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Contact Dermatitis Apr 2023Vulvar allergic contact dermatitis (vACD) and irritant contact dermatitis (vICD) are common and accompanied by a great burden on the patient's life. We aimed to review... (Review)
Review
Vulvar allergic contact dermatitis (vACD) and irritant contact dermatitis (vICD) are common and accompanied by a great burden on the patient's life. We aimed to review the existing literature on vACD and vICD in order to provide a comprehensive reference list of potential vulvar allergens and irritants, as well as to establish the role of patch testing therein. A systematic search was performed in Medline, Embase and Web of Science using a search string based on the PICO-format. The study protocol was registered at PROSPERO (CRD42021239527). Multiple allergens were identified and included metals, topical drugs, fragrances, preservatives, cosmetic constituents and rubber components. Not all positive reactions were, however, considered to be relevant. Patch testing is the primary tool for the identification of the causal allergens. Testing with standard series alone was proven to be insufficient. Little information about irritants was found. In the future, additional series and late readings should be considered in standard practice. Studies on vICD are scarce and further research is necessary. More population-based research should be performed.
Topics: Female; Humans; Allergens; Irritants; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Patch Tests; Dermatitis, Irritant; Vulva
PubMed: 36458568
DOI: 10.1111/cod.14258 -
International Journal of Molecular... Nov 2022Lichen sclerosus (LS) is defined as a chronic mucocutaneous inflammatory disease with a localization predominantly to the anus and genitals (vulvar sclerosus (VLS)).... (Review)
Review
Lichen sclerosus (LS) is defined as a chronic mucocutaneous inflammatory disease with a localization predominantly to the anus and genitals (vulvar sclerosus (VLS)). Pediatric lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition with predilection for the anogenital area that if untreated can lead to scarring. Vulvar LS is characterized by two peaks in incidence: it occurs in prepubertal girls and in postmenopausal women. To date, several mechanisms and risk factors have been proposed in the pathogenesis of pediatric vulvar LS; however, the etiology of this condition is still not fully understood and constitutes a challenge for scientists and clinicians. The presented research aimed to systematically review the existing literature on the pathogenesis of pediatric LS and to identify possible underlying autoimmune mechanisms and molecular networks. The clinical presentation of pediatric lichen sclerosus and available treatment modalities are also presented to acquaint a broader audience with this underdiagnosed and undertreated condition. As a result of our review, we discuss several potential mechanisms, molecules, and pathways that have been recognized in this disease. The purpose of our review was also to summarize what we can induce in further studies, which will ultimately help to identify the mechanism responsible for the disease and aid in the development of new, more effective treatment strategies for diagnosis and treatment by clinicians and researchers.
Topics: Humans; Female; Child; Lichen Sclerosus et Atrophicus; Vulva; Immune System Diseases; Genitalia; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 36430687
DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214212 -
The Journal of Sexual Medicine Nov 2022Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a common autoimmune dermatological condition that is often under-diagnosed in women and has been documented to affect quality of life and sexual... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a common autoimmune dermatological condition that is often under-diagnosed in women and has been documented to affect quality of life and sexual function.
AIM
To determine the prevalence of sexual dysfunction among women with vulvar lichen sclerosus.
METHODS
The authors conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of the existing research on LS and sexual function in database including PubMed using search terms: lichen sclerosus OR vulvar lichen sclerosus OR vulvar lichen sclerosus et atrophicus OR kraurosis vulvae) AND (sexual function OR sexual functions OR sexual disorder OR sexual disorders OR sexual activity OR sexual activities OR sexual dysfunction OR sexual dysfunctions OR dyspareunia OR vaginismus).
OUTCOMES
Nearly 60% of women with lichen sclerosus suffer from sexual dysfunction.
RESULTS
Two hundred and ten studies were initially identified. Twenty-six articles met inclusion criteria and 3 were excluded as they did not relate to sexual function, were regarding a surgical or medical intervention and sexual dysfunction and one was a review article. Therefore, 23 studies were included in the final analysis resulting in a cumulative 486 participants with LS with 208 patients experiencing any kind of sexual dysfunction. Meta-analysis presented prevalence of sexual dysfunction among LS patients as 59% (95% CI: 48 - 70%). Dyspareunia or generalized pain with intercourse was the most commonly reported type of dysfunction.
CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS
Discussing sexual concerns with women with LS could empower them to seek treatment.
STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS
Few articles met criteria for inclusion.
