520 results on '"Cryopreservation methods"'
Search Results
2. Trends and Regional Differences for Fertility Preservation Procedures in Women With Breast Cancer.
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Turan V, Bedoschi G, Lee DY, Barbosa CP, de Oliveira R, Sacinti KG, Sonmezer M, Lambertini M, Massarotti C, Schaub A, Wang E, Gayete-Lafuente S, Dunlop C, Anderson RA, Bang H, and Oktay KH
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- Humans, Female, Adult, Young Adult, Middle Aged, Adolescent, Republic of Korea epidemiology, Ovulation Induction methods, Oocytes, Brazil epidemiology, Turkey epidemiology, Ovary, Italy epidemiology, Infertility, Female epidemiology, Infertility, Female prevention & control, Infertility, Female etiology, Fertility Preservation methods, Fertility Preservation trends, Fertility Preservation statistics & numerical data, Breast Neoplasms drug therapy, Cryopreservation methods
- Abstract
Introduction: Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women of reproductive age and chemotherapy protocols impair fertility, frequently necessitating fertility preservation (FP) referral. Embryo, oocyte, or ovarian tissue cryopreservation are established FP modalities in women with breast cancer but there are few data on their uptake over time. In this study our aim was to determine the regional time trends and utility differences for fertility preservation methods of reproductive tissue cryopreservation., Methods: This multicenter study included 1623 women diagnosed with breast cancer from 7 tertiary centers in 6 countries (Brazil, Italy, Scotland, South Korea, Turkey, USA). Participant centers provided the details of FP cryopreservation approaches broken down annually from 2012 to 2021. Women with newly diagnosed breast cancer, aged 18-45 years who were referred for FP at participating centers and had normal ovarian function at the time were included., Results: We found a mean increase of 7% per year (P = .002, adjusting for centers) in the number of women referred for FP. Of those who were referred (n = 1623), a mean 38.7% underwent FP (n = 629), with a range of 12% in South Korea) to 95% in Brazil. The number of women undergoing ovarian stimulation for FP continually increased until 2021, with oocyte cryopreservation being the most common procedure throughout the study period (P = .014 for time trend). The proportion of random start ovarian stimulation cycles increased each year from 58.3% in 2012 to 86.8% in 2021, (P = .005 for time trend, and P = .04 for 2012 vs. 2021)., Conclusions: The utility of FP has steadily increased for young women with breast cancer over the last decade, although regional differences significantly influence FP practices. The findings of our study could have value for policy making in FP care for young women with breast cancer at the local, regional, or global level., Competing Interests: Disclosure Dr. Lambertini reports advisory role for Roche, Lilly, Novartis, Astrazeneca, Pfizer, Seagen, Gilead, MSD, and Exact Sciences; speaker honoraria from Roche, Lilly, Novartis, Pfizer, Sandoz, Libbs, Daiichi Sankyo, Takeda, Knight, Ipsen, and AstraZeneca; travel Grants from Gilead, Daiichi Sankyo, Roche and a research grant (to his Institution) from Gilead, all outside the submitted work. All other authors state that they have no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)
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- 2025
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3. Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation with or without letrozole for fertility preservation in breast cancer patients: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial.
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Xie Y, Li P, Deng W, Fan Q, Sun P, Kang J, Wang K, and Shi Y
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- Humans, Female, Adult, Aromatase Inhibitors therapeutic use, Aromatase Inhibitors adverse effects, Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome prevention & control, Multicenter Studies as Topic, Oocyte Retrieval methods, Cryopreservation methods, Letrozole therapeutic use, Letrozole administration & dosage, Breast Neoplasms drug therapy, Fertility Preservation methods, Ovulation Induction methods, Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
- Abstract
Introduction: Multimodal anticancer therapies greatly damage the fertility of breast cancer patients, which raises urgent demand for fertility preservation. The standard options for fertility preservation are oocyte and embryo cryopreservation; both require controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH). However, there are safety concerns regarding breast cancer relapse due to the elevated serum estradiol levels during COH. Serum estradiol levels can be effectively decreased with the highly specific aromatase inhibitor letrozole. Letrozole is still uncommonly used during COH for fertility preservation, which has only been reported in a few studies, and the evidence of oocyte retrieval during ovarian stimulation and short-term safety from the perspective study is insufficient. As a result, this study will compare the efficacy of ovarian stimulation and the short-term safety of letrozole COH and non-letrozole COH protocols for preserving fertility in patients with breast cancer., Methods and Analysis: This is an open-label, multicentre RCT being conducted in five Chinese reproductive medical centres. 64 eligible patients diagnosed with breast cancer will be randomly assigned (1:1) to the letrozole or non-letrozole group during their COH cycles. The primary outcome is the number of mature oocytes. The secondary outcomes are the number of high-quality embryos, incidence of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome(OHSS) and recurrence rate of breast cancer., Ethics and Dissemination: Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethics Review Committee of Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (KY-Q-2023-840-02). Written informed consent will be obtained from each participant. Findings will be disseminated to patients, clinicians and commissioning groups through peer-reviewed publications., Trial Registration Number: ChiCTR2300078625., Competing Interests: Competing interests: None declared., (© Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2025. Re-use permitted under CC BY-NC. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ Group.)
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- 2025
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4. [Freezing of oocytes as fertility preservation for benign medical and social indication].
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Macklon KT, Bülow N, Christensen H, Hartwell D, Kirkegaard K, Kristensen SG, Kristensen SL, Larsen EC, Petersen KB, Rygaard K, Sakse A, and Colmorn LB
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- Humans, Female, Cryopreservation methods, Fertility Preservation methods, Oocytes
- Abstract
Cryopreservation of oocytes as a way of preserving fertility for future use can be considered for certain benign diseases and conditions. Benign ovarian cysts, BRCA 1/2 mutation carriers, genetic conditions such as Turner syndrome and Fragile X mutation carriers, and even a low ovarian reserve of unknown origin are examples of such conditions. However, the evidence of the advantage of the procedure is sparse in terms of live births. In general, the recommendation is to freeze oocytes before the age of 38 and preferably >15-20 oocytes., (Published under Open Access CC-BY-NC-BD 4.0. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/.)
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- 2025
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5. REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH IN TRANS AND GENDER DIVERSE PATIENTS: Fertility treatment and preservation options for transgender and gender diverse people.
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Rubin E, Palmor M, and Amato P
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- Humans, Male, Female, Reproductive Health, Cryopreservation methods, Gender Dysphoria therapy, Adolescent, Sexual and Gender Minorities, Transgender Persons, Fertility Preservation methods
- Abstract
In Brief: Many transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people want to have biologically related children. This review summarizes and discusses the options for fertility treatment and preservation in TGD adults and adolescents, with an emphasis on gender-affirming hormone therapy in the context of fertility treatment, clinical management strategies to minimize gender dysphoria during treatment and major factors in future use of cryopreserved gametes., Abstract: Years of growing research demonstrate that TGD people desire fertility counseling and family building; however, social and medical factors can impact future fertility options. Fortunately, TGD individuals have many viable options for family building using their own gametes and/or reproductive organs. However, the nuanced ways in which different gender-affirming treatments affect reproduction, the interplay with nontreatment-related infertility factors and mitigation of likely dysphoria triggers are all critical to actual utilization. This review focuses on fertility treatment and preservation options for TGD patients and highlights these influential social and medical factors. Fertility treatments may be associated with worsening gender dysphoria in TGD people, and an affirming clinical environment and conscientious provider approach is paramount to treatment success. However, reducing gender dysphoria can also require specific changes to medically assisted reproduction and sperm collection protocols, some of which carry the potential for diminished outcomes or unknown effects. Adolescents undergoing fertility preservation treatments may need more support or additional protocol modifications, and outcomes may be poorer in this age group compared with adults. Testicular and ovarian tissue cryopreservation may present a fertility preservation option for prepubertal TGD children; however, in vitro gamete maturation remains experimental in this situation.
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- 2025
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6. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation in breast cancer patients: glass half empty or glass half full?
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Andersen CY, Donnez J, Ernst E, Gook D, Pellicer A, Von Wolff M, Suzuki N, Roux C, and Dolmans MM
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- Humans, Female, Vitrification, Ovulation Induction methods, Oocytes, Cryopreservation methods, Breast Neoplasms, Fertility Preservation methods, Ovary
- Abstract
This is a commentary to a paper recently published in RBMOnline by Macklon and De Vos, in which they argue for a discontinuation of ovarian tissue freezing for fertility preservation in women with breast cancer. Instead, they suggest the use of oocyte vitrification following ovarian stimulation as the preferred method of fertility preservation. This commentary presents nine separate arguments that should be considered in the context of ovarian tissue freezing and fertility preservation in girls and women. Collectively, the authors support ovarian tissue freezing going forward and suggest continuing this procedure for fertility preservation in women with breast cancer. Ovarian tissue freezing represents several advantages for patients and provides them with more options following treatment compared with oocyte vitrification., (Copyright © 2024 Reproductive Healthcare Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)
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- 2025
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7. Balancing choice and socioeconomic realities: analyzing behavioral and economic factors in social oocyte cryopreservation decisions.
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Gonen LD
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- Humans, Female, Adult, Adolescent, Young Adult, Middle Aged, Surveys and Questionnaires, Aged, Pregnancy, Cryopreservation economics, Cryopreservation methods, Oocytes, Socioeconomic Factors, Choice Behavior, Decision Making, Fertility Preservation economics, Fertility Preservation methods, Fertility Preservation psychology
- Abstract
Purpose: This research investigates the influence of personal income, the likelihood of pregnancy from cryopreserved oocytes, and the risk of infertility, on the decision-making process of women. The study employs the economic stated preference framework alongside the Theory of Planned Behavior in order to comprehend the process of decision-making., Design/methodology/approach: The data had been collected from women between the ages of 18 and 65 via questionnaire employing conjoint analysis (CA). Through the utilization of this methodology, the factors influencing women's choices concerning oocyte cryopreservation were quantified., Findings: The study identified crucial factors that impact the determination to cryopreserve oocytes, such as personal financial resources, the likelihood of achieving a successful pregnancy using frozen oocytes, and the potential for infertility. The analysis reveals that a considerable number of participants perceive cryopreservation as a feasible alternative for augmenting their prospects for future procreation., Research Implications: The results validate the patterns and the ways in which personal and socioeconomic elements impact choices regarding fertility. This has the potential to inform forthcoming health policies and educational initiatives that aim to provide more comprehensive support for women's fertility decisions., Social Implications: The research highlights the necessity of policy and societal support for women who are contemplating oocyte cryopreservation. It is recommended that public health policies incorporate provisions for state financing of cryopreservation in order to safeguard reproductive autonomy and alleviate the fertility risk linked to the aging process., Originality/value: His research is unique in that it employs the Theory of Planned Behavior and an economic stated-preference framework to analyze the dynamics of oocyte cryopreservation decisions. This work enhances the existing body of literature by drawing attention to the socio-economic persona factors that influence choices regarding fertility preservation., Competing Interests: The author declares that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Gonen.)
