Cyclic Pain Research Articles

Prevalence, pain intensity and symptoms associated with primary dysmenorrhea: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundPrimary dysmenorrhea (PD) is an etiological cyclic pelvic pain related to the menstrual period; it can negatively impact women’s quality of life and productivity. The aim of the present study was to estimate the prevalence of PD and analyze associated symptoms in Brazilian women.MethodsAn online cross-sectional study was carried out in Brazil, with a structured questionnaire regarding dysmenorrhea and associated symptoms. PD intensity was measured with the Numerical Rating Scale for Pain and classified as mild (1–3), moderate (4–7) and severe (> 8). The association between qualitative variables was performed using Pearson’s Chi-Square Test. The quantification of this association was measured using multinomial logistic regression models, with calculation of Odds Ratio and confidence interval. A significance level of 5% was considered.ResultsA total of 10,070 women were included. Most participants classified PD intensity as moderate (40.4%, 41.9% and 49.7%) and severe (21.2%, 24.8% and 28.4%) in the previous month, 3 months and 5 years, respectively. The most common symptoms associated with PD were irritability, abdominal distension sensation, anxiety and feeling more emotional. The increased of the risk (OR > 1.0) for moderate and severe PD-related pain intensity is related to age, nulliparity and presence PD since adolescence.ConclusionThere is a high prevalence of PD among Brazilian women, and the most common symptoms reported were irritability, abdominal distension sensation, anxiety and feeling more emotional.

Unification and orificing of two functional noncommunicating uterine horns through the created neovagina using peritoneum

ObjectiveTo demonstrate the surgical approach for Müllerian agenesis with bilateral uterine remnants containing functional endometrium. DesignStepwise demonstration of the technique with narrated video footage SettingA Tertiary University Hospital, Reproductive Surgery Unit. PatientAn 18-year-old adolescent was admitted to a tertiary university hospital with complaints of primary amenorrhea and cyclic pelvic pain. Physical examination and MRI scans suggested a complex Müllerian abnormality. The patient had uterine remnants with bilateral functional endometrium and cervico-vaginal agenesis. InterventionAn operation was planned to reconstruct her anatomy by providing a neovagina and anastomosing the uterine remnants. GnRH analogs were prescribed to suppress her menstruation until the procedure. The operation was performed in the third month after the initial diagnosis. A laparoscopy was conducted, revealing approximately 5x6 cm bilateral uterine horns with healthy adnexa.As the first step, a neovagina was created using a modified peritoneal pull-down technique, a standard approach in our clinic. A vaginal incision was made, and a blind vaginal dissection was performed to reach the peritoneum vaginally. Subsequently, an acrylic vaginal mold was inserted. The vaginal orifice was laparoscopically incised using ultrasonic energy with guidance from the inserted vaginal acrylic mold. The orifice was gradually dilated with larger molds. The entire pelvic peritoneum was dissected circularly, and the distal part of the dissected peritoneum was pulled down using four 2.0 Vicryl sutures at 0, 90, 180, and 270 degrees from the opened vaginal orifice. The uterine cavities of both remnants were incised, and two separate Foley catheters were placed in both cavities. A mold with a hole was used to insert the catheters through the vagina. Both catheters were secured in the cavities with Prolene sutures pulled up from the anterior abdominal wall.The next step involved uterine anastomosis. The uterine remnants were unified through continuous suturing, resulting in the formation of a normally shaped uterus. In the final step, the created uterus and neovagina were anastomosed. The patient received instructions on how to perform mold exercises and follow-up care. Main Outcome MeasureDescription of a laparoscopic management of a rare mullerian abnormality. ResultsThe postoperative MRI scan at one month revealed healed unified uterine cavities and vagina. The patient experienced spontaneous menstruation in the second month after surgery and now maintains regular menses with an approximately 9-10 cm functional vagina. Within three months after surgery, the VAS (visual analog scale) scores for chronic pelvic pain and dysmenorrhea decreased from 9 to 2-3. ConclusionsMüllerian abnormalities are exceptionally rare, and their spectrum is broad, making it challenging to identify an exact surgical method to restore functional anatomy. Therefore, a customized surgical approach should be designed for each patient based on their unique condition.

