Females Of Childbearing Age Research Articles

Appendicitis in Pregnancy: A Post-Hoc Analysis of an EAST Multicenter Study.

Objective: To compare the presentation, management, and outcomes of appendicitis in pregnant and non-pregnant females of childbearing age (18-45 years). Methods: This was a post-hoc analysis of a prospectively collected database (January 2017-June 2018) from 28 centers in America. We compared pregnant and non-pregnant females' demographics, clinical presentation, laboratory data, imaging findings, management, and clinical outcomes. Results: Of the 3,597 subjects, 1,010 (28%) were of childbearing age, and 41 were pregnant: The mean age of the pregnant subjects was 30 ± 8 years at a median gestational age of 15 (range 10-23) weeks. The two groups had similar demographics and clinical presentation, but there were differences in management and outcomes. For example, in pregnant subjects, abdominal ultrasound scans (US) plus magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was the most frequently used imaging method (41%) followed by MRI alone (29%), US alone (22%), computed tomography (CT) (5%), and no imaging (2%). Despite similar American Association for the Surgery of Trauma Emergency General Surgery Clinical and Imaging Grade at presentation, pregnant subjects were more likely to be treated with antibiotics alone (15% versus 4%; p = 0.008). Pregnant subjects were less likely to have simple appendicitis and were more likely to have complicated (perforated or gangrenous) appendicitis or a normal appendix. With the exception of index hospital length of stay, there were no significant differences between the groups in clinical outcomes at index hospitalization or at 30 days. Conclusion: Almost 1 in 20 women of childbearing age presenting with appendicitis is pregnant. Appendicitis most commonly affects women in early to mid-pregnancy. Compared with non-pregnant women of childbearing age, pregnant women presenting with appendicitis undergo non-operative management more often and are less likely to have simple appendicitis. Compared with non-pregnant patients, they have similar clinical outcomes at both index hospitalization and 30 days after discharge.

Lead exposures in older children (males and females 7–17 years), women of childbearing age (females 16–49 years) and adults (males and females 18+ years): FDA total diet study 2014–16

ABSTRACTDietary exposures to lead were estimated for older children, females of childbearing age and adults based on lead concentration data from the FDA’s Total Diet Study and on food consumption data from What We Eat In America (WWEIA), the food survey portion of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Estimated mean exposures varied based on the population and on the three different substitution scenarios for lead values below the limit of detection (non-detects = 0; non-detects = limit of detection; hybrid approach). Estimated mean lead exposures range from 1.4 to 4.0 µg/day for older children (males and females 7–17 years), 1.6 to 4.6 µg/day for women of childbearing age (females 16–49 years) and 1.7 to 5.3 µg/day for adults (males and females 18 years and older). Estimated 90th percentile lead exposures range from 2.3 to 5.8 µg/day for older children, 2.8 to 6.7 µg/day for women of childbearing age and 3.2 to 7.8 µg/day for adults. Exposure estimates suggest some older children may be exposed to dietary lead above the FDA interim reference level for lead in children of 3 µg/day. The results of this study can be used by the FDA to prioritise research and regulatory efforts in the area of dietary lead exposure.

Prehospital Transfusion of Low-Titer O + Whole Blood for Severe Maternal Hemorrhage: A Case Report

Introduction: Beginning in 2017, multiple stakeholders within the Southwest Texas Regional Advisory Council for Trauma collaborated to incorporate cold-stored low-titer O RhD-positive whole blood (LTO + WB) into all phases of their trauma system, including the prehospital phase of care. Although the program was initially focused on trauma resuscitation, it was expanded to included non-traumatic hemorrhagic shock patients that may benefit from whole blood resuscitation.Case Report: We report the case of a patient with severe maternal hemorrhage secondary to placenta accreta who received a prehospital transfusion of LTO + WB. We believe this to be the first reported case of post-partum hemorrhage resuscitated out of hospital with whole blood.Discussion: This case highlights the potential benefits of a prehospital whole blood program as well as the controversy surrounding a LTO + WB program that includes females of childbearing age.

