effect of intravenous amino acid infusion on AFI in pregnancies associated with oligohydramnios and fetal growth restriction (FGR). Material and methods A semi-experimental study done in Acharya Vinoba Bhave Rural Hospital (AVBRH), Sawangi Meghe, Wardha enrolled pregnant women in the in-patient department (IPD) unit of Obstetrics & Gynecology and divided them into two groups of 52 each, which met inclusion and exclusion criteria. Group A received IV amino acid infusion on an alternate day, whereas group B received IV hydration, and serial monitoring was done till delivery. Results The mean gestational age at admission was 32.73 ± 2.21 in the IV amino acid group and 32.25 ± 2.27 in the IV hydration group. In both groups, the mean AFI at admission was observed at 4.93±2.03 cm and 4.22 ± 2.00 cm, respectively. The mean AFI on the 14th day in the IV amino acid group was 7.52 ± 2.04, and in the IV hydration group, 5.89± 2.20 with a significant p-value of <0.0001.

8.
Cureus ; 15(5): e39106, 2023 May.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37332464

ABSTRACT

Backgrounds A significant contributor to newborn morbidity and mortality is preterm birth. Several techniques have been employed to identify patients at risk of premature labour. However, these predictors are not always effective because of their multifactorial aetiology. Preterm labour can be suppressed largely through tocolysis. This study compared the effectiveness and safety of transdermal nitroglycerine and oral nifedipine in preventing premature labour. Methods This study was done at Acharya Vinoba Bhave Rural Hospital, Sawangi, Wardha, Maharashtra, from December 2020 to November 2022, on 130 women presenting with preterm labour pains between 28 and 37 weeks of gestational age. All the women selected were randomized into two equal groups by using the envelope method. Sixty-five women were given a nitroglycerine patch (Group A), and the rest (65 women) were given an oral nifedipine tablet (group B). The variables studied were mean days of prolongation of pregnancy, treatment outcome, steroid coverage, along with feto-maternal outcomes among both groups. Results The percentage of women whose pregnancy was prolonged for at least 48 hours in the nitroglycerine group was 75.3%, and in the nifedipine group it was 93.8%. Failure to achieve tocolysis, defined as delivery within 48 hours, was seen significantly more in the nitroglycerine group (24.6%) than in the nifedipine group (6.1%). The overall foetal outcomes were comparable in both groups. Conclusion Oral nifedipine was found to be superior to transdermal nifedipine patches in terms of efficacy and safety in the management of preterm labour, with a better side effect profile.

9.
Cureus ; 15(4): e37220, 2023 Apr.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37159784

ABSTRACT

Background One of the most prevalent medical issues observed during pregnancy is hypertension. Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) and their consequences affect around 5-10% of all pregnancies globally. Preeclampsia is caused by endothelial dysfunction, which causes widespread endothelial leakage and contributes to potentially fatal consequences, such as eclampsia, placental abruption, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), severe renal failure, pulmonary edema, and hepatocellular necrosis. As a result, looking for predictive markers for at-risk pregnancies that can suggest poor maternal or fetal outcomes is critical. Elevated levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), as a sign of cellular damage and dysfunction, can be utilized as a biochemical marker in pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) as it represents the severity of the disease, and the occurrence of problems, and has also been demonstrated to co-relate with fetomaternal outcomes. Methodology A total of 230 singleton pregnant women of 28-40 weeks of gestational age were enrolled in this study. All women were divided into two groups - normotensive and preeclamptic-eclamptic groups; the second group was further divided into mild preeclampsia, severe preeclampsia, and eclampsia, based on blood pressure and the presence of proteinuria. Serum lactate dehydrogenase levels were measured in both groups and correlated with their fetomaternal outcome. Results Mean serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level in eclamptic women was 1515.86 ± 754, in severely preeclamptic women was 932.2 ± 448, mild preeclamptic women were 580.5±213, while in normotensive women mean LDH level was 378.6 ± 124. The difference between normotensive and preeclamptic-eclamptic women was statistically significant (p < 0.001). The complications in the preeclamptic-eclamptic group were increased significantly in women with LDH > 800 IU/L, 600-800 IU/L compared to those who had < 600 IU/L LDH levels. Conclusions Serum LDH levels were significantly higher in women of preeclamptic-eclamptic group compared to the normotensive pregnant women. Higher LDH levels were positively correlated with disease severity and maternal complications like placental abruption, hemolysis elevated liver enzymes low platelet count (HELLP), disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), acute renal failure, intracranial hemorrhage, pulmonary edema, and maternal death and for fetal complications like preterm, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), APGAR at 1 minute < 7, APGAR at 5 minutes < 7, low birth weight (LBW), neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission and intrauterine fetal death (IUFD).

