Female rodents in behavioral neuroscience: Narrative review on the methodological pitfalls.

Since the NIH 'Sex as biological variable' policy, the percentage of studies including female subjects have increased largely. Nonetheless, many researchers fail to adequate their protocols to include females. In this narrative review, we aim to discuss the methodological pitfalls of the inclusion of female rodents in behavioral neuroscience. We address three points to consider in studies: the manipulations conducted only in female animals (such as estrous cycle monitoring, ovariectomy, and hormone replacement), the consideration of males as the standard, and biases related to interpretation and publication of the results. In addition, we suggest guidelines and perspectives for the inclusion of females in preclinical research.

Risk of endometrial cancer after RRSO in BRCA 1/2 carriers: a multicentre cohort study.

OBJECTIVE: To know the risk of endometrial cancer (EC) in a population of women with BRCA 1/2 pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants after risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO). METHODS: The study cohort included data from 857 women with BRCA mutations who underwent RRSO visited four hospitals in Catalonia, Spain, from January 1, 1999 to April 30, 2019. Standardized incidence ratio (SIR) of EC was calculated in these patients using data from a regional population-based cancer registry. RESULTS: After RRSO, eight cases of EC were identified. Four in BRCA 1 carriers and four in BRCA2 carriers. The expected number of cases of EC was 3.67 cases, with a SIR of 2.18 and a 95% CI (0.93-3.95). CONCLUSIONS: In our cohort, the risk of EC in BRCA1/2 carriers after RRSO is not greater than expected. Hysterectomy is not routinely recommended for these patients.

Suboptimal use of ovarian function suppression in very young women with early breast cancer: a real-world data study.

PURPOSE: The incidence of breast cancer in young women (BCYW) has increased in recent decades. Malignant disease in this subset is characterized by its aggressiveness and poor prognosis. Ovarian function suppression (OFS) in these patients improves survival especially in hormone receptor-positive (HR +) cases. The Regan Composite Risk (RCR) is a prognostic tool to identify high-risk HR + BC candidates for OFS. Our study sought to characterize a Chilean cohort of early HR + BCYW assessing the use of OFS and its related prognosis and the utility of RCR in our patients. METHODS: This was a retrospective population cohort study that included ≤ 35-year-old early HR + /human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 -negative (HER2-) BC patients treated between 2001 and 2021. Analysis included clinical-pathological characteristics, treatment strategies, and survival. Also, we evaluated the association between RCR and survival. RESULTS: A total of 143 patients were included into our study, representing 2.9% of all early BC cases in our registry. Median age was 31 years old (range: 19-35). Most patients (93%) received endocrine therapy (ET). Of these, 18% received OFS. No survival differences were observed among treatment strategies. Median RCR score for patients treated with CT plus ET was significantly higher vs. ET alone (2.95 vs. 1.91; p = 0.0001). Conversely, patients treated with tamoxifen alone had significantly lower RCR scores vs. OFS (2.72 vs. 3.14; p = 0.04). Higher RCR scores were associated with poorer overall survival. CONCLUSION: Less than 20% of very young women with early HR + /HER2-BC in our cohort received OFS, in most cases, this involved surgical oophorectomy. RCR score was higher in patients that underwent CT and OFS and was associated with survival, regardless of treatment. We confirm the RCR score as a valuable prognostic tool to identify high-risk BC patients who could benefit from OFS.

Menopausia quirúrgica en pacientes con mutación BRCA, el papel de la terapia hormonal / Surgical Menopause in Patients with BRCA Mutation, the Role of Hormone Therapy

Introducción: las mujeres con mutación BRCA1/2 (mBRCA) tienen un riesgo aumentado de desarrollar cáncer de mama (CM) y ovario (CO). La salpingo-oforectomía bilateral (SOB) se asocia con la reducción del riesgo del 80% para CO y un 50% para CM. Se recomienda realizarla entre los 35 y 40 años. Como consecuencia se produce una menopausia prematura, con un impacto negativo sobre la calidad de vida por la presencia de síntomas climatéricos, aumento del riesgo de enfermedad cardiovascular, osteoporosis y riesgo de alteración cognitiva. La terapia hormonal (THM) es el tratamiento más eficaz para la prevención de estos síntomas. Estado del arte: distintos estudios han demostrado un mayor riesgo de CM en mujeres posmenopáusicas que reciben THM en particular con terapia combinada, estrógeno + progesterona (E+P). Según el metanálisis de Marchetti y cols., en las mujeres portadoras de mBRCA que recibieron THM, no hubo diferencias en el riesgo de CM comparando E solo con E+P. En el estudio de Kotsopoulos, incluso se encontró un posible efecto protector en aquellas que usaron E solo. Otro estudio en portadoras sanas demostró que, en las mujeres menores de 45 años al momento de la SOB, la THM no afectó las tasas de CM. Sin embargo, en las mujeres mayores de 45 años, las tasas de CM fueron más altas. Como el esquema de E+P se asocia con un mayor riesgo relativo (RR) de CM, las dosis de progestágenos utilizados se deberían limitar, eligiendo derivados naturales de progesterona, de uso intermitente para disminuir la exposición sistémica. Según diferentes guías internacionales, a las portadoras de mBRCA sanas que se someten a una SOB se les debe ofrecer THM hasta la edad promedio de la menopausia. Conclusión: la menopausia prematura disminuye la expectativa de vida; es por ello que una de las herramientas para mejorar y prevenir el deterioro de la calidad de vida es la THM. El uso de THM a corto plazo parece seguro para las mujeres portadoras de mBRCA que se someten a una SOB antes de los 45 años, al no contrarrestar la reducción del riesgo de CM obtenida gracias a la cirugía. (AU)

