Corrigendum: Self-Medication Among Pregnant Women: Prevalence and Associated Factors.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.659503.].

Evaluation of PD-L1 and tumor infiltrating lymphocytes in paired pretreatment biopsies and post neoadjuvant chemotherapy surgical specimens of breast carcinoma.

Herein it was evaluated the impact of PD-L1 immunohistochemical expression and stromal tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (sTIL) counts in pretreatment needle core biopsy on response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) for patients with breast carcinomas (BC). In 127 paired pre- and post-NACT BC specimens, immunohistochemical expression of PD-L1 was evaluated in stroma and in neoplastic cells. In the same samples sTILs were semi-quantified in tumor stroma. Post-NACT specimens were histologically rated as having residual cancer burden (RCB of any degree), or with complete pathological response (pCR). PD-L1 expression and higher sTIL counts were associated with histological grade 3 BC. PD-L1 expression was also associated with the non-luminal-HER2+ and triple negative immunohistochemical profiles of BC. Pathological complete response was associated with histological grade 3 tumors, and with the non-luminal-HER2+ and triple negative profiles. Additionally, our results support an association between PD-L1 expression and pCR to NACT. It was also observed that there is a trend to reduction of sTIL counts in the post-NACT specimens of patients with pCR. Of note, PD-L1 was expressed in half of the hormone receptor positive cases, a finding that might expand the potential use of immune checkpoint inhibitors for BC patients.

Self-Medication Among Pregnant Women: Prevalence and Associated Factors.

Objectives: The pregnancy period, with its peculiarities and specific symptoms that may or may not be physiological, can lead to medication use through prescription or even self-medication. This study aimed to assess self-medication practices among pregnant women, the most used medications, symptoms reported, and factors associated with this practice. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted with pregnant women with an antenatal care (ANC) appointment in a tertiary teaching hospital referral in women's health. From April 2019 to February 2020, 297 pregnant women were interviewed. Self-medication was considered as the use of any medicine (including medicinal plants (MPs), herbal products, and vitamins) without a medical or dental prescription. The period considered to assess self-medication practice was the last 60 days prior to the study interview. Results: Among the 297 women interviewed, 107 (36.0%) had practiced self-medication in the previous 60 days. Acetaminophen was the most used medication, and headache was the most frequent symptom reported by self-medicated pregnant women. Pregnant women with high-school (73 (68.2%) (OR = 2.52; 95% CI 1.17-5.43; p = 0.018)) or university-level (23 (21.5%) (OR = 2.82; 95% CI 1.15-6.94; p = 0.024)) education had a higher risk of practicing self-medication when compared to women with lower education. Women in the first gestational trimester (35 (32.7%) (OR = 3.61; 95% CI 1.64-7.96; p = 0.002)) and with two or more pregnancies (87 (81.2%) (OR = 1.96; 95% CI 1.07-3.60; p = 0.029)) were more likely to practice self-medication than pregnant women in the second or third gestational trimester and in the first pregnancy, respectively. Conclusion: Self-medication was practiced by a considerable proportion of our sample, with the majority being OTC drugs. The factors associated with self-medication can help to improve prevention strategies regarding self-medication during pregnancy.

Physical and functional well-being and symptoms of ovarian cancer in women undergoing first-line of chemotherapy: a one-year follow-up.

PURPOSE: Clinicopathological features and chemotherapy can influence the quality of life (QOL), women with ovarian cancer. This study aimed to evaluate the physical and functional well-being, and ovarian cancer-specific effects scores reported from QOL questionnaire among women with ovarian cancer at the time of in their initial diagnosis and access the scores trajectory of women receiving neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy. METHODS: This prospective study used cross-sectional analysis at baseline and longitudinal analysis from baseline to 12-month post-chemotherapy. QOL was evaluated at the baseline, at sixth cycle and 12-month post-chemotherapy using FACT-O questionnaire. Clinicopathological features and chemotherapy regime were evaluated and tested for associations with QOL measures. RESULTS: Of the 38 women enrolled in this study, 27 (80.1%) completed the questionnaire for 12 months. The multivariate linear regression results suggest, at the baseline, women with advance stage and presence of post-surgery residual disease showed lower scores in physical and functional well-being, ovarian cancer-specific effects, and FACT-O TOI domains (p < 0.05). Longitudinal analysis spanning over 12 months showed an improvement in mean physical well-being, functional well-being, and ovarian cancer-specific effects scores, independent of chemotherapy received (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: At the baseline, the clinicopathological features such as stage, presence of post-surgery residual disease, and type of chemotherapy correlated with on QOL scores. At one-year follow-up, women who underwent chemotherapy showed improvement in QOL regardless of the type of chemotherapy they received. Future prospective study with a larger group is recommended.

