The effects of losartan or angiotensin II receptor antagonists on cartilage: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to analyze the latest evidence on the effects of losartan or Ang II receptor antagonists on cartilage repair, with a focus on their clinical relevance. DESIGN: The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched up to November 12th 2021 to evaluate the effects of losartan or Ang II receptor antagonists on cartilage repair in in vitro studies and in vivo animal studies. Study design, sample characteristics, treatment type, duration, and outcomes were analyzed. The risk of bias and the quality of the eligible studies were assessed using the Systematic Review Centre for Laboratory Animal Experimentation (SYRCLE) risk of bias assessment tool and Collaborative Approach to Meta-Analysis and Review of Animal Data from Experimental Studies (CAMARADES). RESULTS: A total of 12 studies were included in this systematic review. Of the 12 eligible studies, two studies were in vitro human studies, three studies were in vitro animal studies, one study was an in vitro human and animal study, and six studies were in vivo animal studies. The risk bias and quality assessments were predominantly classified as moderate. Since meta-analysis was difficult due to differences in treatment type, dosage, route of administration, and method of outcome assessment among the eligible studies, qualitative evaluation was conducted for each study. CONCLUSIONS: Both in vitro and in vivo studies provide evidence to demonstrate beneficial effects of Ang II receptor antagonists on osteoarthritis and cartilage defect models across animal species.

RrgA is a pilus-associated adhesin in Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Adherence to host cells is important in microbial colonization of a mucosal surface, and Streptococcus pneumoniae adherence was significantly enhanced by expression of an extracellular pilus composed of three subunits, RrgA, RrgB and RrgC. We sought to determine which subunit(s) confers adherence. Bacteria deficient in RrgA are significantly less adherent than wild-type organisms, while overexpression of RrgA enhances adherence. Recombinant monomeric RrgA binds to respiratory cells, as does RrgC with less affinity, and pre-incubation of epithelial cells with RrgA reduces adherence of wild-type piliated pneumococci. Non-adherent RrgA-negative, RrgB- and RrgC-positive organisms produce pili, suggesting that pilus-mediated adherence is due to expression of RrgA, rather than the pilus backbone itself. In contrast, RrgA-positive strains with disrupted rrgB and rrgC genes exhibit wild-type adherence despite failure to produce pili by Western blot or immunoelectron microscopy. The density of bacteria colonizing the upper respiratory tract of mice inoculated with piliated RrgA-negative pneumococci was significantly less compared with wild-type; in contrast, non-piliated pneumococci expressing non-polymeric RrgA had similar numbers of bacteria in the nasopharynx as piliated wild-type bacteria. These data suggest that RrgA is central in pilus-mediated adherence and disease, even in the absence of polymeric pilus production.

Contrasting murine models of MS.

There are two main animal model systems currently used to study MS: experimental autoimmune/allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) and experimental viral infection, including the Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV). Both models have led to a greater understanding of MS and the development of clinical therapies. These systems have allowed in-depth study of the immune system and inflammatory mechanisms potentially involved in MS pathophysiology. Analysing therapeutic successes and failures with both models may also help the development of more directed, positive treatments for MS that have fewer negative effects.

Levonorgestrel implants (Norplant II) for male contraception clinical trials: combination with transdermal and injectable testosterone.

