Network meta-analysis of pembrolizumab as monotherapy and in combination with chemotherapy for first-line treatment of recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma / Metanálise em rede comparativa de pembrolizumabe como monoterapia e em combinação com quimioterapia para tratamento de primeira linha de carcinoma de células escamosas da cabeça e pescoço recorrente ou metastático

Pembrolizumab monotherapy or in combination with chemotherapy is approved as first-line treatment in recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (R/M HNSCC) based on improved overall survival (OS) versus EXTREME regimen in the KEYNOTE-048 trial. The clinical outcomes of pembrolizumab were compared with other recommended first-line treatments in R/M HNSCC in this study through a Bayesian network meta-analysis. A systematic literature review was conducted in July 2022, from which six trials that matched the KEYNOTE-048 patient eligibility criteria were included in the network. The OS and progression-free survival (PFS) outcomes were compared in the approved pembrolizumab indication (i.e., total population for pembrolizumab in combination with chemotherapy and combined positive score [CPS] ≥ 1 population for pembrolizumab monotherapy). A significant OS improvement was observed for pembrolizumab in combination with chemotherapy and pembrolizumab monotherapy versus EXTREME regimen (hazard ratio, 95% credible interval: 0.72, 0.60-0.86; 0.73, 0.60-0.88), platinum+5- FU (0.58, 0.43-0.76; 0.58, 0.44-0.78), and platinum+paclitaxel (0.53, 0.35-0.79; 0.53, 0.35-0.81), respectively. A non-significant numeric trend in OS improvement was observed versus the TPEx regimen. PFS was comparable with most first-line treatments and was improved versus platinum+5-FU (0.48, 0.36-0.64; 0.59, 0.45-0.79). Additional analyses in higher CPS subgroups also showed consistent results. Overall, our study results showed an improvement in OS outcomes versus alternative first-line treatments, consistent with the findings of the KEYNOTE-048 trial. These data support using pembrolizumab as a suitable firstline treatment option in R/M HNSCC.

Pembrolizumabe em monoterapia ou em combinação com quimioterapia é aprovado como tratamento de primeira linha em carcinoma de células escamosas recorrente/metastático de cabeça e pescoço (CECCP R/M) com base na melhora da sobrevida global (OS), em comparação com o esquema EXTREME no estudo KEYNOTE-048. Esse estudo comparou os resultados clínicos de pembrolizumabe com outros tratamentos recomendados de primeira linha em CECCP R/M por meio de uma metanálise de rede bayesiana. Uma revisão sistemática da literatura foi conduzida em julho de 2022, a partir da qual seis ensaios clínicos que atendiam aos critérios de elegibilidade de pacientes do KEYNOTE-048 foram incluídos na rede. Os desfechos de OS e sobrevida livre de progressão (PFS) foram comparados na indicação de pembrolizumabe (população total para pembrolizumabe em combinação com quimioterapia e população com escore positivo combinado [CPS] ≥ 1 em monoterapia com pembrolizumabe). Foi observada melhora significativa na OS para pembrolizumabe em combinação com quimioterapia e monoterapia com pembrolizumabe versus o esquema EXTREME (razão de risco, intervalo de confiança de 95%: 0,72, 0,60-0,86; 0,73, 0,60-0,88), platina+5-FU (0,58, 0,43-0,76; 0,58, 0,44-0,78) e platina+paclitaxel (0,53, 0,35-0,79; 0,53, 0,35-0,81), respectivamente. Uma tendência numérica não significativa de melhoria na OS foi observada em relação ao esquema TPEx. A PFS foi comparável com a maioria dos tratamentos de primeira linha e melhor em relação à platina+5-FU (0,48, 0,36-0,64; 0,59, 0,45-0,79). Análises adicionais em subgrupos com CPS mais elevado também mostraram resultados consistentes. No geral, os resultados de nosso estudo mostraram melhora nos desfechos de OS em comparação aos tratamentos de primeira linha alternativos, consistentes com os achados do estudo KEYNOTE-048. Esses dados apoiam o uso de pembrolizumabe como opção de tratamento em primeira linha em pacientes com CECCP R/M.

Informe de caso: tuberculosis peritoneal en una mujer de 26 años simulando cáncer de ovario / Case report: peritoneal tuberculosis in a 26-year-old woman simulating ovarian cancer

Introducción: La tuberculosis peritoneal es una enfermedad reemergente, de evolución insidiosa y arduo diagnós- tico. La afectación peritoneal tiene una baja incidencia, afectando por igual ambos sexos figurando entre edades de 35 a 45 años. El alto índice de sospecha debe ser un factor importante en el diagnóstico precoz, para que una vez establecido, se pueda iniciar el tratamiento y disminuir las tasas de morbimortalidad. Descripción del caso clínico: Paciente de 26 años, con clínica inespecífica; dolor abdominal, ascitis y fiebre. Fue ingresada por servicio de medicina interna para abordaje etiológico de ascitis, posteriormente fue abordada como sospecha de cáncer de ovario, se presentó al servicio de cirugía quienes determinaron practicarle laparotomía y cuya biopsia intraoperatoria reporto hallazgos su- gestivos de tuberculosis peritoneal. Conclusión: La tuberculosis peritoneal es una enfermedad poco frecuente, las manifestaciones clínicas pueden sugerir la presencia de una enfermedad tumoral; la sospecha clínica es baja y en muchas ocasiones el diagnóstico es incidenta...(AU)

Análise de custo de sequência de tratamento de câncer de ovário avançado, HRD/ BRCAwt, sob a perspectiva do sistema de saúde suplementar brasileiro / Cost Analysis of advanced ovarian cancer treatment sequence, HRD/BRCAwt from the Brazilian supplementary healthcare system perspective

Objetivo: Estimar o custo da sequência de tratamento considerando as terapias com niraparibe e bevacizumabe, respectivamente, como terapias de manutenção de 1L e 2L para pacientes com câncer de ovário (CO) epitelial com deficiência de recombinação homóloga (HRD) e BRCA selvagem (BRCAwt) em um horizonte temporal de cinco anos, sob a perspectiva do sistema de saúde suplementar brasileiro. Métodos: Foi desenvolvido um modelo de sobrevida particionado com três transições de estados de saúde, considerando os seguintes regimes em 1L e 2L, respectivamente: carboplatina + paclitaxel seguido de terapia de manutenção com niraparibe; carboplatina + gencitabina + bevacizumabe seguido pela continuação de bevacizumabe. As posologias em bula e as curvas de sobrevida livre de progressão dos respectivos estudos pivotais em cada uma das linhas terapêuticas foram utilizadas na análise, e o custo de tratamento foi calculado a partir da lista oficial de preços de medicamentos da CMED de abril de 2023. Resultados: O custo em 1L e 2L foi de BRL 868.830 e BRL 403.407, totalizando BRL 1.272.237 em um horizonte temporal de cinco anos, com 2,28 e 0,52 anos de vida livre de progressão, respectivamente, na 1L e 2L, com o total de 2,8 anos. Conclusões: O resultado da análise de custo de sequência de tratamento de câncer de ovário HRD/BRCAwt apresentou um custo total estimado de BRL 1.272.237, com 2,8 anos de vida livre de progressão. Essa análise contribui no entendimento dos custos e da eficácia esperada com o uso da terapia de manutenção de niraparibe em 1L e bevacizumabe em 2L em um horizonte temporal de cinco anos.