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- 2024
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8. Exploring stem cell technology: Pioneering new pathways for female fertility preservation and restoration.
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Li N, Du X, Zhao Y, Zeng Q, Han C, Xiong D, He L, Zhang G, and Liu W
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- Animals, Female, Humans, Ovary physiology, Stem Cell Transplantation methods, Stem Cells physiology, Cryopreservation methods, Fertility Preservation methods, Infertility, Female therapy
- Abstract
The fertility of women is crucial for the well-being of individuals and families. However, various factors such as chemotherapy, lifestyle changes, among others, may lead to a decline in female fertility, thus emphasizing the significance of preserving and restoring fertility. Stem cells, with their unique capacity for self-renewal and pluripotent differentiation, have made significant strides in areas such as ovarian tissue cryopreservation, in vitro culture of frozen-thawed ovarian tissue, and construction of ovarian-like organs. This review aims to summarize the latest findings in these fields, highlighting the pivotal role, mechanisms, and future prospects of stem cell technology in preserving and restoring female fertility. Additionally, the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration is underscored, as personalized stem cell therapy regimens tailored through interdisciplinary cooperation between reproductive medicine and stem cell fields hold promise in providing reliable solutions for the preservation and restoration of female fertility., Competing Interests: Conflict of Interest The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any financial or no- financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier B.V.)
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- 2024
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9. Outcomes of female fertility preservation with cryopreservation of oocytes or embryos in the Netherlands: a population-based study.
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Ter Welle-Butalid ME, Derhaag JG, van Bree BE, Vriens IJH, Goddijn M, Balkenende EME, Beerendonk CCM, Bos AME, Homminga I, Benneheij SH, van Os HC, Smeenk JMJ, Verhoeven MO, van Bavel CCAW, Tjan-Heijnen VCG, and van Golde RJT
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- Humans, Female, Netherlands, Pregnancy, Retrospective Studies, Adult, Embryo Transfer methods, Birth Rate, Live Birth, Fertilization in Vitro methods, Embryo, Mammalian, Cryopreservation methods, Fertility Preservation methods, Oocytes, Pregnancy Rate
- Abstract
Study Question: What are the reproductive outcomes of patients who cryopreserved oocytes or embryos in the context of fertility preservation in the Netherlands?, Summary Answer: This study shows that after a 10-year follow-up period, the utilization rate to attempt pregnancy using cryopreserved oocytes or embryos was 25.5% and the cumulative live birth rate after embryo transfer was 34.6% per patient., What Is Known Already: Fertility preservation by freezing oocytes or embryos is an established treatment for women with a risk of premature ovarian failure (caused by a benign or oncological disease) or physiological age-related fertility decline. Little is known about the success of cryopreservation, the utilization rate of oocytes or embryos, or the live birth rates., Study Design, Size, Duration: A retrospective observational study was performed in the Netherlands. Data were collected between 2017 and 2019 from 1112 women who cryopreserved oocytes or embryos more than 2 years ago in the context of fertility preservation in 10 IVF centers in the Netherlands., Participants/materials, Setting, Methods: A total of 1112 women were included in this study. Medical files and patient databases were used to extract data. Women were categorized based on indication of fertility preservation: oncological, benign, or non-medical. To indicate statistical differences the t-test or Mann-Whitney U test was used. Kaplan-Meier analyses were used for time endpoints, and log-rank analyses were used to assess statistical differences. The study protocol was approved by the medical ethics committee., Main Results and the Role of Chance: Fertility preservation cycles have been performed increasingly over the years in the Netherlands. In the first years, less than 10 cycles per year were performed, increasing to more than 300 cycles per year 10 years later. Initially, embryos were frozen in the context of fertility preservation. In later years, cryopreservation of oocytes became the standard approach. Cryopreservation of oocytes versus embryos resulted in comparable numbers of used embryos (median of 2) for transfer and comparable live birth rates (33.9% and 34.6%, respectively). The 5-year utilization rate was 12.3% and the 10-year utilization rate was 25.5%. The cumulative clinical pregnancy rate was 35.6% and the cumulative live birth rate was 34.6% per patient. Those who had fertility preservation due to benign diseases returned earlier to use their cryopreserved embryos or oocytes., Limitations, Reasons for Caution: The follow-up period after the fertility preservation procedure varied between patients in this study and not all frozen oocytes or embryos had been used at the end of this study. This might have led to underestimated outcomes reported in this study. Furthermore, intention to treat cannot be fully determined since women who started the fertility preservation procedure without success (cancellation due to low response) were not included in this study., Wider Implications of the Findings: This study provides data on the reproductive outcomes after various indications of fertility preservation. This knowledge can be informative for professionals and future patients to improve counseling and informed decision making regarding ovarian stimulation in the context of fertility preservation., Study Funding/competing Interest(s): No funding was obtained for this study. The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare related to this study. V.T.H. received grants paid to the institute for studies outside the present work from AstraZeneca, Gilead, Novartis, Eli Lily, Pfizer, and Daiichi Sankyo. V.T.H. received consulting fees from Eli Lily outside the present work. M.G. received grants paid to the institute for studies outside the present work from Guerbet and Ferring. E.M.E.B. received a grant from The Dutch Network of Fertility Preservation for a study outside the present work., Trial Registration Number: N/A., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology.)
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- 2024
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10. In vitro growth of secondary follicles from cryopreserved-thawed ovarian cortex.
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Cheng H, Wei F, Del Valle JS, Stolk THR, Huirne JA, Asseler JD, Pilgram GSK, Van Der Westerlaken LAJ, Van Mello NM, and Chuva De Sousa Lopes SM
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- Female, Humans, Adult, Oocytes cytology, Oocytes drug effects, Oocytes growth & development, Ovary, Gender-Affirming Procedures methods, Cryopreservation methods, Ovarian Follicle drug effects, Ovarian Follicle growth & development, Ovarian Follicle cytology, Fertility Preservation methods
- Abstract
Study Question: Can secondary follicles be obtained from cultured cryopreserved-thawed human ovarian cortical tissue?, Summary Answer: We obtained high-quality secondary follicles from cultured cryopreserved-thawed human ovarian cortical tissue from cis female donors (cOVA), but not from trans masculine donors (tOVA) in the same culture conditions., What Is Known Already: The in vitro growth of oocytes present in unilaminar follicles into metaphase II stage (MII) oocytes has been previously achieved starting from freshly obtained ovarian cortical tissue from adult cis female donors. This involved a multi-step culture protocol and the first step included the transition from unilaminar follicles to multilayered secondary follicles. Given that the ovarian cortex (from both cis female and trans masculine donors) used for fertility preservation is cryopreserved, it is crucial to investigate the potential of unilaminar follicles from cryopreserved-thawed ovarian cortex to grow in culture., Study Design, Size, Duration: Cryopreserved-thawed ovarian cortical tissue from adult trans masculine donors (n = 3) and adult cis female donors (n = 3) was used for in vitro culture following the first culture step described in two published culture protocols (7-8 days and 21 days) and compared to freshly isolated ovarian cortex from trans masculine donors (n = 3) and to ovarian cortex prior to culture., Participants/materials, Setting, Methods: Ovarian cortical tissue was obtained from adult trans masculine donors undergoing gender-affirming surgery while using testosterone, and from adult cis female donors undergoing oophorectomy for fertility preservation purposes before chemotherapy. The ovarian cortex was fixed either prior (day 0) or after the culture period. Follicular survival, growth, and morphology were assessed through histology and immunofluorescence., Main Results and the Role of Chance: We quantified the different stages of follicular development (primordial, primary, secondary, and atretic) after culture and observed an increase in the percentage of secondary follicles as well as an increase in COLIV deposition in the stromal compartment regardless of the culture media used. The quality of the secondary follicles obtained from cOVA was comparable to those prior to culture. However, in the same culture conditions, the secondary follicles from tOVA (fresh and cryo) showed low-quality secondary follicles, containing oocytes with small diameter, granulosa cells that expressed abnormal levels of KRT19 and steroidogenic-marker STAR and lacked ACTA2+ theca cells, when compared to tOVA secondary follicles prior to culture., Limitations, Reasons for Caution: The number of different donors used was limited., Wider Implications of the Findings: Our study revealed that cryopreserved-thawed cOVA can be used to generate high-quality secondary follicles after culture and those can now be further tested to evaluate their potential to generate functional MII oocytes that could be used in the clinic. However, using the same culture protocol on tOVA (fresh and cryo) did not yield high-quality secondary follicles, suggesting that either the testosterone treatment affects follicular quality or adapted culture protocols are necessary to obtain high-quality secondary follicles from tOVA. Importantly, caution must be taken when using tOVA to optimize folliculogenesis in vitro., Study Funding/competing Interest(s): This research was funded by the European Research Council Consolidator Grant OVOGROWTH (ERC-CoG-2016-725722 to J.S.D.V. and S.M.C.D.S.L.), the Novo Nordisk Foundation (reNEW NNF21CC0073729 to H.C., F.W., J.S.D.V., S.M.C.D.S.L.), and China Scholarship Council (CSC 202008320362 and CSC 202008450034 to H.C. and F.W.), respectively. The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare., Trial Registration Number: N/A., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology.)
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- 2024
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11. Application of fibrin-based biomaterial for human ovarian tissue encapsulation and cryopreservation as alternative approach for fertility preservation.