Recent studies demonstrate that combinations of androgens and progestagens are highly effective in the suppression of spermatogenesis in normal volunteers. To test whether progestagen and androgen delivery systems designed to produce steady serum levels will be as effective as other androgen plus progestagen combinations, we compared Norplant II and testosterone (T) transdermal patch to T patch alone on the suppression of spermatogenesis in normal men. Thirty-nine healthy male volunteers (age, 20-45 yr) were randomly assigned to one of two groups. Group 1 (n = 19) received two transdermal T patches daily (Testoderm TTS, each patch designed to deliver about 5 mg/d T) alone, and group 2 (n = 20) received combined Norplant II [Jadelle, four capsules delivering approximately 160 microg/d levonorgestrel (LNG)] plus T patch. Neither of these regimens were very effective, with suppression of spermatogenesis to severe oligozoospermia occurring in less than 60% of subjects. We then expanded the study to include two more groups to determine whether T patch or Norplant II was the main factor causing the inadequate suppression of spermatogenesis. Another 29 subjects were randomized to one of two groups. Group 3 (n = 15) received oral LNG (125 microg/d) plus T patch, and group 4 (n = 14) received Norplant II plus T enanthate (TE) injection (100 mg/wk i.m.). After a pretreatment phase of 4 wk, all subjects received treatment for 24 wk, followed by a recovery period of 12-24 wk. Steady-state serum LNG levels (800-1200 pmol/liter) were achieved from wk 3-24 after Norplant II insertion and decreased rapidly after the removal of the implants at wk 24. Trough serum LNG levels after oral LNG administration were at a comparable range (940-1300 pmol/liter). Azoospermia was achieved in 24%, 35%, 33%, and 93%, and severe oligozoospermia (<1 x 10(6)/ml) developed in 24%, 60%, 42%, and 100% of the subjects in groups 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively, during treatment phase. All subjects in the Norplant II plus TE groups had persistent sperm concentrations less than 3 x 10(6)/ml from wk 12 until the end of treatment. Concomitant with the marked suppression of spermatogenesis in the Norplant II plus TE group, serum FSH and LH levels were most decreased in this group compared with all other groups. In the T patch-only group, serum SHBG was not suppressed, and total serum T was higher than baseline levels. In the other three groups administered progestagens, serum SHBGs were significantly suppressed, and serum total T remained similar to baseline levels. Serum free T levels were not changed in any group. Except for a suppression of serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, there was no significant change in weight, hematocrit, clinical chemistry, or prostate-specific antigen levels in any of the treatment groups. Although more efficacious than T patch alone, Norplant II or oral LNG plus T patch was not as effective in suppressing spermatogenesis to severe oligo- or azoospermia as in previous reports using oral LNG plus TE. This relative lesser efficacy occurred despite the achievement of serum LNG levels by Norplant II that were equivalent to those reported after administration of oral LNG. Substituting the transdermal T delivery system with TE injections resulted in very effective suppression of sperm output. The difference in spermatogenesis suppression of these combined regimens is likely due to less T delivered by the transdermal patch compared with the TE weekly injections. We conclude that Norplant II implants plus TE 100 mg/wk were very efficient in suppressing spermatogenesis to a level acceptable for contraceptive efficacy. This study demonstrates that the dose or route of administration of androgens is critical for sperm suppression in combined androgen-progestagen regimens for hormonal male contraception.

The intrauterine contraceptive device.

The intrinsic appeal of the convenience and effectiveness of the IUD has increased interest in these devices in the United States in recent years. Understanding the uniqueness of the Dalkon Shield experience and applying the lessons learned about appropriate candidate selection should continue to reduce any lingering liability concerns. One lawsuit has been filed against the copper IUD in the 12 years that it has been available in the United States. If legislation requiring insurance coverage for IUDs and other prescription contraceptive agents continues to be passed by more states, the use of IUDs will continue to grow. The introduction of new IUDs with different side-effect profiles will expand the number of US women who can and will be interested in using this method of birth control.

Design of the advanced commode-shower chair for spinal cord-injured individuals.