Introduction: women with BRCA1/2 (mBRCA) mutation have an increased risk of developing breast (BC) and ovarian (OC) cancer. Bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (BSO) is associated with an 80% risk reduction for OC and 50% for BC. The recommended age for this procedure is 35 to 40 years. The consequence is premature menopause, which hurts the quality of life due to the presence of climacteric symptoms, increased risk of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and a higher risk of cognitive impairment. Hormone therapy (MHT) is the most effective treatment for preventing these symptoms. State of the art: different studies have shown an increased risk of BC in postmenopausal women receiving MHT, particularly with combined therapy, estrogen + progesterone (E+P). According to the meta-analysis by Marchetti et al., in women carrying mBRCA who received MHT, there was no difference in the risk of BC compared to E alone with E+P. In the Kostopoulos study, there was also a possible protective effect in those who used E alone. Another study in healthy carriers showed that in women younger than 45 years at the time of BSO, MHT did not affect BC rates. However, in women older than 45 years, BC rates were higher. As the E+P scheme is associated with a higher RR of BC, the doses of progestogens should be limited, choosing natural progesterone byproducts of intermittent use to decrease systemic exposure. According to various international guidelines, healthy mBRCA carriers undergoing BSO should be offered MHT until the average age of menopause. Conclusion: premature menopause decreases life expectancy, which is why one of the tools to improve and prevent deterioration of quality of life is MHT. Short-term use of MHT appears safe for women with mBRCA who undergo BSO before age 45 as it does not counteract the reduction in the risk of MC obtained by surgery. (AU)

Torsión uterina causada por miomatosis: reporte de un caso / Uterine torsion caused by myomatosis: A case report

Resumen ANTECEDENTES: La torsión uterina es una rotación del útero sobre su eje mayor de más de 45°; por lo general sucede en torno del istmo uterino. Los leiomiomas son el factor predisponente más frecuente en úteros no grávidos. OBJETIVO: Reportar el caso de una paciente con torsión uterina cervical y miomatosis de grandes elementos. CASO CLÍNICO: Paciente de 42 años, nuligesta, con antecedente de miomatosis uterina de grandes elementos de 27 x 27 cm. Los síntomas se iniciaron con síndrome doloroso abdominal intenso, tipo cólico, localizado en el hipogastrio y la fosa iliaca. En la exploración física el abdomen se percibió doloroso a la palpación superficial y profunda, con una tumoración cercana a la cicatriz umbilical (25 cm), móvil y dolorosa. En la laparotomía exploradora se encontró líquido peritoneal hemorrágico y se observó una torsión uterina (una vuelta) cerca del cuello del útero, además de un mioma subseroso en la cara posterior, de 27 x 27 cm. El útero, los anexos y las salpinges se advirtieron con datos francos de daño vascular, con áreas de isquemia. Por lo anterior se decidieron la histerectomía total abdominal y la salpingooforectomia bilateral. El informe histopatológico reportó: útero con cambio isquémico extenso panmural, sin evidencia de neoplasia maligna. CONCLUSIONES: El dolor abdominal es el síntoma más común de la torsión uterina que puede variar de leve a agudo. El diagnóstico preoperatorio rápido y preciso de torsión uterina es decisivo y se justifica la intervención quirúrgica de urgencia.

Abstract BACKGROUND: Uterine torsion is a rare entity that is defined as a rotation of the uterus on its major axis of more than 45°, generally occurring at the level of the uterine isthmus. Leiomyomas are the most frequent predisposing factor in non-gravid uterus. OBJECTIVE: Report of a case of a gynecological patient with uterine torsion at the cervical level in a uterus with uterine myomatosis of large elements. CLINICAL CASE: A 42-year-old patient, nulliparous, with a history of uterine myomatosis with large elements of 27 x 27 cm. The symptoms began with intense abdominal pain syndrome, colic type, located in the hypogastrium and the iliac fossa. On physical examination, the abdomen was perceived as painful on superficial and deep palpation, with a mobile and painful tumor close to the umbilical scar (25 cm). In the exploratory laparotomy, hemorrhagic peritoneal fluid was found and a uterine torsion (one turn) was observed near the cervix, as well as a subserous myoma on the posterior face, measuring 27 x 27 cm. The uterus, the annexes and the salpinges were noted with frank data of vascular damage, with areas of ischemia. Therefore, total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy were decided. The histopathological report reported: uterus with extensive panmural ischemic change, without evidence of malignancy. CONCLUSIONS: In uterine torsion, abdominal pain is the most common symptom and can range from mild to severe abdominal symptoms. Therefore, a prompt and accurate preoperative diagnosis of uterine torsion is crucial and urgent surgical intervention is warranted.

