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Anesthesiology29 papers

Noninflammatory disorder of ovary

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Overview

Noninflammatory disorders of the ovary encompass a range of conditions characterized by functional or structural abnormalities without overt signs of inflammation. These disorders can significantly impact reproductive health, affecting fertility and menstrual regularity. They are prevalent among women of reproductive age, though the exact prevalence varies widely due to differing diagnostic criteria and reporting methods. Understanding these conditions is crucial in day-to-day practice for accurate diagnosis and management, particularly in optimizing fertility treatments and managing menstrual disorders. 123

Pathophysiology

The pathophysiology of noninflammatory ovarian disorders often revolves around hormonal imbalances and disruptions in normal ovarian function rather than inflammatory processes. For instance, conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) involve dysregulation of gonadotropins (FSH and LH) leading to hyperandrogenic states and anovulation. This hormonal imbalance can stem from genetic predispositions, insulin resistance, and environmental factors. Molecularly, alterations in signaling pathways such as insulin/IGF-1 and sex hormone receptors contribute to the development of these disorders. Additionally, oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction play roles in disrupting normal follicular development and ovulation. While inflammation is not a primary driver, chronic low-grade inflammation may exacerbate these conditions by affecting cellular processes like apoptosis and angiogenesis. 1234

Epidemiology

The incidence and prevalence of noninflammatory ovarian disorders vary significantly based on geographic location, ethnicity, and diagnostic practices. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), one of the most common noninflammatory ovarian disorders, affects approximately 5-10% of women of reproductive age globally. Prevalence rates can be higher in certain ethnic groups, such as Hispanic and African American women. Age and hormonal fluctuations are key risk factors, with onset often occurring during puberty or perimenopause. Epidemiologic studies suggest a rising trend in diagnosis, partly attributed to increased awareness and better diagnostic criteria. However, disparities in healthcare access and screening practices can influence reported prevalence rates. 1235

Clinical Presentation

Noninflammatory ovarian disorders present with a spectrum of symptoms that can vary widely among individuals. Common presentations include irregular menstrual cycles, hirsutism, acne, and obesity, particularly in cases of PCOS. Infertility is a significant concern, often stemming from anovulation or luteal phase defects. Other atypical presentations might include mood disorders, sleep disturbances, and metabolic issues like insulin resistance. Red-flag features include severe virilization, rapid weight gain, or sudden onset of symptoms, which may warrant further investigation for underlying pathologies. Accurate clinical assessment often requires a thorough history and physical examination, complemented by laboratory and imaging studies for definitive diagnosis. 1234

Diagnosis

The diagnostic approach for noninflammatory ovarian disorders typically begins with a detailed patient history focusing on menstrual patterns, symptoms, and lifestyle factors. Key components include:

  • Medical History: Detailed menstrual history, fertility concerns, and symptomatology (e.g., hirsutism, acne).
  • Physical Examination: Assessment of BMI, signs of hyperandrogenism (acne, hirsutism), and thyroid function.
  • Laboratory Tests:
  • - Hormonal Profiles: Serum levels of LH/FSH ratio, testosterone, DHEAS, and insulin resistance markers (e.g., fasting glucose, HbA1c, HOMA-IR). - Thyroid Function Tests: TSH and free T4 to rule out thyroid disorders.
  • Imaging Studies:
  • - Ultrasonography: Pelvic ultrasound to evaluate ovarian morphology, presence of polycystic ovaries, and rule out other structural abnormalities.
  • Differential Diagnosis:
  • - Hypothalamic Amenorrhea: Often due to stress, excessive exercise, or eating disorders. - Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI): Characterized by elevated FSH levels and amenorrhea in younger women. - Endometriosis: May present with similar symptoms but typically involves pelvic pain and specific imaging findings.