Objective: To estimate the cost of the treatment sequence, considering the maintenance therapies niraparib and bevacizumab, respectively, as maintenance therapies in 1L and 2L for patients with epithelial ovarian cancer with homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) and BRCA wild-type (BRCAwt) over a 5-year time horizon from the perspective of the Brazilian supplementary health system. Methods: A partitioned survival model was developed with three health state transitions, considering the following regimens in the 1L and 2L, respectively: carboplatin + paclitaxel followed by maintenance therapy with niraparib; carboplatin + gemcitabine + bevacizumab followed by the continuation of bevacizumab. The product's label and progression-free survival curves from the respective pivotal studies in each of the therapeutic lines were used in the analysis and the cost of treatment was calculated using as a reference the official CMED drug price list from April 2023. Results: The cost in 1L and 2L was BRL 868,830 and BRL 403,407, totaling BRL 1,272,237 over a 5-year period, with 2.28 and 0.52 years of progression-free survival, respectively in 1L and 2L, with a total of 2.8 years. Conclusions: The result of the analysis of the cost of the treatment sequence of ovarian cancer HRD/BRCAwt presented an estimated total cost of 1,272,237 with 2.8 year of progression-free survival. This analysis contributes to understand the expected cost and effectiveness with the use of maintenance therapy niraparib in 1L and bevacizumab in 2L over a 5-year time horizon.

Concept of opportunistic bilateral salpingectomy in a sample of Mexican gynecologists. What should residents be trained on? / Concepto de salpingectomía bilateral oportunista en una muestra de ginecólogos mexicanos. ¿En qué se debe capacitar a los residentes?

Background: Ovarian cancer is the fifth deadliest cancer among women. There is no effective screening method. It has been suggested that ovarian cancer originates from precursor lesions in the fimbriae of the fallopian tubes. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the level of knowledge of opportunistic bilateral salpingectomy by gynecologists. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out and a survey was sent electronically to gynecologists and gynecology residents. Demographic characteristics as well as questions of interest related to clinical practice and indication for surgery were included. Results: 52 subjects were included, 21 women and 31 men, with a mean age of 40.7 years. Thirty-five board certified gynecologists, as well as 17 gynecology residents, were included as part of the total survey group. Thirty-six individuals (69.2%) reported performing elective salpingectomy. The motivation they had to perform salpingectomy as a method of sterilization was: “reduction in the risk of ovarian cancer in the future” (55.6%). The indication for elective salpingectomy while performing other procedures was: “to prevent ovarian cancer” (61.1%). Certified gynecologists (42.9%) as well as residents (41.1%) considered “transvaginal ultrasound screening” as the best primary prevention method for ovarian cancer in low-risk women. Conclusions: Opportunistic bilateral salpingectomy is safe and cost-effective. However, when gynecologists are interviewed to find out their level of knowledge, there is poor acceptance of opportunistic bilateral salpingectomy in Mexico. A training strategy should be designed in the gynecology residency in order to motivate ovarian cancer prevention.(AU)

Antecedentes: El cáncer de ovario es el quinto cáncer más mortal entre las mujeres. No existe un método de detección eficaz. Se ha sugerido que el cáncer de ovario se origina a partir de lesiones precursoras en las fimbrias de las trompas de Falopio. Objetivo: Determinar el nivel de conocimiento de los ginecólogos sobre la salpingectomía bilateral oportunista. Métodos: Se envió una encuesta por vía electrónica a médicos ginecólogos y residentes de Ginecología. Se incluyeron características demográficas, así como preguntas de interés relacionadas con la práctica clínica y la indicación de cirugía. Resultados: Se incluyeron 52 sujetos, 21 mujeres y 31 hombres, con una edad media de 40,7 años. Treinta y cinco ginecólogos certificados, así como 17 residentes de ginecología, se incluyeron como parte del grupo total. Treinta y seis individuos (69,2%) informaron haber realizado salpingectomía electiva. La motivación que tuvieron para realizar la salpingectomía como método de esterilización fue: «reducción del riesgo de cáncer de ovario en el futuro» (55,6%). La indicación de salpingectomía electiva mientras se realizaban otros procedimientos fue: «para prevenir el cáncer de ovario» (61,1%). Los ginecólogos certificados (42,9%) y los residentes (41,1%) consideraron la «detección con ultrasonido transvaginal» como el mejor método de prevención primaria para el cáncer de ovario en mujeres de bajo riesgo. Conclusiones: Cuando entrevistamos a los ginecólogos detectamos poca aceptación de la salpingectomía bilateral oportunista en México. Se debe diseñar una estrategia de formación en la residencia de Ginecología para motivar la prevención del cáncer de ovario.(AU)

La visión de los profesionales sanitarios del proceso diagnóstico de las mujeres con cáncer de ovario en Catalunya: estudio cualitativo / Health professionals’ perspective about women's experiences during the diagnostic process of ovarian cancer in Catalonia: Qualitative study

Objetivo: Identificar las oportunidades perdidas en el diagnóstico del cáncer de ovario (CO) en el sistema sanitario público de Catalunya mediante el análisis de la visión de los profesionales sobre el relato de las experiencias de las pacientes con CO. Diseño: Estudio cualitativo exploratorio-descriptivo, con dos grupos focales. Emplazamiento: Atención primaria, noviembre de 2017. Participantes: Treinta y cuatro profesionales en base a un muestreo teórico: 21médicos de familia, 8profesionales de centros de salud sexual y reproductiva y 5ginecólogos de hospital. Métodos: Los participantes debatieron sobre diferentes itinerarios de procesos diagnósticos de mujeres con CO mediante la exposición de tres flujogramas elaborados a partir de los relatos obtenidos en entrevistas a pacientes. Se realizó un análisis de contenido temático. Resultados: Se identificaron tres temas con diversos subtemas: a)falta de sospecha diagnóstica (desconocimiento de los síntomas, obviar la anamnesis y la exploración física, fragmentación de la atención y sesgos y prejuicios); b)dificultades para activar el proceso diagnóstico (acceso limitado a pruebas, accesibilidad desigual a ginecología y falta de seguimiento), y c)ausencia de circuitos rápidos preestablecidos. Conclusiones: Los resultados ofrecen una visión de las dificultades del diagnóstico precoz del CO en nuestro ámbito. Creemos que su identificación permitirá la elaboración de estrategias para mejorar la precisión diagnóstica y la calidad de la atención en las mujeres con CO en nuestro medio.(AU)