Oophorectomy improves pituitary activin inhibitory function preventing lactotroph hyperplasia development.

Among pituitary adenomas, prolactinomas are the most frequently diagnosed (about 50%). Dopamine agonists are generally effective in the treatment of prolactinomas. However, a subset of about 25% of patients does not respond to these agents. The management of drug-resistant prolactinomas remains a challenge for endocrinologists and new inhibitory treatments are needed. Pituitary activins inhibit lactotroph function. Its expression and action were found reduced in animal models of lactotroph hyperplasia (female mice overexpressing the B subunit of the human chorionic gonadotrophin and female mice knockout for dopamine receptor type 2). In these models, an oophorectomy avoids prolactinoma development. Hormonal replacement with oestradiol and/or progesterone is not enough to reach the tumor size observed in transgenic females. We postulated that the loss of gonadal inhibins after an oophorectomy contributes to prevent hyperplasia development. Here, we demonstrated that an oophorectomy at 2 months age recovers the following in adulthood: (i) pituitary activin expression, (ii) activin receptor expression specifically in lactotroph population, (iii) activin biological activity in lactotrophs with a concomitant reduction of Pit-1 expression. To summarize, when an oophorectomy is performed, inhibins are lost and the inhibitory action of pituitary activins on lactotroph population is recovered, helping to prevent lactotroph hyperplasia development. These results emphasize the importance of the inhibitory action of activins on lactotroph function, positioning activins as a good therapeutic target for the treatment of resistant prolactinomas.

Association of bilateral oophorectomy and menopause hormone therapy with mild cognitive impairment: the REDLINC X study.

BACKGROUND: Dementia is a major public health problem. Estrogen is a regulator of the central nervous system and its deficit could be involved in cognitive decline in older women. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the association of bilateral oophorectomy, menopause hormone therapy (MHT) and other factors on mild cognitive impairment (MCI). METHOD: The case-control study included 941 otherwise healthy postmenopausal women aged 60 years and over from six Latin American countries. Personal and family data were recorded and MCI was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment test (MoCA). RESULTS: Average age, years of education and body mass index were 66.1 ± 5.8 years, 12.4 ± 5.0 years and 26.0 ± 4.3 kg/m2, respectively. A total of 30.2% had undergone bilateral oophorectomy and 40.3% had used MHT. A total of 232 women (24.7%) had MCI. The prevalence of MCI was higher in women with intact ovaries and non-MHT users as compared to MHT users (29.3% vs. 11.7% [odds ratio (OR) 0.32; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.20-0.51]). Among oophorectomized women, MCI prevalence was higher among non-MHT users as compared to MHT users (45.2% vs. 12.8% [OR 0.18; 95% CI 0.10-0.32]). Logistic regression analysis determined that the variables associated with MCI were age >65 years (OR 1.69; 95% CI 1.20-2.38), parity (having >2 children; OR 1.69; 95% CI 1.21-2.37), bilateral oophorectomy (OR 1.56; 95% CI 1.09-2.24), hypertension (OR 1.41; 95% CI 1.01-1.96), being sexually active (OR 0.56; 95% CI 0.40-0.79), education >12 years (OR 0.46; 95% CI 0.32-0.65) and MHT use (OR 0.31; 95% CI 0.21-0.46). CONCLUSION: Age, parity, bilateral oophorectomy and hypertension are independent factors associated with MCI; contrary to this, higher educational level, maintaining sexual activity and using MHT are protective factors.

Cáncer sincrónico de ovario y cúpula vaginal. Reporte de un caso y revisión de la bibliografía / Synchronous ovarian and vaginal vault cancer. Report of a case and review of the literature

Resumen INTRODUCCIÓN: El cáncer sincrónico es poco frecuente y de origen incierto. Se caracteriza por diferentes lesiones malignas que afectan dos o más zonas del aparato reproductor al mismo tiempo o en un lapso menor a un año; la combinación ovario y endometrio es la más frecuente. OBJETIVO: Reportar un caso de cáncer ginecológico sincrónico, tumor maligno de células de la granulosa de ovario y carcinoma de células escamosas en la cúpula vaginal; además, revisar la bibliografía al respecto. CASO CLÍNICO: Paciente de 47 años, con histerectomía total por miomatosis y una lesión de gran tamaño que ocupaba el espacio pélvico y comprimía el techo vesical. Acudió a consulta debido a un sangrado genital abundante, pérdida de peso y de orina en forma involuntaria. En el examen físico se evidenció una lesión friable en la cúpula vaginal de 3 cm. Se decidieron la ooforectomía izquierda y la extirpación tumoral. La biopsia y la inmunohistoquímica de las lesiones reportó un tumor maligno de células de la granulosa del adulto localizado en el ovario, y un carcinoma de células escamosas en la cúpula vaginal. Se indicó quimioterapia y en la actualidad la paciente permanece sin recidiva de la enfermedad y en seguimiento oncológico. CONCLUSIÓN: El cáncer sincrónico es poco frecuente, de ahí que se disponga de poca información. Gracias al acierto del diagnóstico y de la conducta terapéutica a seguir, luego de 24 meses la paciente del caso no ha tenido signos de recidiva de la enfermedad; continúa en seguimiento oncológico conforme a los protocolos establecidos.