Switching of Hormone Therapies in Breast Cancer Women.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the present study was to analyze the reasons that led to hormone therapies (HTs) regimen changes in women with breast cancer. METHODS: This was a retrospective cross-sectional study from a single-institution Brazilian cancer center with patient records diagnosed with breast cancer between January 2012 and January 2017. RESULTS: From 1,555 women who were in treatment with HT, 213 (13.7%) women had HT switched, either tamoxifen to anastrozole or vice-versa. Most women included in the present study who switched HT were > 50 years old, postmenopausal, Caucasian, and had at least one comorbidity. From the group with therapy change, 'disease progression' was reason of change in 124 (58.2%) cases, and in 65 (30.5%) patients, 'presence of side effects' was the reason. From those women who suffered with side effects, 24 (36.9%) had comorbidities. CONCLUSION: The present study demonstrated a low rate of HT switch of tamoxifen to anastrozole. Among the reasons for changing therapy, the most common was disease progression, which includes cancer recurrence, metastasis or increased tumor. Side effects were second; furthermore, age and comorbidities are risk factors for side effects.

OBJETIVO: O objetivo do presente estudo foi analisar os motivos que levaram às mudanças no esquema hormonioterápico (HT) em mulheres com câncer de mama. MéTODOS: Estudo transversal retrospectivo realizado no Hospital da Mulher de Campinas e consequente pesquisa de prontuários de mulheres diagnosticados com câncer de mama entre janeiro de 2012 e janeiro de 2017. RESULTADOS: De 1.555 mulheres em tratamento com HT, 213 (13,7%) mulheres tiveram HT alterado, tamoxifeno para anastrozol ou vice-versa. A maioria das mulheres incluídas no presente estudo que tiveram mudança de HT tinha > 50 anos, estava na pós-menopausa, era caucasiana e tinha pelo menos uma comorbidade. Os principais motivos de troca de HT foram devido a 'progressão da doença', ocorrendo em 124 (58,2%) casos e a 'presença de efeitos colaterais' (n = 65; 30,5%). Das mulheres que sofreram efeitos colaterais, 24 (36,9%) apresentaram comorbidades. CONCLUSãO: O presente estudo demonstrou uma baixa taxa na alteração de tamoxifeno para anastrozol. Entre as razões mais comuns para alterar a HT estava a progressão da doença, que inclui recorrência do câncer, metástase ou aumento do tumor. Os efeitos colaterais foram a segunda causa e, além disso, a idade e as comorbidades foram fatores de risco para efeitos colaterais.

GSTP1 and ABCB1 Polymorphisms Predicting Toxicities and Clinical Management on Carboplatin and Paclitaxel-Based Chemotherapy in Ovarian Cancer.

Variation in drug disposition genes might contribute to susceptibility to toxicities and interindividual differences in clinical management on chemotherapy for epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). This study was designed to explore the association of GST and ABCB1 genetic variation with hematologic and neurologic toxicity, changes in chemotherapy, and disease prognosis in Brazilian women with EOC. A total of 112 women with a confirmed histological diagnosis of EOC treated with carboplatin/paclitaxel were enrolled (2014-2019). The samples were analyzed by multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the deletion of GSTM1 and GSTT1 genes. GSTP1 (c.313A>G/rs1695) and ABCB1 (c.1236C>T/rs1128503; c.3435C>T/rs1045642; c.2677G>T>A/rs2032582) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were detected by real-time PCR. Subjects with the GSTP1 c.313A>G had reduced risk of anemia (odds ratio (OR): 0.17, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.04-0.69, P = 0.01, dominant model) and for thrombocytopenia (OR: 0.27, 95% CI: 0.12-0.64, P < 0.01; OR 0.18, 95% CI 0.03-0.85, P = 0.03, either dominant or recessive model), respectively. The GSTP1 c.313A>G AG genotype was associated with a lower risk of dose delay (OR: 0.35, 95% CI: 0.13-0.90, P = 0.03). The ABCB1 c.1236C>T was associated with increased risk of thrombocytopenia (OR: 0.15, 95% CI: 0.03-0.82, P = 0.03), whereas ABCB1 c.3435C>T had increased risk of grade 2 and 3 neurotoxicity (OR: 3.61, 95% CI: 1.08-121.01, P = 0.03) in recessive model (CC + CT vs. TT). This study suggests that GSTP1 c.313A>G, ABCB1 c.1236C>T, and c.3435C>T SNP detection is a potential predictor of hematological toxicity and neurotoxicity and could help predict the clinical management of women with EOC.