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Sirayapiwat P, Amorim CA, Sereepapong W, Tuntiviriyapun P, Suebthawinkul C, and Thuwanut P
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- Humans, Female, Adult, Middle Aged, Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-bcl-2 metabolism, Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-bcl-2 genetics, Apoptosis drug effects, bcl-2-Associated X Protein metabolism, bcl-2-Associated X Protein genetics, Caspase 3 metabolism, Caspase 9 metabolism, Caspase 9 genetics, Cell Proliferation drug effects, Hydrogels chemistry, Biocompatible Materials pharmacology, Biocompatible Materials chemistry, Cell Survival drug effects, Cryopreservation methods, Fertility Preservation methods, Fibrin chemistry, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A metabolism, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A genetics, Ovary drug effects, Ovarian Follicle drug effects
- Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effects of fibrin-based hydrogel encapsulation, with or without vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), on follicle quality and cell survival signaling pathways after ovarian tissue cryopreservation. Ovarian cortex donated by seven patients (ages 44-47 years old) was divided into four groups: I) fresh control, II) ovarian tissue without encapsulation (non-FT), III) fibrin (10 mg/mL fibrinogen plus 50 IU/mL thrombin; 10FT) encapsulated tissue without VEGF, and IV) encapsulated tissue with 0.1 μg/mL VEGF (10FT-VEGF), followed by a slow freezing process. Evaluation criteria included normal follicle morphology, density, cell proliferation, apoptosis, and metabolism signaling pathways (BAX/BCL-2 ratio, CASPASE-3 and 9, ATP-6 genes, VEGF-A, and ERK-1/2 protein expression levels). Major outcomes revealed that the percentages of morphologically normal follicles and density were significantly decreased by cryopreservation. Ovarian tissue encapsulation using the 10FT formulation (with or without VEGF) could maintain the ERK-signaling cascade, which was comparable to the fresh control. Among the frozen-thawed cohorts, the BAX/BCL-2 ratio, CASPASE-3, CASPASE-9, and ATP-6 expression levels were unfavorable in the non-FT group. However, statistically different results, including VEGF-A expression levels, were not detected. Collectively, our present data demonstrated the first applicable biomaterial matrix for human ovarian tissue encapsulation which might create an optimal intra-ovarian cortex environment during cryopreservation. Further studies to optimize hydrogel polymerization should be expanded, given the potential benefits for cancer patients who wish to preserve fertility through ovarian tissue cryopreservation., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (Copyright © 2024 Society for Cryobiology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)
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- 2024
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12. Standardization for ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation in China.
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Ruan X
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- Humans, Female, China, Cryopreservation methods, Cryopreservation standards, Ovary transplantation, Fertility Preservation methods, Fertility Preservation standards
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Ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation is one of the most advanced and promising fertility preservation methods. Prior to any procedure that may lead to a toxic ovarian injury (such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy), a portion of the ovary is removed and cryopreserved. At an appropriate time, after toxic therapy is concluded, the cryopreserved ovarian tissue is then thawed and transplanted back to the patient when conditions permit. This technique can not only preserve female fertility but also restore ovarian endocrine function. However, there is no standardization for ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation in China. In order to promote the standardized development of ovarian tissue cryopreservation technology in the whole country, it is urgent to establish the standard of this technology.
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- 2024
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13. Optimal human ovarian follicle isolation: A review focused on enzymatic digestion.
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Tajbakhsh F, Tavana S, Ashtiani MK, Amorim CA, and Fathi R
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- Humans, Female, Cryopreservation methods, Ovarian Follicle, Fertility Preservation methods
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The damage or depletion of ovarian reserves due to aging or cancer treatment can increase the need for fertility preservation techniques. One of the most common ways of supporting fertility in prepubertal girls and women who require immediate cancer treatment is through ovarian tissue cryopreservation and re-transplantation following cancer treatment. However, a more appropriate method should be employed in diseases such as leukemia, where malignant cells may be present in cryopreserved tissue, instead of ovarian tissue transplantation. Human ovarian follicle isolation for in vitro culture or the use of artificial ovaries for their growth can decrease the risk of reintroducing cancer cells into these individuals. Here we review the methods for the isolation of human ovarian follicles., (©The Author(s) 2024. Open Access. This article is licensed under a Creative Commons CC-BY International License.)
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- 2024
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14. In Vitro Maturation of Oocytes Obtained from Ovarian Cortex Among Postpubertal Hematological Cancer Patients Undergoing Fertility Preservation.
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Karavani G, Gutman-Ido E, Dick A, Vedder K, Cohen N, Mordechai-Daniel T, Gruda Sussman R, and Imbar T
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- Humans, Female, Adult, Retrospective Studies, Ovary, In Vitro Oocyte Maturation Techniques methods, Young Adult, Cryopreservation methods, Adolescent, Fertility Preservation methods, Oocytes drug effects, Hematologic Neoplasms therapy
- Abstract
Purpose: maturation (IVM) of oocytes obtained from ovarian tissue during ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) is a technique for fertility preservation in patients with cancer obviating the need to postpone chemotherapy initiation. Little is known about IVM outcomes in hematological malignancies, especially post-chemotherapy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of cytotoxic treatment on the potential to retrieve immature oocytes and mature them In vitro maturation (IVM) of oocytes obtained from ovarian tissue during ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) is a technique for fertility preservation in patients with cancer obviating the need to postpone chemotherapy initiation. Little is known about IVM outcomes in hematological malignancies, especially post-chemotherapy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of cytotoxic treatment on the potential to retrieve immature oocytes and mature them in vitro and examine the association between serum inflammatory markers and these results. Methods: In this retrospective study, we evaluated inflammation markers, including B symptoms and IVM outcomes of 78 chemotherapy-naive and exposed patients diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), or acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Results: The mean number of oocytes found was 7.2 ± 7.2. The average number of oocytes matured by IVM was 2.8 ± 3.5, and a mean IVM rate was 32.1 ± 27.7%. All patients in the ALL and AML groups had previous exposure to chemotherapy before OTC, compared with 50.0% (7/14) and 31.9% (15/47) in the NHL and HL groups, respectively. Among patients with lymphoma, chemotherapy exposure was associated with the reduced number of retrieved oocytes (9.8 ± 7.7 vs. 5.3 ± 5.7 oocytes, p = 0.049) in the HL group but not with the number of mature oocytes or IVM rate. B symptoms were not associated with IVM outcomes. Lymphocyte count (ß = 1.584; p = 0.038) and lactate dehydrogenase (ß = 0.009; p IVM is a promising assisted reproductive technology, which holds great potential for patients in need of urgent fertility preservation or those who cannot receive hormonal stimulation. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of the technique even in the presence of B symptoms and elevated inflammation markers and in patients with previous exposure to chemotherapy. Conclusion: IVM is a promising assisted reproductive technology, which holds great potential for patients in need of urgent fertility preservation or those who cannot receive hormonal stimulation. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of the technique even in the presence of B symptoms and elevated inflammation markers and in patients with previous exposure to chemotherapy.
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- 2024
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15. Balancing Fertility Preservation and Treatment Efficacy in (Neo)adjuvant Therapy for Adolescent and Young Adult Breast Cancer Patients: a Narrative Review.
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Tanaka Y, Amano T, Nakamura A, Takahashi A, Takebayashi A, Hanada T, Tsuji S, and Murakami T
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- Humans, Female, Adolescent, Young Adult, Ovary drug effects, Cryopreservation methods, Chemotherapy, Adjuvant adverse effects, Fertility Preservation methods, Breast Neoplasms drug therapy, Breast Neoplasms therapy, Neoadjuvant Therapy adverse effects
- Abstract
Purpose of Review: Adolescent and young adult (AYA) breast cancer survivors face a significant risk of infertility due to the gonadotoxic effects of (neo)adjuvant therapy, which complicates their ability to conceive post-treatment. While (neo)adjuvant therapy primarily aims to improve recurrence-free and overall survival, fertility preservation strategies should also be considered for young patients. This narrative review explores recent advancements in fertility preservation techniques, such as oocyte, embryo, and ovarian tissue cryopreservation, and evaluates the feasibility of modifying breast cancer (neo)adjuvant therapy to preserve fertility without compromising survival outcomes., Recent Findings: Our review highlights that clinical trials with co-primary endpoints of oncological safety and fertility preservation are limited, and substituting standard treatment regimens solely for fertility preservation is currently not recommended. Nevertheless, new clinical studies have emerged that either exclude highly ovarian-toxic agents, such as cyclophosphamide, or omit adjuvant therapy altogether, even if fertility preservation is not their primary endpoint. Unfortunately, many of these trials have not evaluated ovarian toxicity. Notably, since 2020, major oncology organizations, including the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) have advocated for the routine assessment of ovarian toxicity in all clinical trials. The review underscores the importance of incorporating ovarian toxicity as a standard endpoint in future trials involving premenopausal breast cancer patients to identify treatment regimens that can effectively balance fertility preservation with treatment efficacy., Competing Interests: Declarations. Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no competing interests. Research Involving Human Participants and/or Animals: Not applicable. Ethics Approval: Not applicable. Informed Consent: Not applicable., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)
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- 2024
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16. REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH IN TRANS AND GENDER-DIVERSE PATIENTS: Gonadal tissue cryopreservation in transgender and gender-diverse people.
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Ausavarungnirun C and Orwig KE
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- Humans, Female, Male, Gonads physiology, Adolescent, Gender Dysphoria psychology, Gender Dysphoria therapy, Fertility Preservation methods, Transgender Persons psychology, Cryopreservation methods, Reproductive Health
- Abstract
In Brief: Gender-affirming treatments for gender dysphoria can impact fertility. This review describes the impact of gender-affirming treatments on fertility and options to preserve fertility in transgender or gender-diverse children, adolescents, and young adults., Abstract: Transgender individuals who pursue alignment with their gender identity through medical treatments or surgery face challenges to family building because the medical community lacks the understanding or infrastructure to serve the reproductive needs of transgender or non-binary people. Fertility preservation (FP) offers a crucial opportunity for the transgender community, enabling individuals to exercise autonomy over their reproductive choices. While fertility preservation has been extensively studied in other populations such as cancer patients, the unique biology and clinical care of transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) individuals have challenged the direct translation of what can be offered for cisgender individuals. Additionally, the FP services in transgender communities are reportedly under-utilized, despite the prevalent desire of TGD individuals to have children. This review aims to provide up-to-date information on the current standard of care and experimental FP options available to TGD individuals and their potential reproductive outcomes. We will also discuss the barriers to the success of FP utilization from both the biology/medical aspect and the perspectives of the TGD population. By recognizing the unique family-building challenges faced by TGD people and potential areas of improvement, appropriate adjustments can be made to better support fertility preservation in the TGD community.
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- 2024
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17. Is Routine Pathology Evaluation of Tissue Removed for Fertility Preservation Necessary?