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Synchronous cancer in gynecology is a rare entity, of uncertain etiology, consisting of different malignant lesions affecting two or more areas of the female reproductive system, at the same time or within a period of less than 1 year, the combination of ovary and endometrium being the most frequent. OBJECTIVE: to report a case of synchronous gynecological cancer, malignant granulosa cell tumor of the ovary and squamous cell carcinoma of the vaginal vault and in view of the infrequency of the case to review the literature. CLINICAL CASE: 47 years old patient, who underwent total hysterectomy for uterine myomatosis plus right oophorectomy for showing ovarian tumor during surgery, the histopathological report reported malignant granulosa cell tumor, abdomino-pelvic tomography was requested, which reported a large pelvic space occupying lesion (LOE) with compression of the bladder roof. She came to our office for the first time due to abundant genital bleeding, weight loss and involuntary urine loss, physical examination revealed a friable lesion in the vaginal vault of 3cm, surgical intervention was decided where a left oophorectomy and tumor pruning were performed, Biopsy and immunohistochemistry of lesions with report of malignant granulosa cell tumor of adult granulosa cells in the ovary and squamous cell carcinoma in the vaginal vault, referred to medical oncology who applied chemotherapy and currently the patient is without recurrence of the disease and in oncological follow-up. CONCLUSION: Synchronous cancer is an infrequent pathology, where much information remains to be investigated to better understand this entity. We present the first reported case of synchronous ovarian granulosa cell tumor cancer with vaginal vault cancer. Fortunately our patient 24 months after completing her treatment shows no signs of recurrence of the disease and will be followed up according to the established oncologic protocols.

Ovário acessório: relato de caso de um achado incidental em uma ressecção de tumor ovariano bilateral / Accessory ovary: case report of an incidental finding in a bilateral ovarian tumor resection

Ovários ectópicos estão entre as mais raras anomalias ginecológicas, compreendendo ovários supranumerários e acessórios. Relatamos o caso de um ovário acessório no istmo tubário encontrado incidentalmente no exame anatomopatológico de uma paciente de 70 anos que foi submetida a anexectomia bilateral por lesão cística volumosa em ovário direito e lesões calcificadas em ovário esquerdo. Aspectos clínicos, diagnósticos e epidemiológicos são discutidos neste estudo.

Ectopic ovaries are among the rarest gynecological abnormalities, comprising supernumerary and accessory ovaries. We report the case of an accessory ovary in the tubal isthmus found incidentally in the anatomopathological examination of a 70-year-old female patient who underwent bilateral adnexectomy for a large cystic lesion in the right ovary and calcified lesions in the left ovary. Clinical, diagnostic and epidemiological aspects are discussed in this study.

Vaginally assisted NOTES hysterectomy with adnexectomy (vNOTES) compared with conventional laparoscopy. A retrospective observational cohort study.

OBJECTIVE: To compare vaginally-assisted natural orifices endoscopic transluminal endoscopic surgery (vNOTES) hysterectomy with salpingectomy/salpingo-oophorectomy with standard laparoscopic access. METHODS: Medical records for patients undergoing hysterectomy with adnexectomy for benign disease indication between February 1, 2019 and February 1, 2020 were retrospectively examined. Exclusion criteria were endometriosis, previous pelvic radiotherapy, inflammatory pelvic disease history, any other concurrent surgery, laparotomy, robotic surgery, and/or traditional vaginal hysterectomy. RESULTS: Among 86 patients, 21 (24.4%) were allocated to a vNOTES group and 65 (75.6%) were allocated to a conventional laparoscopy (LAP) group. Mean ages for the groups were 47.19 ± 11.11 years and 46.69 ± 9.11 years, respectively (P = 0.928). There were no statistically significant differences in age, body mass index, arterial hypertension/diabetes, smoking, menopausal status, obstetric history, number of abdominal surgeries, or preoperative hemoglobin level between the two groups. The mean (range) operative times were 111.90 min (80-180 min) in the vNOTES group and 113.98 min (64-350 min) in the LAP group (P = 0.904). There were no statistically significant differences in terms of surgery indication, specific and unspecific complications, conversions, blood transfusion, reoperation, significant ileus/emesis, and hospital stay. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the parameters assessed, we found vNOTES to be comparable to laparoscopy among our cohort.

Aerobic or resistance training improves autonomic control of circulation in oophorectomized rats with cardiometabolic dysfunctions: Impact on renal oxidative stress.

Cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction is associated with end organ damage and increased risk of mortality. Menopause and metabolic syndrome increase the risk for cardiorenal complications. In this study, we investigated the effects of aerobic or resistance exercise training on autonomic control of circulation and renal oxidative stress in a model of menopause and metabolic syndrome. Female Wistar rats and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) were divided into 5 groups (n = 8): control (C), hypertensive (H), and sedentary (FHO), aerobic trained (FHOTa) and resistance trained (FHOTr) oophorectomized hypertensive treated with fructose (100 mg/mL drink water for 19 weeks). The FHO group presented increased vascular sympathetic modulation (LF-SBP), impaired baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) associated with increased blood pressure (BP) when compared to the H group. Aerobic exercise training enhanced tachycardic responses, while resistance training improved bradycardic responses to BP changes, thus ameliorating BRS. Moreover, despite unchanged BP, both exercise training protocols were effective in preventing increase in LF-SBP, reduction in systemic nitric oxide bioavailability (NOx), and increase in oxidative stress in the renal tissue, by decreasing lipid and protein oxidation in renal tissue. Positive correlation between LF-SBP and renal lipoperoxidation (r = 0.63, p < 0.05), as well as a negative correlation between NOx and renal lipoperoxidation (r = -0.66, p < 0.05) were observed. In conclusion, both aerobic and resistance exercise training were effective in improving autonomic control of circulation and reducing renal oxidative stress, thus attenuating the deleterious effects induced by arterial hypertension and fructose overload in female rats after ovarian hormone deprivation.

Salpingectomía oportunista: patrones de práctica en un grupo de ginecólogos colombianos / Opportunistic Salpingectomy: patterns of practice in a group of colombian gynecologists

INTRODUCCIÓN Y OBJETIVOS: El cáncer de ovario es la neoplasia de origen ginecológico más letal y el 90% de los casos son de origen epitelial. Se ha postulado el origen del cáncer epitelial de ovario (CEO) en las fimbrias de las trompas de Falopio, por lo cual, se ha sugerido la realización de la salpingectomía oportunista como método de prevención primaria. La presente investigación tiene como objetivo determinar la frecuencia con que los ginecólogos adscritos a la Federación Colombiana de Ginecología y Obstetricia (FECOLSOG) incluyeron salpingectomías oportunistas en su práctica clínica durante los años 2017-2018. MÉTODOS: Se realizó una encuesta a los ginecólogos adscritos a la FECOLSOG. Las variables analizadas incluyeron características demográficas, práctica profesional, método de prevención primaria de cáncer de ovario en pacientes de bajo riesgo y la realización o no de la salpingectomía oportunista y sus respectivas razones. Las variables cualitativas se analizaron con frecuencias absolutas y relativas, mientras que las cuantitativas con medidas de tendencia central y desviaciones estándar con el software STATA 13. RESULTADOS: De 1765 ginecólogos contactados, 353 contestaron la encuesta (tasa de respuesta del 20%). El 62.5% de estos realizan salpingectomía oportunista en su práctica ginecológica y de estos, el 75.2% lo hizo para prevenir cáncer de ovario. Entre las razones manifestadas por los especialistas para no realizar salpingectomía oportunista, el 12.5% no la consideraba un factor de protección frente al cáncer de ovario y un 14.4% consideraba que incrementaba el riesgo de falla ovárica temprana y morbilidad asociada. CONCLUSIÓN: Aunque existen controversias en su realización, la salpingectomía oportunista muestra ser una conducta adoptada por ginecólogos adscritos a FECOLSOG. Se requieren investigaciones futuras para determinar la efectividad de la salpingectomía e implementar estrategias de prevención del cáncer epitelial de ovario.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecological malignancy and 90% of cases are of epithelial origin. Recently, different investigations attribute their origin to the fimbriae of the fallopian tubes, reason why it has been suggested to perform elective salpingectomy for the prevention of high-grade adenocarcinoma, its most frequent histological variant. This research aims to determine the frequency with which gynecologists from the Colombian Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FECOLSOG) included this procedure in their clinical practice during the years 2017-2018. METHODS: A survey was sent electronically to the gynecologists assigned to FECOLSOG on three different occasions with an interval of 15 days between them. The variables analyzed included demographic characteristics, professional practice, primary prevention method of Ovarian Cancer in low-risk patients and the performance or not of elective salpingectomy with their respective reasons. Qualitative variables were analyzed with absolute and relative frequencies, while quantitative variables with measures of central tendency and standard deviations with STATA 13 software. RESULTS: From 1765 gynecologists contacted at least once via email, 353 answered the survey, indicating a response rate of 20%. 62.5% perform elective salpingectomy in their gynecological practice and of these, 75.2% do so to prevent ovarian cancer. Among the reasons for not practicing salpingectomy, 12.5% ​​do not consider it a protective factor for ovarian cancer, and 14.4% believe that it increases the risk of early ovarian failure and morbidity. CONCLUSION: Elective salpingectomy is a promising procedure as a preventive measure against epithelial ovarian cancer. Although there are controversies regarding its performance, salpingectomy seems to be a common practice amongst gynecologists from FECOLSOG, and seems to have higher recurrence within this field. Future research is required to determine the effectiveness of salpingectomy and thus, implement the best strategies for ovarian cancer prevention.