Objective: To identify missed opportunities in the diagnosis of ovarian cancer (OC) in the public health system of Catalonia, through the analysis of the perceptions of health professionals on the stories's experiences of OC patients. Design: Qualitative exploratory-descriptive study, with two focus groups. Setting: Primary Care, November 2017. Participants: Thirty-four professionals based on theoretical sampling: 21 family doctors, 8 professionals from sexual and reproductive health centres and 5 hospital gynaecologists. Methods: Participants discussed the different diagnostic pathways for women with OC through the presentation of flowcharts which were developed with three storie's and experiences of OC patients. Results: Three themes with various sub-themes were identified as follow: a)lack of cancer diagnostic suspicion (lack of knowledge of symptoms of OC, anamnesis and physical examination overlooked, fragmentation of patient's care and bias and prejudice); b)difficulties in activating the diagnostic process (limited access to tests, unequal accessibility to gynaecology and lack of follow-up); and c)absence of fast-track referral system.Conclusions: The results offer insight into the difficulties of early diagnosis of OC in our setting. We believe that their identification will allow the development of strategies to improve diagnostic accuracy and quality of care for women with OC in our setting.(AU)

[Health professionals' perspective about women's experiences during the diagnostic process of ovarian cancer in Catalonia: Qualitative study]. / La visión de los profesionales sanitarios del proceso diagnóstico de las mujeres con cáncer de ovario en Catalunya: estudio cualitativo.

OBJECTIVE: To identify missed opportunities in the diagnosis of ovarian cancer (OC) in the public health system of Catalonia, through the analysis of the perceptions of health professionals on the stories's experiences of OC patients. DESIGN: Qualitative exploratory-descriptive study, with two focus groups. SETTING: Primary Care, November 2017. PARTICIPANTS: Thirty-four professionals based on theoretical sampling: 21 family doctors, 8 professionals from sexual and reproductive health centres and 5 hospital gynaecologists. METHODS: Participants discussed the different diagnostic pathways for women with OC through the presentation of flowcharts which were developed with three storie's and experiences of OC patients. RESULTS: Three themes with various sub-themes were identified as follow: a)lack of cancer diagnostic suspicion (lack of knowledge of symptoms of OC, anamnesis and physical examination overlooked, fragmentation of patient's care and bias and prejudice); b)difficulties in activating the diagnostic process (limited access to tests, unequal accessibility to gynaecology and lack of follow-up); and c)absence of fast-track referral system. CONCLUSIONS: The results offer insight into the difficulties of early diagnosis of OC in our setting. We believe that their identification will allow the development of strategies to improve diagnostic accuracy and quality of care for women with OC in our setting.

Carcinosarcoma ovárico asociado a carcinoma seroso intraepitelial tubárico

El carcinosarcoma primario ovárico es una neoplasia de baja incidencia, que suele ser diagnosticado en estadios avanzados y cursa con un mal pronóstico. Se comunica el caso de una paciente de 64 años con una tumoración abdominopélvica de 15 cm. El examen histológico evidenció una neoplasia maligna bifásica ovárica asociada a un carcinoma seroso intraepitelial tubárico, hallazgo que estaría en relación con la patogénesis de esta neoplasia.

Primary ovarian carcinosarcoma is a low incidence neoplasm that is usually diagnosed in advanced stages and has a poor prognosis. We report the case of a 64-yearold female patient with a 15 cm abdominopelvic tumor. Histological examination revealed a malignant ovarian biphasic malignancy associated with a serous tubal intraepithelial carcinoma, a finding that would be related to the pathogenesis of this neoplasm.

[Quality of healthcare in oncological patients from health personnel's perspective]. / Calidad de la atención en pacientes oncológicos desde la perspectiva del personal de salud.

INTRODUCTION: The quality of care in health institutions is a constant challenge, mainly in oncology. The literature shows it has partially evaluated in contrast to it proposed by Donabedian; in addition, health personnel's perspective, who has direct contact with the patient, knows and executes the care process, has not been considered. The objective of the present study was to establish a framework to evaluate the quality of healthcare provided to patients with colorectal or ovarian cancer from health personnel's perspective. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study that included health personnel belonging to nine services of a cancer hospital. A questionnaire was applied to evaluate the quality of healthcare through amenities, the interpersonal and scientific-technical dimension (Donabedian's model). The variables were standardized, compliance with them among services was compared using non-parametric tests (Kruskal-Wallis test and Mann-Whitney U test), and 40 indicators were evaluated. RESULTS: Health personnel's 181 members participated, the evaluated oncology hospital presented regular compliance to the quality of healthcare (bad ≤82, regular 83-109, good ≥110). When comparing this in the nine services, differences were detected between surgery and radiotherapy (higher compliance scores, 132 and 126 respectively) versus the other services P<.05. Both services had more than 25 indicators with compliance ≥80%. CONCLUSIONS: It is shown that the established framework is useful for evaluating the quality of healthcare from health personnel's perspective (an approach not used so far for this type of evaluation), by detecting differences in its compliance, specific problems and its causes by service.

Estrategias terapéuticas actuales en el tratamiento del cáncer de ovario

Introducción: El cáncer de ovario es uno de los tumores más frecuentes y letales entre las mujeres. Esto se debe a su detección en estados tardíos y al desarrollo de quimiorresistencia a la terapia estándar. El desarrollo de terapias dirigidas contra las propiedades distintivas de las células cancerosas y sus características habilitadoras ha surgido como una alternativa promisoria para el tratamiento de estos tumores. Objetivo: Describir las actuales estrategias terapéuticas dirigidas contra las distintas capacidades de las células tumorales en el tratamiento del cáncer de ovario. Método: Se realizó una búsqueda en las bases de datos ScienceDirect, Redalyc, Latindex, ResearchGate, PubMed, Elsevier, ClinicalTrials.gov, SpringerLink, LARVOL´s CLIN, Registro Público Cubano de Ensayos Clínicos, entre enero y abril de 2023. Se seleccionaron 50 artículos referentes al cáncer de ovario y las alternativas para su tratamiento. Desarrollo: Se mencionaron los diversos factores que influyen en la elección de terapias contra el cáncer de ovario. Se describieron las actuales dianas terapéuticas utilizadas en el tratamiento de esta neoplasia, así como el empleo de múltiples fármacos aprobados y en fases de estudio, y las combinaciones sinérgicas de los mismos. Consideraciones finales: Actualmente existen disímiles opciones de tratamiento del cáncer de ovario. A pesar de que la eficacia clínica de los agentes dirigidos todavía está restringida a subtipos moleculares específicos y ningún ensayo ilustra un beneficio en la supervivencia general, son notorios los resultados alcanzados en el desarrollo de fármacos específicamente dirigidos contra la inestabilidad del genoma y angiogénesis sostenida.