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McElhinney KL, Orr S, Gelarden IA, Laronda MM, and Rowell EE
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- Humans, Male, Female, Retrospective Studies, Child, Biopsy methods, Adolescent, Child, Preschool, Fertility Preservation methods, Cryopreservation methods, Ovary pathology, Ovary surgery, Testis pathology
- Abstract
Background: For all fertility preservation (FP) cases at our institution, a biopsy is performed for routine pathology from all gonadal tissue removed. This is not standard at all centers. We reviewed our experience with biopsy for pathological evaluation of ovarian and testicular specimens in FP cases to determine clinical utility., Methods: The medical records of individuals who underwent ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) or testicular tissue cryopreservation (TTC) between 2011 and 2023 were retrospectively reviewed under an IRB-approved study at a free-standing tertiary care children's hospital. Patient demographics, diagnosis, operative characteristics, and pathology results were collected., Results: One-hundred and eighty-three patients underwent OTC, and 134 patients underwent TTC. All patients had their gonadal tissue biopsied for routine pathology. Malignancy was identified in the biopsies of 4 OTC patients (2.2%) and 2 TTC patients (1.5%). Two OTC patients (1.1%) and 2 TTC patients (1.5%) did not have germ cells identified in their biopsy. All OTC and TTC patients and families elected to continue storing tissue for FP after discussion of pathology findings., Conclusions: Pathology results provide another data point to help inform patients and their families when making decisions on ovarian or testicular tissue storage and on how tissue may be utilized in the future to restore fertility and/or hormones. There is a low rate of identifying malignancy in gonadal tissue biopsies taken from FP specimens even in patients with known malignancy. However, when malignancy was identified, it could be unexpected and alter the diagnosis and treatment plan significantly for patients., Level of Evidence: IV., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)
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- 2024
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18. [Cryopreservation of human spermatozoa or testicular tissue for fertility preservation].
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Bier S and Kliesch S
- Subjects
- Humans, Male, Infertility, Male therapy, Infertility, Male etiology, Infertility, Male prevention & control, Semen Preservation methods, Sperm Retrieval, Spermatozoa, Cryopreservation methods, Fertility Preservation methods, Testis
- Abstract
Loss of reproductive capacity due to treatments for malignant or non-malignant diseases or even as a result of diseases themselves significantly impacts patients' quality of life. Cryopreservation of sperm from ejaculate is a well-established procedure for preserving the fertility of these patients and thus improving their quality of life in the long term. If cryopreservation of sperm from ejaculate is not possible, either because ejaculation cannot occur or no sperm can be found in the ejaculate, the preferred treatment option is (microsurgical) testicular sperm extraction (mTESE). Testicular sperm and ejaculated spermatozoa can be cryopreserved and later used for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatment. The use of cryopreserved sperm for fertility treatment does not carry an increased risk of malformations in the offspring. If gonadotoxic therapy is necessary in pre- or early pubertal boys, the only option to preserve fertility in the long term is to cryopreserve spermatogonial stem cells from testicular tissue as part of the Androprotect© network. This is an experimental approach which has been available since 2012 across Germany and which is accompanied by intensive scientific work ( www.androprotect.de )., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Medizin Verlag GmbH, ein Teil von Springer Nature.)
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- 2024
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19. Autologous Ovarian Tissue Transplantation: Preoperative Assessment and Preparation of the Patient.
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Turan V and Oktem O
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- Humans, Female, Fertility Preservation methods, Ovary transplantation, Cryopreservation methods, Preoperative Care methods, Transplantation, Autologous methods
- Abstract
Importance: Ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) is an innovative and established fertility preservation method. More than 150 live births have been reported worldwide to date with the use of this strategy. OTC is one of the options to preserve fertility in prepubertal girls and for women who have time constraints and/or contraindications for ovarian stimulation for oocyte/embryo freezing before cancer treatment. The success rate of the ovarian tissue transplantation (OTT) depends on many interrelated factors. Therefore, preoperative evaluation and preparation of the candidate patients for the procedure are of paramount importance., Objective: In this review, our aim was to provide a guide for the clinicians, which demonstrates step-by-step assessment and preparation of the patients and ovarian tissue samples for transplantation., Evidence Acquisition: We searched for published articles in the PubMed database containing key words, such as OTT, OTC, preoperative assessment, primordial follicle density, and cancer, in the English-language literature until May 2024. We did not include abstracts or conference proceedings., Results: OTT is still a developing method as an effective fertility preservation approach. It is essential to perform a thorough preoperative evaluation of the patient to improve the success rates of transplantation., Conclusions and Relevance: Preoperative evaluation and preparation of women for ovarian transplantation surgery should include safety management to prevent reimplantation of malignant cells, transplanting ovarian tissue with minimum follicle loss and the decision of the best transfer site.
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- 2024
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20. Z-Scores for Assessing Ovarian Reserve in Young Patients Undergoing Fertility Preservation.
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Hassan J, Damdimopoulou P, Lahtinen A, Jahnukainen K, Knuus K, Acharya G, and Björvang RD
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- Female, Humans, Ovary physiology, Adolescent, Adult, Young Adult, Child, Fertility Preservation methods, Ovarian Reserve physiology, Cryopreservation methods, Ovarian Follicle physiology
- Abstract
Women are born with a non-renewable pool of ovarian follicles, referred to as the ovarian reserve. This reserve consists of primordial follicles in the ovaries and can be affected by many factors, such as genetic and endocrine disorders, medical interventions, and endocrine disruptors. Fertility preservation is recommended when gonadotoxic treatments are necessary. The preferred options for women are oocyte and embryo cryopreservation. However, in very young, sexually immature patients, ovarian tissue cryopreservation is the only option. Knowing the follicular density of cryopreserved tissue samples is essential in fertility counseling for young patients. This protocol demonstrates the use of Z-scores for cortical follicle density as a tool to evaluate the quality of ovarian tissue in girls and young women aged 25 years and below who are undergoing fertility preservation. Follicle density in patient samples is compared to age-normalized reference standards, developed by Hassan et al. to estimate possible deviations from the standard. The follicle density is measured through histological quantification. For this, a small piece of ovarian cortical tissue (~2 mm x 2 mm x 2 mm) is fixed in either Bouin's or formaldehyde solution, embedded in paraffin, sectioned at 4 µm thickness, stained with hematoxylin and eosin, and digitized using a slide scanner. Follicular stages present in the cortex range from primordial to primary follicles. The cortical area was 1 mm from the surface epithelium on histological sections. Follicle density is calculated using a modified formula presented by Schmidt et al., and the Z-score is determined using the reference mean and standard deviation. The Z-score indicates how much the measured value deviates from the reference mean, determining reduced (<-1.7 Z-score) ovarian reserve. With this method, follicle densities can be used as a valuable measure of ovarian reserve for young patients requiring fertility preservation.
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- 2024
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21. Clinical dilemmas in ovarian tissue cryopreservation.
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Dunlop CE and Anderson RA
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- Humans, Female, Infertility, Female therapy, Patient Selection, Fertility, Pregnancy, Risk Factors, Cryopreservation methods, Fertility Preservation methods, Ovary transplantation
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Ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) is increasingly offered globally as a fertility preservation strategy for both postpubertal women and prepubertal girls, with subsequent reimplantation of cryopreserved ovarian cortex resulting in a rapidly growing number of live births. There remains very limited evidence of efficacy from tissue stored when the patient was prepubertal or from conditions affecting the ovary directly, e.g., Turner syndrome. Although OTC is becoming a more established practice, several clinical dilemmas remain from a practical and ethical standpoint. This review discusses the challenges regarding optimal patient selection for the procedure, the use of OTC in patients with a poor prognosis, the potential of reimplantation of tissue contaminated with malignant cells, and the role of OTC in those with an intrinsic ovarian disorder., Competing Interests: Declaration of Interests C.E.D. has nothing to disclose. R.A.A. has received consulting fees from Roche Diagnostics outside the submitted work., (Crown Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)
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- 2024
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22. New Insights on In Vitro Maturation of Oocytes for Fertility Preservation.
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Gotschel F, Sonigo C, Becquart C, Sellami I, Mayeur A, and Grynberg M
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- Humans, Female, Fertility Preservation methods, In Vitro Oocyte Maturation Techniques methods, Oocytes cytology, Cryopreservation methods
- Abstract
In the last decade, the evolution of oncofertility has sparked a resurgence of interest in in vitro maturation (IVM) due to its suitability in certain oncological scenarios where controlled ovarian hyperstimulation may not be feasible. The retrieval of immature cumulus-oocyte complexes from small antral follicles, regardless of the menstrual cycle phase, presents a swift opportunity to vitrify mature oocytes or embryos post-IVM in urgent situations or when stimulation is not advisable. Harvesting immature cumulus-oocyte complexes and immature oocytes can be achieved transvaginally or directly in the laboratory from extracorporeal ovarian tissue. Although IVM has transitioned from an experimental status due to safety validations, it relies on the intricate process of oocyte maturation. Despite successful live births resulting from IVM in fertility preservation contexts, the comparatively lower developmental competence of in vitro matured oocytes highlights the necessity to enhance IVM culture systems. Recent advancements in IVM systems hold promise in bolstering oocyte competence post-IVM, thereby narrowing the gap between IVM and outcomes from ovarian stimulation. Additionally, for optimizing the chances of conception in cancer survivors, the combination of IVM and ovarian tissue cryopreservation stands as the favored choice when ovarian stimulation is unfeasible.
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- 2024
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23. Thawing fertility: a view of ovarian tissue cryopreservation processes and review of ovarian transplant research.
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Gadek LM, Joswiak C, and Laronda MM
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- Humans, Female, Fertility, Animals, Biomedical Research trends, Biomedical Research methods, Cryopreservation methods, Ovary transplantation, Fertility Preservation methods
- Abstract
Individuals with a disease or treatment that increases their risk of premature gonadal insufficiency may opt to undergo fertility preservation. Those who are postpubertal can often cryopreserve gametes, sperm, or eggs to expand their biologic family using assisted reproductive technologies. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) and testicular tissue cryopreservation may be an option for individuals who are unable to use standard fertility preservation techniques. The development of OTC was critical for many patients, including prepubertal children with ovaries that do not yet produce eggs, adolescents who make few good-quality eggs, and adult women with ovaries who cannot undergo ovarian stimulation. The only option to restore fertility and hormone production after OTC is through ovarian tissue transplantation (OTT). Ovarian tissue cryopreservation and OTT have been successful for some patients. Although OTC is no longer considered experimental by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, the process is far from standardized. Significant research needs to be done, especially at the point of OTT, to improve the success and longevity of ovarian tissue function. This article lists the main steps from surgical procurement of the ovarian tissue to transplantation and restoration of function. Our pediatric hospital program has had to decide which options in procurement, processing, cryopreservation, and warming will be used in our clinical laboratory. The options and limitations within the research and analyses are briefly discussed. Literature focusing on techniques to improve OTT effectiveness and longevity was reviewed. Ovarian tissue transplantation studies that performed xenograft experiments after pretreatment of the tissue graft by a ligand or drug, treatment of the host, or encapsulation of the ovarian tissue were identified. The intended effects of the treatments include increasing vascularization, reducing apoptosis, and directing activation or suppression of primordial follicles. Robust research in this area must continue with rigorous analyses to make strides in improving fertility preservation and restoration options for patients., Competing Interests: Declaration of Interests L.M.G. reports funding from NIH/NICHD R01HD104683 and NIH/NICHD R21HD108710 for the submitted work; funding from NIH/NICHD R01HD114210 and NIH/NICHD U01HD110336, outside the submitted work. C.J. reports funding from NIH/NICHD R01HD104683 and NIH/NICHD R21HD108710 for the submitted work; funding from NIH/NICHD R01HD114210 and NIH/NICHD U01HD110336, outside the submitted work. M.M.L. reports funding from NIH/NICHD R01HD104683, Gesualdo Family Foundation, and NIH/NICHD R21HD108710 for the submitted work; funding from NIH/NICHD R01HD114210 and NIH/NICHD U01HD110336, outside the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)
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- 2024
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24. Factors associated with successful intraoperative oocyte retrieval for fertility preservation during open pelvic surgery for gynecologic indications.
