Correlation of progesterone levels on the day of oocyte retrieval with basal hormonal status and the outcome of ART.

This study aimed to assess whether basal hormonal levels can predict the levels of progesterone (P4) on the day of oocyte retrieval (OR) and examine the impact of P4 levels on the day of OR on the outcome of assisted reproduction. One hundred sixty-four patients that were enrolled in the assisted reproduction procedure were classified according to their P4 levels on the OR day (< 2 ng/ml vs. ≥ 2 ng/ml). Patients who had P4 levels < 2 ng/ml had significantly higher follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels and significantly lower anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels. More than half of patients with P4 levels < 2 ng/ml on the OR day got pregnant and delivered healthy infants. There was a significant correlation between lower FSH values and higher P4 values at OR and between higher AMH values and higher P4 values on the day of OR. Regression analysis showed that high FSH levels are the most important factor that can reliably imply lower P4 levels on OR day. Our study confirmed that lower basal FSH levels can predict the levels of P4 on the OR day. Moreover, lower levels of P4 on the day of OR are associated with a positive outcome in assisted reproduction.

Menopause-specific Quality of Life Questionnaire: factor and Rasch analytic approach.

OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to assess the psychometric properties of the Menopause-specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (MENQOL) in Serbian climacteric women. METHODS: Two hundred mid-aged (40-65 years) women filled out a general sociodemographic and medical questionnaire, the MENQOL, the Short Form-36 questionnaire (SF-36), and Beck's Depression Inventory (BDI). The MENQOL was translated according to recommended methodology and its psychometric properties (internal consistency, discriminant, construct and criterion validity, factor and Rasch analyses) were assessed. RESULTS: Cronbach's alpha coefficient for the Serbian MENQOL was 0.957 (Vasomotor =0.917, Psychosocial =0.907, Physical =0.928, Sexual =0.913). Corrected item-total correlation coefficients were >0.50 for all items. Factor analysis extracted six domains with total variance of 72.02%. Beside the four original domains, two new domains were observed: Attractiveness and Pain. Factor loadings for all items were appropriate (>0.4). The MENQOL correlated with the SF-36 and BDI total scores, suggesting good criterion validity. Rasch analysis showed adequate reliability (item =0.91; person =0.79) and separation (item =1.95; person =3.21) indexes, proving good reproducibility and reliability of the Serbian MENQOL. All items had infit and outfit mean squares in the standard accepted range. CONCLUSION: Principal component analysis showed somewhat different constructs from the original scale. However, Rasch analysis confirmed that the MENQOL represents a good metric instrument for menopausal symptoms.

Fetal hydrops and middle cerebral artery Doppler in prediction degree of fetal anemia and the best timing for therapy.

PURPOSE: To determine the role of fetal multiples of the median of middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity (MoM MCA-PSV), in predicting the degree of fetal anemia for determination of the best timing for the second intrauterine intravascular transfusion (IUIVT) in hydropic fetuses with Rh alloimmunization. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Prospective study of 30 monofetal pregnancies with maternal Rh D alloimmunization and hydrops fetalis, from 2005 to 2012 that underwent first and second IUIVT were assessed. RESULTS: Thirty IUIVT were performed at 26.9 weeks (standard deviation, SD 4.3). Mean interval to the second procedure was 11.23 (SD 6.21) days and average hematocrit decline rate was 1.45%/day. The study did not demonstrated statistical significance between MCA-MoM-3 before the second IUIVT, and the mean decline rate in fetal hematocrit levels (expressed in percentage/day) r = 0.220; p = 0.242, and between MCA-MoM-3 and the time interval between both procedures (T) r = -0.157; p = 0.408. CONCLUSION: The measurements fetal MoM-MCA before every IUIVT cannot be useful as predictor for the best timing for the next IUIVT, but it can be useful in predicting severity of fetal anemia.

Management of cervical dysplasia in patient with Müllerian anomaly: diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.

PURPOSE: The study aim was to report diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in treatment of a patient with cervical dysplasia and con- genital uterine anomaly. CASE REPORT: A 53-year-old women with Müllerian anomaly - uterus duplex (bicorporal septate uterus) and Y-shaped endocervical canal was referred due to repeated abnormal Pap smears. She underwent endocervical curettage of both canals and the endocervical septum biopsy which revealed presence of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) III. Cervical conization was considered technically unfeasible because of abnormal cervical anatomy (lesions deep in the cervical canal on the cervical bifurcation where the cervical wall is the thickest). Classical open abdominal hysterectomy was performed. Patient had two almost equally-sized, symmetrical uterine bodies connected in the isthmico-cervical region, with normal left and obstructed right hemi-vagina. Postoperative histopathological findings confirmed that dysplasia was located in the region where two endocervical canals conjoined. CONCLUSION: Diagnostic and therapeutic approach to patients with uterine anomalies has to be individualized, based on anomaly type, patient's age, reproductive history, and patient's preferences.