Morphometric Effects of Whole-Body Vibration on the Bone in a Rat Model of Postmenopausal Osteoporosis.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to analyze the morphometric effects of mechanical vibration with a duration of 4 or 8 weeks on the femur of oophorectomized Wistar rats. METHODS: Sixty-four female rats were submitted to oophorectomy or a sham operation, and each of those 2 groups were randomized into 4 groups: untreated and euthanized at week 12, untreated and euthanized at week 16, treated for 4 weeks and euthanized at week 12, and treated for 8 weeks and euthanized at week 16. The vibration treatment was performed for 10 min/d, with a frequency of 60 Hz, 3 d/wk. The rats were then euthanized and the right femur dissected. Subsequently, histomorphometric analysis was performed on the proximal epiphysis and diaphysis of the spongy and cortical bone, respectively. RESULTS: As expected, the oophorectomy groups presented reduction of spongy and cortical bone tissue. Further, the vibration therapy of 4 and 8 weeks' duration in the oophorectomized groups led to increased bone mass, observed as an increased percentage of spongy tissue, and increased thickness and percentage of cortical tissue. However, the variables of femoral neck diameter, mean area of the shaft, and number of osteocytes were not altered by oophorectomy and vibration. CONCLUSION: The mechanical vibration was effective in increasing the bone mass of the femur of oophorectomized Wistar rats, observed by increasing the percentage of spongy bone and increasing the percentage and thickness of cortical bone.

Hormone therapy after risk-reducing surgery in patients with BRCA1/BRCA2 mutation: evaluation of potential benefits and safety

SUMMARY Women with mutations in the BRCA 1 and 2 genes are at increased risk for ovarian and breast cancer and therefore candidates for risk-reducing surgery, including salpingo-oophorectomy and mastectomy. Risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO) is considered the most effective prophylactic measure for ovarian cancer prevention in this group of patients. This procedure involves loss of ovarian function and induced menopause. Estrogen therapy is the most effective treatment for controlling vasomotor symptoms and improving the quality of life of climacteric women. However, the potential hormonal stimulation of these tumors and the risk of breast cancer are a concern regarding the safety of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in this population. This article aims to review the current evidence regarding the potential benefits and safety of HRT after RRSO.

RESUMO Mulheres portadoras de mutações nos genes BRCA 1 e 2 possuem risco aumentado para cânceres de ovário e mama e, portanto, são candidatas às cirurgias redutoras de risco, incluindo a salpingo-ooforectomia e a mastectomia. A salpingo-ooforectomia redutora de risco (SORR) é considerada a medida profilática mais efetiva para prevenção do câncer de ovário nesse grupo de pacientes. Esse procedimento implica a perda da função ovariana e menopausa induzida. A estrogenioterapia é o tratamento mais efetivo para o controle de sintomas vasomotores e melhora da qualidade de vida de mulheres no climatério. No entanto, a potencial estimulação hormonal desses tumores e o risco de câncer de mama constituem uma preocupação com a segurança da terapia hormonal (TH) nesta população. Este artigo tem como objetivo uma revisão das evidências atuais quanto aos benefícios potenciais e segurança da TH após SORR.

Bilateral risk-reducing mastectomy in a patient over 50 years of age: case report with an emphasis on the psychological aspect in the face of serious complications

Malignant breast neoplasia is the main cause of cancer mortality in women in Brazil, after non-melanoma skin cancer, and about 5 to 10% of these cases are associated with family inheritance; BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are the most frequently mutated. In this sense, there has been a paradigm shift in medical practice regarding breast cancers in recent years, with the implementation of risk-reducing surgical procedures, such as bilateral mastectomy and salpingo-oopherectomy, which still have controversies in the indication, in addition to fears and sufferings of patients, before and after the procedure. A 54-year-old female patient has been undergoing routine examinations since 2009 (49 years), as she has a family history of breast cancer. In May 2014 (54 years old), the patient underwent genetic research, discovering the pathogenic 648delT mutation in heterozygosity in the BRCA1 gene. Although complementary exams did not indicate any neoplasia, the patient wanted to undergo risk-reducing surgery. After interprofessional discussion with the patient, bilateral risk-reducing mastectomy and salpingo-oophorectomy were performed. The patient had a postoperative infection, and one of the silicone prostheses was removed from her breast. In 2015 (55 years old), she underwent a new prosthesis inclusion, evolving without complications. Currently, she is being followed up and without evidence of active cancer disease. Despite the complication with the prosthesis, there was an improvement in psychological aspects that bothered her, referring to a reduction in anxiety and fear of cancer. Although beneficial, risk-reducing mastectomy has associated risks, especially in patients with advanced age and comorbidities. However, with an appropriate approach and focused on the complexities of each person, it is possible to provide the patient with a better overall psychological experience, as demonstrated in this case reported.