The purpose of this development project was to design a new commode-shower chair that can be safely used by individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI) and their caregivers. The need for this new design was consumer-driven. Patients and caregivers identified the following fatal flaws in the commode-shower chairs used in Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) centers: 1) risk for patient falls during transfers, propelling, and while leaning over for showering; 2) risk for pressure ulcers due to inadequate padding and seat positioning for lengthy bowel care regimes; 3) inadequate caregiver access to the perianal area of the patient to perform bowel care procedures; and, 4) wheel-related inability to properly position the chair directly over the toilet. The new, self-propelled chair addresses each of these concerns. Lockable, swing-away, pivoting armrests and improved, lever-activated brakes were designed to facilitate safe transfers. An innovative foot-lift was invented to facilitate washing of feet. Larger handrims were designed to aid in propulsion in wet environments. To prevent pressure ulcers, a chair frame and padding combination was designed to facilitate a seating position that optimally distributes body weight to prevent the development of pressure ulcers in the sacral and ischial areas. To address the common risk of heel ulcers, footrests, featuring edgeless, rounded heel cups, were designed. A new tubular chair frame, a new seat and smaller wheels were designed to enhance caregiver access and ensure proper chair positioning over the toilet. Following its successful clinical evaluation at the Milwaukee and Tampa VA Medical SCI Centers, the Advanced commode-shower chair is being patented by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The VA has partnered with Everest & Jennings, to make this chair available commercially.

Transrectal ultrasonographically guided drainage of gynecologic pelvic abscesses.

OBJECTIVE: This study assessed the feasibility of ultrasonographically guided transrectal aspiration of gynecologic pelvic abscesses to treat patients for whom intravenous antibiotic therapies failed and whose abscesses were not optimally amenable to colpotomy drainage or transabdominal or transvaginal ultrasonographically guided aspiration. STUDY DESIGN: This was a retrospective review of the first 15 women with pelvic abscesses that resulted from salpingitis or complications of gynecologic surgery who underwent transrectal pelvic abscess drainage after failure of antibiotic therapy. RESULTS: Purulent material was aspirated from the abscesses in 14 of the 15 women. All 14 women with aspirated material were successfully treated with real-time ultrasonographically guided transrectal drainage; only 4 of the 14 had indwelling catheter placement. CONCLUSION: Ultrasonographically guided transrectal drainage of gynecologic pelvic abscesses is a safe and effective treatment of pelvic abscesses for women who do not have an adequate response to antibiotic therapy.

Evaluation of the efficacy of a polyurethane condom: results from a randomized, controlled clinical trial.

CONTEXT: Condoms made of latex are not comfortable or appropriate for all consumers. Polyurethane condoms may provide a needed alternative. METHODS: In a double-masked study, 805 monogamous couples were randomized to use either the polyurethane condom or the latex condom for six months. Couples recorded the frequency of intercourse, of condom use and of breakage and slippage throughout the trial in coital diaries and in detailed reports on the first five uses. Breakage and slippage rates were determined, and typical-use and consistent-use pregnancy rates were calculated using life-table analysis, adjusted for use of emergency contraception. RESULTS: The six-month pregnancy rate during typical use (adjusted for use of emergency contraception) was 4.8% for the polyurethane condom and 6.3% for the latex condom. Similarly adjusted pregnancy rates during consistent use over six completed menstrual cycles--2.4% for the polyurethane condom and 1.1% for the latex condom--did not differ significantly. Clinical failure rates (including breakage and slippage occurring during either intercourse or withdrawal) were 8.5% for the polyurethane condom and 1.6% for the latex condom. In general, male participants were more satisfied with the latex condom, and users of latex were significantly less likely to drop out of the study for condom-related reasons than were users of polyurethane. CONCLUSIONS: Although polyurethane and latex condoms provide equivalent levels of contraceptive protection, the polyurethane condom's higher frequency of breakage and slippage suggests that this condom may confer less protection from sexually transmitted infections than does the latex condom.