Prospective analysis of diagnosis of women with mastalgia

Background: Mastalgia is a common condition in women who present to the breast clinics or to the family doctors. It is a chronic problem that affects physical and social activity, work-school activities and sexual activity, and can last years. Therefore, the present study was conducted to determine the aetiology and diagnosis of patients presenting with mastalgia. Methods: This was a hospital based prospective observational study. Total 80 women in reproductive age group who had symptom of mastalgia alone coming to department of general surgery, were taken as study subjects. Demographic, physical and disease characteristics along with ultrasonography (USG) and mammography imaging results analyzed. Results: In present study the average age of patients in our study was 30.93±5.44 years and the mean body mass index (BMI) was of 23.79±2.92. Among cases 20% had complains of irregular menses, 77.5% had breastfed in past and 27.5% cases had history of benign breast diseases. Among cases 57.5% cases had non-cyclical breast pain, 42.5% cyclical breast pain and 58, 72.5% had unilateral breast pain. 53.17% had mild and 10% breast pain severe pain. As per the clinical findings, 32.5% cases were diagnosed with nodularity and 6.5% abscess. Sonography findings were in agreement with the clinical findings. Conclusions: Mastalgia is one of the common symptom in females presenting to breast clinic. Benign breast disorders were commonly associated with mastalgia. Thus, it is very essential to diagnose the risk factors and underlying pathology in mastalgia cases by early diagnosis and prompt treatment of cases.

A case series of scar endometriosis after cesarean section

Endometriosis is referred to the presence of functioning, ectopic endometrial tissue outside the pelvic cavity. Their occurrences after abdominal or pelvic surgeries especially cesarean section, at the site of scar incision, are documented. The patient experiences cyclical pain at the incision site related to the menstrual cycle. Imaging can be used to detect the lesion and medical management can be provided. However, in severe cases, total excision is recommended to avoid the chances of recurrence. Here, we present a case series of two cases of scar endometriosis after cesarean section, and both presented with cyclical pain in the abdomen. Medical management was provided for both cases.

A thematic synthesis of qualitative studies and surveys of the psychological experience of painful endometriosis

BackgroundEndometriosis is a widespread problem in women of reproductive age, causing cyclical and non-cyclical pain in the pelvis and elsewhere, and associated with fatigue, fertility problems, and other symptoms. As a chronic pain problem, psychological variables are important in adjustment and quality of life, but have not been systematically studied.MethodsA systematic search of multiple databases was conducted to obtain surveys and qualitative studies of women’s experience of pain from endometriosis. Surveys were combined narratively; qualitative studies were combined by thematic synthesis, and the latter rated for methodological quality.ResultsOver 2000 records were screened on title and abstract, and provided 22 surveys and 33 qualitative studies from which accounts could be extracted of the psychological components of pain in endometriosis. Surveys mostly addressed quality of life in endometriosis, with poorer quality of life associated with higher levels of pain and of distress, but few referred to coherent psychological models. Qualitative studies focused rather on women’s experience of living with endometriosis, including trajectories of diagnosis and treatment, with a few addressing meaning and identity. Thematic synthesis provided 10 themes, under the groupings of internal experience of endometriosis (impact on body, emotions, and life); interface with the external world (through self-regulation and social regulation); effects on interpersonal and social life, and encounters with medical care.ConclusionsThe psychological components of pain from endometriosis only partly corresponded with standard psychological models of pain, derived from musculoskeletal pain studies, with fewer fears about physical integrity and more about difficulties of managing pain and other symptoms in social settings, including work. Better understanding of the particular psychological threats of endometriosis, and integration of this understanding into medical care with opportunities for psychologically-based pain management, would substantially improve the experience and quality of life of women with painful endometriosis.