Anti-Rh alloimmunization after trauma resuscitation

The AABB recently posted a bulletin (19-02) regarding their recommendations for the use of group O red blood cells (RBCs) during trauma. Though group O Rh(D)-negative RBC units are considered the ‘safest’, the demand of such units often exceeds the supply. Therefore, O Rh(D)-positive units are often used during the first parts of a massive transfusion protocol (MTP) or patients with particularly severe hemorrhage are switched over from O Rh(D)-negative to O Rh(D)-positive RBC units in order to preserve the O Rh(D)-negative supply.In light of these limitations, it is important to understand the risk of such policies to the patient. The reported risk of alloimmunization after exposure to Rh(D)-positive RBCs ranges widely from 3 to 70%. In response, we performed a retrospective review of 1,198 patients in our institution that had a MTP activation due to trauma. Of those patients, we focused on Rh(D)-negative patients that received at least 1 unit of Rh(D)-positive RBCs. Seventy-two patients met the criteria for inclusion, accounting for 6% of the total population.Of the 72 Rh(D)-negative patients, we identified 17% that formed new Rh group antibodies after exposure to Rh(D)-positive RBCS. All 10 of our alloimmunized patients (two of which were females of childbearing age) formed anti-D, while 3 patients also formed either anti-E or anti-C. Since this was a retrospective review, we did not perform repeated antibody screens for the entire study period, but did review all records for the entire period. We did note that we were more likely to detect an novel alloantibody if more antibody screens were performed during the patient’s initial stay and during follow-up visits.We conclude that providing Rh(D) negative patients Rh(D) positive RBC units is not without risk and policies regarding such provisions should be carefully considered. As RBC shortages continue to be a part of daily practice, such issues may continue to be a challenge for the blood bank community.

Blood Lead Levels in Females of Childbearing Age in Flint, Michigan, and the Water Crisis.

To compare blood lead levels in females of childbearing age, 12-50 years, living within and adjacent to Flint, Michigan, before, during, and after the Flint River water exposure and compare the levels to those that have been shown to cause fetal loss and preterm birth. The switch in the community water source to the Flint River occurred on April 25, 2014, and was reverted to the original source on October 15, 2015. Using a retrospective cross-sectional study design using geocoded blood lead levels obtained from all females of childbearing age available from a single hospital database, we compared blood lead levels for the following 18-month time periods: April 25, 2012-October 15, 2013 (PRE), April 25, 2014-October 15, 2015 (DURING), and April 25, 2016-October 15, 2017 (POST). Results are reported as geometric mean (95% CI). Within Flint, PRE blood lead levels in females of childbearing age were 0.69 micrograms/dL (95% CI 0.63-0.75), DURING blood lead levels were 0.65 micrograms/dL (95% CI 0.60-0.71), and POST blood lead levels were 0.55 micrograms/dL (95% CI 0.54-0.56). DURING Flint River water exposure blood lead levels were not significantly different than the PRE Flint River water time period. POST Flint River water exposure blood lead levels were significantly lower than both PRE and DURING levels. Overall, lower blood lead levels were found outside the Flint boundary in all cohorts. Blood lead levels in Flint females of childbearing age did not increase during the Flint River water exposure and subsequent 18-month time period. Mean blood lead levels during the Flint River water exposure are not consistent with the markedly higher blood lead levels reported in the literature to be associated with fetal loss, low birth weight, or preterm birth.

Access to reproductive health services among the female floating population of childbearing age: a cross-sectional study in Changsha, China