CONCLUSION
A large proportion of women with LS experience sexual dysfunction. More research is needed, especially that which includes biopsy-proven LS and validated tools on sexual function. Pope R, Lee MH, Myers A, et al. Lichen Sclerosus and Sexual Dysfunction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Sex Med 2022;19:1616-1624.
Topics: Humans; Female; Lichen Sclerosus et Atrophicus; Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus; Dyspareunia; Quality of Life; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological
PubMed: 36115787
DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2022.07.011 -
Journal of Infection in Developing... Aug 2022Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a yeast infection of the vulva, which is caused by Candida species and affects women worldwide. Pregnant women are more vulnerable to... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
INTRODUCTION
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a yeast infection of the vulva, which is caused by Candida species and affects women worldwide. Pregnant women are more vulnerable to VVC due to certain risks. Moreover, their offspring are also exposed to the risk of preterm birth. In this context, ascertaining the burden of VVC is of paramount importance and this meta-analysis was conducted to estimate the occurrence of VVC among pregnant women in Africa.
METHODOLOGY
Database search was carried out through PubMed, Scopus, Science-Direct, and Google Scholar from the date of inception until December 2020. All the studies on the prevalence of VVC among African pregnant women were included in the analysis. The pooled prevalence was estimated based on the Random-effect model DerSimonian-Laird approach with Freeman- Tukey double arcsine transformed proportion. Heterogeneity was assessed using I2 test and subsequently explored using subgroup and meta-regression analysis.
RESULTS
A total of Sixteen records having a sample size 4,185 were included in this study. The overall prevalence of VVC was pooled at 29.2% (CI 95%: 23.4 - 33.0). Subgroup analysis revealed a higher prevalence in Eastern Africa, followed by Western Africa and North Africa (35%, 28%, and 15% respectively). Moderator analysis indicated that the studies that used advanced methods of detection had a higher prevalence (p = 0.048). In addition, the large sample size was associated with higher prevalence (p ≤ 0.001). No other moderators were found to be statistically significant.
CONCLUSIONS
The overall prevalence of VVC among African pregnant women is comparable to other studies worldwide. However, appropriate identification techniques and larger sample size could likely be associated with an increased prevalence. Our findings necessitate the need for further investigations to determine the geographical distribution of VVC across African regions.
Topics: Africa; Candidiasis, Vulvovaginal; Female; Humans; Infant, Newborn; Pregnancy; Pregnant Women; Premature Birth; Prevalence
PubMed: 36099366
DOI: 10.3855/jidc.15536 -
Journal of Lower Genital Tract Disease Jan 2023Neoplasms arising from the vulva are uncommon and comprise various subtypes. Given the recent advancements in the molecular aspects of oncologic pathology and how they...
OBJECTIVES
Neoplasms arising from the vulva are uncommon and comprise various subtypes. Given the recent advancements in the molecular aspects of oncologic pathology and how they have impacted cancer treatment, an understanding of recent innovations in the molecular features of vulvar lesions is important.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Systematic literature search was performed on PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases for molecular and genetic characteristics of vulvar neoplasms. Peer-reviewed literature published in English is included.
RESULTS
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and its precursors are the predominant neoplasm at this site. Human papillomavirus (HPV) plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of some of these lesions. Human papillomavirus-associated SCC follows the carcinogenic pathway driven by viral proteins E6 and E7 while HPV-independent SCC shows a high incidence of mutation of TP53 and CDKN2A genes. Mutations in the genes involving the PI3K-Akt pathway play an important role in the pathogenesis of both types of SCC. Among other vulvar malignancies, melanoma, and vulvar Paget disease (VPD) pose a significant clinical challenge and have unique molecular characteristics. Compared with dermal cutaneous melanoma, vulvar melanoma shows a higher rate of mutation of cKIT and NRAS genes and a lower rate of mutations in BRAF . Less than 20% of VPD shows amplification of ERBB2 and seldom shows mutation in genes involving the PI3K-Akt pathway.
CONCLUSIONS
Several potentially targetable molecular pathways have emerged as they have been shown to be involved in the tumorigenesis of SCC, melanoma, and VPD.