Introduction: Ovarian cancer is one of the most common and lethal tumor in women. This happens as a result of late-stage cancer detention and an increased chemoresistance to standard therapy. The current development in therapies to kill the cancer cells and its spread tendencies has emerged as a key alternative to treat tumors. Objective: To describe the current therapeutic strategies lead to confront different capabilities of tumor cells found in the ovarian cancer treatment. Method: A search of literuture was carried out in the following databases ScienceDirect, Redalyc, Latindex, ResearchGate, PubMed, Elsevier, ClinicalTrials.gov, SpringerLink, LARVOL's CLIN, Cuban Public Registry of Clinical Trials, from January to April 2023. A total of 50 text concerning ovarian cancer subject and alternative for treatment were selected. Development: The driving factors that promoted the use of ovarian cancer therapies were pointed out. The current therapeutic targets used in the treatment of this neoplasia were described, as well as the use of multiple approved drugs or in process of approval, including the synergistic drug combinations. Final considerations: There are a lot of options currently being implemented in ovarian cancer treatment. Despite clinical efficacy of targeted therapy, it´s presented still restricted to specific molecular subtypes and none of the assays illustrated survival benefit in general; the results obtained in the process of drugs development specifically targeting genome instability and sustained angiogenesis have been remarkable.

Introdução: O câncer de ovário é um dos tumores mais frequentes e letais entre as mulheres. Isso se deve à sua detecção em estágios tardios e ao desenvolvimento de quimiorresistência à terapia padrão. O desenvolvimento de terapias direcionadas contra as propriedades distintas das células cancerígenas e suas características facilitadoras surgiu como uma alternativa promissora para o tratamento desses tumores. Objetivo: Descrever as atuais estratégias terapêuticas dirigidas contra as diferentes capacidades das células tumorais no tratamento do câncer de ovário. Método: Foi realizada uma busca nas bases de dados ScienceDirect, Redalyc, Latindex, ResearchGate, PubMed, Elsevier, ClinicalTrials.gov, SpringerLink, LARVOL's CLIN, Registro Público Cubano de Ensaios Clínicos, entre janeiro e abril de 2023. 50 artigos referentes ao câncer de ovário e as alternativas para o seu tratamento. Desenvolvimento: Foram mencionados os vários fatores que influenciam a escolha das terapias contra o câncer de ovário. Foram descritos os atuais alvos terapêuticos utilizados no tratamento desta neoplasia, bem como o uso de múltiplas drogas aprovadas e em fase de estudo, e suas combinações sinérgicas. Considerações finais: Atualmente existem opções de tratamento dissimilares para o câncer de ovário. Apesar de a eficácia clínica dos agentes direcionados ainda estar restrita a subtipos moleculares específicos e nenhum ensaio mostrar benefício na sobrevida global, são notáveis os resultados alcançados no desenvolvimento de fármacos direcionados especificamente contra a instabilidade do genoma e a angiogênese sustentada.

The use of erector spinae versus transversus abdominis blocks in ovarian surgery: A randomized, comparative study / Uso del bloqueo del plano erector de la espina versus el plano transverso abdominal en cirugía de ovario: un estudio aleatorizado comparativo

Abstract Introduction: Inadequate pain control after major surgery can lead to significant complications. Ultrasound (US) guided plane blocks account for significant progress in regional anesthesia. Objective: This study explored the analgesic superiority of ultrasound-guided erector spinae (ESPB) and transversus abdominis (TAPB) plane blocks in patients undergoing major ovarian cancer surgery under general anesthesia. There have been no previous studies comparing their efficacy under these circumstances. Methods: This double-blind randomized comparative study included 60 patients undergoing major ovarian cancer surgery under general anesthesia. The ESPB group (n=30), received preoperative ultrasound-guided ESPB and the TAPB group (n=30), received preoperative low TAPB. Opioid consumption, HR, MAP, visual analogue scale (VAS) and adverse events were documented over 24 hours after surgery. Results: There was a highly significant difference in tramadol consumption between the two groups, with (95% CI: 16.23 to 50.43) and (95% CI: 59.23 to 95.43) for ESPB and TAPB groups, respectively. A significant difference (P < 0.01) was shown in intraoperative fentanyl consumption with (95% CI: 113 to 135.6) and (95% CI: 141.8 to 167.6) for ESPB and TAPB groups, respectively. A highly significant longer time to first analgesic request was recorded in the ESPB group (95% CI: 5.5 -15.3) (P < 0.001). VAS had a median of 2 (1-3) and 4 (2-6) for ESPB and TAPB groups, respectively, with F(1)=18.15, P=0.001 between groups. Postoperative HR and MAP in the TAPB group were significantly higher with more incidence of PONV. Conclusions: ESPB provided a more reliable analgesia versus TAPB in patients undergoing ovarian cancer surgery.

Resumen Introducción: El control inadecuado del dolor posterior a cirugía mayor puede generar complicaciones importantes. El bloqueo de los planos guiado por ecografía representa un avance significativo en anestesia regional. Objetivo: En el presente estudio se explora la superioridad analgésica de los bloqueos guiados por ecografía del plano erector de la espina (BPEE) y del plano transverso abdominal (BPTA) en pacientes sometidas a cirugía de cáncer de ovario bajo anestesia general. No se han hecho estudios previamente que comparen su eficacia bajo tales circunstancias. Métodos: Este estudio doble ciego, aleatorizado, comparativo, incluyó a 60 pacientes sometidas a cirugía mayor por cáncer de ovario, bajo anestesia general. El grupo del BPEE (n=30), recibió un BPEE guiado por ecografía, mientras que el grupo de BPTA (n=30), recibió un BPTA preoperatorio bajo. El consumo de opioides, la FC, la PAM, la escala visual analógica (EVA) y los eventos adversos, se documentaron durante las 24 horas posteriores a la cirugía. Resultados: Hubo una diferencia estadísticamente significativa en el consumo de tramadol entre los dos grupos, con un IC del 95% de 16,23 a 50,43 y un IC del 95% de 59,23 a 95,43 para los grupos de BPEE y de BPTA respectivamente. Se demostró una diferencia estadísticamente significativa (P < 0,01) en el consumo de fentanilo con un IC del 95%: 113 a 135,6 y un IC de 95%: 141,8 a 167,6 para los grupos de BPEE y BPTA, respectivamente. El tiempo transcurrido hasta la primera solicitud de analgésico en el grupo de BPEE fue significativamente más prolongado (IC 95%: 5,5 -15,3) (P < 0,001). La escala visual analógica - EVA - tuvo una mediana de 2 (1-3) y 4 (2-6) para los grupos del BPEE y BPTA, respectivamente, con F(1)=18,15, P=0,001 entre grupos. La FC y la PAM postoperatorias en el grupo de BPTA fueron significativamente superiores, con una mayor incidencia de nausea y vómito postoperatorios. Conclusiones: El BPEE proporcionó una analgesia más confiable que BPTA, en pacientes sometidas a cirugía de cáncer de ovario.