PIP: Latex condoms are neither comfortable nor appropriate for all condom users. In a double-blinded study, 805 monogamous heterosexual couples aged 18-45 years were randomized to use either a polyurethane condom or the Ramses Sensitol latex condom for 6 months. The polyurethane condom had specifications similar to those of the commercially available Avanti condom. While both condoms are 180 mm long, with an open end diameter of 33 mm, when laid flat, the polyurethane and latex condoms are 64 and 52 mm wide, respectively. Recruited from Los Angeles, California, study participants were of mean age 27 years; 66% non-Hispanic Whites, 16% Hispanic, 6% Black, and 6% Asian; and with an average of 15 years education. Approximately 75% of the men were circumcised, and according to participants' measurements, the erect penis averaged 131 mm in midshaft circumference and 159 mm in length. 89% were using condoms as their contraceptive method at the start of the study. The 6-month pregnancy rate during typical use, adjusted for the use of emergency contraception, was 4.8% for the polyurethane condom and 6.3% for the latex condom. Similarly adjusted pregnancy rates during consistent use over 6 completed menstrual cycles were 2.4% for the polyurethane condom and 1.1% for the latex condom. Clinical failure rates, including breakage and slippage occurring during either intercourse or withdrawal were 8.5% for the polyurethane condom and 1.6% for the latex condom. Male participants were generally more satisfied with the latex condom, and users of latex were significantly less likely to drop out of the study for condom-related reasons than were polyurethane condom users.

Comparison of once-daily and twice-daily dosing of 0.75% metronidazole gel in the treatment of bacterial vaginosis.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Bacterial vaginosis is the most common cause of vaginal symptoms in women and has potential complications. Efforts to improve treatment of this disease process are warranted. GOAL OF THIS STUDY: The goal of this study was to compare the safety and efficacy of once-daily intravaginal administration of 0.75% metronidazole gel for 5 days to the established twice-daily regimen in the treatment of bacterial vaginosis. STUDY DESIGN: Nonpregnant women with bacterial vaginosis diagnosed by accepted clinical criteria at 14 geographically diverse general gynecology clinics were enrolled in this prospective, randomized, investigator-blind, parallel study. They were treated with either once-daily or twice-daily 0.75% metronidazole gel 5 g intravaginally for 5 days and were reevaluated at 7 to 12 days and 28 to 35 days after completing treatment. Efficacy was determined by clinical criteria. Adverse drug reactions were monitored. RESULTS: Of the 514 evaluable women enrolled, bacterial vaginosis was cured at the first return visit among evaluable patients in 153 of 199 (77%) of those who received the once-daily and in 157 of 196 (80%) of those who received the twice-daily administration. Bacterial vaginosis was cured among evaluable patients at the final visit in 104 of 180 (58%) of those who received once-daily and 109 of 178 (61%) of those who received the twice-daily regimen. Intent-to-treat analysis showed cure at 1 month in 118 of 207 (57%) of those treated once daily and 129 of 209 (62%) of those treated twice daily. Side effects were mild, and none caused treatment discontinuation. CONCLUSIONS: Once-daily dosing of 0.75% metronidazole gel 5 g for 5 days yields efficacy, safety, and tolerance equivalent to the currently used twice-daily dosing in the treatment of bacterial vaginosis, adding another competitive choice to the available therapeutic options for this condition.

Mucin gene expression during differentiation of human airway epithelia in vitro. Muc4 and muc5b are strongly induced.

Mucus hypersecretion is characteristic of chronic airway diseases. However, regulatory mechanisms are poorly understood. Human airway epithelial cells grown on permeable supports at the air-liquid interface (ALI) develop a mucociliary morphology resembling that found in vivo. Such cultures provide a model for studying secretory cell lineage, differentiation, and function, and may provide insight regarding events leading to mucus hypersecretion. The mucin gene expression profile of well-differentiated human airway epithelial cells in culture has not yet been established. We compared expression of all the currently described mucin genes in poorly differentiated (conventional cultures on plastic) and well-differentiated (ALI) human nasal and bronchial epithelial cells. Differentiation-dependent upregulation of MUC3, MUC5AC, MUC5B, and MUC6 messenger RNA (mRNA) was demonstrated using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Northern blot analysis showed a similar increase for MUC4 and demonstrated that induction of MUC4 and MUC5B expression depended on retinoic acid. MUC1, MUC2, MUC7, and MUC8 mRNAs were also detected by RT-PCR, but these genes did not appear to be strongly regulated as a function of differentiation. Mucin gene expression was similar in bronchial and nasal cells. Thus, mucociliary differentiation of human airway epithelia in vitro entails upregulation of several mucin genes.

Evaluation of prostate-specific antigen as a quantifiable indicator of condom failure in clinical trials.