Asymptomatic isthmico-cervical uterine perforation with IUD - our experience and literature review.

PURPOSE: The study aim was to report an unusual case of a misplaced IUD in isthmico-cervical region causing partial uterine perforation and discuss literature data regarding such a condition. CASE REPORT: A 50-year-old women was referred to the present institution for IUD extraction. She was diagnosed with spontaneously misplaced IUD located in isthmico-cervical region of the uterus causing partial perforation. The time of dislocation was unknown, as she was completely asymptomatic for ten years after IUD application. More-over, she had no risk factors for device misplacement. The removal of IUD was uneventful. CONCLUSION: Isthmico-cervical misplacement of IUD, although rare, can occur at any time and can be asymptomatic. Thus, women with IUD should be annually checked-up in order to prevent possible IUD complications.

Treatment of pregnant patient with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) due to placental abruption--a case report.

A primigravid woman at 29th gestational week with placental abruption causing fetal death, that underwent instant cesarean section, developed a disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), revealed by hemoperitoneum and hematoma of the abdominal wall. After re-laparotomy and transfusion of blood, fresh plasma, and platelets, the patient was discharged from hospital on the 14th postoperative day completely recovered. To conclude, conservative surgical approach for DIC treatment is possible and safe. Novel antifibrinolitic drugs are recommended for obstetrical patients with DIC to enable a healthy subsequent pregnancy.

Serbian version of the Women's Health Questionnaire: psychometric properties.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to translate the Women's Health Questionnaire (WHQ) into the Serbian language and assess its validity and reliability in a population of Serbian menopausal women. METHODS: The study included peri- and postmenopausal women from two Community Health Centers in Belgrade. Women filled out the WHQ, the Short Form-36 questionnaire (SF-36) and Beck's Depression Inventory (BDI). The WHQ was translated according to recommended methodology for cultural adaptation of questionnaires and its psychometric characteristics (internal consistency, inter-rater reliability, factor analysis, sensitivity, discriminant, construct and criterion validity) were tested. RESULTS: In the Serbian population, the mean values of the WHQ domains were mostly comparable with reference Mediterranean countries. Whole-scale Cronbach's α was 0.838. Moreover, five WHQ domains had a value of Cronbach's α above the acceptable limit. There were no significant differences in WHQ scores between our two investigators. On exploratory factor analysis, we obtained ten factors (two items formed a new factor - 'Menstrual pathology'). Almost all SF-36 domains were significantly associated with WHQ domains, while the BDI was associated with domains: depressive mood, anxiety and sleep problems. Based on ROC analysis, WHQ is slightly more reliable for perimenopausal than postmenopausal Serbian women. CONCLUSION: The Serbian version of the WHQ showed very good reliability and validity in assessment of quality of life among menopausal women. The WHQ is applicable for both peri- and postmenopausal women.

Impact of Conception Method on Twin Pregnancy Course and Outcome.

Objective: The aim of the study was to investigate the course and outcomes of twin pregnancies conceived by different methods of assisted reproduction (ART) compared to those conceived spontaneously. Methods: The study involved patients with twin pregnancies who delivered at the Ob/Gyn Clinic of the Clinical Center of Serbia over a period of three years. Patients were differentiated according to method of conception and type of ART. Age, parity, etiology of infertility, pregnancy complications, time of membrane rupture and type of delivery was recorded for each patient. Gestational week at delivery, presentation, birth weight, Apgar score, chorionicity and accompanying disorders were separately recorded for each twin. The data were analyzed statistically. Results: A total of 431 patients were included in the study. Although more twins were conceived by ART, the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.092). The most common ART procedure was IVF/ICSI (p = 0.001). ART procedures, particularly IVF/ICSI, were significantly correlated with more advanced maternal age, fewer previous pregnancies and delivery by cesarean sections, usually planned (p = 0.001). Preterm membrane rupture was more common after ICSI, but preterm delivery and pregnancy complications were infrequent, irrespective of the method of conception (p = 0.001). ART twins were mostly dichorionic (p = 0.036). Monochorionic twins were conceived either spontaneously or with ICSI. Conception by ART was not correlated with twins' outcome (weight, Apgar score, disorders). Conclusions: ART procedures do not have a negative impact on twin pregnancy course and outcome. Twin pregnancies conceived spontaneously or by ART have similar outcomes.