Urinary Incontinence and Overactive Bladder Symptoms in Women with Breast Cancer Being Treated with Oral Hormone Therapy.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the present study is to observe the frequency and severity of urinary symptoms in women with breast cancer (BC) being treated with oral hormone therapy, associating them to drug adherence. METHODS: The participants were interviewed once from June to October 2016. The evaluation of urinary symptoms was performed by two questionnaires: International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire - Short Form (ICIQ-SF) and International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Overactive Bladder Module (ICIQ-OAB). Adherence was evaluated by the Morisky-Green method. Statistical analysis was performed by the Mann-Whitney test, linear regression, and Spearman correlation. RESULTS: Fifty-eight women were interviewed: 42 treated with tamoxifen and 16 with aromatase inhibitor. Twenty-seven women (46.5%) presented urinary incontinence symptoms and 15 (25.8%) presented stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Fourteen (24.1%) women had symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB). There was no statistical difference in symptoms between both treatments and duration of treatments. Higher scores in the ICIQ-SF questionnaire were associated with low/medium adherence and advanced age. Higher scores in the ICIQ-OAB questionnaire were associated with low/medium adherence. CONCLUSION: The present study showed a high prevalence of urinary symptoms, such as urinary incontinence and OAB, associated with low/medium adherence and older age in women with BC being treated with oral hormone therapy. Health professionals should be alert to these symptoms since it could influence life quality and adherence to treatment.

OBJETIVO: O objetivo do presente estudo foi observar a frequência e a gravidade dos sintomas urinários em mulheres com câncer de mama em uso de terapia hormonal oral, associando estes com a adesão ao tratamento. MéTODOS: As pacientes foram entrevistadas uma única vez, entre junho e outubro de 2016. A avaliação dos sintomas urinários foi realizada por dois questionários: International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire - Short Form (ICIQ-SF, na sigla em inglês) e o Questionário Sobre Bexiga Hiperativa (ICIQ-OAB, na sigla em inglês). A adesão foi avaliada pelo método Morisky-Green. A análise estatística foi realizada pelo teste de Mann-Whitney, regressão linear e correlação de Spearman. RESULTADOS: Foram entrevistadas 58 mulheres: 42 tratadas com tamoxifeno e 16 com inibidor de aromatase. Vinte e sete mulheres (46,5%) apresentaram sintomas de incontinência urinária (IU) e 15 (25,8%) apresentaram incontinência urinária por estresse (IUS). Quatorze (24,1%) das mulheres tinham sintomas de bexiga hiperativa. Não houve diferença estatística nos sintomas entre os tratamentos e a duração dos tratamentos. Os escores mais elevados no questionário ICIQ-SF estiveram associados à baixa/média adesão e à idade avançada. Os escores mais elevados no questionário da ICIQ-OAB foram associados à baixa/média adesão. CONCLUSãO: O presente estudo mostrou alta prevalência de sintomas urinários, como IU e bexiga hiperativa, associadas à baixa/média adesão e à idade mais avançada em mulheres com câncer de mama em tratamento com hormonioterapia oral. Os profissionais de saúde devem estar atentos a esses sintomas, pois eles podem influenciar a qualidade de vida e a adesão ao tratamento.

Urinary incontinence and overactive bladder symptoms in women with breast cancer being treated with oral hormone therapy / Incontinência urinária e sintomas de bexiga hiperativa em mulheres com câncer de mama em tratamento com terapia hormonal oral

Abstract Objective: The objective of the present study is to observe the frequency and severity of urinary symptoms in women with breast cancer (BC) being treated with oral hormone therapy, associating them to drug adherence. Methods: The participants were interviewed once from June to October 2016. The evaluation of urinary symptoms was performed by two questionnaires: International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire - Short Form (ICIQ-SF) and International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Overactive Bladder Module (ICIQ-OAB). Adherence was evaluated by the Morisky-Green method. Statistical analysis was performed by the Mann-Whitney test, linear regression, and Spearman correlation. Results: Fifty-eight women were interviewed: 42 treated with tamoxifen and 16 with aromatase inhibitor. Twenty-seven women (46.5%) presented urinary incontinence symptoms and 15 (25.8%) presented stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Fourteen (24.1%) women had symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB). There was no statistical difference in symptoms between both treatments and duration of treatments. Higher scores in the ICIQ-SF questionnaire were associated with low/medium adherence and advanced age. Higher scores in the ICIQ-OAB questionnaire were associated with low/medium adherence. Conclusion: The present study showed a high prevalence of urinary symptoms, such as urinary incontinence and OAB, associated with low/medium adherence and older age in women with BC being treated with oral hormone therapy. Health professionals should be alert to these symptoms since it could influence life quality and adherence to treatment.