Marcadores tumorales CA125, He4 e índice ROMA en cáncer de ovario / Tumor markers CA125, He4, ROME index in ovarian cancer / Marcadores tumorais CA125, He4 e índice ROMA no câncer de ovário

El cáncer de ovario es un problema de salud pública para el cual no se cuenta con métodos de tamizaje estandarizados, no obstante, los marcadores Ca125, He4 y el índice de Roma tiene un gran valor en el diagnóstico y pronóstico de esta patología. Objetivo. Analizar el comportamiento de los marcadores tumorales Ca125 y He4 e índice de Roma en la predicción de malignidad en pacientes con masas ováricas. Materiales y Métodos. Se tomaron los resultados de laboratorio de 112 mujeres atendidas en el Hospital General Ambato de los valores séricos de Ca125, He4 y su correspondiente cálculo del índice de Roma. Se los dividió en el grupo pre y postmenopáusico, maligno y benigno. Resultados. El análisis de los resultados definió la relación de Ca 125 y He4 con el diagnóstico de cáncer de ovario con un nivel de confianza del 95% y valor de p<0,05. La probabilidad de diferenciar cáncer de ovario de procesos benigno para Ca125, He4 e índice de Roma fue del 93,33%, 84,4 y 99,7, respectivamente. Conclusiones. El mejor predictor de malignidad es el índice de Roma. Se encontraron valores séricos elevados de He4 mayores para pacientes postmenopáusicas. Se requieren más estudios que avalen un método de tamizaje estandarizado para el cáncer de ovario.

Ovarian cancer is a public health problem for which there are no standardized screening methods; however, Ca125, He4 and Rome index markers are of great value in the diagnosis and prognosis of this pathology. Objective. To analyze the behavior of tumor markers Ca125 and He4 and Rome index in the prediction of malignancy in patients with ovarian masses. Materials and Methods. The laboratory results of 112 women attended at Hospital General Ambato were taken for serum Ca125, He4 and their corresponding calculation of the Rome index. They were divided into premenopausal and postmenopausal, malignant and benign groups. Results. Analysis of the results defined the relationship of Ca 125 and He4 with the diagnosis of ovarian cancer with a confidence level of 95% and value of p<0.05. The probability of differentiating ovarian cancer from benign processes for Ca125, He4 and Rome index was 93.33%, 84.4 and 99.7, respectively. Conclusions. The best predictor of malignancy is the Rome index. Elevated serum He4 values were found to be higher for postmenopausal patients. Further studies are needed to support a standardized screening method for ovarian cancer.

O câncer do ovário é um problema de saúde pública para o qual não existem métodos de triagem padronizados. No entanto, os marcadores índice Ca125, He4 e Roma são de grande valor no diagnóstico e prognóstico desta patologia. Objetivo. Analisar o comportamento dos marcadores tumorais Ca125 e He4 e o índice de Roma na previsão de malignidade em pacientes com massas ovarianas. Materiais e métodos. Os resultados laboratoriais de 112 mulheres tratadas no Hospital Geral Ambato foram tomados para o soro Ca125, He4 e seu correspondente cálculo do índice de Roma. Eles foram divididos em grupos pré e pós-menopausa, malignos e benignos. Resultados. A análise dos resultados definiu a associação de Ca125 e He4 com o diagnóstico de câncer de ovário a um nível de confiança de 95% e valor de p<0,05. A probabilidade de diferenciar o câncer de ovário dos processos benignos para Ca125, He4 e índice de Roma foi de 93,33%, 84,4 e 99,7, respectivamente. Conclusões. O melhor preditor de malignidade é o índice de Roma. Os valores elevados de soro He4 foram considerados mais altos para pacientes na pós-menopausa. São necessários mais estudos para apoiar um método padronizado de triagem para o câncer de ovário.

Quimioterapia nanométrica a base de cannabinoides para el tratamiento de tumores ginecológicos / Cannabinoid based chemo-nanotherapy for the treatment of gynecological malignancies

El cannabidiol está despertando un creciente interés como agente antitumoral. Sin embargo, no se ha estudiado su efecto en cáncer de ovario, uno de los tumores más agresivos en mujeres. En el presente trabajo se ha evaluado, por primera vez, el potencial uso del cannabidiol en solución y encapsulado en nanopartículas funcionalizadas con ácido fólico en cáncer de ovario, ya que estos tumores sobreexpresan los receptores de ácido fólico, permitiendo una acumulación selectiva de estas nanoformulaciones en las células tumorales. El cannabidiol en solución inhibe la proliferación y migración de las células SKOV-3. En terapia de combinación, aumenta significativamente la eficacia antitumoral del paclitaxel, presentando un efecto sensibilizador y sinérgico. En los modelos in ovo, la administración previa de cannabidiol en solución seguido de su coadministración con paclitaxel muestra un efecto inhibitorio sobre el crecimiento tumoral significativamente superior al paclitaxel en monoterapia. Las nanopartículas desarrolladas son eficazmente internalizadas por las células SKOV-3, presentando las nanopartículas con ácido fólico una captación más rápida. Aunque en los estudios de eficacia antitumoral in vitro las nanopartículas funcionalizadas no presentan una actividad antiproliferativa superior al cannabidiol en solución o a las nanopartículas no funcionalizadas, en los modelos in ovo su eficacia antitumoral es significativamente superior, indicando que el desarrollo de nanopartículas funcionalizadas con ácido fólico es una buena estrategia para vectorizar el cannabidiol a tumores de ovario. Por último, las nanopartículas de cannabidiol potencian el efecto antitumoral del paclitaxel, presentando las formulaciones funcionalizadas con ácido fólico una mayor eficacia que el cannabidiol en solución. (AU)

