Ovarian cancer screening
Article Abstract:
Studies show that the rate of long-term survival from ovarian cancer has not improved. The expected outcome is related to the stage at which the cancer is diagnosed. However, ovarian cancer is usually detected at advanced stages, specifically stages III and IV of disease, in 75 percent of cases. The yearly pelvic examination is not very sensitive in detecting the early stages of ovarian cancer, and more effective detection methods are needed. Transvaginal ultrasonography, a diagnostic method in which sound waves are used to visualize internal structures, may be useful in screening for ovarian cancer. Studies examining the effectiveness of ultrasonography in detecting ovarian cancer at an early stage are reviewed. Ultrasonography was shown to be more sensitive than the yearly pelvic examination in identifying abnormalities of the ovaries, but is not very specific in differentiating malignant from benign ovarian growths. Ultrasonography combined with determination of blood levels of a tumor marker known as CA 125, which is elevated in patients with ovarian cancer, may be more effective than ultrasonography alone in screening for ovarian cancer. The cost-effectiveness and benefits in reducing death rates of combined CA 125 determination and ultrasonography require further investigation. Recommendations for the use of ultrasonography in screening for ovarian cancer in women following menopause are presented. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Obstetrics and Gynecology
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0029-7844
Year: 1991
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Comparison of the accuracy of glucose reflectance meters in pregnant insulin-dependent diabetics
Article Abstract:
Pregnancy in diabetic women is associated with increased risks of congenital defects, fetuses who are abnormally large, and maternal health complications and death. These risks are diminished when blood glucose (sugar) levels are controlled before conception and during pregnancy; more and more often, blood glucose monitoring can be performed by patients at home. Reflectance meters are frequently used for such purposes, but some of the metabolic and other changes associated with pregnancy may alter their accuracy. To evaluate the accuracy of reflectance meters, glucose levels in blood samples from 17 pregnant insulin-dependent diabetics were evaluated and compared with results obtained with standard laboratory testing. Four brands of monitors were studied: One Touch, Accu-Check II, ExacTech, and DiaScan S . Although the monitors provided useful information on trends in glucose levels, they were subject to significant bias. The effects of hematocrit (the density of red blood cells) and fats, both of which can affect the accuracy of such meters, on the glucose measurements were negligible. The results were inaccurate and unacceptable compared with laboratory determinations. Doctors and laboratories should carefully monitor the use of reflectance meters by pregnant diabetic patients, and should evaluate the merits of these devices overall. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Obstetrics and Gynecology
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0029-7844
Year: 1991
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