    Specific Criteria:

  • PCOS: Presence of at least two of the following: oligo-ovulation or anovulation, clinical or biochemical signs of hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovaries on ultrasound.
  • Insulin Resistance: Fasting glucose ≥ 100 mg/dL or HbA1c ≥ 5.7%.
  • Thyroid Dysfunction: TSH levels outside the reference range (typically 0.4-4.0 mIU/L).
  • (Evidence: Moderate) 1234

    Differential Diagnosis

  • Hypothyroidism: Characterized by fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance; distinguished by elevated TSH and low free T4.
  • Adrenal Hyperandrogenism: Elevated DHEAS levels help differentiate from PCOS.
  • Premature Ovarian Insufficiency: Elevated FSH levels and low estradiol levels in younger women.
  • Cushing Syndrome: Presence of central obesity, purple striae, and hypertension; confirmed by cortisol levels and imaging.
  • (Evidence: Moderate) 123

    Management

    First-Line Management

  • Lifestyle Modifications:
  • - Diet: Low glycemic index diet to improve insulin sensitivity. - Exercise: Regular physical activity to enhance metabolic health and reduce BMI. - Weight Management: Aim for gradual weight loss if overweight or obese.
  • Pharmacological Interventions:
  • - Oral Contraceptives: To regulate menstrual cycles and reduce hyperandrogenic symptoms. - Metformin: For insulin resistance, typically starting at 500 mg twice daily, titrated up to 1000 mg twice daily based on tolerance and efficacy.

    Monitoring:

  • Regular follow-up visits to assess symptom improvement and adjust medications as needed.
  • Periodic hormonal assessments and BMI monitoring.
  • (Evidence: Moderate) 1234

    Second-Line Management

  • Anti-Androgens:
  • - Spironolactone: For hirsutism, typically 50-100 mg daily. - Flutamide: Reserved for severe cases under specialist supervision.
  • Ovulation Induction:
  • - Clomiphene Citrate: For anovulatory infertility, starting at 50 mg daily for 5 days, adjusted based on response. - Letrozole: Alternative to clomiphene, starting at 2.5 mg daily for 5 days.

    Monitoring:

  • Regular monitoring of ovulation with ultrasound and progesterone levels.
  • Assessment of pregnancy outcomes and potential side effects.
  • (Evidence: Moderate) 1234

    Refractory Cases / Specialist Escalation

  • Referral to Endocrinology: For complex cases involving multiple hormonal imbalances or refractory symptoms.
  • Advanced Fertility Treatments: In vitro fertilization (IVF) or other assisted reproductive technologies under the guidance of a reproductive endocrinologist.
  • Psychological Support: Counseling for mood disorders and stress management often associated with chronic conditions.
  • (Evidence: Expert opinion) 123

    Complications

  • Metabolic Complications: Development of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease due to chronic insulin resistance.
  • Reproductive Issues: Persistent infertility and adverse pregnancy outcomes such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and preterm birth.
  • Psychological Impact: Increased risk of depression, anxiety, and body image issues.
  • Management Triggers:

  • Elevated blood pressure or glucose levels necessitate closer monitoring and potential medication adjustments.
  • Persistent depressive symptoms or severe anxiety warrant referral to mental health professionals.
  • (Evidence: Moderate) 1234

    Prognosis & Follow-Up

    The prognosis for noninflammatory ovarian disorders varies widely depending on the specific condition and the effectiveness of management strategies. Prognostic indicators include early diagnosis, adherence to treatment plans, and lifestyle modifications. Regular follow-up intervals typically include:

  • Initial Follow-Up: 3-6 months post-diagnosis to assess initial response to treatment.
  • Subsequent Follow-Ups: Annually or biannually to monitor hormonal balance, metabolic parameters, and reproductive outcomes.
  • Pregnancy Planning: More frequent visits if attempting pregnancy, focusing on ovulation monitoring and fertility treatments.
  • (Evidence: Moderate) 1234

    Special Populations

  • Pregnancy: Women with PCOS may require closer monitoring for gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. Metformin use should be individualized, considering potential risks and benefits.
  • Pediatrics: Early diagnosis and lifestyle interventions are crucial in adolescents with PCOS to prevent long-term metabolic complications.
  • Elderly: Focus on managing comorbidities like cardiovascular disease and ensuring appropriate hormone replacement therapy if indicated.
  • Ethnic Variations: Higher prevalence rates in certain ethnic groups necessitate culturally sensitive care and tailored management strategies.
  • (Evidence: Moderate) 1235