Cannabidiol has become in a potential anticancer agent. Nevertheless, it has not been evaluated in ovarian cancer, one of the most aggressive tumors in women. In this work, the potential use of cannabidiol in solution and encapsulated into polymeric nanoparticles coated with folic acid was evaluated for the first time for the treatment of ovarian cancer. Ovarian tumors over-express folic acid receptors and folic-acid-coated nanoformulations trend to be selectively accumulated at tumor site. Cannabidiol in solution administered as monotherapy inhibits the proliferation and migration of SKOV-3 cells. In combination therapy, it significantly increases the antitumor efficacy of paclitaxel, showing a sensitizer and synergistic effect. In ovo, the previous administration of cannabidiol in solution followed by its co-administration with paclitaxel, shows a significantly higher inhibitory effect on ovarian tumor growth than single paclitaxel. The developed nanoparticles are efficiently uptaken by SKOV-3 cells, showing folic acid coated formulations a faster internalization. Although coated formulations do not exhibit a higher in vitro antiproliferative effect compared to cannabidiol in solution or non-coated formulations, in ovo its antitumoral efficacy is significantly higher. This indicates thatfolic acid-coated nanoparticles represent a good strategy to target cannabidiol to ovarian tumors. Finally, cannabidiol-loaded nanoparticles improve the in vitro antiproliferative effect of paclitaxel, showing folic acid-coated-formulations a better efficacy than cannabidiol in solution. (AU)

Tumor de ovario de los cordones sexuales con túbulos anulares: reporte de caso y revisión de la literatura / Ovarian sex cord tumor with annular tubules: case report and review of the literature

RESUMEN Objetivos: Reportar un caso de Tumor de Ovario de los Cordones Sexuales con Túbulos Anulares (TCSTA), hacer una revisión de la literatura acerca del diagnóstico, tratamiento y pronóstico de esta condición. Materiales y métodos: Se informa el caso de una mujer que consultó al Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, Bogotá (Colombia), con diagnóstico final de TCSTA avanzado, quien recibió tratamiento quirúrgico y quimioterapia con evolución satisfactoria a los 6 meses. Se realizó una búsqueda de la literatura en las bases de datos Medline vía PubMed, LILACS y Scielo, que incluía reportes y series de caso de mujeres con diagnóstico de TCSTA, publicados desde 1990, sin incluir rango de edad. Se extrajo información sobre el diagnóstico, tratamiento y pronóstico reportado. Se realizó resumen narrativo de los hallazgos. Resultados: Se incluyeron 14 publicaciones que incluían 26 pacientes. La edad media al diagnóstico fue de 22,5 años. Los síntomas principales fueron alteraciones de la menstruación y dolor pélvico. La tomografía computarizada fue la tecnología de imágenes más frecuentemente utilizada. El tratamiento fue quirúrgico, siempre usado, acompañado de quimioterapia (29 %); 2 casos recibieron radioterapia. Hubo recaída en el 20 % de los casos. La mortalidad fue del 12,5 %, toda en el primer año. Conclusiones: La información sobre la utilidad diagnóstica de las imágenes, marcadores tumorales y estudios de histoquímica es escasa, como también los datos sobre el pronóstico de la entidad. El tratamiento quirúrgico es el de elección, teniendo en cuenta el deseo de fertilidad de la paciente y el estadio tumoral. Se requieren más estudios que documenten de manera más detallada el manejo de esta condición.

ABSTRACT Objectives: To report a case of ovarian sex cord tumor with annular tubules (SCTAT) and conduct a literature review on diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of this condition. Material and methods: Case report of a woman with a final diagnosis of advanced SCTAT seen at the National Cancer Institute in Bogota (Colombia) who received surgical treatment and chemotherapy with a satisfactory course after 6 months. A literature search was conducted in the Medline via PubMed, LILACS and Scielo databases, including case reports and series of women diagnosed with SCTAT published since 1990, not using age ranges. Information about diagnosis, treatment and reported prognosis was retrieved. A narrative summary of the findings was prepared. Results: Fourteen publications with 26 patients were included. Mean age at diagnosis was 22.5 years. The main symptoms were menstruation abnormalities and pelvic pain. Computed tomography (CT) was the imaging technology most frequently used. Surgical treatment was used in all cases, together with chemotherapy in 29 %; 2 patients received radiotherapy. Recurrence occurred in 20 % of cases. Mortality was 12.5 %, with all deaths occurring within the first year. Conclusions: There is a paucity of information about the diagnostic utility of imaging, tumor markers and histochemical studies, as well as prognosis of this disease condition. Surgery is the treatment of choice, taking into consideration the patient's wishes regarding fertility, as well as the stage of the tumor. Further studies are needed to provide more detailed information about this condition.

Hiperplasia endotelial papilar intravascular (tumor Masson) de localización ginecológica / Intravascular papillary endothelial hyperplasia (Masson's tumour) of gynaecological origin

La hiperplasia papilar endotelial intravascular o tumor de Masson es una lesión vascular no neoplásica de carácter reactivo. Se caracteriza por ser un tumor poco frecuente, clínicamente inespecífico y con localizaciones descritas muy diversas. Resulta fundamental tenerlo en consideración dentro del diagnóstico diferencial de los tumores vasculares malignos como el angiosarcoma, cuyo pronóstico es muy diferente. Para lograr su diagnóstico definitivo el estudio anatomopatológico resulta primordial. El tratamiento de elección es la exéresis quirúrgica asegurando márgenes libres de enfermedad. El presente caso reportado supone un hecho excepcional, al ser un tumor de Masson de localización pélvica, cuyo diagnóstico fue un hallazgo casual propiciado por el estudio de estadificación quirúrgica de un adenocarcinoma de ovario.

Intravascular papillary endothelial hyperplasia or Masson's tumour is a non-neoplastic vascular lesion of reactive character. It is a rare diagnosis, clinically non-specific and with diverse locations. It is essential to take it into consideration and make a differential diagnosis with malignant vascular tumours such as angiosarcoma. Pathological study is fundamental for diagnosis. Treatment consists of complete resection of the tumour, including sufficiently wide margins to avoid recurrence.The case reported is an exceptional event, because of the pelvic location of the Masson's tumour that was diagnosed as part of the surgical staging of an ovarian cancer.

Protein biomarkers in gynecological cancers: The need for translational research towards clinical applications / Biomarcadores proteicos en los cánceres ginecológicos: la necesidad de una investigación traslacional para las aplicaciones clínicas

Ovarian cancer is ranked highest among gynecological cancers, followed by cervical and endometrial cancer. Most women are asymptomatic and are eventually diagnosed with late-stage disease. Numerous recent studies have proposed promising protein tumour biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment and disease recurrence. Cancer antigen 125 (CA-125) and human epididymis protein 4 (HE4) are biomarkers routinely used for monitoring recurrence in ovarian cancer patients. They are of limited diagnostic value in early-stage cancer. Application of sensitive advanced proteomics techniques reveals that a combined biomarker panel is superior in specificity and sensitivity compared to a single biomarker. The major limitation in translating potential tumour biomarkers from the research setting to clinical practice is a lack of validation in large patient cohorts. This review provides an overview of current and potential biomarkers for ovarian, endometrial and cervical cancers. In conclusion, we propose validation studies for multiple biomarker panels of apolipoprotein A-I (ApoA-I)+CA-125+transthyretin and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1)+CA-125+carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA)+HE4 for early diagnosis of ovarian cancer. We also suggest combination panels of prognostic value consisting of CA-125+HE4 for endometrial cancer and squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCC-Ag)+CEA for cervical cancer.