The ability of condoms to retain all elements of semen during intercourse has been assessed by postcoital visual inspection and in vitro permeability studies. Yet, these observations may not be sufficiently precise or realistic. This pilot study evaluated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) as a semen marker of inapparent failure of the condom barrier under conditions of actual use. Twelve couples collected samples from the vagina and surfaces of the condom using sterile cotton swabs. We obtained precoital and postcoital samples for 24 acts of unprotected intercourse, 54 acts of intercourse using intact condoms, and 40 acts of intercourse using condoms that had been deliberately punctured. We used electrophoresis to determine the amount of PSA present in the samples. PSA was detected in 100% (24/24) of vaginal samples collected immediately after unprotected intercourse and in none of the vaginal samples collected more than 24 h after intercourse (0/90). PSA was also present in 98% (83/85) of the samples collected from the inside of the condom that had failed during intercourse. Excluding uses where the condom failed during intercourse, PSA was detected in 2% (1/47) of the postcoital vaginal samples collected after use of intact condoms and in 41% (14/34) of the samples collected after use of condoms with known 1-mm punctures. We conclude that PSA shows great promise as a semen biomarker in clinical trials of barrier methods. We recommend that future studies further investigate the ability of this biomarker to identify condom failures and quantify the extent of semen exposure associated with various types of condom failures.

PIP: The ability of condoms to retain all elements of semen during intercourse has been assessed by postcoital visual inspection and in vitro permeability studies. Yet, these observations may not be sufficiently precise or realistic. This pilot study evaluated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) as a semen marker of inapparent failure of the condom barrier under conditions of actual use. 12 couples collected samples from the vagina and surfaces of the condom using sterile cotton swabs. The authors obtained precoital and postcoital samples for 24 acts of unprotected intercourse, 54 acts of intercourse using intact condoms, and 40 acts of intercourse using condoms that had been deliberately punctured. They used electrophoresis to determine the amount of PSA present in the samples. PSA was detected in 100% (24/24) of vaginal samples collected immediately after unprotected intercourse and in none of the vaginal samples collected more than 24 hours after intercourse (0/90). PSA was also present in 98% (83/85) of the samples collected from the inside of the condom that had failed during intercourse. Excluding uses where the condom failed during intercourse, PSA was detected in 2% (1/47) of the postcoital vaginal samples collected after use of intact condoms and in 41% (14/34) of the samples collected after use of condoms with known 1-mm punctures. The authors conclude that PSA shows great promise as a semen biomarker in clinical trials of barrier methods. They recommend that future studies further investigate the ability of this biomarker to identify condom failures and quantify the extent of semen exposure associated with various types of condom failures.

Intrauterine device practice guidelines: medical conditions.

PIP: Contraception selection poses special challenges to women with pre-existing medical problems and clinicians often lack the knowledge to counsel these women. The IUD represents an excellent option for many US women with medical problems. Because IUDs have no direct systemic effects other than increasing circulating immunoglobulins and possibly copper ions, they are unlikely to affect a woman's underlying disease process or to interact with medications used in disease treatment. Currently available IUDs may be appropriate for women with cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus with vascular disease, hematologic disorders, neurologic conditions, and psychiatric disorders. Other candidates for IUD use include women with a history of breast cancer or other hormone-sensitive cancers, active liver disease, hypertriglyceridemia, a sensitivity to hormonal contraception, and smokers over 40 years old. IUDs are contraindicated in women with diseases that increase their vulnerability to infection (e.g., AIDS, leukemia, and intravenous drug abuse), diseases or medications that produce profuse uterine bleeding, and conditions that distort the uterine cavity. Given the deleterious impact of unintended pregnancy on the clinical course of many diseases, information on contraception for women with pre-existing medical conditions should be more broadly disseminated among clinicians.^ieng

Real-time ultrasonographically guided removal of nonpalpable and intramuscular Norplant capsules.