BackgroundThe floating population serves an important role in economic and social development. However, little is known about the floating population’s reproductive health (RH) services, especially in low- and middle-income countries. This study aimed to assess the use of reproductive health services in the female floating population in China, which is a country with the largest floating population in the world.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted for more than 3 months. Six hundred twenty females of childbearing age in a floating population were recruited into the study by using random sampling, with these individuals being recruited from six community centres in Changsha, China. The use of reproductive health services was assessed by utilizing a self-designed questionnaire.ResultsA total of 555 participants returned the completed questionnaires (effective response rate of 89.5%), including 405 married women and 150 unmarried women. The utilization of RH services was poor in individuals who could access RH policies (39.3%), RH education (36.4%), RH counselling (27.4%), gratis contraceptives (36.0%), and free RH examinations (38.9%), and married women utilized these services at higher rates than unmarried women (P < 0.01), although 63.3% of the unmarried women had sexual lifestyles. The marital status was significantly associated with receiving RH education, RH counselling, gratis contraceptives, and free RH examinations. Age was significantly associated with the use of RH education and free RH examinations. The average personal monthly income had a significantly beneficial effect on the use of free RH examinations. Obstetrics and gynaecological disease prevention (67.2%) were the greatest needs of the RH services, and the use of the Internet was the best way to obtain these services. Most of the individuals (77.3%) hoped to receive gynaecological health screenings that were provided by obstetrics and gynaecology hospitals.ConclusionsThe female floating population exhibited poor awareness of RH and rarely used RH services, especially in unmarried women. The results suggest that educational interventions for the female floating population, as well as policy and resource developments should meet the demands for RH services, which are urgently needed in China.

Prevalence and specificity of clinically significant red cell alloantibodies in pregnant women - a study from a tertiary care hospital in Southeast Michigan.

BackgroundMaternal red cell IgG antibodies can cross the placenta and cause hemolysis of fetal red cells in case of antigenic differences between maternal and fetal RBCs, leading to hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN). Although the incidence of anti-D associated HDFN has drastically reduced with Rh immune globulin prophylaxis, HDFN due to other maternal red cell alloantibodies still remains a concern. Prevalence and specificities of clinically significant red cell alloantibodies in pregnant females have rarely been reported in the USA.MethodsA retrospective chart review was conducted to determine the prevalence and specificity of clinically significant red cell alloantibodies in pregnant females who delivered at Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak between May 1, 2017 and December 31, 2017. A total of 4548 pregnant females were screened using electronic medical records. One female above 50 years age and two females with invalid ABO type were excluded from the study per IRB approved protocol. The remaining 4545 pregnant females with a valid ABO/RhD type and valid red cell antibody screen were included.ResultsOut of the 4545 included females, 440 had a positive red cell antibody screen. Of these 440 females, 34 had clinically significant alloantibodies, giving an overall prevalence of 0.74%. Anti-E was the most frequently identified significant alloantibody followed by anti-K. The most prevalent significant alloantibodies in RhD positive and RhD negative females were anti-E and anti-K, respectively. Significant association (p-value <0.001) was found between RhD type and the presence of clinically significant alloantibodies amongst females with positive antibody screen.ConclusionOur study aims to reiterate the importance of maternal red cell antibody screening during early pregnancy to help identify and manage high-risk pregnancies. Minimizing the exposure of childbearing age females to incompatible red cell antigens through unnecessary transfusions can help reduce the incidence of red cell alloimmunization and the risk of HDFN.

Seatbelt Use in Females of Childbearing Age at an Urban Safety-Net Level 1 Trauma Center

BackgroundSafety restraint system (SRS) use is known to improve maternal and fetal outcomes in pregnant women. Factors associated with seatbelt use in females of childbearing age are largely unstudied despite global public health endeavors to increase use. We sought to define its use and uncover risk factors for not using a restraint system in this vulnerable patient cohort. Materials and methodsA retrospective chart review of all female patients aged 15-35 y presenting from 2007 to 2017 was performed using our institutional level 1 trauma database. Age, pregnancy, insurance status (commercial or private, Medicaid plan, and uninsured), race, and Injury Severity Score (ISS) were examined in unmatched data. A matched cohort was created to evaluate the impact of pregnancy on SRS use based on ISS, age, race, and insurance status with blinding to belt use during matching (two nonpregnant to one pregnant). Differences in restraint use were then examined using Mann–Whitney U and Chi-square tests. ResultsA total of 779 patients met inclusion criteria, of which 140 were pregnant. In unmatched data, there was no difference in belt use with regard to age, race, or insurance type. Overall belt use was 59%. Twenty-five percent of patients were uninsured, and 39% used a Medicaid plan. Pregnant patients were statistically more likely to wear belts (71% versus 57%, P = 0.003). In ISS-matched data, this difference was not upheld (63% pregnant belt use versus 58%, P = 0.615). ConclusionsPregnancy did not induce improved safety behavior in our population. More study is needed to confirm our findings. Overall SRS use in our urban population is very poor, lags behind the national average, and requires additional public health attention.

