Objective The objective of the study was to examine the effect of selective fetoscopic laser photocoagulation (SFLP) vs serial amnioreduction (AR) on perinatal mortality in severe twin-twin ...transfusion syndrome (TTTS). Study Design This was a 5 year multicenter, prospective, randomized controlled trial. The primary outcome variable was 30 day postnatal survival of donors and recipients. Results There was no statistically significant difference in 30-day postnatal survival between SFLP or AR treatment for donors at 55% (11 of 20) vs 55% (11 of 20) ( P = 1.0, odds ratio OR 1, 95% confidence interval CI 0.242 to 4.14) or recipients at 30% (6 of 20) vs 45% (9 of 20) ( P = .51, OR 1.88, 95% CI 0.44 to 8.64). There was no difference in 30 day survival of 1 or both twins on a per-pregnancy basis between AR at 75% (15 of 20) and SFLP at 65% (13 of 20) ( P = .73, OR 1.62, 95% CI 0.34 to 8.09). Overall survival (newborns divided by the number of fetuses treated) was not statistically significant for AR at 60% (24 of 40) vs SFLP 45% (18 of 40) ( P = .18, OR 2.01, 95% CI 0.76 to 5.44). There was a statistically significant increase in fetal recipient mortality in the SFLP arm at 70% (14 of 20) vs the AR arm at 35% (7 of 20) ( P = .25, OR 5.31, 95% CI 1.19 to 27.6). This was offset by increased recipient neonatal mortality of 30% (6 of 20) in the AR arm. Echocardiographic abnormality in recipient twin Cardiovascular Profile Score is the most significant predictor of recipient mortality ( P = .055, OR 3.025/point) by logistic regression analysis. Conclusion The outcome of the trial did not conclusively determine whether AR or SFLP is a superior treatment modality. TTTS cardiomyopathy appears to be an important factor in recipient survival in TTTS.
Imaging is used to detect and characterize adnexal masses and to stage ovarian cancer both before and after initial treatment, although the role for imaging in screening for ovarian cancer has not ...been established. CT and MRI have been used to determine the resectability of tumors, the candidacy of patients for effective cytoreductive surgery, the need for postoperative chemotherapy if debulking is suboptimal, and the need for referral to a gynecologic oncologist. Radiographic studies such as contrast enema and urography have been replaced by CT and other cross-sectional imaging for staging ovarian cancer. Contrast-enhanced CT is the procedure of choice for preoperative staging of ovarian cancer. MRI without and with contrast may be useful after equivocal CT, but is usually not the best initial procedure for ovarian cancer staging. Fluorine-18-2-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose-PET/CT may not be needed preoperatively, but its use is appropriate for detecting and defining post-treatment recurrence. Ultrasound is useful for evaluating adnexal disease, but has limited utility for staging ovarian cancer. The ACR Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed every 2 years by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and review include an extensive analysis of current medical literature from peer-reviewed journals and the application of a well-established consensus methodology (modified Delphi) to rate the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures by the panel. In those instances where evidence is lacking or not definitive, expert opinion may be used to recommend imaging or treatment.