Resumo Objetivo: O objetivo do presente estudo foi observar a frequência e a gravidade dos sintomas urinários em mulheres com câncer de mama em uso de terapia hormonal oral, associando estes com a adesão ao tratamento. Métodos: As pacientes foram entrevistadas uma única vez, entre junho e outubro de 2016. A avaliação dos sintomas urinários foi realizada por dois questionários: International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire - Short Form (ICIQ-SF, na sigla em inglês) e o Questionário Sobre Bexiga Hiperativa (ICIQ-OAB, na sigla em inglês). A adesão foi avaliada pelo método Morisky-Green. A análise estatística foi realizada pelo teste de Mann-Whitney, regressão linear e correlação de Spearman. Resultados: Foram entrevistadas 58 mulheres: 42 tratadas com tamoxifeno e 16 com inibidor de aromatase. Vinte e sete mulheres (46,5%) apresentaram sintomas de incontinência urinária (IU) e 15 (25,8%) apresentaram incontinência urinária por estresse (IUS). Quatorze (24,1%) das mulheres tinham sintomas de bexiga hiperativa. Não houve diferença estatística nos sintomas entre os tratamentos e a duração dos tratamentos. Os escores mais elevados no questionário ICIQ-SF estiveram associados à baixa/média adesão e à idade avançada. Os escores mais elevados no questionário da ICIQ-OAB foram associados à baixa/média adesão. Conclusão: O presente estudo mostrou alta prevalência de sintomas urinários, como IU e bexiga hiperativa, associadas à baixa/média adesão e à idade mais avançada em mulheres com câncer de mama em tratamento com hormonioterapia oral. Os profissionais de saúde devem estar atentos a esses sintomas, pois eles podem influenciar a qualidade de vida e a adesão ao tratamento.

Influence of Gender and Undergraduate Course on the Knowledge about HPV and HPV Vaccine, and Vaccination Rate among Students of a Public University.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the knowledge related to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and the rate of HPV vaccination among undergraduate freshmen and senior students of medicine, pharmacy, speech therapy, nursing and physical education in a Brazilian university. METHODS: A questionnaire concerning sociodemographic aspects, sexual background, and knowledge about HPV and its vaccine was filled out by 492 students. Three months later, a second questionnaire, concerning the new rate of vaccination, was applied to 233 students. RESULTS: Among the 290 women who answered the first questionnaire, 47% of the freshmen and 13% of the seniors stated they were not sexually active, as well as 11% of the 202 freshman and senior male students. Although the knowledge about HPV was higher among women, they reported a lower use of condoms. More than 83% of the women and 66% of the men knew that HPV can cause cervical cancer, but less than 30% of the students knew that HPV can cause vulvar, anal, penile and oropharyngeal cancer. Less than half of the students knew that HPV causes genital, anal and oropharyngeal warts. Comparing the students, the seniors had more knowledge of the fact that HPV is sexually transmitted, and that HPV infection can be asymptomatic. The rate of vaccination was of 26% for women, and of 8% for men, and it increased to 52% and 27% respectively among the 233 students evaluated in the second questionnaire. CONCLUSION: As almost half of freshman women declared being sexually inactive, the investment in public health information programs and easier access to the HPV vaccine seem to be a useful strategy for undergraduate students.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o conhecimento sobre a infecção pelo vírus do papiloma humano (human papillomavirus, HPV, em inglês) e a taxa de vacinação entre estudantes calouros e veteranos do quarto ano dos cursos de medicina, farmácia, fonoaudiologia, enfermagem e educação física de uma universidade brasileira. MéTODOS: Um primeiro questionário sobre aspectos sociodemográficos, antecedentes sexuais e conhecimento sobre o HPV e sua vacina foi aplicado a 492 estudantes. Três meses depois, foi aplicado um novo questionário, a 233 estudantes, que avaliava a nova taxa de vacinação entre eles. RESULTADOS: Entre as 290 mulheres que responderam ao questionário, 47% das calouras e 13% das veteranas negaram início de atividade sexual. Entre os 202 calouros e veteranos do sexo masculino avaliados, essa taxa foi de 11%. Apesar de o conhecimento sobre o HPV ter sido maior entre as mulheres, elas declararam menor uso de preservativo. Mais de 83% das mulheres e 66% dos homens sabiam que o HPV causa câncer de colo de útero, mas menos de 30% de todos os alunos sabiam que o HPV pode causar câncer de vulva, ânus, pênis e orofaringe, e menos de 50% sabiam que o HPV pode causar verrugas genitais, anais e orofaríngeas. Comparando calouros e veteranos, houve um aumento no conhecimento de que o HPV é sexualmente transmitido, e de que sua infecção pode ser assintomática, entre os veteranos em comparação com os calouros. Pela taxa de vacinação analisada no segundo questionário, identificou-se que, antes do início da pesquisa, 26% das mulheres e 8% dos homens haviam sido vacinados, e, no momento da aplicação do segundo questionário, essas taxas subiram para 52% e 27%, respectivamente, entre os 233 alunos avaliados. CONCLUSãO: Quase metade das calouras relataram não ser sexualmente ativas, e a maioria delas ainda não era vacinada contra o HPV. O ingresso no Ensino Superior parece um momento oportuno para a realização de campanhas governamentais de conscientização e vacinação contra o HPV.