A retrospective serological survey of hepatitis B virus infection in Northeast China

BackgroundHepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major public health burden in China although it has steadily declined over the last two decades. A valid updated prevalence of HBV infection in China relies on a large sample size. Hence this study aimed to estimate HBV seroprevalence using a large inpatient population in Northeast China.MethodsWe consecutively enrolled 218,627 inpatients aged 1–70 years admitted to the First Hospital of Jilin University from January 2010 through December 2014. HBV serological markers were detected by chemiluminescence immunoassay (CLIA).ResultsAmong the 218,627 collected samples, 16,254 (7.43%) were positive for HBsAg and 41.64% of patients were negative for all the HBV markers. The highest HBsAg prevalence was 10.05% in the 41–50 year age group and the lowest were 0.47% in the 1–10 and 2.35% in the 11–20 year age groups, respectively. HBsAg positivity was higher in males compared to females (8.94% vs. 5.80%). An HBsAg positivity of nearly 14% was found in middle-aged males, and positivity was 6.2% in females of childbearing age. One-third of this population only had a single HBsAb marker, which was also detected in 60% of patients aged under 20 years.ConclusionThough universal hepatitis B vaccination of infants has significantly reduced HBsAg prevalence in children, the number of most adults who have been infected with HBV remains steady. Extra care and resources should be provided to HBV-infected middle-aged males to stop the progression of chronic hepatitis B, and HBsAg positive females of childbearing age to block vertical HBV transmission.

Gender differences in determinants of iron-deficiency anemia: a population-based study conducted in four European countries.

Iron-deficiency anemia (IDA) was the main condition contributing to higher rates of years lived with disabilities in women in 2016. To date, few studies have investigated gender differences in determinants of IDA in Europe. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the determinants of IDA among females and males in four European countries. IDA determinants were estimated using multivariable Cox regression based on information gathered from national primary care databases, namely Italy (for years 2002-2013), Belgium, Germany, and Spain (for years 2007-2012). Adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated. Age was significantly associated with IDA in females of childbearing age in all four countries, as well as pregnancy, for which the aHR ranged from 1.20 (95% CI 1.15-1.25) in Italy to 1.88 (95% CI 1.53-2.31) in Germany. In males, the aHR increased with age starting from the 65-69 age group. Menometrorrhagia was associated with IDA in Germany (aHR 2.71, 95% CI 1.96-3.73), Italy (aHR 1.80, 95% CI 1.60-2.03), and Spain (aHR 1.52, 95% CI 1.31-1.76). A greater risk for women with alopecia was also observed. Weakness and headache indicated a higher risk in both men and women. Patients with diseases characterized by blood loss or gastrointestinal malabsorption were also at significantly increased risk. Physicians should encourage women of childbearing age to adhere to dietary recommendations regarding iron intake and regularly prescribe screening of iron status. Upper and lower gastrointestinal investigations should be recommended for patients with a confirmed diagnosis of IDA.