Carcinoma seroso de ovario. Serie de 14 casos y revisión de la bibliografía / Serous ovarian cancer. Report of 14 cases and review of the bibliography

Resumen OBJETIVO: Describir las características epidemiológicas, clínicas, de laboratorio, de tratamiento médico-quirúrgico y patología, en una serie de 14 pacientes con carcinoma seroso de ovario atendidas en un hospital de alta complejidad y revisión de la bibliografía con el fin de actualizar los conceptos. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio de serie de casos retrospectivo y descriptivo de pacientes con cáncer de ovario seroso confirmado por patología. Las pacientes se estudiaron en un hospital general de alta complejidad entre 2013 y 2016. Variables de estudio: epidemiológicas, clínicas, de laboratorio, del tratamiento médico quirúrgico, comorbilidades y patología. Revisión narrativa de la bibliografía correspondiente a la información relacionada con las variables evaluadas. RESULTADOS: Se diagnosticaron 14 mujeres, de 50 a 80 años; 3 casos con antecedente de histerectomía y 1 de salpingoclasia. Diagnóstico histológico: 10 con tumor seroso de alto grado, 2 moderadamente diferenciado, 1 seroso de bajo grado y otro no clasificado. Procedimientos quirúrgicos: histerectomía, salpingooforectomía bilateral, linfadenectomía, omentectomía en 8 casos. Clasificación en estadios: IV en 6, 3 IIIB, 2 IC, 1 IIIC y una 1 IB. Tratamiento: 10 mujeres con carboplatino y paclitaxel. Revisión de 2227 artículos encontrados, 41 seleccionados. CONCLUSIONES: El carcinoma seroso de ovario se clasifica, actualmente, en bajo y alto grado (más frecuente y agresivo). Este tipo fue el más frecuente, los factores de riesgo encontrados, por el número reducido de pacientes, no permiten emitir conclusiones.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: To describe the epidemiological, clinical, laboratory, surgical medical management and pathology characteristics in a series of 14 patients with serous ovarian carcinoma in a highly complex hospital and review of the literature in order to update the concepts. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective and descriptive case series study of a patient with serous ovarian cancer confirmed by pathology. The patients were studied in a highly complex general hospital between 2013 and 2016. Study variables: Epidemiological, clinical, laboratory surgical medical treatment, comorbidities, and pathology. Narrative review of the bibliography corresponding to information related to the evaluated variables. RESULTS: Fourteen women between the ages of 50 and 80 were diagnosed, 3 with a history of hysterectomy and 1 with tubal ligation. Histological diagnosis: 10 with high-grade serous tumor, 2 moderately differentiated, 1 low-grade serous and one not classified. Surgical procedures: hysterectomy, bilateral salpinges-oophorectomy, lymphadenectomy, omentectomy in 8 cases. They classified into states: IV in 6, 3 IIIB, 2 IC, 1 IIIC and 1 IB. Treatment 10 women with carboplatin and paclitaxel. Review 2227 articles were found, 41 sectioned. CONCLUSIONS: Serous ovarian carcinoma is currently classified as low and high grade (more frequent and aggressive). This type was the most frequent, the risk factors found by the reduced number do not allow conclusions to be drawn.

Salpingooforectomía bilateral profiláctica en pacientes con BRCA1 o BRCA2 / Prophylactic bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy in patients with BRCA1 or BRCA2

Resumen OBJETIVO: Determinar la prevalencia, factores clínicos o epidemiológicos de cáncer oculto en pacientes BRCA1 o BRCA2 operadas para salpingooforectomía bilateral profiláctica. Evaluar las complicaciones quirúrgicas en las cirugías laparoscópicas. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio observacional, retrospectivo, llevado a cabo en el Hospital Gregorio Marañón entre 2012 y 2018. Se revisaron las salpingooforectomías bilaterales profilácticas practicadas a pacientes con mutaciones confirmadas BRCA1 o 2, no diagnosticadas previamente de cáncer de ovario o trompa. Las principales variables analizadas fueron: antecedentes familiares, edad, índice de masa corporal, hábito tabáquico, mutación genética, cirugías abdominales previas, cáncer de mama, fecha de la cirugía, tiempo quirúrgico, tipo de cirugía, técnica de entrada a la cavidad abdominal y complicaciones quirúrgicas. El análisis estadístico se efectuó con SPSS 17.0. RESULTADOS: Se estudiaron 59 pacientes. La prevalencia de cáncer oculto fue 5 de 59. La edad media de las pacientes con diagnóstico de cáncer oculto en el momento de la cirugía fue 47.8 años. Se encontró antecedente de cáncer de mama en 43 de las 59 pacientes; en este subgrupo se encontró cáncer oculto en 2 pacientes. En el subgrupo sin antecedente de cáncer de mama, la frecuencia fue 3 de 16. No se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre ambos grupos (p = 0.118). Todas las pacientes a quienes se diagnosticó cáncer oculto, salvo una, eran fumadoras. La tasa de complicaciones intraoperatorias fue 2 de 51 y 1 de 51 las postoperatorias CONCLUSIONES: Las pacientes con BRCA1 o BRCA2 son un grupo de alto riesgo oncológico que requiere seguimiento y asesoramiento específicos en unidades especializadas de hospitales de tercer nivel de atención.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of occult cancer in BRCA1 and/or BRCA2 patients undergoing prophylactic bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. To determine associated clinical or epidemiological factors. To evaluate surgical complications in surgeries performed via laparoscopy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective observational study conducted at the Gregorio Marañón hospital between 2012 and 2018. Review of prophylactic bilateral salpingo-oophorectomies performed in patients with confirmed BRCA1 and/or 2 mutations and not previously diagnosed with ovarian and/or fallopian cancer. Main variables: family history, age, body mass index, smoking habit, genetic mutation, previous abdominal surgeries, breast cancer, surgery date, surgical time, type of surgery, technique of the entrance to the abdominal cavity, surgical complications. The statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 17.0. RESULTS: 59 patients were included. The prevalence of occult cancer was 5/59. The average age (at the time of surgery) of patients diagnosed with occult cancer was 47.8 years. 43/59 had a history of breast cancer; in this group occult cancer was found in two patients. In the group with no history of breast cancer, frequency of occult cancer was 3/16. No statistically significant differences were found between both groups (p = 0.118). All patients diagnosed with occult cancer, except one, were smokers. The rate of intraoperative complications was 2/51 and 1/51 postoperative. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with BRCA1 and/or BRCA2 mutations are a group of high cancer risk that require specific monitoring and advice in specialized units of third level hospitals.