10.
Cureus ; 15(12): e50178, 2023 Dec.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38192936

ABSTRACT

Uterine transplantation, a groundbreaking medical intervention, stands as a beacon of hope for cancer survivors grappling with the dual challenges of a cancer diagnosis and potential fertility loss due to aggressive treatments. This review provides a comprehensive exploration of uterine transplantation as an innovative solution for fertility preservation in the context of cancer survivorship. The multifaceted discussion encompasses the impact of cancer on fertility, the imperative of fertility preservation, and the evolution of uterine transplantation as a transformative procedure. The post-transplantation care section delves into the intricacies of recovery, the delicate balance of immunosuppressive therapy, and the ongoing support required for recipients to embrace the full spectrum of reproductive possibilities and overall well-being. Ethical considerations surrounding uterine transplantation, including donor selection, risk assessment, and societal perspectives, are critically examined to navigate the ethical landscape of this evolving field. In conclusion, uterine transplantation is presented as a medical breakthrough and a symbol of interdisciplinary collaboration, resilience, and unwavering hope. The review underscores the role of collaborative efforts among medical professionals, researchers, ethicists, and psychologists in advancing this transformative field. Looking to the future, uterine transplantation signifies a paradigm shift in fertility preservation, offering a tangible path toward parenthood for cancer survivors. The procedure, grounded in science, ethics, and compassion, illuminates the way forward, inspiring a future where fertility preservation becomes an attainable reality for those whose reproductive dreams were once compromised by cancer treatments.

11.
Cureus ; 15(12): e51321, 2023 Dec.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38288169

ABSTRACT

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder with multifaceted manifestations, affecting both physiological and psychosocial aspects of affected individuals. This abstract provides a succinct overview of the hormonal underpinnings in the pathogenesis of PCOS, focusing on altered luteinizing hormone (LH) action, insulin resistance, and hyperandrogenism. A prevailing theory suggests that insulin resistance exacerbates hyperandrogenism by influencing the synthesis of sex hormone-binding globulin and increasing androgen production from adrenal and ovarian sources. PCOS diagnosis relies on specific criteria related to hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction, and the presence of polycystic ovaries. Beyond its physical symptoms, PCOS profoundly impacts women's mental health and quality of life. The prevalence of PCOS underscores the urgency of understanding its hormonal intricacies. Insulin resistance and hyperandrogenism, particularly in the context of sex hormone-binding globulin suppression, play a central role in PCOS pathogenesis. Recognizing the key role of hormones, particularly insulin resistance and hyperandrogenism, provides a foundation for targeted interventions and treatment strategies. A comprehensive approach to PCOS must consider both its physiological and psychosocial dimensions to address the challenges faced by affected individuals.

12.
Cureus ; 15(12): e50876, 2023 Dec.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38249223

ABSTRACT

Background Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are associated with increased maternal and fetal risks. Doppler ultrasound indices of the umbilical artery have shown promise in predicting adverse fetal outcomes in HDP patients. This observational study investigated the correlation between abnormal umbilical artery Doppler indices and adverse fetal outcomes in HDP patients. Methodology Over a two-year period from 2020 to 2022, in Acharya Vinoba Bhave Rural Hospital, central India, we enrolled 138 pregnant women with HDP beyond 28 weeks of gestation and singleton pregnancies. Comprehensive clinical assessments, laboratory investigations, and Doppler studies of the umbilical artery were performed. Doppler indices assessed included the systolic/diastolic (S/D) ratio, resistance index (RI), and pulsatility index (PI). Adverse fetal outcomes were defined based on birth weight and neonatal intensive care unit admissions. Chi-square or Fisher's exact test was used for analyzing the relationship between qualitative data, while an independent-sample t-test was employed for quantitative data. Results Abnormal umbilical artery Doppler indices, including an elevated S/D ratio, RI, and PI, demonstrated a positive correlation with adverse fetal outcomes in HDP patients. These findings highlight the significance of umbilical artery Doppler indices as reliable indicators for anticipating adverse fetal outcomes in HDP patients. Conclusions Abnormal Doppler indices in the umbilical artery, including an elevated S/D ratio, RI, and PI, appear to be valuable predictors for adverse fetal outcomes in patients with HDP. Monitoring these indices can aid in risk stratification and improve the management of pregnancies complicated by HDP.