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Paik H, Hee Hong Y, Eun Kim T, Gyeong Jeong H, Ki Kim S, and Ryeol Lee J
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- Humans, Female, Adult, Gynecologic Surgical Procedures methods, Gynecologic Surgical Procedures adverse effects, Oocytes, Retrospective Studies, Fertility Preservation methods, Oocyte Retrieval methods, Cryopreservation methods
- Abstract
Objective: The study investigated factors associated with successful intra-operative oocyte retrieval for fertility preservation during transabdominal gynecologic surgery., Study Design: A total of 29 patients who underwent intraoperative oocyte retrieval during staging surgery at a single academic hospital from May 2014 to August 2022 were enrolled in this study, and their outcomes were analyzed., Results: Among 29 patients who underwent intra-operative oocyte retrieval during staging surgery, oocytes were obtained in 24 patients, representing 82.8 % of the retrieval rate (24/29), and two patients returned to use cryopreserved oocytes (6.9 %). Among 24 women who succeeded in obtaining oocytes, 20 patients succeeded in oocyte cryopreservation, and two patients proceeded to embryo cryopreservation. The cryopreservation rate was 91.7 % (22/24). All patients with failed oocyte retrieval (n = 5) and cryopreservation (n = 7) were diagnosed with malignancy. AMH of those with successful cryopreservation oocytes was higher than those without cryopreservation (4.10 ng/mL vs. 1.18 ng/mL, p = 0.003). A higher portion of the unstimulated cycle was observed in those with failed cryopreservation (8.3 % vs. 40.0 %, p = 0.01). No complications were noted., Conclusion: For women planning to undergo open pelvic surgery, intra-operative oocyte retrieval is a feasible option. High serum AMH and ovarian stimulation before surgery may predict successful oocyte cryopreservation., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)
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- 2024
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25. Planned oocyte cryopreservation: a systematic review and meta-regression analysis.
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Hirsch A, Hirsh Raccah B, Rotem R, Hyman JH, Ben-Ami I, and Tsafrir A
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- Humans, Female, Pregnancy, Live Birth epidemiology, Adult, Pregnancy Rate, Birth Rate, Oocyte Retrieval methods, Cryopreservation methods, Oocytes, Fertility Preservation methods
- Abstract
Background: Awareness of the age-related decline in fertility potential has increased the popularity of planned oocyte cryopreservation (POC). However, data regarding outcomes of POC, including rates of women returning to thaw oocytes, as well as pregnancy and live birth rates, are scarce and based mostly on small case series., Objective and Rationale: POC was defined as cryopreservation exclusively for prevention of future age-related fertility loss. The primary outcome was live birth rate per patient. The secondary outcomes included the return to thaw rate and laboratory outcomes. A meta-regression analysis examining the association between live birth and age above 40 or below 35 was conducted., Search Methods: We conducted a systematic database search from inception to August 2022. The search included PubMed (MEDLINE) and EMBASE. Our search strategies employed a combination of index terms (Mesh) and free text words to compile relevant concepts. The systematic review and meta-regression were undertaken following registration of systematic review (PROSPERO registration number CRD42022361791) and were reported following guidelines of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses 2020 (PRISMA 2020)., Outcomes: The database search yielded 3847 records. After the selection process, 10 studies, conducted from 1999 to 2020, were included. Overall, 8750 women underwent POC, with a mean cryopreservation age of 37.2 (±0.8). Of those, 1517 women returned to use their oocytes with a return rate of 11.1% (± 4.7%). The mean age at the time of cryopreservation for women who returned to use their oocytes was 38.1 (±0.4), with an average of 12.6 (±3.6) cryopreserved oocytes per woman. In a meta-analysis, the oocyte survival rate was 78.5% with a 95% CI of 0.74-0.83 (I2 = 93%). The live birth rate per patient was 28% with a 95% CI of 0.24-0.33 (I2 = 92%). Overall, 447 live births were reported. In a sub-group analysis, women who underwent cryopreservation at age ≥40 achieved a live birth rate per patient of 19% (95% CI 0.13-0.29, I2 = 6%), while women aged ≤35 years old or younger had a higher live birth rate per patient of 52% (95% CI 0.41-0.63, I2 = 7%)., Wider Implications: POC emerges as a feasible option for women aiming to improve their chances of conceiving at a later reproductive age. Nonetheless, it must be acknowledged that the overall success rates of POC are limited and that the likelihood of successful live birth declines as the age at cryopreservation rises. With increasing interest in POC, the collation of comprehensive and high-quality data is imperative to clearly define the outcomes for various age groups., Registration Number: CRD42022361791., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.)
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- 2024
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26. Necessity is the mother of ovarian tissue cryopreservation: Can we live up to the promise?
- Author
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Santoro N
- Subjects
- Humans, Female, Neoplasms therapy, Antineoplastic Agents adverse effects, Pregnancy, Cryopreservation methods, Fertility Preservation methods, Fertility Preservation trends, Ovary
- Abstract
The technological necessity that has driven the field of ovarian tissue cryopreservation arose from the urgency of saving the reproductive potential of children with cancer facing gonadotoxic therapies. The field has expanded rapidly, with many centers offering this service, yet there are few outcomes reported because of the time lag between tissue freezing and its utilization. Questions about the best practices for patient selection, the best techniques for freezing and thawing, and the large loss of oocytes that accompanies the freezing and thawing process remain. These problems will need to be solved before this important clinical advance can be said to fully live up to its promise., Competing Interests: Declaration of Interests N.S. has nothing to disclose., (Copyright © 2024 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)
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- 2024
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27. Use of tamoxifene-controlled ovarian hyperstimulation for fertility preservation before breast cancer treatment: A prospective cohort study with a 5-year follow-up.
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Dezellus A, Mirallie S, Leperlier F, Sauterey B, Bouet PE, Dessaint A, Duros S, Gremeau AS, Mouret-Reynier MA, Durand LM, Venat L, De Blay P, Robert M, Freour T, Campone M, Blanc-Lapierre A, and Bordes V
- Subjects
- Humans, Female, Adult, Prospective Studies, Follow-Up Studies, Antineoplastic Agents, Hormonal administration & dosage, Chemotherapy, Adjuvant, Young Adult, Pregnancy, Neoadjuvant Therapy methods, Letrozole administration & dosage, Letrozole therapeutic use, Pregnancy Rate, Adolescent, Oocyte Retrieval methods, Cryopreservation methods, Fertility Preservation methods, Breast Neoplasms drug therapy, Tamoxifen administration & dosage, Ovulation Induction methods
- Abstract
Purpose: Fertility issues are of great concern for young women undergoing treatment for breast cancer (BC). Fertility preservation (FP) protocols using controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) with letrozole have been widely used with overall good results. However, letrozole cannot be used in every country in this context. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of tamoxifen for COS in women with early BC undergoing FP., Methods: This multicentric prospective study included patients aged 18-40, diagnosed with stage I, II and III invasive BC, undergoing tamoxifen-COS before adjuvant or neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). The primary endpoint was the efficacy of tamoxifen-COS protocol evaluated by the number of oocytes collected and vitrified. Secondary endpoints included the time interval before chemotherapy, breast cancer (BC) recurrence rates, and reproductive outcomes., Results: Ninety-five patients were included between 2014 and 2017, aged 31.5 ± 4 years on average. 37.9 % received NAC and 62.1 % received adjuvant chemotherapy. FP procedure was successful in 89.5 % of the cycles. The mean number of collected and vitrified oocytes was 12.8 ± 7.9 and 9.8 ± 6.2, respectively. The mean duration of COS was 10.4 ± 1.9 days. Median time before chemotherapy initiation was 3.6 weeks (IQR 3.1; 4.1) for women receiving NAC. Five-year relapse-free and overall survival rates were in-line with those expected in this population. Twenty-one women had spontaneous full-term pregnancies, while 5 underwent IVF cycles with frozen-thawed oocytes, without pregnancy., Conclusion: Tamoxifen-COS protocols appear to be feasible before adjuvant or NAC treatment in young BC patients and efficient in terms of oocyte yield., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare the following financial interests/personal relationships which may be considered as potential competing interests:None of the authors have any conflicts of interest related to this study. Florence Leperlier reports honoraria for lectures and presentations from Ferring Pharmaceuticals, Gedeon Richter, and IBSA, unrelated to this work. Pierre-Emmanuel Bouet reports travel and meeting support from Merck, Gedeon-Richter, Theramex, Ferring, Organon and IBSA. P-E.B. have undertaken consultancy work for Merck and Gedeon-Richter and have received research grants from Theramex, Ferring, MSD, and Genevrier, not related to the present work. Thomas Freour has undertaken consultancy work for Vitrolife France and Gedeon-Richter. T.F. reports travel and meeting support from Gedeon-Richter, Theramex, Ferring and IBSA. T.F. reports honoraria for lectures and presentations from Ferring Pharmaceuticals, Theramex, Gedeon Richter and Merck Serono, unrelated to this work. Marie Robert reports travel fees and congress fees from AstraZeneca, Gilead and Creafirst, and has undertaken consultancy work for AstraZeneca and Lilly. Mario Campone is on the advisory board of AstraZeneca, Novartis, Sanofi, Lilly, Pfizer, Seagen, Gilead and Daiichi-Sankyo. M.C. has undertaken consultancy work for AstraZeneca, Novartis, Daiichi-Sankyo, PET-Therapy, Menarini and DIACCURATE, and he is a speaker for Novartis, Lilly and Amgen. He reports travel support from Pfizer, Novartis, Roche, AstraZeneca and Daiichi-Sankyo., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)
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- 2024
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28. Female fertility preservation for family planning: a position statement of the Italian Society of Fertility and Sterility and Reproductive Medicine (SIFES-MR).