El cáncer de ovario ocupa el primer lugar entre los cánceres ginecológicos, seguido del cáncer de cuello uterino y del cáncer de endometrio. La mayoría de las mujeres son asintomáticas, por lo que finalmente se les diagnostica la enfermedad en una fase avanzada. En numerosos estudios recientes se han propuesto prometedores biomarcadores tumorales proteicos para el diagnóstico, el pronóstico, el tratamiento y la recidiva de la enfermedad. El antígeno de cáncer 125 (CA-125) y la proteína 4 del epidídimo humano son biomarcadores que se utilizan de forma habitual para controlar la recidiva en pacientes con cáncer de ovario. Tienen un valor diagnóstico limitado en las fases iniciales del cáncer. La aplicación de técnicas sensibles de proteómica avanzada ha revelado que un grupo combinado de biomarcadores es superior en especificidad y sensibilidad en comparación con un único biomarcador. La principal limitación a la hora de trasladar los posibles biomarcadores tumorales del ámbito de la investigación a la práctica clínica es la falta de validación en grandes cohortes de pacientes. Esta revisión ofrece una visión general de los biomarcadores actuales y potenciales para el cáncer de ovario, de endometrio y de cuello uterino. En conclusión, proponemos estudios de validación para varios grupos de biomarcadores de apolipoproteína A-I+CA-125+transtiretina y molécula de adhesión celular vascular 1+CA-125+antígeno carcinoembrionario+proteína 4 del epidídimo humano para el diagnóstico precoz del cáncer de ovario. También sugerimos grupos combinados de valor pronóstico, compuestos por CA-125+proteína 4 del epidídimo humano para el cáncer de endometrio y antígeno de carcinoma de células escamosas+ antígeno carcinoembrionario para el cáncer de cuello uterino.

Análise de impacto orçamentário dos inibidores de PARP no tratamento de manutenção em primeira linha de pacientes com câncer de ovário avançado, gBRCA mutado, sob a perspectiva do sistema de saúde suplementar brasileiro / Budget impact analysis of PARP inhibitors in the first line maintenance treatment of patients with advanced, gBRCA mutated, ovarian cancer, from the perspective of the Brazilian supplementary health system

Objetivo: O presente artigo visa disponibilizar aos gestores da saúde dados sobre o impacto orçamentário da incorporação dos inibidores de PARP (iPARPs) para o tratamento de primeira linha de manutenção de câncer de ovário avançado, gBRCA mutado, sob a perspectiva do sistema de saúde suplementar. Métodos: Adotou-se o método epidemiológico, tendo como comparador a vigilância ativa em um horizonte temporal de cinco anos. Foram considerados apenas os custos de tratamento medicamentoso na análise, utilizando o pressuposto conservador de que os custos da vigilância ativa são nulos. Além disso, construiu-se uma análise de sensibilidade determinística. Resultados: O impacto orçamentário dos iPARPs na população-alvo em todo o sistema foi de R$ 78,1 milhões em cinco anos acumulados. A análise de sensibilidade apontou que o resultado doimpacto orçamentário varia de R$ 54,6 milhões a R$ 101,6 milhões. A taxa de difusão da tecnologia e os parâmetros epidemiológicos foram os que exerceram a maior influência na variabilidade dos resultados. Conclusão: Os dados sugerem que a incorporação dos iPARPs na população selecionada gera um impacto orçamentário gerenciável.

Objective: The objective was to calculate the budget impact of PARP inhibitors (iPARPs) incorporation for the first-line maintenance treatment of advanced mutated gBRCA ovarian cancer from the perspective of the supplementary health system. Methods: We adopted the epidemiological method, with active surveillance as the comparator in a time horizon of five years. We considered only drug treatment's cost, using a conservative approach in which the costs with active surveillance are null. In addition, we developed a deterministic sensitivity analysis. Results: The budget impact of iPARPs on the target population was R$ 78.1 million in five years. The sensitivity analysis showed that the result of the budget impact ranges from R$ 54.6 million to R$ 101.6 million. The market share evolution and the epidemiological parameters had the highest impact on the result's variability. Conclusion: These data suggest that the incorporation of iPARPs in the selected population generates a manageable budget impact

Fiber burden and asbestos-related diseases: an umbrella review / Niveles de exposición y enfermedades relacionadas con el asbesto

Objective: What are the levels of asbestos exposure that cause each type of health effect? The objective of this study was to review the available scientific evidence on exposure levels for asbestos and their relationship to health effects. Method: An umbrella review of English-language reviews and meta-analyses, from 1980 to March 2021 was conducted. We included reviews involving quantified asbestos exposures and health outcomes. The review has been adapted to the indications of the PRISMA declaration. Methodological quality of the selected studies was assessed using the AMSTAR instrument. Results: We retrieved 196 references. After applying the search strategy and quality analysis, 10 reviews were selected for in-depth analysis. For lung cancer, the highest risk was observed with exposure to amphiboles. Longer, thinner fibers had the greatest capacity to cause lung cancer, especially those > 10 μm in length. For mesothelioma, longer and thinner fibers were also more pathogenic; amphiboles ≥ 5 μm are especially associated with increased mesothelioma risk. No studies observed an increased risk for lung cancer or mesothelioma at asbestos exposure levels <0.1 f/ml. No reviews provided information on exposure concentrations for pulmonary fibrosis. Currently, there is limited evidence in humans to establish the causal relationship between gastrointestinal cancer and asbestos exposure. Conclusions: Banning all asbestos exposure remains the best measure to preventing its negative health effects. The highest quality reviews and meta-analyses support that there is little risk of lung cancer or mesothelioma at daily exposure levels below 0.1 f/ml. (AU)