Thoracic Endometriosis Syndrome: a case series and review of literature

Background: The presence of endometrial tissue in the tracheobronchial tree, pleural, and lung is normally referred to as thoracic endometriosis. The association of catamenial pneumothorax, catamenial haemothorax, catamenial haemoptysis and pulmonary nodules is referred to as thoracic endometriosis syndrome (TES). TES is rare but not as rare as it has always been thought of.
 Case summaries:
 Case 1: We present EA, a 26-year-old chef/baker who presented to our unit on account of recurrent cyclical right sided chest pain and difficulty in breathing, recurrent haemoptysis and cyclical abdominal pain and swelling with multiple tender umbilical nodules. On general physical examination she was found to be in respiratory distress but not cyanosed with peripheral arterial oxygen saturation 97% on room air. Examination of the chest revealed a right sided chest fullness and reduced movement with breathing. Percussion note was stony dull and absent of breath sound on right hemithorax. Abdominal examination revealed a moderately distended abdomen with positive fluid thrill. Both Pleurocentesis (thoracocentesis) and paracentesis abdominis yielded a haemorrhagic fluid acellular and pleural and lung biopsy demonstrated endometrial stroma and glands. Imaging examination by way of chest X-ray showed a homogenous opacity of the right hemithorax, and pulmonary nodule following drainage. A diagnosis of Thoracic Endometriosis Syndrome was made. She had VAT with lung and pleural biopsy, pleural abrasion and a thoracostomy tube drainage.
 Case 2: We present IAE, a 29year-old Po+0 who presented to our unit on account of recurrent cyclical right sided chest pain and difficulty in breathing, unproductive cough. On general physical examination she was found to be in moderate respiratory distress but not cyanosed with peripheral arterial oxygen saturation of 98% on room air. Chest examination revealed an apical flattering of anterior chest wall with left trachea deviation. Percussion note was stony dull on the right lower third and hyper resonance middle and upper zones of right hemithorax. Pleurocentesis (thoracocentesis) yielded air and haemorrhagic fluid acellular and pleural and lung biopsies demonstrated endometrial stroma and glands. Imaging examination by way of chest X-ray and chest CT-scan showed air fluid level of the right hemithorax. A diagnosis of TES was made. She had Laparoscopy and VAT at the same sitting with pleural and lung biopsies. She was managed medically after closed thoracostomy tube drainage. She had partial collapse of right lower lobe and thoracotomy with right lower lobectomy was planned but patient declined. She also had Stage IV endometriosis by (rASRM)/ENZIAN systems
 Case 3: We present JA a 29-year-old lady, a filling station attendant who presented to our unit with a history of gradual onset of right sided chest pain, progressive difficulty in breathing and non-productive cough, and abdominal pain and swelling. On general physical examination she was found to be in respiratory distress but not cyanosed with SPO2 of 98% on room air. Examination of the chest revealed a right apical flattening, reduced ipsilateral chest movement with breathing. Percussion notes were stony dull and absent air entry on the ipsilateral hemithorax. Abdominal examination showed a mildly distended abdomen with a positive shifting dullness. Both Pleurocentesis (thoracocentesis) and paracentesis abdominis yielded a haemorrhagic fluid acellular at cytology and pleural and lung biopsy demonstrated endometrial stroma and gland. Imaging examination by way of chest X-ray showed a homogenous opacity of the right hemithorax. A diagnosis of Familial Thoracic Endometriosis Syndrome (FTES). Had USS guided lung and pleural biopsy and a thoracostomy tube drainage. She had chemical pleurodesis with tetracycline
 Conclusion: Thoracic endometriosis syndrome is the diagnosis in a lady of reproductive age who present with cyclic or a cyclical recurrent right sided chest pain, cyclical or a cyclical dyspnoea, haemoptysis, cyclical or a cyclical abdominal swelling and peritonitis.