Ultrasonographic prevalence of polycystic ovarian morphology among women of reproductive age group

Background and objective: Polycystic ovarian cyst is the most common and complex reproductive endocrinopathy affecting females of childbearing age. This study aimed to investigate the sonographic prevalence of polycystic ovary morphology among women of reproductive age group, and correlate it with age, menstrual disturbances, fertility problems, obesity, and hormonal profile. Methods: This study was carried out in the Rizgary Teaching Hospital and private clinic in Erbil city, Kurdistan region of Iraqfrom 1st August 2016 to 1st June 2017. A total of 782 women were included in this study. Inclusion criteria were any woman attending to pelvic ultrasound for whatever the cause other than pregnancy. The prevalence of polycystic ovary morphology was determined depending on Rotterdam's criteria; correlation with clinical history and biochemical indices was done. Results: Of the total study sample of 782 women, 147 (18.8%)had polycystic ovarian cyst. The highest prevalence (32.7% and 43%) was among the age group 18-27 years and participants with high body mass index (31-≥40).There was a statistically significant correlation between menstrual cycle irregularities and serum prolactin andserum testosterone. The highest polycystic ovary prevalence was found among participants with a history of amenorrhea and oligomenorrhoea, 92.3% and 75.2%, respectively. Conclusion: We observed that polycystic ovary is an age-related disease and the prevalence of the disease decreases with age. The highest prevalence was seen among the age group of 18-27 years and least in the age group of 38-47 years. No patients with polycystic ovary were found above 48 years.

Urethral Pain Syndrome: A Systematic Review

Urethral pain syndrome (UPS) is defined as pain localized to the urethra with an unpleasant sensation, dysuria often accompanied by urinary frequency and urgency present greater than 6 months in the absence of an identifiable cause. A paucity of information exists on the subject as it is often combined with conditions such as interstitial cystitis or prostatitis. The aim is to provide and explain different definitions and diagnostic work-up and discuss treatment options for providers. Few recent studies exist addressing urethral pain syndrome. Most literature is decades old. Thirty-five full-text articles were included in the review. This syndrome occurs most commonly in females of childbearing age. Patients must be evaluated thoroughly with full history and physical. Etiologies proposed include sensory dysfunction, pelvic floor dysfunction, psychogenic factors (depression and anxiety), diet, obstruction, infections, and hypoestrogen status. Treatment strategies include behavioral management of stress management, diet modification, pelvic floor treatments, local estrogen, anesthetic with or without cooling, oral medications for related lower urinary tract symptoms, or anxiolytics/antidepressants. Psychological support is recommended for these patients. UPS can have multiple etiologies and a multimodal therapy should be applied to these patients. Therapy should be individualized, oftentimes including concurrent therapy for overlapping conditions. Serious pathology should be ruled out and a stepwise approach to treatment should be utilized after setting treatment expectations with the patient.

SAT-443 Osilodrostat Has No Clinically Relevant Effect on the Pharmacokinetic (PK) Profile of a Monophasic Oral Contraceptive in Healthy Females Receiving Cortisol Replacement Therapy