Topics: Female; Humans; Carcinoma, Squamous Cell; Human Papillomavirus Viruses; Melanoma; Papillomavirus Infections; Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinases; Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt; Skin Neoplasms; Vulvar Neoplasms
PubMed: 36083687
DOI: 10.1097/LGT.0000000000000701 -
European Journal of Obstetrics,... Oct 2022One of the most common adverse events reported by gynecological cancer survivors with spontaneous or iatrogenic menopause is vulvo-vaginal atrophy (VVA). An increasing... (Review)
Review
INTRODUCTION
One of the most common adverse events reported by gynecological cancer survivors with spontaneous or iatrogenic menopause is vulvo-vaginal atrophy (VVA). An increasing number of women have this kind of discomfort related to the menopause induced by different cancer therapies. In this regard, fractional CO2 laser may be a valid therapeutic choice for these patients.
METHODS
We performed a literature search of PubMed, EMBASE, SCOPUS and Web of Science databases with search terms of laser CO2 treatment of vulvovaginal atrophy and gynecologic cancer survivors and reviewed major US Society Guidelines to create this narrative review of this topic. Breast, ovarian endometrial and cervical cancers were included.
RESULTS
Nine studies were included. Fractional CO2 laser improves clinical symptoms and sexual function, in terms of VHI (vaginal health index) and FSFI (female sexual function index). Non severe adverse event occurred.
CONCLUSION
According to the best evidence available, fractional CO2 laser treatment for VVA is an effective and safe therapeutic option for gynecological cancer survivors, improving sexual life and quality of life (QoL).
Topics: Atrophy; Carbon Dioxide; Female; Genital Neoplasms, Female; Humans; Lasers, Gas; Quality of Life; Treatment Outcome; Vagina; Vaginal Diseases; Vulva
PubMed: 36037664
DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2022.08.012 -
Annals of Diagnostic Pathology Oct 2022To describe the clinicopathological features and differential diagnoses of 15 cases of superficial myofibroblastoma, a rare mesenchymal tumor involving the lower female...
OBJECTIVE
To describe the clinicopathological features and differential diagnoses of 15 cases of superficial myofibroblastoma, a rare mesenchymal tumor involving the lower female genital tract.
METHODS
The clinicopathological data and immunohistochemical findings were retrospectively analyzed in 15 cases of superficial myofibroblastoma. Meanwhile, a systematic literature review was conducted.
RESULTS
The age of patients ranged from 34 to 73 years (median, 49 years). Most patients presented with nodular or polypoid masses ranging in size from 0.4 cm to 6.5 cm. Twelve tumors were located in the vagina, two in the vulva, and one in the cervix. Microscopically, the tumor was located in the subepithelial tissue, with a clear boundary and without capsule on the surface. The tumor cells were spindle, oval, stellate or wavy, and arranged in various architectural patterns of reticular, fascicular, wavy and disorderly patterns. There were no obvious cellular atypia and mitotic figures. Thin collagen fibers and thin-walled vessels could be observed in all cases. Most cases were diffusely and strongly reactive to Vimentin (12/12), Desmin (14/15), ER (15/15) and PR (13/14). Variable immunoreactivity for CD34 (8/15), Caldesmon (2/8), SMA (4/14) and CD99 (4/5) were observed. The tumors showed a low Ki67 proliferative index (≤5 %). Follow-up information was available in 10 patients and there was no evidence of recurrence or metastasis.
CONCLUSIONS
Superficial myofibroblastoma is a rare benign tumor that originates from the hormone-sensitive, subepithelial mesenchymal tissue of the lower female genital tract, and should be differentiated from other mesenchymal tumors.
Topics: Adult; Aged; Biomarkers, Tumor; Calmodulin-Binding Proteins; Collagen; Desmin; Female; Hormones; Humans; Ki-67 Antigen; Middle Aged; Neoplasms, Muscle Tissue; Retrospective Studies; Vagina; Vimentin
PubMed: 35907316
DOI: 10.1016/j.anndiagpath.2022.152010 -
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Oct 2022The considerable increase in labiaplasty requires plastic surgeons to be acquainted with the surgical techniques, their respective complications, and satisfaction rates.... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
The considerable increase in labiaplasty requires plastic surgeons to be acquainted with the surgical techniques, their respective complications, and satisfaction rates. The authors conducted a systematic review of the available evidence on labia minoraplasty, looking at surgical techniques, clinical outcomes, and patient satisfaction.
METHODS
A comprehensive search across PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and CochraneCENTRAL was performed through October of 2020. A random-effects model meta-analysis was performed to assess satisfaction and complication rates.