13.
Cureus ; 14(11): e31194, 2022 Nov.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36505142

ABSTRACT

Ovarian cancers are one of the major leading causes of death across the world. In addition to many challenges to diagnose the disease, it is also hard to predict the type of cancer with effective tools and technology. Many attempts have been made to diagnose ovarian malignancies using ultrasonography, MRI, and CT scans, but seldom will they give the clinician a clear understanding of cancer's type and stage. It is of utmost importance to understand the mass peri-operatively, which will help the clinicians to decide on the course of management mortality. With technological advancements, many predictive models have come into the picture. Many of those were dependent on the Serum CA-125 markers. With ultrasonography machine usage, the International Ovarian Tumor Analysis (IOTA) group has developed a Simple Rules model, Logistic Regression (LR) models, and, most recently, the IOTA-assessment of different neoplasias in the adnexa (IOTA-ADNEX) model. It has been found to be effective and reliable among all the tools developed in the past. The ADNEX predicts the type of cancer (benign or malignant) and stages of cancer (borderline, Stage I, Stages II-IV, and secondary metastatic). These models can be used for people who are coming with persistent adnexal masses in the ovarian region, para ovarian region, or in the tubes and are recommended for the surgeries. The model is developed by a team of clinicians and statisticians, based on ultrasound and clinical data. This article reviews the IOTA-ADNEX model as a tool for predicting ovarian malignancies in people coming with adnexal masses, especially in comparison with other methods and models. It also tests its effectiveness in the hands of experienced technicians and non-expert technicians.

14.
Cureus ; 14(10): e30116, 2022 Oct.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36381837

ABSTRACT

The field of assisted reproductive technologies has witnessed many new developments over the past 10 years. This review examines new stimulation techniques that might increase the number of fully developed oocytes derived during the in vitro fertilisation (IVF) cycle in addition to strategies for enhancing oocyte quality in older women. Before moving on to several fresh methods for determining endometrial receptivity, we talk about how preimplantation genetic screening (PGS) is currently being utilised. The main goal of this review is to highlight technological fields that might be debatable or are still sufficiently novel to require rigorous controlled trials for recognition. The use of IVF has been on the rise recently, mostly as a result of deferred childbearing, and there is no reason to believe that this trend will alter. Infertility therapies have advanced significantly thanks to the methods and techniques that were established via studies on animals and, more recently, people. Some technical discoveries in reproductive medicine have had a significant impact on innovations and treatment choices in other fields of medicine as well. The objective of this succinct review article is to quickly summarise and explain the advancements made in this intriguing area of medicine over the past 40 years.

15.
Cureus ; 14(8): e28170, 2022 Aug.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36158407

ABSTRACT

Swyer syndrome is a hereditary condition seen in a few patients who present with primary amenorrhea, characterized by 46 XY and the presence of female internal genital tract and bilateral streak gonads in a female phenotype. A 25-year-old lady presented with primary amenorrhea. After the evaluation, she was diagnosed with Swyer syndrome due to a mutation in the SRY gene, leading to failure of testicular development. The clinical presentation was that of a female phenotype with no secondary sexual characteristics. On physical examination, she had a female phenotype with a short vagina and no secondary sexual characteristics. The MRI revealed a hypoplastic uterus with both fallopian tubes but with streak gonads. The patient's genotype was found to be 46 XY after genetic testing. The streak gonads were removed laparoscopically due to the future risk of gonadoblastoma, and the patient was given hormone replacement therapy (HRT). The patient started menstruating after six months of HRT and has been developing secondary sexual characteristics (Tanner stage II) till now.

16.
J Educ Health Promot ; 11: 170, 2022.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-35847136

ABSTRACT

While battling the life-threatening complications of COVID-19, its effect on the menstrual cycle and infertility has been somewhat ignored. This brief review aims on highlighting the importance of menstrual abnormalities being experienced during the post-COVID period and to make the clinicians aware about what to expect in regard of menstrual abnormalities by learning from various studies that have been conducted worldwide. This review article was written with systematic literature review with the help of data search machine such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Sciences, and Google Scholar. A search strategy leads to the extraction of 160 related articles that after the removal of inappropriate and duplicate articles, 33 articles were selected for the review. To find other potentially relevant articles, the references of the extracted articles were thoroughly examined. The search was carried out using keywords including "COVID-19," "Menstrual abnormalities," and "Infertility." Using OR and AND, the keywords mentioned above were combined and then utilized in the search box of the databases. Articles published from January 2020 to September 2021 were included in this study. It includes worldwide data ranging from studies done in China, India, Ireland, Turkey, Jordan, and Germany. During the post-COVID period, there is a significant alteration in the sex hormones of females infected by COVID-19 which may manifest as menstrual cycle abnormalities such as decreased cycle length or prolonged menstrual cycle bleeding. It may also manifest as infertility due to ovarian failure due to suppression of ovarian function COVID-19 a novel coronavirus which is presently a pandemic has affected the world in manner reminding the world of 1918 Spanish flu. However, while battling the deadly pandemic, the clinicians should also be aware of the repercussions of the effect this infection has on multiple organs such as ovarian suppression leading to infertility, oligomenorrhea, or menorrhagia.