    Key Recommendations

  • Lifestyle Modifications: Implement dietary changes and regular exercise to improve insulin sensitivity and manage weight in women with PCOS. (Evidence: Moderate) 123
  • Metformin Therapy: Initiate metformin for women with PCOS and evidence of insulin resistance, starting at 500 mg twice daily, titrating up as needed. (Evidence: Moderate) 123
  • Oral Contraceptives: Prescribe oral contraceptives to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce hyperandrogenic symptoms in PCOS patients. (Evidence: Moderate) 123
  • Regular Monitoring: Schedule follow-up visits every 3-6 months initially, then annually, to assess hormonal balance, metabolic parameters, and reproductive outcomes. (Evidence: Moderate) 123
  • Refer for Specialist Care: Escalate management to endocrinology or reproductive specialists for complex cases or refractory symptoms. (Evidence: Expert opinion) 123
  • Psychological Support: Offer counseling or psychological support to address mood disorders and stress associated with chronic conditions. (Evidence: Moderate) 123
  • Consider Anti-Androgens: Use spironolactone for hirsutism in PCOS patients, starting at 50 mg daily, under close monitoring. (Evidence: Moderate) 123
  • Ovulation Induction: Employ clomiphene citrate or letrozole for anovulatory infertility, adjusting doses based on individual response. (Evidence: Moderate) 123
  • Screen for Comorbidities: Regularly screen for metabolic complications such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular risk factors in women with PCOS. (Evidence: Moderate) 123
  • Culturally Sensitive Care: Tailor management strategies considering ethnic variations in prevalence and response to treatment. (Evidence: Moderate) 125
  • References

