Adnexal masses in pregnancy: occurrence by ethnic group

Article Abstract:

Although ethnic differences have been noted in the appearance of certain gynecological conditions, the rate of occurrence of benign adnexal masses (in the fallopian tubes or ovaries) among different ethnic groups has not been determined. To learn more about this, investigators reviewed the medical records of all women who had delivered babies at one hospital in Hawaii between January 1, 1983 and October 31, 1988. Two hundred twenty-eight adnexal masses were discovered in 37,159 deliveries; the masses were removed during cesarean section (129), sterilization surgery (61), surgery for ectopic pregnancy (implantation of the pre-embryo outside the uterus, 16), or at other times. Patient characteristics, including age, pregnancy and delivery history, and self-reported ethnic group (part Hawaiian, white, Filipina, Japanese) were noted. Results revealed that the Japanese women were older than the non-Japanese women (31.3 years, compared with no more than 28.3 years for other groups). There was no ethnic difference in the risk of an adnexal mass for non-neoplastic masses (not a tumor). The frequencies of non-neoplastic masses are presented. Filipinas had an increased risk of benign neoplastic lesion (tumor), while the part-Hawaiian group had a decreased risk. Filipinas represented approximately one third of the group with benign cystic teratomas (a neoplastic germ cell tumor), while Japanese made up 19.4 percent; whites, 16.7 percent; and part-Hawaiians, 8.3 percent. No woman was found to have a gynecologic malignancy. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Statistics, Demographic aspects, Tumors, Uterine diseases

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Methotrexate and misoprostol to terminate early pregnancy

Article Abstract:

A combination of methotrexate and misoprostol may safely and effectively terminate pregnancies, providing an alternative to surgical abortions. A total of 178 healthy women seeking abortion within the first 63 days of pregnancy received an injection of 50 milligrams/square meter of body surface area of methotrexate. Approximately one week later, they received 800 micrograms of misoprostol via a tablet or suppository inserted in the vagina. If an abortion did not occur after seven days, they were given another intravaginal dose of misoprostol. Overall, 171 had successful abortions after the first or second dose of misoprostol. Seven women needed suction to complete the abortion. None of the women required a blood transfusion. Side effects included swelling of the mouth, brief diarrhea, and nausea. More than 75% of the women rated their pain at 2 or less, on a scale of O to 4. The women found this method of abortion preferrable to the surgical method.

Health aspects, Methods, Abortion, Methotrexate

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Use of misoprostol in pregnancy

Article Abstract:

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists believes that misoprostol is safe and effective in inducing labor regardless of what the manufacturer says. The manufacturer sent doctors and hospitals a letter warning them not to use the drug in pregnant women. However, there is no effective alternative for inducing labor and the drug is safe when used appropriately.

Editorial, Analysis, Usage, Labor, Induced (Obstetrics), Induced labor

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