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Massarotti C, Cimadomo D, Spadoni V, Conforti A, Zacà C, Carosso AR, Vaiarelli A, Venturella R, Vitagliano A, Busnelli A, Cozzolino M, and Borini A
- Subjects
- Humans, Female, Italy, Adult, Family Planning Services methods, Oocytes, Infertility, Female therapy, Pregnancy, Fertility physiology, Counseling methods, Societies, Medical, Fertility Preservation methods, Reproductive Medicine methods, Cryopreservation methods, Ovarian Reserve physiology
- Abstract
Purpose: This position statement by the Italian Society of Fertility and Sterility and Reproductive Medicine (SIFES-MR) aims to establish an optimal framework for fertility preservation outside the standard before oncological therapies. Key topics include the role of fertility units in comprehensive fertility assessment, factors impacting ovarian potential, available preservation methods, and appropriate criteria for offering such interventions., Methods: The SIFES-MR writing group comprises Italian reproductive physicians, embryologists, and scientists. The consensus emerged after a six-month period of meetings, including extensive literature review, dialogue among authors and input from society members. Final approval was granted by the SIFES-MR governing council., Results: Fertility counselling transitions from urgent to long-term care, emphasizing family planning. Age, along with ovarian reserve markers, is the primary predictor of female fertility. Various factors, including gynecological conditions, autoimmune disorders, and prior gonadotoxic therapies, may impact ovarian reserve. Oocyte cryopreservation should be the preferred method. Women 30-34 years old and 35-39 years old, without known pathologies impacting the ovarian reserve, should cryopreserve at least 12-13 and 15-20 oocytes to achieve the same chance of a spontaneous live birth they would have if they tried to conceive at the age of cryopreservation (63% and 52%, respectively in the two age groups)., Conclusions: Optimal fertility counselling necessitates a long-term approach, that nurtures an understanding of fertility, facilitates timely evaluation of factors that may affect fertility, and explores fertility preservation choices at opportune intervals., (© 2024. The Author(s).)
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- 2024
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29. The role of minimal residual disease assessment in ovarian tissue cryopreservation among oncofertility cases.
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Ahmad MF and Elias MH
- Subjects
- Humans, Female, Neoplasms therapy, Neoplasms complications, Adult, Cryopreservation methods, Fertility Preservation methods, Neoplasm, Residual, Ovary physiopathology, Infertility, Female therapy, Infertility, Female diagnosis, Infertility, Female physiopathology
- Abstract
Competing Interests: Declaration of Interests M.F.A. has nothing to disclose. M.H.E. has nothing to disclose.
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- 2024
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30. Maximizing Success: An Overview of Optimizing the Ovarian Tissue Transplantation Site.
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Saçıntı KG, Sadat R, Özkavukçu S, Sonmezer M, and Sönmezer M
- Subjects
- Humans, Female, Retroperitoneal Space surgery, Ovary transplantation, Cryopreservation methods, Fertility Preservation methods
- Abstract
Ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation (OTCT) has emerged in recent years as a potential method for reversing abnormal endocrine and reproductive functions, particularly in patients receiving gonadotoxic cancer treatments having longer survival rates. From its first rodent experiments to human trials, OTCT has evolved tremendously, opening new windows for further utilization. Since then, significant progress has been achieved in terms of techniques used for surgical removal of the tissue, optimal fragment size, freezing and thawing procedures, and appropriate surgical sites for the subsequent reimplementation of the graft. In addition, various approaches have been proposed to decrease the risk of ischemic injury, which is the leading cause of significant follicle loss during neo-angiogenesis. This review aims to discuss the pros and cons of ovarian and retroperitoneal transplantation sites, highlighting the justifications for the viability and efficacy of different transplantation sites as well as the potential advantages and drawbacks of retroperitoneal or preperitoneal area.
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- 2024
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31. Mature oocyte found during ovarian tissue cryopreservation in an early adolescent female.
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Zhang H, Shi L, Wang H, and Zhu H
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- Female, Humans, Adolescent, Hodgkin Disease, Cryopreservation methods, Oocytes cytology, Fertility Preservation methods, Ovary
- Abstract
A 15-year-old female with Hodgkin's lymphoma underwent ovarian tissue cryopreservation for preserving fertility in Reproductive Department of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medical after receiving one course of chemotherapy. During the ovarian tissue cryopreservation, one MⅡmature oocyte and three germinal vesicle oocytes were found. The three immature oocytes underwent in vitro maturation but failed. Ultimately, one mature oocyte and 12 ovarian cortex slices were cryopreserved using vitrification. This case indicates that for patients with established gonadal axis feedback, ovarian tissue cryopreservation may not be the only method for fertility preservation. It is advisable to consider ovarian stimulation and oocyte retrieval for oocyte cryopreservation. Alternatively, for individuals in the ovulation phase of their menstrual cycle, attempting oocyte retrieval before ovarian tissue cryopreservation to obtain mature oocytes from the natural cycle, followed by oocyte cryopreservation, may enhance the likelihood of successful fertility preservation.
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- 2024
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32. Oncofertility and Fertility Preservation for Women with Gynecological Malignancies: Where Do We Stand Today?
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Di Nisio V, Daponte N, Messini C, Anifandis G, and Antonouli S
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- Humans, Female, SARS-CoV-2, Cryopreservation methods, Fertility Preservation methods, Genital Neoplasms, Female, COVID-19 prevention & control
- Abstract
Oncofertility is a growing medical and research field that includes two main areas: oncology and reproductive medicine. Nowadays, the percentage of patients surviving cancer has exponentially increased, leading to the need for intervention for fertility preservation in both men and women. Specifically, gynecological malignancies in women pose an additional layer of complexity due to the reproductive organs being affected. In the present review, we report fertility preservation options with a cancer- and stage-specific focus. We explore the drawbacks and the necessity for planning fertility preservation applications during emergency statuses (i.e., the COVID-19 pandemic) and comment on the importance of repro-counseling for multifaceted patients during their oncological and reproductive journey.
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- 2024
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33. Live birth after vitrification of oocytes from capacitation in vitro maturation.
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Le XTH, Nguyen DP, Nguyen TT, Le TK, Vuong LN, and Ho TM
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- Female, Humans, Adult, Pregnancy, Ovulation Induction methods, Fertilization in Vitro methods, Vitrification, Oocytes growth & development, In Vitro Oocyte Maturation Techniques methods, Cryopreservation methods, Live Birth, Fertility Preservation methods
- Abstract
Female fertility preservation is a rapidly growing field in medicine. Oocyte cryopreservation and assisted reproductive technique with vitrified-warmed oocytes have been successful with in vivo matured oocytes after conventional ovarian stimulation protocols. The use of in vitro matured oocytes after vitrification and warming has been limited. Capacitation in vitro maturation (CAPA-IVM) represents the latest refinement of IVM protocols and provides in vitro matured oocytes with improved competence. This case report describes the first successful live birth following oocyte vitrification from a CAPA-IVM cycle. This milestone achievement holds a significant promise to expand fertility preservation options and improve accessibility for women wishing to cryopreserve their eggs for future use., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)
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34. Assessing Attitudes and Understanding After Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation: A Follow-Up Telephone Interview Survey.
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Piselli A, Yano JC, and Gomez-Lobo V
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- Humans, Female, Adult, Adolescent, Young Adult, Child, Cross-Sectional Studies, Follow-Up Studies, Surveys and Questionnaires, Child, Preschool, Telephone, Cryopreservation methods, Fertility Preservation methods, Fertility Preservation psychology, Ovary
- Abstract
Purpose: Assessing patient and guardian experiences regarding their history of ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) years after initial procedure. Methods: Cross-sectional follow-up telephone survey. A questionnaire developed by The Pediatric Initiative Network of the Oncofertility Consortium, modified to assess intent and attitudes regarding OTC, tissue access knowledge, financial burden of tissue storage, and intent to use tissue, was utilized. Interviews were conducted for those who underwent OTC at a metropolitan children's hospital between 2013 and 2022. Results: Of 60 eligible patients, 39 interviews were completed. Contacted patients were 3-28 years old, with minors accompanied by guardians. Average age at OTC was 8.5 years old, and 5.1% (2/39) were deceased at the time of contact. All interviewees underwent OTC for fertility preservation before gonadotoxic treatment. Seventy percent of patients (7/10) and 48.1% (13/27) of guardians stated they would use frozen tissue for pregnancy, with 50% (5/10) of patients and 59.3% (16/27) of guardians not understanding tissue access. Regret occurred in 10% (1/10) of patients and 3.4% (1/29) of guardians. It was associated with 10.8% (4/37) of tissue discard due to failed storage payments. Financial concerns occurred in 29.7% (11/37) of interviewees. Overall, 92.3% (36/39) would recommend OTC, and 94.9% (37/39) would repeat their choice to undergo OTC. Conclusion: Follow-up after OTC is essential to patient understanding of tissue status, access, and payments. Most do not regret OTC, except in cases of financial burden leading to tissue discard. Follow-up should be sequentially scheduled and include counseling on financial assistance programs.
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- 2024
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35. Eggsurance? A randomized controlled trial of a decision aid for elective egg freezing.