The Effect of Isometric Exercises on Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Background: Primary dysmenorrhea is the most common cyclic pelvic pain and is also the most common gynecological problem worldwide and affects quality of life. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of isometric exercises on intensity and duration of pain and level of anxiety in the students with primary dysmenorrhea. Materials and Methods: In this randomized controlled clinical trial, 68 students living in dormitories of Shiraz University with primary dysmenorrhea  were randomly assigned to isometric exercises and control groups. The intervention group performed isometric exercises since the third day of the menstrual cycle for 8 weeks. Pain intensity was measured using Visual Analog Scale (VAS). In addition, the anxiety level was assessed using Spielberger questionnaire. The data were analyzed using independent t-test, repeated measures ANOVA, and Bonferroni Post hoc test at the end of the second and third months of the study. Besides, P<0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: Pain intensity and duration of pain was significantly reduced in exercises group (p<0.001). However, no significant difference was found between the two groups concerning the mean anxiety levels. Conclusion: Primary dysmenorrhea is a common complaint among young women. Isometric exercises seem to be an easy, non-pharmacological method for reducing primary dysmenorrheal.

The Use of Urogenital Mobilization Extended by Two Flaps From the Redundant Distal Part of the Urethra in the Repair of the Severe Form of Distal Vaginal Agenesis

To describe and present the results of the use of urogenital mobilization extended by two flaps from the redundant distal part of the urethra in the correction of a severe form of distal vaginal agenesis. During the past 4years (from December 2018 to March 2023), we have performed 2 vaginoplasties using the described procedure. The age of the patients at surgery was 13years. Two girls presented with primary amenorrhea associated with cyclic pelvic pain evolving over several months. Clinical examination revealed a blind vagina and an anterior pelvic mass. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging showed a severe form of distal vaginal agenesis. One patient had a 47,XX+mark karyotype and right vesicoureteral reflux. Two patients underwent urogenital mobilization, guided by a tube introduced into the upper part of the vagina through an abdominal approach, and the use of two flaps from the redundant distal part of the urethra to extend the neovagina to the perineum. The esthetic results were very satisfactory with the disappearance of pelvic pain, and the restoration of a regular flow of menstrual blood without pain. Urinary continence was preserved in two patients. This is the first report of the use of urogenital mobilization extended two flaps from the redundant distal part of the urethra in the correction of a severe form of distal vaginal agenesis. This procedure yielded a very satisfactory esthetic and functional results.

The Use of the Malecot Catheter and Modified Stent Insertion in Transverse Vaginal Septum

A transverse vaginal septum is a Mullerian duct anomaly that occurs when there is a congenital failure of the lower vaginal central cells to generate. Severe cyclical abdominal pain can occur shortly after menarche. The retrograde menstrual flow can cause peritoneal inflammation, adhesion, and even infertility. This case series aims to describe the use of a modified corrugated stent and malecot catheter which has shown favourable results in maintaining vaginal patency. The post-operative care is always a challenge. Re-stenosis was extremely common and poorly reported despite the greatest surgical procedures in transverse vaginal septum, especially in high septum or thick septum. The malekot catheter insertion not only serves as a guide for future septum excision, but it can also self-prepare the young child to conduct the dilation with continued counseling while the menses are still present. Despite the usual return of menstruation based on the malekot catheter, the emphasis on regular dilation remains crucial. According to specific institutional experiences in China, the catheter can be implanted for up to three years without showing signs of infection.