Objetivo: Revisar la evidencia científica disponible sobre los niveles de exposición al asbesto y su relación con los efectos sobre la salud. Método: Se realizó una revisión de revisiones sistemáticas y metaanálisis en inglés, desde 1980 hasta marzo de 2021. Se incluyeron revisiones que involucran exposiciones cuantificadas al asbesto y resultados de salud. La revisión se adaptó a las indicaciones de la Declaración PRISMA. La calidad metodológica de los estudios seleccionados fue evaluada mediante el instrumento AMSTAR. Resultados: Se recuperaron 196 referencias y tras aplicar la estrategia de búsqueda y analizar la calidad se seleccionaron 10 revisiones para un análisis en profundidad. Para el cáncer de pulmón, se observó mayor riesgo con la exposición a anfíboles. Las fibras más largas y delgadas presentaron mayor capacidad de causar cáncer de pulmón, especialmente aquellas de longitud >10μm. Para el mesotelioma, las fibras más largas y delgadas también fueron más patógenas; los anfíboles ≥ 5μm se asociaron con un mayor riesgo de mesotelioma. Ningún estudio observó mayor riesgo de cáncer de pulmón o de mesotelioma con niveles de exposición al asbesto <0,1 f/ml. Ningún estudio proporcionó información sobre concentraciones de exposición para la fibrosis pulmonar. Actualmente existe evidencia limitada en humanos para establecer la relación causal entre la exposición al asbesto y el cáncer gastrointestinal. Conclusiones: Prohibir toda exposición al asbesto es la mejor medida para prevenir sus efectos negativos para la salud. Las revisiones y metaanálisis de más alta calidad respaldan que hay escaso riesgo de cáncer de pulmón y de mesotelioma con niveles de exposición diaria por debajo de 0,1 f/ml. (AU)

Manejo terapéutico del cáncer ginecológico durante la gestación / Therapeutic management of gynecological cancer during pregnancy

Antecedente: Aunque la asociación entre embarazo y cáncer es infrecuente, el retraso en la edad de gestación ha hecho que aumente la incidencia en las últimas décadas. El tratamiento del cáncer gine- cológico durante la gestación plantea un importante conflicto tanto a nivel ético como clínico. Objetivo: Material y métodos: Búsqueda bibliográfica de literatura a través de las bases de datos Pub- Med, MedLine, Embase, BioMed Central y SciELO.Conclusiones: La gestación no ha demostrado tener un impacto negativo en el pronóstico del cáncer de cérvix. La cirugía más o menos radical en función de la sospecha de malignidad es el manejo estándar del cáncer de ovario en el embarazo, aunque resultan prometedores los resultados de las pautas neoad- yuvantes con platino. El embarazo actúa como factor protector de cáncer de endometrio. (AU)

Background: Although the association between pregnancy and cancer is rare, the delay in gestation age has increased theincident in recent decades. The treatment of gynecological cancer during pregnancy involves an important conflict bothan ethical and clinical level.Objetive: To collect the current evidence regarding the diagnosis and management of gynecological cancer during preg-nancy.Material and methods: Bibliographic literature search through the Pubmed, MedLine, Embase, BioMed Central andSciELO databases.Conclusions: Pregnancy has not been shown to have a negative impact on the prognosis of cervical cancer. More or lessradical surgery based on suspected malignancy is the standard management of ovarian cancer in pregnancy, although theresults of neoadjuvant platinum regimens are promising. Pregnancy acts as a protective factor against endometrial cancer. (AU)

Fiber burden and asbestos-related diseases: an umbrella review.

OBJECTIVE: What are the levels of asbestos exposure that cause each type of health effect? The objective of this study was to review the available scientific evidence on exposure levels for asbestos and their relationship to health effects. METHOD: An umbrella review of English-language reviews and meta-analyses, from 1980 to March 2021 was conducted. We included reviews involving quantified asbestos exposures and health outcomes. The review has been adapted to the indications of the PRISMA declaration. Methodological quality of the selected studies was assessed using the AMSTAR instrument. RESULTS: We retrieved 196 references. After applying the search strategy and quality analysis, 10 reviews were selected for in-depth analysis. For lung cancer, the highest risk was observed with exposure to amphiboles. Longer, thinner fibers had the greatest capacity to cause lung cancer, especially those > 10 µm in length. For mesothelioma, longer and thinner fibers were also more pathogenic; amphiboles ≥ 5 µm are especially associated with increased mesothelioma risk. No studies observed an increased risk for lung cancer or mesothelioma at asbestos exposure levels <0.1 f/ml. No reviews provided information on exposure concentrations for pulmonary fibrosis. Currently, there is limited evidence in humans to establish the causal relationship between gastrointestinal cancer and asbestos exposure. CONCLUSIONS: Banning all asbestos exposure remains the best measure to preventing its negative health effects. The highest quality reviews and meta-analyses support that there is little risk of lung cancer or mesothelioma at daily exposure levels below 0.1 f/ml.

Tuberculoma simulador de cáncer de ovario / Tuberculoma mimicking ovarian cancer

Resumen INTRODUCCIÓN: La tuberculosis sigue siendo un problema de salud pública global: alrededor de un cuarto de la población mundial está infectada con el bacilo de la tuberculosis, pero solo 5 a 15% realmente resultarán con la enfermedad. Pese a los esfuerzos por controlar la infección, hoy en día es la principal causa de muerte producida por un único agente infeccioso. La forma extrapulmonar es rara, y la genital suele manifestarse con esterilidad, en otros simula un cáncer de ovario avanzado, incluidas la masa anexial y la ascitis, pérdida de peso y elevación del marcador tumoral Ca125. El diagnóstico diferencial prequirúrgico es complejo, de ahí que a la mayoría de las pacientes se les indique una intervención quirúrgica innecesaria. CASO CLÍNICO: Paciente de 29 años con diagnóstico de formación anexial sospechosa de malignidad que se trató de manera conservadora hasta conseguir su regresión total. Además, se efectuó una revisión de la bibliografía relacionada con esta infrecuente entidad. CONCLUSIÓN: La conjunción de ascitis, masa pélvica y elevación del marcador Ca125 puede corresponder al diagnóstico de cáncer de ovario avanzado, ello sin olvidar la posibilidad de tuberculosis extraperitoneal en pacientes con antecedente de tuberculosis o procedentes de zonas endémicas. El diagnóstico es complejo, sobre todo por la baja incidencia en nuestro medio, que a menudo requiere laparoscopias exploradoras para confirmar el origen de las lesiones.

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Tuberculosis remains a global public health problem: about a quarter of the world's population is infected with the tuberculosis bacillus, but only 5-15% will actually develop the disease. Despite efforts to control the infection, today it is the leading cause of death from a single infectious agent. The extrapulmonary form is rare, and the genital form usually manifests with sterility, in others it simulates advanced ovarian cancer, including adnexal mass and ascites, weight loss and elevation of the tumor marker Ca125. The pre-surgical differential diagnosis is complex, hence most patients are indicated for unnecessary surgery. CLINICAL CASE: A 29-year-old patient with a diagnosis of adnexal formation suspicious for malignancy was treated conservatively until complete regression was achieved. In addition, a review of the existing literature related to this rare entity was performed. CONCLUSION: The conjunction of ascites, pelvic mass and elevated Ca125 marker may correspond to the diagnosis of advanced ovarian cancer, without forgetting the possibility of extraperitoneal tuberculosis in patients with a history of tuberculosis or from endemic areas. Diagnosis is complex, especially due to the low incidence in our environment, which often requires exploratory laparoscopy to confirm the origin of the lesions.