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Sandhu S, Hickey M, Koye DN, Braat S, Lew R, Hart R, Norman RJ, Hammarberg K, Anderson RA, and Peate M
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- Humans, Female, Adult, Single-Blind Method, Australia, Decision Support Techniques, Decision Making, Cryopreservation methods, Fertility Preservation methods, Fertility Preservation psychology
- Abstract
Study Question: Does a purpose-designed Decision Aid for women considering elective egg freezing (EEF) impact decisional conflict and other decision-related outcomes?, Summary Answer: The Decision Aid reduces decisional conflict, prepares women for decision-making, and does not cause distress., What Is Already Known: Elective egg-freezing decisions are complex, with 78% of women reporting high decisional conflict. Decision Aids are used to support complex health decisions. We developed an online Decision Aid for women considering EEF and demonstrated that it was acceptable and useful in Phase 1 testing., Study Design, Size, Duration: A single-blind, two-arm parallel group randomized controlled trial was carried out. Target sample size was 286 participants. Randomization was 1:1 to the control (existing website information) or intervention (Decision Aid plus existing website information) group and stratified by Australian state/territory and prior IVF specialist consultation. Participants were recruited between September 2020 and March 2021 with outcomes recorded over 12 months. Data were collected using online surveys and data collection was completed in March 2022., Participants/materials, Setting, Methods: Females aged ≥18 years, living in Australia, considering EEF, proficient in English, and with internet access were recruited using multiple methods including social media posts, Google advertising, newsletter/noticeboard posts, and fertility clinic promotion. After completing the baseline survey, participants were emailed their allocated website link(s). Follow-up surveys were sent at 6 and 12 months. Primary outcome was decisional conflict (Decisional Conflict Scale). Other outcomes included distress (Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale), knowledge about egg freezing and female age-related infertility (study-specific measure), whether a decision was made, preparedness to decide about egg freezing (Preparation for Decision-Making Scale), informed choice (Multi-Dimensional Measure of Informed Choice), and decision regret (Decision Regret Scale)., Main Results and the Role of Chance: Overall, 306 participants (mean age 30 years; SD: 5.2) were randomized (intervention n = 150, control n = 156). Decisional Conflict Scale scores were significantly lower at 12 months (mean score difference: -6.99 [95% CI: -12.96, -1.02], P = 0.022) for the intervention versus control group after adjusting for baseline decisional conflict. At 6 months, the intervention group felt significantly more prepared to decide about EEF than the control (mean score difference: 9.22 [95% CI: 2.35, 16.08], P = 0.009). At 12 months, no group differences were observed in distress (mean score difference: 0.61 [95% CI: -3.72, 4.93], P = 0.783), knowledge (mean score difference: 0.23 [95% CI: -0.21, 0.66], P = 0.309), or whether a decision was made (relative risk: 1.21 [95% CI: 0.90, 1.64], P = 0.212). No group differences were found in informed choice (relative risk: 1.00 [95% CI: 0.81, 1.25], P = 0.983) or decision regret (median score difference: -5.00 [95% CI: -15.30, 5.30], P = 0.337) amongst participants who had decided about EEF by 12 months (intervention n = 48, control n = 45)., Limitations, Reasons for Caution: Unknown participant uptake and potential sampling bias due to the recruitment methods used and restrictions caused by the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Some outcomes had small sample sizes limiting the inferences made. The use of study-specific or adapted validated measures may impact the reliability of some results., Wider Implications of the Findings: This is the first randomized controlled trial to evaluate a Decision Aid for EEF. The Decision Aid reduced decisional conflict and improved women's preparation for decision making. The tool will be made publicly available and can be tailored for international use., Study Funding/competing Interest(s): The Decision Aid was developed with funding from the Royal Women's Hospital Foundation and McBain Family Trust. The study was funded by a National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Project Grant APP1163202, awarded to M. Hickey, M. Peate, R.J. Norman, and R. Hart (2019-2021). S.S., M.P., D.K., and S.B. were supported by the NHMRC Project Grant APP1163202 to perform this work. R.H. is Medical Director of Fertility Specialists of Western Australia and National Medical Director of City Fertility. He has received grants from MSD, Merck-Serono, and Ferring Pharmaceuticals unrelated to this study and is a shareholder of CHA-SMG. R.L. is Director of Women's Health Melbourne (Medical Practice), ANZSREI Executive Secretary (Honorary), RANZCOG CREI Subspecialty Committee Member (Honorary), and a Fertility Specialist at Life Fertility Clinic Melbourne and Royal Women's Hospital Public Fertility Service. R.A.A. has received grants from Ferring Pharmaceuticals unrelated to this study. M.H., K.H., and R.J.N. have no conflicts to declare., Trial Registration Number: ACTRN12620001032943., Trial Registration Date: 11 August 2020., Date of First Patient’s Enrolment: 29 September 2020., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology.)
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- 2024
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36. Fertility preservation in hematological cancer patients.
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Li D, Zhao YJ, Wang Q, Chu MW, Xie JK, and Zhang CL
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- Humans, Female, Male, Antineoplastic Agents adverse effects, Antineoplastic Agents therapeutic use, Fertility Preservation methods, Hematologic Neoplasms therapy, Hematologic Neoplasms complications, Cryopreservation methods
- Abstract
Among adolescents and young adults, hematological malignancies are the most common malignancies. Although the survival rate of hematological malignancies in young patients has been dramatically improved, due to the continuous improvement and development of tumor diagnosis and treatment options, cytotoxic therapies can significantly reduce a patient's reproductive capacity and cause irreversible infertility. The most two established solutions are embryo cryopreservation and oocyte cryopreservation which can be considered in single female. Sperm or testicular tissue cryopreservation in adult male are feasible approaches that must be considered before gonadotoxic therapy. A comprehensive consultation with reproductive specialists when once diagnosed is a significantly issue which would help those survivors who want to have children. In this article, we review germ cell toxicity, which happens during the treatment of hematological malignancies, and aims to propose safety, efficacy fertility preservation methods in younger patients with hematological malignancies., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Federación de Sociedades Españolas de Oncología (FESEO).)
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- 2024
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37. Ovarian Tissue Collection for Fertility Preservation in Children: The Need for Standardised Surgical Practice Guidance.
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Braungart S, Lane S, Becker CM, and Alexander N
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- Humans, Female, Child, Adolescent, England, Practice Guidelines as Topic, Wales, Practice Patterns, Physicians' statistics & numerical data, Laparoscopy methods, Health Care Surveys, Fertility Preservation methods, Ovary surgery, Cryopreservation methods, Tissue and Organ Harvesting methods
- Abstract
Background: Chemotherapy, pelvic radiotherapy (including total body irradiation) and novel compounds used to treat children and teenagers with benign or malignant diseases can lead to impaired fertility. For prepubertal female patients at high risk of treatment-related infertility, upfront storage of ovarian tissue is increasingly being recognised as standard of care. No surgical guidelines exist to ensure best practice technique. We reviewed current UK practice to assess surgical management., Methods: A ten-item, anonymous multiple-choice survey was distributed to the lead surgeons in all paediatric centres in England/Wales undertaking ovarian procurement for cryopreservation., Results: There are currently 18 centres in England and Wales that provide ovarian procurement for cryopreservation. Responses were received from 100% of the invited paediatric surgical oncology centres in England and Wales. 39.3% of participants stated that in their centre <10 cases of ovarian harvest are performed annually. In 32.1% of centres >20 cases are undertaken per year. In 64% of centres surgery is performed by a paediatric surgeon with interest in oncology or fertility preservation. The majority of cases were performed by a Consultant or Senior Registrar (89%). Regarding the surgical technique, 82% of respondents stated they gain access to the abdominal cavity using standard 3-port laparoscopy, 7% use single-port laparoscopy. Most frequently used energy devices for ovary/ovarian tissue resection were Ligasure™ (44%) and Harmonic Scalpel™ (18.5%). 96% of respondents perform a total oophorectomy, 1 respondent stated they perform a hemi-oophorectomy. 53% stated they place the ovary into a retrieval bag only if the ovary was too big for easy removal via the camera port, 28.5% always place it in a retrieval bag. Most surgeons use the umbilical port site for retrieval (82%)., Conclusion: This national survey shows significant heterogeneity in the surgical management of ovarian procurement for cryopreservation. To ensure best outcomes, research into the various surgical methods is necessary to provide data for a standardised best practice approach., Level of Evidence: This is a level II evidence study. In itself, it is a national survey of specialists, which was undertaken in a prospective manner., Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest None., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)
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- 2024
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38. Ovarian tissue biopsy for cryopreservation by vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery: a new approach for a minimal invasive ovarian biopsy.
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Seracchioli R, Maletta M, Pazzaglia E, Raffone A, Vicenti R, Scarperi S, Bergamini V, and Raimondo D
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- Humans, Female, Biopsy, Vagina surgery, Vagina pathology, Adult, Cryopreservation methods, Ovary pathology, Ovary surgery, Fertility Preservation methods, Natural Orifice Endoscopic Surgery methods
- Abstract
Objective: Vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (vNOTES) is an emerging surgical procedure that combines the advantages of the vaginal approach with laparoscopic vision and instrumentation. Shorter hospitalization and lesser postoperative pain associated with vNOTES may be explained by the advantages of this innovative surgical approach (e.g., absence of abdominal incisions, shorter operative time, and lower insufflation pressure). Ovarian tissue cryopreservation allows to preserve reproductive and endocrine functions in young women with oncological disease at risk of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) caused by gonadotoxic treatments. Ovarian tissue biopsy for cryopreservation consists of a large biopsy of 1 or both ovaries that is usually performed by laparoscopy. Then, the removed ovarian tissue is cryopreserved for the future transplant after cancer remission. The volume of ovarian biopsy ranges from 50% of the ovary for women at moderate risk of POI to 70%-100% of it for those at high risk. The inclusion criteria for ovarian tissue cryopreservation are women aged <35 years who cannot delay start of oncological treatments for follicle cryopreservation, with a moderate or high risk of POI and good chance of 5-year survival. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation cannot be performed if tumor treatments include uterine irradiation or for tumors at risk of ovarian metastases (as in the case of ovarian cancer, leukemia, neuroblastoma, or Burkitt lymphoma). Despite widespread adoption of vNOTES in gynecology, ovarian biopsy for cryopreservation has never been performed using this route., Design: Step-by-step explanation of the procedure with descriptive text and narrated video footage., Setting: Tertiary-level referral academic center., Patient(s): A 27-year-old patient recently diagnosed with low-grade follicular non-Hodgkin lymphoma was referred to our center for ovarian tissue cryopreservation before chemotherapy. The patient included in this study gave informed consent for publication of the video and posting of the video online including social media, the journal website, scientific literature websites (e.g., PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Scopus), and other applicable sites. Because of the nature of the study, institutional review board approval was not required., Intervention(s): Access to the peritoneal cavity was created by a 3-cm posterior colpotomy. The peritoneum was then opened using cold scissors and temporarily fixed to the posterior vaginal wall. The GelPOINT Mini Advanced Access Platform (Applied Medical, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA), with 1 10-mm and 2 5-mm trocars, was used as the vNOTES port. The inner Alexis ring of the GelPOINT was inserted through the colpotomy into the pouch of Douglas. A hysterometer was placed into the uterine cavity to keep the uterus anteverted during the surgery. A pneumoperitoneum was created to a pressure of 8 mm Hg, and the operating table was tilted to a 20° Trendelenburg position. A 10-mm rigid 30° camera was inserted in the inferior and larger trocar, and both ovaries were visualized. Seventy percent of the left ovary was removed with cold scissors to minimize trauma on the surgical specimen. After removal of the GelPOINT cap, ovarian biopsy was immediately picked up by the biologist of our fertility center. The ovary was coagulated with a bipolar instrument. The hysterometer was then replaced by a uterine manipulator to perform tubal patency test, and blue dye passage through both salpinges was observed. Finally, the Alexis retractor and stich on the posterior peritoneum were removed, and the vagina was sutured using interrupted stiches. The total operative time was 25 minutes., Main Outcomes Measure(s): Ovarian tissue biopsy for cryopreservation by vNOTES., Result(s): No intraoperative and postoperative complications were reported, and the patient was discharged after 24 hours from surgery., Conclusion(s): Vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery may be a feasible alternative approach to laparoscopy for ovarian tissue cryopreservation: it allows an easy access to the ovaries and removal of different tissue volumes. Patients undergoing ovarian cryopreservation may benefit from the vNOTES approach because a rapid postoperative recovery is crucial to start chemotherapy in a short time. As for other vNOTES procedures, accurate selection of patients seems to be crucial for a successful ovarian tissue cryopreservation. We believe that the inclusion and exclusion criteria reported for other gynecologic procedures performed through vNOTES may also be valid for ovarian tissue cryopreservation by vNOTES. Women at high risk of pelvic adhesions (e.g., coexistent endometriosis, previous pelvic surgery, or inflammatory pelvic disease), those with an increased body mass index or enlarged uterus, and those with cervical, vaginal, or uterine cancer cannot be considered for this approach because all these factors are associated with failure of vNOTES. On the other hand, women with no history of surgery, endometriosis, and large myomas may benefit from the vNOTES approach, and these women represent most of patients who undergo ovarian tissue cryopreservation. Further and larger studies are needed to assess the efficacy and safety of this new approach., Competing Interests: Declaration of Interests R.S. has nothing to disclose. M.M. has nothing to disclose. E.P. has nothing to disclose. A.R. has nothing to disclose. R.V. has nothing to disclose. S.S. has nothing to disclose. V.B. has nothing to disclose. D.R. has nothing to disclose., (Copyright © 2024 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)
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- 2024
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39. Pharmacological methods for ovarian function and fertility preservation in women with cancer: A literature review.