Role of discoidin domain receptor 2 (DDR2) and microRNA-182 in survival of women with high-grade serous ovarian cancer.

The objective of this study is to evaluate the relationship between discoidin domain receptor 2 (DDR2) and miR-182 expression with response to platinum-based chemotherapy and survival in women with high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC). We evaluated 78 women with HGSOC stages I-IV, diagnosed between 1996 and 2013, and followed up until 2016. DDR2 expression was assessed using immunohistochemistry on tissue microarray slides. The microRNAs were evaluated by qRT-PCR. DDR2 expression was high in 11 (14.1%) women. PFS was significantly lower in women with FIGO stage I/II - versus III/IV, post-surgery residual disease and high expression of DDR2. Women with postsurgery residual disease, FIGO stage I/II - versus III/IV and DDR2 expression had worse OS, but only post-surgery residual disease remained an independent prognostic factor for worse OS in multivariable analysis. miR-182 expression levels were significantly lower in patients harboring tumors with higher expression of DDR2 (p < 0.001). In this relatively large cohort of women with HSGOC, higher DDR2 expression was associated with lower miR-182 levels and worse PFS, suggesting that these molecules may be associated with mechanisms of HGSOC progression.

Adherence and quality of life in women with breast cancer being treated with oral hormone therapy.

PURPOSE: To evaluate adherence to oral hormone therapy (HT) and which factors impact in incomplete adherence and quality of life. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study. SETTING: Women's Hospital Prof. Dr. José Aristodemo Pinotti. PARTICIPANTS: women with breast cancer under treatment with oral HT. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: interview and performed an adherence questionnaire (Morisky-Green) and two questionnaires of quality of life (EORTC-QLQ30/BR23). The interviews were done once in a 5-month period. RESULTS: Fifty-eight women were interviewed: 42 under treatment with tamoxifen (TX) and 16 under treatment with aromatase inhibitor (AI). Twenty-six women (44%) showed high adherence to the treatment, 31 (54%) medium adherence, and 1 (2%) low adherence. Statistical analysis showed a relation between incomplete adherence and systemic therapy side effects as well as higher stages of disease, with no difference between the two drugs. When treatments were compared, this study showed treatment with AI presented less breast symptoms and better role functioning. Quality of life score was high, compared to the reference value. CONCLUSIONS: A low percentage of women with breast cancer were highly adherent to HT treatment. Low/medium adherence was associated with higher stages of disease and systemic side effects. Quality of life had high scores, with better role function and less breast symptoms in women being treated with an AI.

Immunohistochemistry expression of targeted therapies biomarkers in ovarian clear cell and endometrioid carcinomas (type I) and endometriosis.