Background: Osilodrostat, a potent oral 11β-hydroxylase inhibitor, is in Phase 3 development for endogenous Cushing’s syndrome (CS). As CS occurs mostly in females of childbearing age, it is important to determine the effect of osilodrostat on oral contraceptives (OCs). We report the effect of multiple osilodrostat doses on the PK profile of a single OC dose in healthy females on cortisol replacement. Methods: This Phase 1, single-center, open-label, three-period, drug-drug interaction study enrolled healthy, non-smoking females aged 18-50 y with regular menstrual cycles. A single OC dose, containing ethinyl estradiol (EES) 30 μg and levonorgestrel (LVG) 150 μg, was given on day (D) 1 of treatment period 1 (TP1; D1-7). In TP2 (D8-19), osilodrostat 30 mg twice daily was given with hydrocortisone 20 mg daily; a second OC dose was given on D15. Hydrocortisone was tapered/discontinued during TP3 (D20-28). Primary variable: AUClast (area under curve from time 0 to last measurable concentration) and Cmax (peak plasma concentration) of EES and LVG, calculated from a 120h OC PK profile on D1 and D15. Secondary endpoints: osilodrostat PK; safety/tolerability of OC and osilodrostat co-administration. Results: 24 subjects were enrolled (mean ± SD age, 37 ± 7 years; Caucasian, 96%). EES and LVG AUClast were similar when OC was given with osilodrostat (n=19) vs alone (n=24) [geometric mean: EES, 541 vs 537 pg∙h/mL; LVG, 44900 vs 42300 pg∙h/mL]. Insignificant decreases in Cmax were seen for OC with osilodrostat vs alone (geometric mean: EES, 51.6 vs 59.8 pg/mL; LVG, 3360 vs 3800 pg/mL). Apparent total clearance, t½ (half-life) and tmax (time to Cmax) were similar with and without osilodrostat for EES and LVG, except for a small increase in t½ of LVG with osilodrostat (26.4 vs 22.9 h). For osilodrostat PK (n=19), geometric means for AUCτ (AUC to end of dosing period at steady state) and Cmax, and median tmax, were 1620 ng∙h/mL, 299 ng/mL, and 1.0 h, respectively. Most (92%) subjects received both OC doses; 83% completed osilodrostat treatment. At the end of TP3 (2 days after last hydrocortisone dose), 79% of subjects had ACTH-stimulated serum cortisol below the protocol-defined threshold, although all had normal unstimulated levels at study end; these results may be related to high osilodrostat doses, hydrocortisone supplementation, timing of first stimulation test after last hydrocortisone dose or another factor. Other common AEs: nausea (46%), headache and nasopharyngitis (both 38%). Four (17%) subjects discontinued due to: palpitations, n=1; throat tightness, n=1; asthenia and exhaustion, n=1; positive pregnancy test, n=1 (not confirmed by ultrasound). Conclusion: Concomitant treatment of osilodrostat (highest dose used in Phase 3 trials) with a single OC dose did not result in clinically relevant changes in OC PK parameters, suggesting that OC can be given with osilodrostat and provide adequate contraception.

Differences Among Incidence Rates of Invasive Listeriosis in the U.S. FoodNet Population by Age, Sex, Race/Ethnicity, and Pregnancy Status, 2008-2016.

Listeria monocytogenes is a foodborne pathogen that disproportionally affects pregnant females, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals. Using U.S. Foodborne Diseases Active Surveillance Network (FoodNet) surveillance data, we examined listeriosis incidence rates and rate ratios (RRs) by age, sex, race/ethnicity, and pregnancy status across three periods from 2008 to 2016, as recent incidence trends in U.S. subgroups had not been evaluated. The invasive listeriosis annual incidence rate per 100,000 for 2008–2016 was 0.28 cases among the general population (excluding pregnant females), and 3.73 cases among pregnant females. For adults ≥70 years, the annual incidence rate per 100,000 was 1.33 cases. No significant change in estimated listeriosis incidence was found over the 2008–2016 period, except for a small, but significantly lower pregnancy-associated rate in 2011–2013 when compared with 2008–2010. Among the nonpregnancy-associated cases, RRs increased with age from 0.43 (95% confidence interval: 0.25–0.73) for 0- to 14-year olds to 44.9 (33.5–60.0) for ≥85-year olds, compared with 15- to 44-year olds. Males had an incidence of 1.28 (1.12–1.45) times that of females. Compared with non-Hispanic whites, the incidence was 1.57 (1.18–1.20) times higher among non-Hispanic Asians, 1.49 (1.22–1.83) among non-Hispanic blacks, and 1.73 (1.15–2.62) among Hispanics. Among females of childbearing age, non-Hispanic Asian females had 2.72 (1.51–4.89) and Hispanic females 3.13 (2.12–4.89) times higher incidence than non-Hispanic whites. We observed a higher percentage of deaths among older patient groups compared with 15- to 44-year olds. This study is the first characterizing higher RRs for listeriosis in the United States among non-Hispanic blacks and Asians compared with non-Hispanic whites. This information for public health risk managers may spur further research to understand if differences in listeriosis rates relate to differences in consumption patterns of foods with higher contamination levels, food handling practices, comorbidities, immunodeficiencies, health care access, or other factors.