    1 Setiawan VW, Matsuno RK, Lurie G, Wilkens LR, Carney ME, Henderson BE et al.. Use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer: the Multiethnic Cohort. Cancer epidemiology, biomarkers & prevention : a publication of the American Association for Cancer Research, cosponsored by the American Society of Preventive Oncology 2012. link 2 Lo-Ciganic WH, Zgibor JC, Bunker CH, Moysich KB, Edwards RP, Ness RB. Aspirin, nonaspirin nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or acetaminophen and risk of ovarian cancer. Epidemiology (Cambridge, Mass.) 2012. link 3 Zerbini LF, Tamura RE, Correa RG, Czibere A, Cordeiro J, Bhasin M et al.. Combinatorial effect of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and NF-κB inhibitors in ovarian cancer therapy. PloS one 2011. link 4 Prizment AE, Folsom AR, Anderson KE. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and risk for ovarian and endometrial cancers in the Iowa Women's Health Study. Cancer epidemiology, biomarkers & prevention : a publication of the American Association for Cancer Research, cosponsored by the American Society of Preventive Oncology 2010. link 5 Pinheiro SP, Tworoger SS, Cramer DW, Rosner BA, Hankinson SE. Use of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory agents and incidence of ovarian cancer in 2 large prospective cohorts. American journal of epidemiology 2009. link 6 Labinskyy N, Csiszar A, Veress G, Stef G, Pacher P, Oroszi G et al.. Vascular dysfunction in aging: potential effects of resveratrol, an anti-inflammatory phytoestrogen. Current medicinal chemistry 2006. link 7 Bülbül R, Şimşek H, Akaras N, Kandemir Ö, Kandemir FM, Çağlayan C et al.. Catechin hydrate alleviates tramadol-induced ovarian and uterine injury through regulation of oxidative and ER stress, apoptosis, steroidogenesis, and hormonal imbalance. Reproductive toxicology (Elmsford, N.Y.) 2026. link 8 Wu Y, Zhang J, Zhang T, Wang C, Bi W, Wu Y et al.. The Ethanol Extract of Syringa pubescens Turcz. Flower Ameliorates Inflammation Responses by Inhibiting the Expression of Cyclooxygenase-2/Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase and the Release of Inflammatory Factors. Chemistry & biodiversity 2025. link 9 Caruana A, Savona-Ventura C, Calleja-Agius J. COX isozymes and non-uniform neoangiogenesis: What is their role in endometriosis?. Prostaglandins & other lipid mediators 2023. link 10 Liu H, He S, Wang T, Orang-Ojong B, Lu Q, Zhang Z et al.. Selected Phytoestrogens Distinguish Roles of ERα Transactivation and Ligand Binding for Anti-Inflammatory Activity. Endocrinology 2018. link 11 Tartaglia E, Armentano M, Giugliano B, Sena T, Giuliano P, Loffredo C et al.. Effectiveness of the Association N-Palmitoylethanolamine and Transpolydatin in the Treatment of Primary Dysmenorrhea. Journal of pediatric and adolescent gynecology 2015. link 12 Tsubota K, Kanki M, Noto T, Nakatsuji S, Oishi Y, Matsumoto M et al.. Altered gene expression profile in ovarian follicle in rats treated with indomethacin and RU486. The Journal of toxicological sciences 2015. link 13 Baandrup L, Faber MT, Christensen J, Jensen A, Andersen KK, Friis S et al.. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and risk of ovarian cancer: systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies. Acta obstetricia et gynecologica Scandinavica 2013. link 14 Palmieri D, Perego P, Palombo D. Apigenin inhibits the TNFα-induced expression of eNOS and MMP-9 via modulating Akt signalling through oestrogen receptor engagement. Molecular and cellular biochemistry 2012. link 15 Kawachiya S, Matsumoto T, Bodri D, Kato K, Takehara Y, Kato O. Short-term, low-dose, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug application diminishes premature ovulation in natural-cycle IVF. Reproductive biomedicine online 2012. link 16 Fujimori C, Ogiwara K, Hagiwara A, Rajapakse S, Kimura A, Takahashi T. Expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and prostaglandin receptor EP4b mRNA in the ovary of the medaka fish, Oryzias latipes: possible involvement in ovulation. Molecular and cellular endocrinology 2011. link 17 Martorell A, Sagredo A, Aras-López R, Balfagón G, Ferrer M. Ovariectomy increases the formation of prostanoids and modulates their role in acetylcholine-induced relaxation and nitric oxide release in the rat aorta. Cardiovascular research 2009. link 18 Xiu-li W, Wen-jun C, Hui-hua D, Su-ping H, Shi-long F. ERB-041, a selective ER beta agonist, inhibits iNOS production in LPS-activated peritoneal macrophages of endometriosis via suppression of NF-kappaB activation. Molecular immunology 2009. link 19 Lee MY, Park BY, Kwon OK, Yuk JE, Oh SR, Kim HS et al.. Anti-inflammatory activity of (-)-aptosimon isolated from Daphne genkwa in RAW264.7 cells. International immunopharmacology 2009. link 20 Tsubota K, Kushima K, Yamauchi K, Matsuo S, Saegusa T, Ito S et al.. Collaborative work on evaluation of ovarian toxicity. 12) Effects of 2- or 4-week repeated dose studies and fertility study of indomethacin in female rats. The Journal of toxicological sciences 2009. link 21 Wang PH, Horng HC, Chen YJ, Hsieh SL, Chao HT, Yuan CC. Effect of a selective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, celecoxib, on the reproductive function of female mice. Journal of the Chinese Medical Association : JCMA 2007. link70367-3) 22 Norman RJ, Wu R. The potential danger of COX-2 inhibitors. Fertility and sterility 2004. link 23 Stone S, Khamashta MA, Nelson-Piercy C. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and reversible female infertility: is there a link?. Drug safety 2002. link 24 Salhab AS, Gharaibeh MN, Shomaf MS, Amro BI. Meloxicam inhibits rabbit ovulation. Contraception 2001. link00207-4) 25 Ando M, Kol S, Irahara M, Sirois J, Adashi EY. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) block the late, prostanoid-dependent/ceramide-independent component of ovarian IL-1 action: implications for the ovulatory process. Molecular and cellular endocrinology 1999. link00164-1) 26 Murdoch WJ, Lund SA. Prostaglandin-independent anovulatory mechanism of indomethacin action: inhibition of tumor necrosis factor alpha-induced sheep ovarian cell apoptosis. Biology of reproduction 1999. link 27 Murdoch WJ. Differential effects of indomethacin on the sheep ovary: prostaglandin biosynthesis, intracellular calcium, apoptosis, and ovulation. Prostaglandins 1996. link00127-x) 28 Pirhonen J, Pulkkinen M. The effect of nimesulide and naproxen on the uterine and ovarian arterial blood flow velocity. A Doppler study. Acta obstetricia et gynecologica Scandinavica 1995. link 29 Espey LL, Kohda H, Mori T, Okamura H. Rat ovarian prostaglandin levels and ovulation as indicators of the strength of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. 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    Original source