Ovarian clear cell and endometrioid carcinomas (type I) are thought to develop from endometriosis. ARID1A loss of expression is known to be related to the promotion of the endometriosis carcinogenesis. Despite the diverse origins and prognosis of type I and type II carcinomas, surgery followed by platinum-based chemotherapy is the mainstay of treatment for both. Limited knowledge about the expression of targeted therapies' biomarkers prevents the use of such markers as potential guides for tailored treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the expression of ARID1A gene and target therapies biomarkers (VEGF, PD-L1, and PARP-1) in ovarian clear cell and endometrioid carcinomas and endometriosis, and its relationship with prognosis. Forty-six ovarian clear cell and endometrioid carcinomas, and 24 endometriosis foci samples retrieved from the same surgical specimens were studied. ARID1A, VEGF, PD-L1, and PARP-1 immunohistochemistry expression was compared in carcinomas and endometriosis with regard to the clinicopathological features and prognosis. We found that endometriosis was associated with increased rates of diagnosis of cancer in the initial stages (P = .008). Different levels of expression of all biomarkers were detected in clear cell and endometrioid carcinomas and endometriosis. However, only the VEGF expression level showed a significant increase in the carcinoma group when compared with endometriosis (P = .0002). PARP-1 overexpression correlated with worse progression-free survival (P = .03) and overall survival (P = .01). In conclusion, endometriosis and ovarian clear cell and endometrioid carcinomas exhibited ARID1A loss of expression, and VEGF, PD-L1, and PARP-1 expression. PARP-1 overexpression in clear cell and endometrioid carcinomas was associated with early recurrence and worse overall survival.

Endometriosis-Associated Ovarian Cancer: Population Characteristics and Prognosis.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to analyze and compare the clinicopathologic features and prognosis of clear cell ovarian carcinoma (CCOC) and endometrioid ovarian carcinoma (EOC) associated or not with endometriosis. METHODS: This was a reconstituted cohort study from a single-institution Brazilian cancer center approved under review board no. 68150617.7.0000.5404 with 50 patients with CCOC and EOC diagnosed between 1995 and 2016, followed up until 2017. Clinicopathologic characteristics and survival outcomes were analyzed. RESULT(S): There were 23 women (46%) with CCOC and 27 with EOC (54%); 80% of those women had histologic confirmation of endometriosis; 42% were nulliparous, and 42% were premenopausal; and cancer antigen 125 was elevated in both International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stages I-II disease (mean, 614.7 Ui/mL; range, 3-6030 Ui/mL) or International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stages III-IV disease (mean, 2361.2 Ui/mL; range, 8-12771 Ui/mL). Women with EOC were 7 years younger than those with CCOC. When associated with endometriosis, CCOCs were more likely diagnosed at earlier stages. Endometrioid ovarian carcinoma and CCOC at initial stage and EOC at advanced stage share similar good prognosis. Univariate analysis showed that CCOC not associated with endometriosis has worse overall survival (OS). However, multivariate analysis showed that only abnormally elevated levels of cancer antigen 125 and advanced stage at diagnosis were significantly associated with reduced progression-free survival. Tumor stage remains the only prognostic factor for OS. CONCLUSIONS: The presence of coexisting endometriosis did not change the prognosis of EOC but was associated with better OS in patients with CCOC. Patients with CCOC and EOC at initial stages and EOC at advanced stages have a good prognosis; however, CCOC at advanced stages had a sooner recurrence and shorter OS.

WT1, p53 and p16 expression in the diagnosis of low- and high-grade serous ovarian carcinomas and their relation to prognosis.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic value of the immunohistochemical expression of WT1, p53 and p16 in low- (LGSOCs) and high-grade serous ovarian carcinomas (HGSOCs). RESULTS: HGSOC had a significantly higher proportion of advanced stage disease, higher CA125 levels, higher proportion of post-surgery residual disease and higher recurrence or disease progression. WT1 was expressed in 71.4% of LGSOCs and in 57.1% of HGSOCs (p = 0.32). Focal and/or complete absence of p53 expression with negative p16 expression was found in 90.5% of LGSOCs, in contrast to the 88.1% of HGSOCs with diffuse or complete absence of p53 expression with positive p16 expression (<0.001). The IHC p53/p16 index and the morphological classification were closely matched (k = 0.68). In the univariate analysis, FIGO stage, post-surgery residual disease and histological grade were significantly associated with progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). The IHC p53/p16 index was associated only with PFS. WT1 was not associated with PFS or OS. According to the multivariate analysis, advanced FIGO stage and presence of post-surgery residual disease remained independent prognostic factors for worst PFS, however these features had only a trend association with OS. METHODS: 21 LGSOC and 85 HGSOC stage I-IV cases were included. The morphological classification was assessed according to the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed in tissue microarray slides. IHC p53/p16 index was compared with the morphological classification. CONCLUSIONS: The IHC p53/p16 index was a good marker for the differentiation of LGSOC and HGSOC, but the morphologic classification showed a better association with survival. FIGO stage and post-surgery residual disease remained the only independent prognostic factors for survival.