Predictive factors of malignancy in patients with adnexal masses.

INTRODUCTION: Good preoperative tumor triage is essential for choosing the appropriate approach. OBJECTIVE: The study aim was to identify factors from standard preoperatively collected data, which could predict the nature of adnexal masses prior surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study involved all women treated in the Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics Clinical Center of Serbia for adnexal tumors throughout a period of 18 months. On admission, detailed anamnestical and laboratory data were obtained and ultrasound scans were performed. Obtained data were compared with hystopathological findings of tumors. Methods of correlation and logistic regression were applied to create association models. RESULTS: Three new models for predicting tumor nature were achieved from anamnestical data, characteristics of women and tumors, and laboratory analyses. Two statistically significant (p = 0.000) equations were obtained for anamnestical data and characteristics of women and tumors, while three were made for laboratory analyses. Sensitivity of anamnestical malignancy index (AMI) was 73.33%, specificity 72.87%, positive predictive value (PPV) 39.49% and negative predictive value (NPV) 91.88%. Sensitivity of characteristic malignancy index (CMI) was 92.38%, specificity 67.36%, PPV 40.59% and NPV 97.34%. Sensitivity of laboratory malignancy index (LMI) was 56.45%, specificity 90.24%, PPV 68.63%, and NPV 84.57%. CONCLUSIONS: The best predictors of malignancy are menopausal status, body mass index (BMI), age, metastases, ascites, tumor marker CEA level, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). Along with the risk of malignancy index (RMI), for more reliable triage and preoperative tumor evaluation the authors propose introduction of another three indexes (AMI, CMI, LMI) in clinical practice.

Vaginal Removal of Very Large Nascent Uterine Myoma - Case Report and Literature Review.

This report shows that even extremely large nascent uterine myomas can be removed vaginally. A 25-year-old nulligravid and nulliparous patient with malaise, hypermenorrhea, and intermittent cramping pain in the lower abdomen was referred to our clinic. Gynecological examination revealed a round cauliflower-like tumor, 7 cm in diameter, originating from the external cervical os with a rough surface and without a palpable stalk or base. Ultrasound scan showed a hyperechogenic mass within the uterine cavity with two distinct subunits: one (55 × 44 mm) well-demarcated from the surrounding structures and the other (43 × 38 mm) in close proximity to the lower part of the anterior uterine wall and in continuity with the myometrium. At surgery, the myoma was completely removed vaginally. Recovery was prompt, complete, and uneventful. Follow-up at one and three months confirmed normal gynecological and sonographic findings. In conclusion, vaginal myomectomy is the treatment of choice for prolapsed pedunculated submucous myoma; even extremely large nascent myomas can be efficiently removed vaginally.

Impact of Phytoestrogens on Serum Lipids in Postmenopausal Women.

Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the impact of soy- and red clover-derived isoflavones on serum lipid levels in postmenopausal women and to compare the effects to the lipid levels of healthy postmenopausal women without phytoestrogen supplementation. Materials and Methods: Blood levels of triglycerides, total cholesterol and cholesterol fractions were assessed. Measurements were performed before treatment and at 6-month intervals over a period of 18 months. The investigation included 74 healthy postmenopausal women randomized into three groups according to treatment. The first group of 23 patients received soy-derived isoflavones, the second group (26 patients) was given red clover-derived phytoestrogens, while the third control group (25 patients) received no supplements. Results: Mean triglyceride, cholesterol and LDL levels of patients in the control group were significantly higher than in both the soy and the red clover groups (p < 0.001) at all three time points, while mean values did not differ significantly between the soy and the red clover groups. The mean HDL levels of patients in the control group was significantly lower than in both the soy and the red clover groups (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Phytoestrogen supplementation had a positive metabolic effect on serum lipid levels in postmenopausal women. The impact on serum lipids levels was similar for soy and red clover.

Computerized rhinomanometry: a study of total nasal resistance normal values.

Computerized rhinomanometry with the practical software programmes is used widely as a research tool to evaluate objectively nasal air flow and resistance parameters, while the increase of its clinical application may be facilitated by further standardization of the method. The aim of the study was to determine the total nasal resistance normal values in healthy adult population using a method of computerized rhinomanometry. A randomized sample of 108 white healthy adults (216 nasal cavities), both sexs with a mean age of 32 (20-45) years comprised the test group. Nasal patency was measured by active anterior rhinomanometry in non-decongested mucosa ("at rest") during 10 repetitive measurements at inspiratory and expiratory reference pressure of 150 Pa. Nasal resistance was measured and calculated according to the recommendations of the Committee on objective assessment of the nasal airway, International Rhinologic Society. The mean total nasal resistance in the sample was found to be 0.179 Pa/cm3/s with the confidant interval from 0,167 to 0,191 Pa/cm3/s at the probability level of 95%. Total nasal resistance was very significantly influenced by sex (t = -4.614), height (F=11.625) and weight (F=11.529) of the examinees. This paper provides additional information on total nasal resistance normal values in healthy adult population important for computirezed rhinomanometry normative parameters standardization.