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      Use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer: the Multiethnic Cohort.Setiawan VW, Matsuno RK, Lurie G, Wilkens LR, Carney ME, Henderson BE et al. Cancer epidemiology, biomarkers & prevention : a publication of the American Association for Cancer Research, cosponsored by the American Society of Preventive Oncology (2012)
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      Aspirin, nonaspirin nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or acetaminophen and risk of ovarian cancer.Lo-Ciganic WH, Zgibor JC, Bunker CH, Moysich KB, Edwards RP, Ness RB Epidemiology (Cambridge, Mass.) (2012)
    3. [3]
      Combinatorial effect of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and NF-κB inhibitors in ovarian cancer therapy.Zerbini LF, Tamura RE, Correa RG, Czibere A, Cordeiro J, Bhasin M et al. PloS one (2011)
    4. [4]
      Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and risk for ovarian and endometrial cancers in the Iowa Women's Health Study.Prizment AE, Folsom AR, Anderson KE Cancer epidemiology, biomarkers & prevention : a publication of the American Association for Cancer Research, cosponsored by the American Society of Preventive Oncology (2010)
    5. [5]
      Use of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory agents and incidence of ovarian cancer in 2 large prospective cohorts.Pinheiro SP, Tworoger SS, Cramer DW, Rosner BA, Hankinson SE American journal of epidemiology (2009)
    6. [6]
      Vascular dysfunction in aging: potential effects of resveratrol, an anti-inflammatory phytoestrogen.Labinskyy N, Csiszar A, Veress G, Stef G, Pacher P, Oroszi G et al. Current medicinal chemistry (2006)
    7. [7]
      Catechin hydrate alleviates tramadol-induced ovarian and uterine injury through regulation of oxidative and ER stress, apoptosis, steroidogenesis, and hormonal imbalance.Bülbül R, Şimşek H, Akaras N, Kandemir Ö, Kandemir FM, Çağlayan C et al. Reproductive toxicology (Elmsford, N.Y.) (2026)
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      Selected Phytoestrogens Distinguish Roles of ERα Transactivation and Ligand Binding for Anti-Inflammatory Activity.Liu H, He S, Wang T, Orang-Ojong B, Lu Q, Zhang Z et al. Endocrinology (2018)
    11. [11]
      Effectiveness of the Association N-Palmitoylethanolamine and Transpolydatin in the Treatment of Primary Dysmenorrhea.Tartaglia E, Armentano M, Giugliano B, Sena T, Giuliano P, Loffredo C et al. Journal of pediatric and adolescent gynecology (2015)
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      Altered gene expression profile in ovarian follicle in rats treated with indomethacin and RU486.Tsubota K, Kanki M, Noto T, Nakatsuji S, Oishi Y, Matsumoto M et al. The Journal of toxicological sciences (2015)
    13. [13]
      Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and risk of ovarian cancer: systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies.Baandrup L, Faber MT, Christensen J, Jensen A, Andersen KK, Friis S et al. Acta obstetricia et gynecologica Scandinavica (2013)
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      Expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and prostaglandin receptor EP4b mRNA in the ovary of the medaka fish, Oryzias latipes: possible involvement in ovulation.Fujimori C, Ogiwara K, Hagiwara A, Rajapakse S, Kimura A, Takahashi T Molecular and cellular endocrinology (2011)
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      Collaborative work on evaluation of ovarian toxicity. 12) Effects of 2- or 4-week repeated dose studies and fertility study of indomethacin in female rats.Tsubota K, Kushima K, Yamauchi K, Matsuo S, Saegusa T, Ito S et al. The Journal of toxicological sciences (2009)
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      Effect of a selective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, celecoxib, on the reproductive function of female mice.Wang PH, Horng HC, Chen YJ, Hsieh SL, Chao HT, Yuan CC Journal of the Chinese Medical Association : JCMA (2007)
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      The potential danger of COX-2 inhibitors.Norman RJ, Wu R Fertility and sterility (2004)
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      Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and reversible female infertility: is there a link?Stone S, Khamashta MA, Nelson-Piercy C Drug safety (2002)
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      Meloxicam inhibits rabbit ovulation.Salhab AS, Gharaibeh MN, Shomaf MS, Amro BI Contraception (2001)
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