Rubella outbreak in the school children, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: February\u2013April 2018

BackgroundRubella is a vaccine-preventable contagious disease causing an estimated 100,000 children to be born with congenital rubella syndrome each year globally. Studies documented that 18 rubella outbreaks were occurred each year in Ethiopia. Yeka sub-city woreda 13 public health emergency management office reported two measles suspected cases on 8 February, 2018. We investigated this outbreak to identify its etiology, describe the outbreak and implement control measures.MethodsWe described the outbreak using descriptive epidemiology. The study population was defined as students learning in the school where the outbreak occurred. Suspected rubella case was defined as student with generalized rash whereas confirmed case was suspected case tested positive for rubella IgM. Questionnaires, checklists and students record review were used to collect data. We searched for new cases in classes daily and excluded them from classes. The school environment was assessed and the outbreak was described in person and time.ResultsWe identified 58 cases (median age: 4.6 years; IQR: 4–5 years) with six of them rubella IgM positive and 52 epidemiologically linked. The outbreak began on 8 February 2018 having multiple intermittent peaks during its course reaching its highest peak at 2 April, 2018 and ended on 20 April, 2018. Index cases were reported from two classes; however, cases were occurred in 13/15(86.67%) of the classes during the entire outbreak. Fifty five percent (32/58) and 45/58(77.59%) of the cases were females and 3–5 years children, respectively. Overall attack rate was 58/531(4.05%). Attack rate was higher in females 32/252 (12.7%) than in males 26/279 (9.32%), and higher 45/275(16.36%) in 3–5 years than those in 5–8 years 13/256(5.08%) children. Case fatality ratio was zero. All cases were vaccinated against measles but unvaccinated against rubella.ConclusionsAttack rate was higher in females than in males and higher in 3–5 years than 5–8 years children. We recommended establishing rubella surveillance system, conducting sero-prevalence of rubella among child bearing age females and establishing CRS surveillance among young infants to provide evidence-based information for RCV introduction. It was also recommended to develop a national rubella surveillance guideline which aid to exclude rubella cases from schools during outbreak.

Atypical Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis in a Young Child: Implications for Change in Vaccination Strategy

AbstractSubacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) is a serious neurological complication of measles with no satisfactory treatment options. The prolonged incubation period makes it rare in young children. The occurrence of primary measles infection in infants before age of vaccination can be prevented only by ensuring adequate vaccination of all females in childbearing age. Here, we present a case of an atypical presentation of SSPE in a toddler who contracted measles at 6 months of age.

Mitochondrial DNA deletions accurately detect endometriosis in symptomatic females of child-bearing age.

Accurate noninvasive diagnostic aids for endometriosis are needed. We evaluated mitochondrial DNA deletions as potential biomarkers for endometriosis. The diagnostic accuracy of deletions was evaluated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (QPCR) using well-characterized clinical specimens from all subtypes and stages of endometriosis in a case-control format (n=182). Deletions (1.2 and 3.7kb) detected in blood differentiated between endometriosis and controls (area under the curve [AUC] 0.71-0.90). Differences in deletion levels were statistically significant (p<0.05) for all disease subtypes and stages. Neither deletion was correlated with patient or specimen age or hormone status. The 1.2kb deletion was not correlated with menstrual stage; the 3.7kb deletion was significantly correlated between two of the groups. Biomarkers of the mitochondrial genome, including the deletions described here, offer a promising and largely unexplored avenue in the pursuit of diagnostic markers for endometriosis that can be effectively translated to clinical application.

Women's experiences regarding isotretinoin risk reduction counseling in Riyadh

Context: Isotretinoin is an effective acne treatment and a known teratogen. Contraception counseling may reduce isotretinoin-exposed pregnancies. Aims: The aim of the study is to assess the efficacy of contraception counseling in married females of childbearing age who are on isotretinoin or have used isotretinoin in the past 6 months. Settings and Design: This cross-sectional study in dermatology clinics at multiple centers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, between June and November, 2017. Subjects and Methods: Cross sectional study using surveys filled out by married women of child bearing age who were taking isotretenoin during the past 6 months. The questionnaires were distributed in paper as well as electronic version. Statistical Methods Used: Descriptive analysis was primarily done. Results: Most of the patients who received isotretinoin belong to the age group of 33–40 years, married females. Doctors discussed teratogenicity risks in 81% of the patients, but only 44% of patients received written information about risks and 52% signed the consent form. Contraception methods were discussed in 58% of patients. Only 49% of patients were advised to start contraception 1 month before starting isotretinoin. About 79% did not do pregnancy tests while on isotretinoin. Conclusions: This study has identified a gap in risk reduction counseling in married females who are on isotretinoin. Measures such as providing written materials explaining teratogenicity risks associated with isotretinoin, referring patients to specialist for starting contraception before prescribing isotretinoin, and ensuring strict adherence to monthly pregnancy test starting 1 month before, during, and 1 month after the treatment may help minimize the teratogenicity risk.