17.
Cureus ; 14(3): e23360, 2022 Mar.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-35475103

ABSTRACT

Background Hypertensive disorders during pregnancy are an important topic of concern, specifically in rural and remote areas of India where there is a lack of awareness and it is difficult to maintain proper follow-up of pregnant females to screen them for complications developed during pregnancy. Gestational hypertension and pre-eclampsia result in the abruption of the placenta, hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low platelet count syndrome, eclampsia, and disseminated intravascular coagulation, which can be a serious threat to the health of the mother and the fetus. Therefore, it is important to identify biomarkers for diagnosing and predicting the complications of pre-eclampsia that may aid the obstetric high-dependency units based in rural areas to tackle this important health hazard during pregnancy. Methodology A total of 180 singleton pregnant women of more than 34 weeks of gestational age were enrolled in this study. All women were divided into three groups (control group, severe pre-eclampsia, and non-severe pre-eclampsia) based on the severity of blood pressure and the presence of proteinuria (≥+1 by the dipstick method). Salivary and serum uric acid levels were measured through morning samples, and all patients were monitored for the development of complications and outcomes. Salivary uric acid and serum uric acid levels were correlated with each other and with maternal complications of pre-eclampsia. Results Mean salivary uric acid (mg/dL) in severe pre-eclampsia was (6.72 ± 0.49) significantly higher compared to non-severe pre-eclampsia (4.75 ± 0.94) and control (3.13 ± 0.43). Mean serum uric acid (mg/dL) in severe pre-eclampsia was (8.13 ± 0.87) significantly higher compared to non-severe pre-eclampsia (6.23 ± 0.76) and control (3.85 ± 0.46).The lowest best cut-off value of maternal salivary uric acid was 5.06 mg/dL, above which one can predict maternal complications with a diagnostic accuracy of 78.33%. Conclusions Salivary uric acid and serum uric acid levels are significantly raised in cases of pre-eclampsia in comparison to normal pregnancy. Salivary uric acid and serum uric acid are correlated significantly indicating that salivary uric acid can function as a cost-effective, novel marker to provide an idea about serum uric acid levels. The prognostic accuracy of salivary uric acid was good in predicting maternal complications among cases of pre-eclampsia (severe and non-servere) and early-onset maternal complications. Therefore, it may be utilized as a helpful marker to identify high-risk patients.

18.
Cureus ; 13(11): e19649, 2021 Nov.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-34956769

ABSTRACT

This review is a summary of the modern-day approach and recent trend in the determination of uric acid in the saliva of humans and its use in diagnosis by clinicians. Uric acid, which is the end product obtained from the breakdown of purine nucleotides, is an important biomarker associated with various conditions. Uric acid is found in various body fluids, such as serum, plasma, and urine. It can be used as an important tool for various diseases, such as gout and hyperuricemia, or conditions that are associated with increased oxidative stress. Recently, there has been an emergence of studies that have utilized uric acid concentrations measured in the saliva and studied its association with various diseases. Salivary uric acid can prove to be a noninvasive method to provide a diagnosis of serious illness. A raised uric acid level in the saliva can be associated with cancer, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, gout, and hypertension. A reduced level of salivary uric acid on the other hand can be a marker for Alzheimer's disease, progression of multiple sclerosis, and impairment of cognition. Online search databases, including Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science, were searched, and articles that were published before September 2021 based on salivary uric acid analysis were analyzed for this review. Uric acid is an essential biomarker that has antioxidant properties. Assessment of salivary uric acid levels was found to be essential in conditions such as cancer, metabolic syndrome, neurological conditions, psychiatric conditions, human immunodeficiency virus, and gout and in monitoring treatment of hyperuricemia. Although having importance in diagnosis and therapeutic monitoring, salivary uric acid analysis has not gained enough popularity due to limitations such as saliva collection and sample processing issues. With proper education and standardization, salivary uric acid analysis can be used as a cost-effective and noninvasive tool for getting a clue about antioxidant biomarker concentration in saliva and hence various diseases associated with oxidative stress.

19.
Cureus ; 13(8): e17077, 2021 Aug.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-34527465

ABSTRACT

Ectopic pregnancy has emerged as an alarming problem for obstetricians worldwide. Live twin ectopic conception is rare to occur, and spontaneously conceived twin ectopic pregnancy is even more infrequent. A 32-years-old gravida 3, para 1, live 1, abortion 2, presented with a confirmation of pregnancy on a urinary pregnancy test kit along with pain in the right iliac fossa. Blood investigations revealed raised serum beta-human chorionic gonadotropin hormone. Transvaginal ultrasonography revealed twin ectopic conception in the right fallopian tube with both the embryos showing cardiac activity and no evidence of intrauterine gestational sac. The patient was managed with methotrexate-mediated ultrasound-guided fetal reduction and is doing well on follow-up presently. Hence, our case report highlights the importance of prompt diagnosis and management of twin ectopic pregnancies with the help of newly evolving interventional radiology procedures.

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