Secondary Cutaneous Endometriosis of the Umbilicus in Tanzania: A Case Report

Introduction: Endometriosis is characterised by endometrial tissue outside the endometrial cavity. The implantation sites may be pelvic or extrapelvic in nature. Umbilical endometriosis is a rare type of cutaneous endometriosis, accounting for 0.5-1% of extrapelvic endometriosis cases. Current literature on umbilical endometriosis is absent in the Tanzanian population. Case Report: A 30-year-old woman with prior caesarean deliveries presented with a 3-year history of umbilical swelling, cyclical pain, and menses-related bleeding. Examination revealed a firm brown umbilical lesion measuring 5x4centimetres (cm). Wide excisional biopsy was performed. Histopathological examination confirmed endometriosis and ruled out malignancy. The postoperative follow-up revealed no signs of recurrence. Conclusions: This case report highlights the need for high clinical vigilance and comprehensive differential diagnosis, especially for recurring and cyclical abdominal symptoms. Despite resource limitations, accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment can result in the successful management of this rare condition. The report emphasises the urgency for clinicians to boost awareness, promote research, and advocate for better resources to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

Evaluation of long-term efficacy and safety of dienogest in patients with chronic cyclic pelvic pain associated with endometriosis

PurposeTo evaluate the efficacy and long-term safety (up to 108 months) of treatment with Dienogest in patients with endometriosis.MethodsPatients with chronic pelvic pain endometriosis-related were enrolled in this observational study from June 2012 to July 2021. The patients enrolled took Dienogest 2 mg as a single daily administration. Group B of long-term therapy patients (over 15 months) were compared with group A of short-term therapy patients (0–15 months). The effects of the drug on pain variation were assessed using the VAS scale and endometriomas dimensions through ultrasonographic evaluation. Furthermore, has been valuated the appearance of side effects and the effect of the drug on bone metabolism by performing MOC every 24 months in group B.Results157 patients were enrolled. The mean size of the major endometrioma progressively decreased from 33.2 mm (29.4–36.9) at T0 to 7 mm (0–15.8) after 108 months of treatment. We found a significant improvement in dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, dyschezia and non-cyclic pelvic pain. As for the side effects, both groups complained menstrual alterations present in 22.9%. In 27.6% of group B, osteopenia was found. Group B had a higher percentage statistically significant of side effects such as headaches, weight gain and libido reduction compared to group A. 2ConclusionLong-term therapy with Dienogest has proven effective in controlling the symptoms of the disease and reducing the size of endometriomas, with an increase in the positive effects related to the duration of the intake and in the absence of serious adverse events. Study approved by the "Palermo 2" Ethics Committee on July 2, 2012 No. 16.

Endo Belly: What Is It and Why Does It Happen?-A Narrative Review.

Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease where endometrial-like lesions settle outside the uterus, resulting in extensive inflammatory reactions. It is a complex disease that presents with a range of symptoms, with pain and infertility being the most common. Along with severe dysmenorrhea, cyclic and acyclic lower abdominal pain, cyclic dysuria and dyschezia, dyspareunia, and infertility, there are also nonspecific complaints that can cause confusion and make endometriosis the chameleon among gynecological diseases. These symptoms include unspecific intestinal complaints, cyclic diarrhea, but also constipation, nausea, vomiting, and stomach complaints. It appears that in addition to general bowel symptoms, there are also specific symptoms related to endometriosis such as cyclic bloating of the abdomen, known as endo belly. During the second half of the menstrual cycle leading up to menstruation, the abdomen becomes increasingly bloated causing discomfort and pain due to elevated sensitivity of the intestinal wall. Patients with endometriosis exhibit a reduced stretch pain threshold of the intestinal wall. Here, we review the endo belly, for the first time, pathophysiology and the influence of other diseases (such as irritable bowel syndrome-IBS), microbiome, hormonal levels, inflammation, and diet on the presentation of this condition.

Laparoscopic-assisted neo-cervico-vaginal anastomosis and neo-vagina creation in congenital atresia: A retrospective study measuring the outcome and success