OBJECTIVE: Our purpose was to describe the techniques we have developed to remove nonpalpable subcutaneous and intramuscular Norplant capsules with the patient under local anesthesia and with use of real-time ultrasonographic guidance in an office setting. STUDY DESIGN: This was a noncomparative, descriptive study of our experiences with 27 women with 64 deep Norplant capsules. RESULTS: Twenty-four women had all their nonpalpable and intramuscular implants removed under real-time ultrasonographic guidance with no complications. One woman was not a candidate, one was lost to follow-up, and another elected to retain her last implant. CONCLUSION: Real-time ultrasonographically guided procedures can be performed with the patient under local anesthesia in an office setting and can reduce the number of operative procedures necessary to remove nonpalpable and intramuscular Norplant capsules.

Breakage and acceptability of a polyurethane condom: a randomized, controlled study.

CONTEXT: Although the first commercial polyurethane condom was approved for use several years ago, no U.S. clinical trial has compared its performance to that of the latex condom. METHODS: In a masked crossover study, 360 couples were randomized to use three polyurethane condoms and three latex condoms. After each use, couples recorded condom breaks, condom slips and other aspects of performance. At completion of the study, couples compared the sensitivity, ease of use, fit and lubrication of the two types of condoms. RESULTS: The clinical breakage rate of the polyurethane condom was 7.2%, compared with 1.1% for the latex condom (relative risk of 6.6, 95% confidence interval of 3.5-12.3). The complete slippage rate (combining incidents during intercourse and withdrawal) of the polyurethane condom was 3.6%, compared with 0.6% for the latex condom (relative risk of 6.0, 95% confidence interval of 2.6-14.2). Most male users preferred the sensitivity provided by the polyurethane condom to that of the latex condom. CONCLUSIONS: The clinical breakage rate of the polyurethane condom is significantly higher than that of the latex condom. However, nearly half of the users preferred the polyurethane condom, which provides an option for couples who have rejected conventional condoms or who cannot use latex products.

PIP: The only nonsurgical method of male contraception marketed worldwide, the condom is also known to be highly effective against the sexual transmission of HIV and other diseases. Condoms, however, are underutilized compared to other methods. In 1994, the London International Group introduced the first male polyurethane condom in the US. This paper reports findings from a study comparing users' experience with polyurethane and latex condoms. The 360 couples who participated in the masked crossover study were randomized to use 3 polyurethane condoms and 3 latex condoms. After each use, couples recorded condom breaks, condom slips, and other aspects of performance. At the completion of the study, couples compared the sensitivity, ease of use, fit, and lubrication of the 2 types of condoms. The clinical breakage rates of the polyurethane and latex condoms were 7.2% and 1.1%, respectively. The complete slippage rates of the polyurethane and latex condoms were 3.6% and 0.6%, respectively. Most male users found the polyurethane condom to be more sensitive than the latex condom.

IUD patient selection and practice guidelines.

PIP: Contraceptive practice guidelines have the potential to assist health care providers in evaluating the needs and expectations of women seeking contraception, educating patients, and monitoring successful contraceptive use. This article presents guidelines for IUD patient selection developed by several members of the editorial board of the US newsletter, "Dialogues in Contraception." Misinformation about the IUD has prevented many clinicians and patients from considering this method, despite recent improvements in its design. The currently available data suggest that the two IUDs available in the US, Copper T 380A and Progestasert, cause a local reaction that is toxic to sperm (and perhaps ova), thereby preventing fertilization. Modern IUDs, which use only monofilament tails, do not increase the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease in women without evidence of lower genital tract infection. Beyond avoiding women at risk for sexually transmitted diseases, there are few barriers to IUD use. The method is appropriate for women who are contemplating but ambivalent about sterilization, aged under 25 years, perimenopausal, nulliparous or parous, postpartum or postabortion, lactating, and cigarette smokers over 35 years of age. Contraindications to IUD use are postpregnancy infection, unresolved acute cervicitis or vaginitis, distorted uterine cavity, uterine or cervical cancer, unexplained abnormal vaginal bleeding, increased susceptibility to infection, genital actinomycosis, immunocompromised patients, and diabetes mellitus (progesterone-releasing IUD only).^ieng

The impact of contraceptive methods on the onset of symptomatic vulvovaginal candidiasis within the menstrual cycle.