RESULTS
Forty-six studies including 3804 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The pooled satisfaction rate after labia minoraplasty was 99 percent (95 percent CI, 97 to 99 percent). Substantial heterogeneity was present across studies ( I2 = 63.09 percent; p < 0.001). The highest pooled incidence of dehiscence was reported for laser-assisted labiaplasty (5 percent; 95 percent CI, 2 to 8 percent) and wedge resection (3 percent; 95 percent CI, 1 to 5 perecent). The highest pooled incidence of hematoma formation (8 percent; 95 percent CI, <1 to 23 percent) and postoperative bleeding (2 percent; 95 percent CI, <1 to 15 percent) was reported for W-shape resection. The highest pooled incidence of transient pain or discomfort was reported for de-epithelialization (2 percent; 95 percent CI, <1 to 23 percent) and W-shape resection (2 percent; 95 percent CI, <1 to 15 percent). Three cases of flap necrosis were reported; two occurred using wedge resection labia minoraplasty and one was not specified. The most common causes for revision surgery ( n = 169) were dehiscence and aesthetic concerns.
CONCLUSIONS
Labia minoraplasty is a safe procedure, but serious complications requiring surgical management have been reported. Surgical experience, knowledge of female genital anatomy, and thorough technique selection in accordance with the patient characteristics are mandatory.
Topics: Esthetics; Female; Humans; Patient Satisfaction; Plastic Surgery Procedures; Reoperation; Vulva
PubMed: 35877939
DOI: 10.1097/PRS.0000000000009552 -
Frontiers in Oncology 2022Observational studies suggested that systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) might be associated with increased cancer incidence and cancer-related death, however, the...
BACKGROUND
Observational studies suggested that systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) might be associated with increased cancer incidence and cancer-related death, however, the results are inconsistent. We aim to comprehensively estimate the causal relationships between SLE and cancer morbidity and mortality using a meta-analysis of cohort studies and Mendelian randomization.
METHODS
A systematic search was conducted using PubMed to identify cohort studies published before January 21, 2021. Meta-analysis was performed to calculate relative risk (RR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI). In addition, we further evaluated the potentially causal relationships identified by cohort studies using two-sample Mendelian randomization.
RESULTS
A total of 48 cohort studies involving 247,575 patients were included. We performed 31 main meta-analysis to assess the cancer risk and three meta-analyses to evaluate cancer mortality in SLE patients. Through meta-analyses, we observed an increased risk of overall cancer (RR=1.62, 95%CI, 1.47-1.79, <0.001) and cancer-related death (RR=1.52, 95%CI, 1.36-1.70, <0.001) in patients with SLE. Subgroup analysis by site-specific cancer showed that SLE was a risk factor for 17 site-specific cancers, including six digestive cancers (esophagus, colon, anus, hepatobiliary, liver, pancreatic), five hematologic cancers (lymphoma, Hodgkin's lymphoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, leukemia, multiple myeloma), as well as cancer in lung, larynx, cervical, vagina/vulva, renal, bladder, skin, and thyroid. In addition, further mendelian randomization analysis verified a weakly association between genetically predisposed SLE and lymphoma risk (odds ratio=1.0004, =0.0035).
CONCLUSIONS
Findings from our study suggest an important role of SLE in carcinogenesis, especially for lymphoma.
SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION
https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, CRD42021243635.
PubMed: 35600353
DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.860794 -
Frontiers in Oncology 2022Gynecological cancers seriously affect the reproductive system of females; diseases include ovarian tumors, uterine tumors, endometrial cancers, cervical cancers, and...
Gynecological cancers seriously affect the reproductive system of females; diseases include ovarian tumors, uterine tumors, endometrial cancers, cervical cancers, and vulva and vaginal tumors. At present, the diagnosis methods of gynecological cancer are insufficiently sensitive and specific, leading to failure of early disease detection. N-methyladenosine (mA) plays various biological functions in RNA modification and is currently studied extensively. mA modification controls the fate of transcripts and regulates RNA metabolism and biological processes through the interaction of mA methyltransferase ("writer") and demethylase ("erasers") and the binding protein decoding mA methylation ("readers"). In the field of epigenetics, mA modification is a dynamic process of reversible regulation of target RNA through its regulatory factors. It plays an important role in many diseases, especially cancer. However, its role in gynecologic cancers has not been fully investigated. Thus, we review the regulatory mechanism, biological functions, and therapeutic prospects of mA RNA methylation regulators in gynecological cancers.
PubMed: 35155260
DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.827956