Twin-twin transfusion syndrome Simpson, Lynn L., BSc, MSc, MD
American journal of obstetrics and gynecology,
2013, January 2013, 2013-Jan, 2013-01-00, 20130101, Letnik:
208, Številka:
1
Journal Article
Recenzirano
Objective We sought to review the natural history, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment options for twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). Methods A systematic review was performed using MEDLINE ...database, PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library. The search was restricted to English-language articles published from 1966 through July 2012. Priority was given to articles reporting original research, in particular randomized controlled trials, although review articles and commentaries also were consulted. Abstracts of research presented at symposia and scientific conferences were not considered adequate for inclusion in this document. Evidence reports and guidelines published by organizations or institutions such as the National Institutes of Health, Agency for Health Research and Quality, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine were also reviewed, and additional studies were located by reviewing bibliographies of identified articles. Consistent with US Preventive Task Force guidelines, references were evaluated for quality based on the highest level of evidence, and recommendations were graded accordingly. Results and Recommendations TTTS is a serious condition that can complicate 8-10% of twin pregnancies with monochorionic diamniotic (MCDA) placentation. The diagnosis of TTTS requires 2 criteria: (1) the presence of a MCDA pregnancy; and (2) the presence of oligohydramnios (defined as a maximal vertical pocket of <2 cm) in one sac, and of polyhydramnios (a maximal vertical pocket of >8 cm) in the other sac. The Quintero staging system appears to be a useful tool for describing the severity of TTTS in a standardized fashion. Serial sonographic evaluation should be considered for all twins with MCDA placentation, usually beginning at around 16 weeks and continuing about every 2 weeks until delivery. Screening for congenital heart disease is warranted in all monochorionic twins, in particular those complicated by TTTS. Extensive counseling should be provided to patients with pregnancies complicated by TTTS including natural history of the disease, as well as management options and their risks and benefits. The natural history of stage I TTTS is that more than three-fourths of cases remain stable or regress without invasive intervention, with perinatal survival of about 86%. Therefore, many patients with stage I TTTS may often be managed expectantly. The natural history of advanced (eg, stage ≥III) TTTS is bleak, with a reported perinatal loss rate of 70-100%, particularly when it presents <26 weeks. Fetoscopic laser photocoagulation of placental anastomoses is considered by most experts to be the best available approach for stages II, III, and IV TTTS in continuing pregnancies at <26 weeks, but the metaanalysis data show no significant survival benefit, and the long-term neurologic outcomes in the Eurofetus trial were not different than in nonlaser-treated controls. Even laser-treated TTTS is associated with a perinatal mortality rate of 30-50%, and a 5-20% chance of long-term neurologic handicap. Steroids for fetal maturation should be considered at 24 0/7 to 33 6/7 weeks, particularly in pregnancies complicated by stage ≥III TTTS, and those undergoing invasive interventions.
Objective We examined predictors of massive blood loss for women with placenta accreta who had undergone hysterectomy. Study Design A retrospective review of women who underwent peripartum ...hysterectomy for pathologically confirmed placenta accreta was performed. Characteristics that are associated with massive blood loss (≥5000 mL) and large-volume transfusion (≥10 units packed red cells) were examined. Results A total of 77 patients were identified. The median blood loss was 3000 mL, with a median of 5 units of red cells transfused. There was no association among maternal age, gravidity, number of previous deliveries, number of previous cesarean deliveries, degree of placental invasion, or antenatal bleeding and massive blood loss or large-volume transfusion ( P > .05). Among women with a known diagnosis of placenta accreta, 41.7% had an estimated blood loss of ≥5000 mL, compared with 12.0% of those who did not receive the diagnosis antenatally with ultrasound scanning ( P = .01). Conclusion There are few reliable predictors of massive blood loss in women with placenta accreta.
Abstract The objective of this review is to assess the evidence that supports the use of ultrasound in twin pregnancies. Although many of the indications for obstetric ultrasound are the same in both ...singleton and multiple gestations, there are special considerations as well as unique conditions in twins that require additional imaging studies. The reasons for ultrasound in twins include pregnancy dating, determination of chorionicity, nuchal translucency assessment, anatomical survey, placental evaluation, cervical length assessment, routine fetal growth, and serial surveillance of pregnancies complicated by anomalies, cervical shortening, fetal growth disturbances, and amniotic fluid abnormalities. Twins with monochorionic placentation require heightened scrutiny for monoamnionicity, conjoined twins, twin reversed arterial perfusion (TRAP) syndrome, twin–twin transfusion syndrome, unequal placental sharing with discordant twin growth or selective intrauterine fetal growth restriction (IUGR), twin anemia–polycythemia sequence (TAPS), and single fetal demise. Ultrasound is essential for the detection and management of conditions that can complicate dichorionic and monochorionic twin pregnancies.
Management of severe hypertension in pregnancy Moroz, Leslie A., MD; Simpson, Lynn L., MD; Rochelson, Burton, MD
Seminars in perinatology,
03/2016, Letnik:
40, Številka:
2
Journal Article
Recenzirano
Abstract While hemorrhage is the leading cause of maternal death in most of the world, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are the leading cause of maternal mortality in the United States. The ...opportunity to improve outcomes lies in timely and appropriate response to severe hypertension. The purpose of this article is to review the diagnostic criteria for severe hypertension, choice of antihypertensive agents, and recommended algorithms for evaluation and management of acute changes in clinical status. Adhering to standard practices ensures that care teams can timely and appropriate care to these high risk patients. With heightened surveillance and prompt evaluation of signs and symptoms of worsening hypertension, maternal morbidity and mortality can be decreased.