BRCA1, Ki67, and ß-Catenin Immunoexpression Is Not Related to Differentiation, Platinum Response, or Prognosis in Women With Low- and High-Grade Serous Ovarian Carcinoma.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to compare the immunohistochemical expression of BRCA1, Ki67, and ß-catenin in women with low-grade (LGSOC) and high-grade serous ovarian carcinomas (HGSOC) and their relationship with clinicopathological features, response to platinum-based chemotherapy, and survival. METHODS: For this study, 21 LGSOC and 85 HGSOC stage I to IV cases, diagnosed and treated from 1996 to 2013 and followed-up until December 2016, were included. BRCA1, Ki67, and ß-catenin expression was assessed using tissue microarray-based immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: Women with HGSOC were significantly more likely to have advanced-stage disease (P < 0.001), higher CA125 levels (P < 0.001), postsurgery residual disease (P < 0.01), and higher rates of disease progression and recurrence (P = 0.001). The percentage of women with HGSOC whose tumors expressed Ki67 was significantly higher compared with women with LGSOC (P < 0.001). The expression of BRCA1 and ß-catenin did not differ between LGSOC and HGSOC (P = 0.12 and P = 1.00, respectively). The clinicopathological features and the response to platinum-based chemotherapy did not differ according to the BRCA1, Ki67, and ß-catenin expression in either group. In HGSOC, only International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage was independently associated with poor survival (PFS and OS). CONCLUSIONS: Ki67 expression was significantly higher in HGSOC. BRCA1 and ß-catenin expression did not differ between LGSOC and HGSOC samples. BRCA1, Ki67, and ß-catenin expression was neither related to clinicopathological features, response to platinum-based chemotherapy, nor survival. Only International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage remained associated with poor survival in women with HGSOC.

Potential Drug Interactions and Drug Risk during Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: An Observational Study in a Women's Health Intensive Care Unit

Introduction In the pregnancy-puerperal cycle, women may develop complications that require admission to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Thus, special attention to pharmacotherapy is necessary, particularly to potential drug interactions (PDIs) and to the effect of the drugs on the fetus and newborn. Objective The aim of this study was to determine the profile of PDIs and the potential risk of drugs used during pregnancy and breastfeeding among patients admitted to the ICU. Methods We conducted an observational, cross-sectional and prospective study, including pregnant and breastfeeding women admitted to the ICU at the Women's Hospital of a university in the city of Campinas, Brazil, for one year. Online databases were used to identify and classify the PDIs and the potential risk of the drugs used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Results We evaluated 305 prescriptions of 58 women, 31 pregnant and 27 breastfeeding, and 284 (91%) prescriptions presented PDIs. A total of 175 different combinations of PDIs were identified in the prescriptions, and adverse effects caused by the simultaneous use of drugs were not actually observed in the clinical practice. A total of 26 (1.4%) PDIs were classified as contraindicated. We identified 15 (13.8%) drugs prescribed with risk D, and 2 (1.8%) with risk X for pregnant women, as well as 4 (4.9%) drugs prescribed with high risk for breastfeeding women. Conclusions This study demonstrates that there is a high incidence of PDIs in prescriptions. Most drugs used by pregnant and breastfeeding women at the ICU did not present serious risks to their fetus and newborns, but sometimes drugs with risk D or X are necessary in the course of the treatment.