Sexual Function Under Adequate Estrogen Therapy in Women After Oophorectomy Versus Natural Menopause.

Background: There is scarce evidence regarding endogenous postmenopausal ovarian testosterone (T) production and estrogen replacement roles in different sexual domains. This study aimed to determine whether lower endogenous T in oophorectomized women that were estradiol (E2)-treated influenced global or specific domains of sexual function. Depressive and cognitive symptoms were evaluated to exclude potential confounders. Materials and Methods: Eighty-one recently postmenopausal women treated with transdermal E2, 36 with bilateral oophorectomy (O), and 45 controls (C) were investigated through hormonal profile, Female Sexual Function Index, Mini Mental, and Beck Depression Inventory. Results: T levels, as expected, were lower in O than in C (p = 0.001); nonetheless, O presented a lower risk of sexual dysfunction (55.6% vs. 85.7%, p = 0.037), due to less pain (p = 0.005), increased lubrication (p = 0.012), and satisfaction (p = 0.042). O, however, required 50% higher E2 gel doses to control vasomotor symptoms (VMS) than did C. In O, all T measurements were positively, although weakly, correlated with desire (r = 0.374-0.381, p = 0.016-0.024). E2 levels were positively correlated with arousal in all women (r = 0.338, p = 0.038) and in O (r = 0.521, p = 0.032). Depression and cognition scores did not differ between the groups. Conclusions: Despite lower T levels, O women receiving E2 therapy had better global sexual function. Earlier onset and longer E2 treatment could have prevented vulvovaginal atrophy in O. Oophorectomized patients may require higher doses of E2 replacement. E2 levels, achieved by appropriate hormone therapy for VMS control, and very low T levels correlated with distinct sexual domains and may act in complementary areas of sexuality in postmenopausal women.

Long-term ovariectomy increases anxiety- and despair-like behaviors associated with lower Fos immunoreactivity in the lateral septal nucleus in rats.

In woman, surgical menopause is associated with anxiety and depression symptoms. Ovariectomy in rats has been proposed as an experimental model of surgical menopause, but its long-term effects on anxiety- and depression-like behaviors and relationship with cellular changes in specific brain structures are unknown. The effects of ovariectomy on anxiety- and despair-like behavior 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15-weeks postovariectomy were evaluated. Fos-immunoreactivity was evaluated in the lateral septal nucleus (LSN). The effects were compared with rats in the proestrus-estrus and metestrus-diestrus phases of the ovarian cycle and with ovariectomized rats that received 17ß-estradiol (OVXE). Three weeks postovariectomy, the rats exhibited an increase in anxiety-like behavior compared with PE and OVXE groups. Decreases in the locomotor activity and time spent grooming and rearing were detected in all the ovariectomized rats. In the forced swim test, the rats exhibited an increase in immobility time 6-weeks postovariectomy compared with control groups. The Fos-immunoreactivity in the LSN was significantly lower in all groups of ovariectomized rats compared with control groups. These findings indicate that rats develop anxiety-like behavior 3-weeks postovariectomy. Six weeks postovariectomy, the rats also developed despair-like behavior, which was associated with a reduction of Fos immunoreactivity in the LSN. Long-term ovariectomy may be considered a useful tool for understanding the development of neurobiological changes associated with surgical menopause. This model may also be useful for evaluating potential anxiolytic and antidepressant effects of diverse substances to ameliorate typical emotional and affective disorders during surgical menopause in women.