Twin–twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) is a serious condition that affects 10% to 15% of twin pregnancies with monochorionic diamniotic placentation. The pathophysiology of TTTS is not completely ...understood; however, the presence of unbalanced placental vascular communications within a shared circulation has been implicated in its development. The presentation of TTTS is highly variable, and it does not always progress in a predictable manner. Monochorionic twin gestations should, therefore, be monitored for signs of TTTS with serial sonograms starting in the second trimester. Early TTTS can be managed conservatively. However, without intervention, early-onset advanced TTTS is associated with a high perinatal loss rate and risk of severe neurologic impairment among survivors. Limited studies suggest that fetoscopic laser photocoagulation is the best available treatment for advanced TTTS diagnosed in the second trimester. Even with laser therapy, there remains a significant risk of twin demise and neurologic handicap in survivors.
Abstract Heart disease complicates 1–2% of pregnancies, and in preparation for pregnancy, these women should receive comprehensive preconception counseling. Risks to the mother and potential risks to ...the offspring secondary to the type and severity of maternal cardiac disease, its inheritance pattern, required medical therapy, and palliative or corrective procedures that may be needed must be considered. Life expectancy and the ability to care for a child are somber issues that must be addressed when serious cardiac conditions exist. Pregnancy is still contraindicated in women with pulmonary hypertension, severe systemic ventricular dysfunction, dilated aortopathy, and severe left-sided obstructive lesions, but advances in medical and surgical management have resulted in an increasing number of patients with cardiac disorders who are interested in pursuing pregnancy. A multidisciplinary approach can best determine whether acceptable outcomes can be expected and what management strategies may improve the prognosis for women with heart disease and their offspring.
Background Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin disease with a global prevalence ranging from 3% to 20%. Patients with AD have an increased risk for complications after viral ...infection (eg, herpes simplex virus), and vaccination of patients with AD with live vaccinia virus is contraindicated because of a heightened risk of eczema vaccinatum, a rare but potentially lethal complication associated with smallpox vaccination. Objective We sought to develop a better understanding of immunity to cutaneous viral infection in patients with AD. Methods In a double-blind randomized study we investigated the safety and immunogenicity of live attenuated yellow fever virus (YFV) vaccination of nonatopic subjects and patients with AD after standard subcutaneous inoculation or transcutaneous vaccination administered with a bifurcated needle. Viremia, neutralizing antibody, and antiviral T-cell responses were analyzed for up to 30 days after vaccination. Results YFV vaccination administered through either route was well tolerated. Subcutaneous vaccination resulted in higher seroconversion rates than transcutaneous vaccination but elicited similar antiviral antibody levels and T-cell responses in both the nonatopic and AD groups. After transcutaneous vaccination, both groups mounted similar neutralizing antibody responses, but patients with AD demonstrated lower antiviral T-cell responses by 30 days after vaccination. Among transcutaneously vaccinated subjects, a significant inverse correlation between baseline IgE levels and the magnitude of antiviral antibody and CD4+ T-cell responses was observed. Conclusions YFV vaccination of patients with AD through the transcutaneous route revealed that high baseline IgE levels provide a potential biomarker for predicting reduced virus-specific immune memory after transcutaneous infection with a live virus.
Objective The objective of the study was to evaluate whether ratios considering omphalocele diameter relative to fetal biometric measurements perform better than giant omphalocele designation at ...predicting inability to achieve neonatal primary surgical closure. Study Design Cases of fetal omphalocele that underwent evaluation between May 2003 and July 2010 were identified. Inclusion was restricted to live births with plan for postnatal repair. Omphalocele diameter upon antenatal ultrasound was compared with abdominal circumference, femur length, and head circumference, yielding the respective omphalocele (O)/abdominal circumference (AC), O/femur length (FL), and O/head circumference (HC) ratios. The absolute measurements were used to classify giant lesions. Omphalocele ratios and giant omphalocele designations were evaluated as predictors of inability to achieve primary repair. Results Among 25 included cases, staged or delayed closure occurred in 52%. With an optimal cutoff of 0.21 or greater, O/HC best predicted the primary outcome (sensitivity, 84.6%; specificity, 58.3%; odds ratio, 7.7). The O/HC of 0.21 or greater outperformed giant designations. Conclusion The O/HC of 0.21 or greater best predicted staged or delayed omphalocele closure. Giant omphalocele designation, regardless of definition, poorly predicted outcome.