Introdução No ciclo gravídico-puerperal, as mulheres podem desenvolver complicações que necessitam de internação na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva (UTI). Assim, é necessária uma atenção especial à farmacoterapia, particularmente às interações medicamentosas potenciais (IMPs) e ao risco dos medicamentos para o feto e o recém-nascido. Objetivo Determinar o perfil das IMPs e o risco potencial dos medicamentos utilizados durante a gravidez e a amamentação entre as mulheres internadas em UTI. Métodos Foi realizado um corte transversal e prospectivo, observacional, incluindo mulheres grávidas e lactantes internadas na UTI do Hospital da Mulher de uma universidade de Campinas durante um ano. Bases de dados online foram usadas para identificar e classificar as IMPs e o potencial risco de uso de medicamentos durante a gravidez e a amamentação. Resultados Foram avaliadas 305 prescrições de 58 mulheres, 31 grávidas e 27 lactantes, e 284 (91%) prescrições apresentaram IMPs, sendo que 175 combinações diferentes de IMPs foram identificadas nas prescrições, e não foram observados efeitos nocivos pelo uso concomitante dos medicamentos na prática clínica. Um total de 26 (1,4%) IMPs foram classificadas como contraindicadas. Foram identificados 15 (13,8%) medicamentos prescritos com risco D, e 2 (1,8%) com risco X para mulheres grávidas, e foram identificados 4 (4,9%) medicamentos prescritos como de alto risco para as mulheres que estavam amamentando. Conclusões Este estudo demonstra que há uma alta incidência de IMPs nas prescrições. A maioria dos medicamentos utilizados por mulheres grávidas e lactantes em UTI não apresentou sérios riscos para o feto e o recém-nascido, mas às vezes são necessários medicamentos categorizados como risco D ou X.

Potential Drug Interactions and Drug Risk during Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: An Observational Study in a Women's Health Intensive Care Unit / Interações medicamentosas potenciais e risco de medicamentos durante a gravidez e amamentação: um estudo observacional em unidade de terapia intensiva

Abstract Introduction In the pregnancy-puerperal cycle, women may develop complications that require admission to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Thus, special attention to pharmacotherapy is necessary, particularly to potential drug interactions (PDIs) and to the effect of the drugs on the fetus and newborn. Objective The aim of this study was to determine the profile of PDIs and the potential risk of drugs used during pregnancy and breastfeeding among patients admitted to the ICU. Methods We conducted an observational, cross-sectional and prospective study, including pregnant and breastfeeding women admitted to the ICU at the Women's Hospital of a university in the city of Campinas, Brazil, for one year. Online databases were used to identify and classify the PDIs and the potential risk of the drugs used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Results We evaluated 305 prescriptions of 58 women, 31 pregnant and 27 breastfeeding, and 284 (91%) prescriptions presented PDIs. A total of 175 different combinations of PDIs were identified in the prescriptions, and adverse effects caused by the simultaneous use of drugs were not actually observed in the clinical practice. A total of 26 (1.4%) PDIs were classified as contraindicated. We identified 15 (13.8%) drugs prescribed with risk D, and 2 (1.8%) with risk X for pregnant women, as well as 4 (4.9%) drugs prescribed with high risk for breastfeeding women. Conclusions This study demonstrates that there is a high incidence of PDIs in prescriptions. Most drugs used by pregnant and breastfeeding women at the ICU did not present serious risks to their fetus and newborns, but sometimes drugs with risk D or X are necessary in the course of the treatment.

Resumo Introdução No ciclo gravídico-puerperal, as mulheres podem desenvolver complicações que necessitam de internação na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva (UTI). Assim, é necessária uma atenção especial à farmacoterapia, particularmente às interações medicamentosas potenciais (IMPs) e ao risco dos medicamentos para o feto e o recémnascido. Objetivo Determinar o perfil das IMPs e o risco potencial dos medicamentos utilizados durante a gravidez e a amamentação entre as mulheres internadas em UTI. Métodos Foi realizado um corte transversal e prospectivo, observacional, incluindo mulheres grávidas e lactantes internadas na UTI do Hospital da Mulher de uma universidade de Campinas durante um ano. Bases de dados online foram usadas para identificar e classificar as IMPs e o potencial risco de uso de medicamentos durante a gravidez e a amamentação. Resultados Foram avaliadas 305 prescrições de 58 mulheres, 31 grávidas e 27 lactantes, e 284 (91%) prescrições apresentaram IMPs, sendo que 175 combinações diferentes de IMPs foram identificadas nas prescrições, e não foram observados efeitos nocivos pelo uso concomitante dos medicamentos na prática clínica. Um total de 26 (1,4%) IMPs foram classificadas como contraindicadas. Foram identificados 15 (13,8%) medicamentos prescritos com risco D, e 2 (1,8%) com risco X para mulheres grávidas, e foram identificados 4 (4,9%) medicamentos prescritos como de alto risco para as mulheres que estavam amamentando. Conclusões Este estudo demonstra que há uma alta incidência de IMPs nas prescrições. A maioria dos medicamentos utilizados por mulheres grávidas e lactantes em UTI não apresentou sérios riscos para o feto e o recém-nascido, mas às vezes são necessários medicamentos categorizados como risco D ou X.