[Postoperative histopathologic findings in sino-nasal polyposis].

INTRODUCTION: Sino-nasal polyposis is a frequent condition in clinical practice and various pathohistological features that they exhibit can be significant for clinical picture and prognosis of the illness. Aim of this research was to examine pathohistological characteristics of sino-nasal polyposis and according to references from literature to make a pathohistological classification. MATERIALAND METHOD: In the period from May to October 2009. we have analyzed pathohistological characteristics of sino-nasal polyposis in 25 patients. All patients were operated with funcional endoscopic surgery at the Institute of Otorhinolaryngology and Maxillofacial Surgery and pathohistologycal researches were done at the Institute of Pathology, University Medical School of Belgrade. RESULTS: Pathohistological findings in all operated patients confirmed sino-nasal polyposis and classification was establish in following pattern: 16 patients with edematous or eosinophilic polyps (64%), 6 patients with fibro-inflamatory polyps (24%) and 3 patients with hyperplasia of sero-mucous glands (12%). In 3 cases (12%) we have found atypical stromal cells but because of the rest of predominant pathohistological characteristics we did not separate these patients in additional group. CONCLUSION: Edematous or eosinophilic polyps represents predominant pathohistological type which is according to data from literature.

[Fungal sinusitis diagnostic management and classification].

The aim of this paper is to present the current classification of fungal sinusitis and share our experiences in diagnostic procedures and treatment outcomes. The study includes 31 patients operated since 2000-2009 in whom some form of fungal infection had been dignosed. There were 10 patients with mycetoma, and 16 patients with chronic non-invasive fungal sinusitis, while in five patients allergic fungal sinusitis was proven. All patients were treated postoperatively with topical steroids and irrigation with saline solution, without use of fungicides. Characteristics of chronic non-invasive fungal sinusitis and mycetoma are CT with specific opacification and calcification with involement of maxillary sinus unilaterally or bilateral together with pathohistological finding of positive staining by Grocott with the identification of fungi from secret or tissue. Allergic fungal Sinusitis is characterized by eosinophilia, positive skin test to fungal allergens, elevated serum level of both specific IgE antibodies to causal fungus and total IgE, as well as, pathohistological finding of allergic mucus which include non-invasive hifa. Fungal sinusitis in immunocompetent patients is classified into the following categories: mycetoma, chronic non-invasive fungal sinusitis, chronic indolent sinusitis (which does not occur in our population) and allergic fungal sinusitis.

[Classification of chronic inflammation of the upper respiratory tract based on allergy status]. / Klasifikacija hronicnih inflamacija gornjih disajnih puteva na bazi alergijskog statusa.

Almost one third to one half of all patients in otorhinolaryngologic practice experience some kind of inflammation of the upper respiratory tract out of which allergic mechanisms, either as primary factors or secondary ones, appear in 30-40% of adults and 60-80% of children and adolescents. The objective of this study was to analyse inflammatory conditions of the upper airways on the basis of allergic state of the patient and to establish the classification that will respect the actual immunological alteration level (subclinical allergy, clinical allergy) and spreading (localized allergy, generalized allergy). Inclusion criteria for all sixty nine patients were the diagnosis of chronic upper airway inflammation and their exposition just to ubiquitous allergens. Diagnostic procedure included anamnesis, physical examination and allergic in vivo testing of the skin and nasal mucosa to inhalant allergens. The certain categories of results were established for the skin prick-test (positive, negative, indefinite), specific nasal provocation test (positive, negative, hyperreactive) and nasal symptoms (present, absent). By using a strictly determined combination of results, we were able to define the six groups in our classification: nasal clinical allergy (30% of patients), non-nasal clinical allergy (19% of patients), localized nasal allergy (11% of patients), latent allergy (3% of patient), nonspecific nasal hyperreactivity (12% of patient) and non-allergic inflammation (25% of patients). Our classification takes into consideration the modern knowledge in the field of allergology and may bring an additional quality in respect to selection of therapy options, long-term follow-up of allergy status evolution in the individual person as well as intragroup and intergroup analysis of parameters important to evaluate the effects of antiallergic prevention or therapy.