We aimed to study the surgical outcomes of vaginoplasty and laparoscopic-assisted cervical-vaginoplasty carried out using our set-up from June 2016 to December 2022. Additionally, we measured the success of our modified laparoscopy-assisted neo-cervical creation. A retrospective study. The study was conducted in a tertiary care center and included all patients who underwent vaginoplasty and neo-cervico-vaginal creation using the rail-road method. A total of 33 patients were followed-up meticulously and their outcomes were noted. The study was retrospective and largely depended on patient compliance during follow-up. Of the 33 patients, 22 underwent vaginoplasty (McIndoe technique) and 11 underwent neo-cervico-vaginoplasty (rail-road method using both open and laparoscopic methods). The most common presentation was primary amenorrhea (cyclic abdominal pain with primary amenorrhea) and urinary retention. Four patients underwent hysteroscopy-guided hematometra drainage and none underwent hysterectomy. The average vaginal length measured during the follow-up was 5.2±1.90cm. Significant symptom relief was observed. Longest follow-up duration was 4.7 years with a mean duration of 210 (180) days. Although the procedure is strenuous, postoperative results showed satisfactory outcomes in improving the quality of life of patients. With expertise in the technique, the associated comorbidity is reduced, which provides relief for the patients.

Perforated Transverse Vaginal Septum with Primary Infertility: A Case Report

IntroductionA transverse vaginal septum develops when the canalization of the vaginal plate fails at the intersection of the mullerian duct and the urogenital sinus and It is a rare genital abnormalities in women, with an estimated incidence of 1/70,000 females. Patient with transverse vaginal septum may present with primary amenorrhea, cyclical abdominal pain, haematocolpos, haematometra and infertility. Women with perforated septa may menstruate but have trouble during intercourse. The diagnosis is typically made by a clinical examination together with ultrasound and MRI used for confirmation. We report a case of 24 years female presented with infertility for 5 years diagnosed with perforated transverse vaginal septum managed with resection of septum by hysteroscopy and laparoscopy.

Diaphragmatic Endometriosis-A Single-Center Retrospective Analysis of the Patients' Demographics, Symptomatology, and Long-Term Treatment Outcomes.

Diaphragmatic endometriosis is rare and forms 0.67-4.7% of all endometriosis cases. Evidence regarding its optimal management is lacking. In this study, we retrospectively analyzed the patient characteristics and long-term treatment outcomes of diaphragmatic endometriosis patients. Over a 4-year period, 23 patients were diagnosed with diaphragmatic endometriosis. The majority of patients had coexisting deep pelvic endometriosis. Cyclic upper abdominal pain was reported by 60.9% of patients, while cyclic chest and shoulder pain were reported by 43.5% and 34.8% of patients, respectively. Most patients were treated with laparoscopic lesion ablation, while 21.1% were treated with minimally invasive excision. The mean follow-up time was 23.7 months. Long-lasting resolution of the chest, abdominal, and shoulder pain occurred in 50%, 35.7%, and 25% of patients, respectively. Nonetheless, 78.9% of patients reported major improvement in their symptoms postoperatively. Significantly higher rates of postoperative shoulder, abdominal, and chest pain were observed in patients who received postoperative hormonal therapy compared with those who did not. All patients treated expectantly remained stable. Therefore, we recommend treating diaphragmatic endometriosis only in symptomatic patients. The risk of incomplete surgery should be minimized by a multidisciplinary diagnostic and therapeutic approach with a careful assessment of the diaphragm and the thoracic cavity.