OBJECTIVE: Vulvovaginal candidiasis is the second most common cause of vaginal discharge. Low-dose oral contraceptives are no longer thought to increase the absolute risk of episodic vulvovaginal candidiasis. This study investigates the possible impact that hormonal contraception may have on the timing of onset of symptoms within the menstrual cycle. STUDY DESIGN: In a retrospective chart review of reproductive-aged women seen at the Women's Health Care Clinic at Harbor-University of California, Los Angeles, Medical Center, data from the records of 448 symptomatic women who had 507 episodes of vulvovaginal candidiasis were extracted and analyzed for timing of onset of symptoms within the menstrual cycle. Diagnosis was based on symptoms, physical findings, and microscopy. Onset was divided into five physiologic ranges within an idealized 28-day menstrual cycle. Comparisons among groups were made with use of chi 2 and p < 0.05 thresholds for statistical significance. RESULTS: No differences were found in the onset of symptoms within the idealized menstrual cycle ranges between women using hormonal birth control methods and those using nonhormonal ones. The distribution was remarkably uniform throughout the cycle with the exception of the first few days (during menses). CONCLUSION: The timing of onset of symptoms of vulvovaginal candidiasis within a woman's menstrual cycle is not affected by her method of birth control.

PIP: 75% of US women have at least one episode of vulvovaginal candidiasis in their lives and an estimated US$600 million is spent each year on the diagnosis and treatment of this condition. To assess the possible impact of hormonal contraception on the timing of onset of symptoms within the menstrual cycle, a retrospective chart review was conducted of women treated for vulvovaginal candidiasis at the University of California, Los Angeles, Medical Center. A total of 448 women, with 507 symptomatic vulvovaginal candidiasis episodes, were included in the study. All had normal menstrual cycles (21-35 days). 231 of these women were using oral contraceptives containing 30-35 mg of ethinyl estradiol, 8 were using Depo-Provera, and 268 relied on nonhormonal methods. After adjustment for cycle length, analysis was restricted to five intervals in the idealized 28-day cycle: menses (days 1-5), follicular (days 6-11), periovulatory (days 12-17), luteal (days 18-24), and premenstrual (days 25-28). The distribution of onset of symptoms for users of hormonal methods did not differ significantly from that in users of nonhormonal methods. Moreover, there was no clear temporal grouping in the onset of symptoms within the menstrual cycle for any contraceptive group. Improved understanding of the dynamics of vulvovaginal candidiasis would facilitate the identification of strategies to reduce the risk factors and interrupt the transformation process before symptomatic infection develops.

Adolescent contraception.

PIP: By age 19, the average North American man has had sex with 5.11 people. Almost two thirds of high-school senior-aged women have had sex. While the rates of sexual activity among teens in the US are not substantially different from rates in other developed western countries, adolescent pregnancy rates in the US are several times higher than in most other countries. These high rates of adolescent pregnancy are partly due to the collective reluctance among adults in the US to discuss sexuality issues with adolescents and provide them with contraception. Effective communication is the key to providing contraception to teens. Studies have clearly shown that teens are interested in sexuality and would like to discuss the issue with their physicians. The author notes that any successful program to reduce unwanted pregnancies among teens will understand that teens are often concrete thinkers focused upon their physical appearance and dedicated to taking risks. Oral contraception, long-acting progestin methods, condoms, and other options are discussed. However, emergency contraception with birth control pills is the one most important contraceptive option which can be provided to teens. The approach has recently been approved by the FDA Advisory Board for both safety and efficacy. Recent studies, however, show that less than 10% of US clinicians informed their patients of the availability of emergency contraception. Information on providers of emergency contraception can be obtained by dialing Princeton University's Office of Population Research's toll-free emergency contraception hotline at (800) 584-9911.^ieng