Intravenous Iron for the Treatment of Steroid-Refractory Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura

Introduction: Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is an acquired platelet disorder that is often caused by antibodies against platelet's antigens. Steroids are effective first therapy for ITP. Steroid-refractory ITP is rare and warrant further investigation and treatment. While iron deficiency anemia (IDA) usually presents with thrombocytosis, there are a few reported cases of IDA presenting with unexplained ITP.Objective: We aim to determine whether the use of intravenous (IV) iron improves platelet count in patients with concomitant steroid-refractory ITP and IDA.Methods: We identified five patients with IDA who presented to the St. John Hospital and Medical Center between 1/2010 and 12/2017 with unexplained profound thrombocytopenia. They were initially treated with steroids without success. All patients were then treated with a single infusion of iron dextran to replenish their iron stores.Results: All five patients were African American females of childbearing age and with a history of menorrhagia. All patients had profound iron deficiency defined as iron saturation less than 20% and ferritin less than 15 ng/dL. Four of these patients had profound thrombocytopenia defined as platelets count below 30,000/mm3(table 1). Other causes of thrombocytopenia were ruled out. With IV iron, all patients achieved complete and durable resolution of their thrombocytopenia lasting for at least 6 months (table 2).Conclusion: The exact mechanism of thrombocytopenia that occurs in patients with IDA is unknown. However, it is suggested that it may be related to the alteration in the activity of iron-dependent enzymes in the cells responsible for megakaryopoiesis and thrombopoiesis. We suggest that patients who present with concomitant steroid-refractory ITP and IDA should receive a trial of IV iron before proceeding with more aggressive therapy such as splenectomy. [Display omitted] DisclosuresNo relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Prevalence of kidney stones in the USA: The National Health and Nutrition Evaluation Survey

Objective: The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) has demonstrated an upward trend in prevalence of kidney stones (KSs) in the past 30 years. We aim to report the current prevalence of KSs. Methods: Research was based upon a cross-sectional analysis of response to the 2007–2014 NHANES. The prevalence of self-reported KS history was calculated using weights and design factors reported by NHANES. Four cycles of NHANES data were analyzed separately (2007–2014), and KS-prevalence trends in adult individuals for different age groups were compared. Analysis was performed using SAS ver.9.4. Results: The prevalence of KSs was 10.1% for the last 2013–2014 NHANES cycle. The highest prevalence of KSs was observed in males older than 60 years, at 17.8%, followed by males 40–59 years old at 12.6%. This trend changes in the 20–39-year-old age group, wherein females had a higher prevalence than males—7.5% for females compared to 4.5% in males. Females in the study showed a steady increase in KSs prevalence through the study cycles: 6.6% in 2007 to 9.5% in 2013 ( p &lt; 0.05). The increase in females ages 20 to 39, almost doubled in prevalence: 3.9 to 7.5%, from 2007 to 2013 ( p &lt; 0.05). Females older than 60 years of age have remained stable, with prevalence of 8.9% in 2007 to 9.8% in 2013. Males showed a slight decrease in prevalence from 2007 to 2014, from 12.7% in 2007 to 11.4% in 2014. Prevalence in males and females older than 60 years old were relatively stable. Conclusions: Prevalence of KSs has remained stable in males and has increased in females. Females of child-bearing age showed the most significant increase. For this specific group, there has been a steady increase in the last seven years. Level of evidence: IV