THU184 Varying Presentations Of 46XX OTD

Abstract Disclosure: I. Mishra: None. S.K. Sahoo: None. A.K. Baliarsinha: None. Ovotesticular disorder of sex development (OT-DSD) is a condition associated with presence of both testicular and ovarian tissue in same individual, in which these tissues may co-exist either in the same gonad or independently. 46 XXOTD are most common. We describe 3 cases of 46 XXOTD presenting in their post pubertal years with varied presentation. Case 1: 19 year old reared as male presented with peripubertal gynaecomastia and cyclical pain abdomen. On examination there was symmetrical genitalia, non palpable gonads, microphallus, single genital opening below phallus (Prader 3), pubic hair stage 4, axillary hair stage 3 and breast stage 5. Biochemical evaluation revealed serum testosterone (19 ng/dl), 17-hydroxy progesterone (1.7ng/ml), LH (2.6IU/L), FSH (8.6IU/L) and E2(112pg/ml). Karyotype 46XX, FISH SRY negative. USG abdomen s/o uterus like structure with absent wollfian remnants. Post laproscopy histopathology s/o bilateral ovotestis, normal ovarian stroma with hyalinized seminiferous tubule, sertoli cells and leydig cells. Case 2: 18 year old reared as male presented with peripubertal gynaecomastia and genital ambiguity. On examination there was asymmetrical genitalia, palpable right scrotal gonads, phallus, single genital opening at base of phallus, pubic hair stage 4, axillary hair stage 3 and breast stage 5. Biochemical evaluation revealed serum testosterone (110ng/dl), LH (4.6IU/L), FSH (11.2IU/L) and E2(46pg/ml). Karyotype 46XX.USG abdomen s/o hypoplastic uterus like structure with possible ovary in left side of pelvis, hypoplastic testis in right scrotal sac. Post laproscopy histopathology was s/o left dysgenetic ovary, and hypoplastic uterus. Case 3: 17 year old reared as male presented with peripubertal gynaecomastia. On examination there was symmetrical genitalia, non palpable gonads, microphallus, single genital opening at the base of phallus (Prader 4), pubic hair stage 4, axillary hair stage 2 and breast stage 4. Biochemical evaluation revealed serum testosterone (98ng/dl), 17-hydroxyprogesterone (0.58ng/ml), LH (4.05IU/L), FSH (7.12IU/L) and E2 (96 pg/ml). Karyotype 46XX, FISH SRY positive. USG abdomen s/o uterus like structure with apparent left ovary and non visualization of right gonads. Post laproscopy histopathology s/o rudimentary uterus, left ovary with follicles and right gonads showing semineferous tubules with sertoli cells and few hyperplastic leydig cells. 46 XX OTDSD presents with wide phenotypic variability, which influences decisions about gender assignment and need of surgery. Conservative therapy, whenever feasible, is desirable to achieve fertility. Multidisciplinary team approach is required for healthy physical and psychological well-beings of these individuals. Presentation: Thursday, June 15, 2023

The psychopathological repercussions on patients faced with pain: A focus on endometriosis

ObjectivesEndometriosis is a chronic and progressive gynecological disease that affects 1 to 2 out of 10 women of childbearing age in France. The objective of this research was to understand the factors determining the quality of life of the patients who experience significant pain symptoms (75%), distinguished by the extent and depth of the lesions. The second objective was to evaluate the psychological repercussions of this pain. We will therefore assess the various psychological processes involved in explaining quality of life. MethodIn total, 1039 women aged 18–55 years completed a self-administered questionnaire, assessing different types of pain and intensity, body image (BIS), self-esteem (Rosenberg), anxiety-depressive symptomatology (HAD), and quality of life (SF-36). Socio-biographical and medical characteristics of the patients were also assessed. ResultsAnalyses of variance showed that patients with chronic pain had lower self-esteem and body image, more anxiety-depressive symptoms, and a poorer quality of life than women with cyclic pain and those without pain. Regression analyses showed that the determinants of physical and mental quality of life differed significantly according to the type of pain experienced. ConclusionThe consequences of the pain associated with endometriosis reveal multiple problems that can be considered from a new perspective. Although psychological disorders can be a response to pain phenomena they can also contribute to their increase. This is where the challenge lies in providing comprehensive care.

Holistic treatment of endometriosis

The pain phenomena caused by endometriosis are manifold. In addition to nociceptive pain there is also anociplastic reaction with central sensitization. Atypical symptoms, such as acyclic lower abdominal pain, radiating pain, nonspecific bladder and intestinal complaints or even depression increasingly occur in addition to the classical cyclic complaints, such as severe dysmenorrhea, cyclic lower abdominal pain, dyspareunia, dysuria and dyschezia. Due to the diffuse range of symptoms, affected patients often consult not just gynecologists but also specialists from other disciplines (internal medicine, gastroenterology, orthopedics, pain therapy, psychology etc.). The complexity of endometriosis is presented. The resulting approaches to multimodal interdisciplinary holistic treatment are described. Interdisciplinary concepts should be involved in the optimal treatment of endometriosis patients along with hormonal and surgical treatment, mostly under the supervision of agynecologist and pain management, dietary changes, psychological support and physiotherapeutic management should also be included. This article provides an overview of possible treatment strategies for chronic symptomatic endometriosis. Based on multimodal treatment strategies and regarding the complex pathophysiological alterations of this disease, the complex complaints that significantly impair the quality of life of endometriosis patients can be greatly improved.

Digestive system deep infiltrating endometriosis: What do we know.

Digestive system infiltrating endometriosis (DSIE) is an uncommon form of endometriosis in the digestive system. DSIE often occurs in the intestines (especially the sigmoid rectum), liver, gallbladder and pancreas. Clinically, DSIE presents with the same symptoms as endometriosis, including cyclic pain, bleeding and infertility, in addition to specific biliary/intestinal obstruction and gastrointestinal bleeding. Compared to general endometriosis, DSIE has unique biological behaviour and pathophysiological mechanisms. Most DSIEs are deep invasive endometrioses, characterized by metastasis to the lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels, angiogenesis, peripheral nerve recruitment, fibrosis and invasion of surrounding tissues. DSIE-related peripheral angiogenesis is divided into three patterns: angiogenesis, vasculogenesis and inosculation. These patterns are regulated by interactions between multiple hypoxia-hormone cytokines. The nerve growth factors regulate the extensive neurofibril recruitment in DSIE lesions, which accounts for severe symptoms of deep pain. They are also associated with fibrosis and the aggressiveness of DSIE. Cyclic changes in DSIE lesions, recurrent inflammation and oxidative stress promote repeated tissue injury and repair (ReTIAR) mechanisms in the lesions, accelerating fibril formation and cancer-related mutations. Similar to malignant tumours, DSIE can also exhibit aggressiveness derived from collective cell migration mediated by E-cadherin and N-cadherin. This often makes DSIE misdiagnosed as a malignant tumour of the digestive system in clinical practice. In addition to surgery, novel treatments are urgently required to effectively eradicate this lesion.

Risk factors for recurrent endometriosis after conservative surgery in a quaternary care center in southern Thailand.

To determine the 2-year recurrence rate of endometriosis after conservative surgery and the risk factors for recurrence. This study retrospectively analyzed women with endometriosis who underwent conservative surgery and had at least a 2-year follow-up at a quaternary care hospital in southern Thailand from January 2000 to December 2019. Recurrent endometriosis was defined as either presence of endometrioma with a diameter ≥ 2 cm for more than three consecutive menstrual cycles or relapse of pelvic pain with the same or higher visual analog scale (VAS) score as before surgery. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify the risk factors for recurrence. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) age was 34 (29, 38) years in 362 cases and nearly three-quarters (74.2%) were nulliparous. Cyclic pain was the most common clinical presentation (48.9%) and the median (IQR) VAS score of pelvic pain was 6 (5, 9). Ovarian cystectomy was the most common procedure (68.1%). The 2-year recurrent endometriosis rate after conservative surgery was 23.2%, and the overall recurrence rate was 56.4%. The risk factors of recurrence were preoperative moderate to severe pelvic pain (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.93; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.12-3.34; p = 0.017), adhesiolysis/ablation/ovarian cystectomy without unilateral oophorectomy (aOR 2.71; 95% CI, 1.40-5.23; p = 0.002), and duration of postoperative hormonal treatment < 24 months (aOR 10.58; 95% CI, 5.47-20.47; p < 0.001). The 2-year recurrence rate after conservative surgery for endometriosis was 23.2%. Preoperative moderate to severe pelvic pain, procedures except unilateral oophorectomy, and postoperative hormonal treatment < 24 months were risk factors for recurrence.