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Cvetanovic AS, Lambertini M, Punie K, Matovina Brko GG, Zivkovic ND, Popovic MJ, Milovic Kovacevic MM, and Popovic LS
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- Humans, Female, Antineoplastic Agents adverse effects, Antineoplastic Agents therapeutic use, Cryopreservation methods, Fertility Preservation methods, Neoplasms drug therapy, Ovary drug effects, Ovary metabolism, Primary Ovarian Insufficiency chemically induced, Primary Ovarian Insufficiency prevention & control, Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone agonists
- Abstract
Oncofertility is an extremely significant topic that is increasingly being discussed owing to increased evidence indicating that fertility preservation does not affect the treatment outcomes of patients with cancer but significantly contributes to preserving life quality. The effect of chemotherapy can range from minimal effects to complete ovarian atrophy. Limited data are available on the effects of monoclonal antibodies and targeted therapies on the ovaries and fertility. Temporary ovarian suppression by administering a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) during chemotherapy decreases the gonadotoxic effect of chemotherapy, thereby diminishing the chance of developing premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). At present, the concomitant administration of GnRH analogs during chemotherapy is the only accepted pharmacological method for preserving ovarian function. Notably, most randomized studies on the effectiveness of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone agonists during chemotherapy in preventing POI have been conducted in women with breast cancer, with a considerably small number of studies on patients with hematological malignancies. Furthermore, most randomized controlled trials on breast cancer have revealed a decrease in treatment-induced POI risk, regardless of the hormone receptor status. In addition, studies on hematological malignancies have yielded negative results; nevertheless, the findings must be interpreted with caution owing to numerous limitations. Current guidelines from the American Society of Clinical Oncology and ESMO Clinical Practice Guidelines recommend sperm, oocyte, and embryo cryopreservation as a standard practice and only offering GnRHa to patients when proven fertility preservation methods are not feasible. In this manuscript, we present a comprehensive literature overview on the application of ovarian suppression with GnRHa during chemotherapy in patients with cancer by addressing preclinical and clinical data, as well as future perspectives in this field that upcoming research should focus on., Competing Interests: Ana Cvetanovic: Speaking fee and/or advisory board: Roche, MSD, Astra Zeneca, Pfizer, Novartis, Lilly (all outside of submitted work). Lazar S. Popovic: Speaking fee and/or advisory board: Roche, MSD, BMS, Astra Zeneca, Pfizer, Novartis, Gilead, Sandoz, Takeda, Astellas, Janssen, Sanofi, Abbvie, Merck, Lilly (all outside of submitted work). Gorana Matovina Brko: Speaking fee and travel support: Roche, Pfizer, Novartis, Astellas, Janssen, Sanofi, Merck (all outside of submitted work). Maja Popovic Speaking fee and travel support: Roche, BMS, Pfizer, Merck, Takeda, Astellas, Janssen (all outside of submitted work). Kevin Punie: Travel support from AstraZeneca, Pfizer, PharmaMar, and Roche (outside the submitted work). His institution received honoraria for advisory/consultancy roles for AstraZeneca, Eli Lilly, Gilead Sciences, Novartis, Pfizer, Pierre Fabre, Roche, Teva and Vifor Pharma, Speaker fees for Eli Lilly, Medscape, MSD, Mundi Pharma, Novartis, Pfizer, and Roche, and Research funding from MSD and Sanofi (all outside the submitted work). Matteo Lambertini acted as a consultant for Roche, Pfizer, Lilly, MSD, Seagen, Gilead, AstraZeneca, and Novartis, and received honoraria from Sandoz, Takeda, Ipsen, Roche, Lilly, Pfizer, and Novartis (all outside the submitted work). Marijana Milovic Kovacevic-Speaking fee and/or advisory board: Roche, MSD, Astra Zeneca, Pfizer, Novartis, and Lilly (all outside of submitted work)., (© 2024 Cvetanovic et al.)
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40. Cryopreservation of ovarian tissue for fertility preservation in breast cancer patients: time to stop?
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Macklon KT and De Vos M
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- Female, Humans, Pregnancy, Ovarian Reserve, Primary Ovarian Insufficiency etiology, Primary Ovarian Insufficiency prevention & control, Breast Neoplasms therapy, Cryopreservation methods, Fertility Preservation methods, Ovary
- Abstract
Fertility preservation is currently offered to young women with breast cancer to increase their chances of motherhood after a potentially gonadotoxic treatment. Ovarian stimulation with oocyte vitrification and cryopreservation of ovarian tissue remain the most commonly used methods of choice. Whichever method is preferred is very much dependent on the practice and experience of the clinics, although for breast cancer in particular one method might be superior to the other. Cryopreservation of ovarian tissue is inevitably associated with the iatrogenic reduction of the ovarian reserve of a patient and should only be offered to women with a high risk of premature ovarian insufficiency following treatment. However, for younger breast cancer survivors, pregnancy and delivery rates are reassuringly high, even after chemotherapy. Despite its widespread use, few women come back to make use of their cryopreserved tissue. It is argued here that cryopreservation of ovarian tissue is not an appropriate option for breast cancer patients and discuss the reasons for this opinion., (Copyright © 2024 Reproductive Healthcare Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)
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- 2024
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41. Fertility preservation in males with cancer of trends, region development, and efficacy in mainland China from 16 regions Chinese sperm banks.
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Liu X, Wang Q, Sheng H, Liang X, Wang Z, Meng T, Li Y, Dong H, Zhu W, Yang J, Zhang Z, Jiang X, Zhang A, Liang Z, He X, Song C, Li F, and Zhang X
- Subjects
- Humans, Male, China epidemiology, Adult, Adolescent, Spermatozoa, Retrospective Studies, Semen Analysis, Infertility, Male epidemiology, Young Adult, East Asian People, Fertility Preservation methods, Sperm Banks, Cryopreservation methods, Semen Preservation methods, Neoplasms epidemiology, Neoplasms pathology
- Abstract
Purpose: Male cancer survivors experience confusion about fertility following cancer treatment. The aims of this study were to evaluate survivors' semen quality in different tumor type groups in China and to analyze the current situation and challenges of male cancer patients with sperm cryopreservation., Methods: This was a multicenter retrospective study of male patients with cancer who underwent sperm cryopreservation in 16 regions of the national sperm banks over an 11-year period from 2010 to 2020., Results: The number of male cancer patients with sperm cryopreservation showed an overall upward trend. The development of male cancer fertility preservation (FP) in the eastern, central, and western regions of Chinese displayed imbalance. There are seven tumor types for sperm preservation in the top incidence ten tumor types, including lymphoma, leukemia, nasopharyngeal carcinoma, sarcoma, thyroid cancer, and brain tumor. Moreover, nasopharyngeal carcinoma is a high incidence rate in China, which is related to high sperm preservation rate, different from other countries. The most percentage of males receiving sperm cryopreservation in the testicular cancers (15-39 years old) of China in 2020 was 5.55%, 1.29% in the lymphoma, and 0.39% in the leukemia. According to the type of cancer, a statistically significant lower pre-sperm density, total sperm output, and post-sperm density was observed in testicular cancers. It is worth noting that the prevalence of azoospermia 22.2% in leukemia patients attribute to urgent treatment before sperm cryopreservation. Disposition of cryopreserved sperm categories included continued storage (47.2%), discarded (9%), death (0.9%), and use (3.7%)., Conclusion: This study provides the first comprehensive national statistical census and review of fertility preservation in male cancer patients with respect to trends, prevalence, and cancer types. The development of male cancer fertility preservation in China is imbalanced and percentage of males receiving sperm cryopreservation in the adolescent and young adult cancers was low. Sixteen human sperm banks from China analyze current problems and challenges, and then prioritize steps toward the achievement of the FP strategy framework for Healthy China 2030., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)
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- 2024
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42. Fertility Preservation in Children and Adolescents: Where We Are and Where We Are Going.
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Vogt C and Malhotra NR
- Subjects
- Humans, Adolescent, Child, Male, Female, Cryopreservation methods, Fertility Preservation methods
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Purpose of Review: This review will describe current pediatric and adolescent fertility preservation methodologies and the ethical concerns surrounding these procedures, as well as highlight recent research that may pave the way for the development of new fertility preservation options., Recent Findings: Research is ongoing to allow prepubertal patients, particularly those with testes, to be able to have biologic children in the future. Studies on sperm in vitro maturation highlight the importance of supporting the spermatogonial stem cell niche for the development of mature sperm. The live birth of a rhesus macaque from in vitro fertilization using prepubertal testicular tissue and in vivo matured sperm gives hope to future human births. For patients with ovaries, prior work has led to successful fertility but further research is underway to refine these techniques and optimize outcomes. Organoid scaffolds have shown promise when being used for in vitro oocyte maturation. For children and adolescents undergoing gonadotoxic treatment, such as chemotherapy, or hormonal treatment, such as gender-affirming hormone therapy, future fertility potential may be negatively impacted. It is recommended that fertility preservation (FP) be offered to these patients and families prior to undergoing treatment. Fertility preservation for postpubertal patients mimics that in adults. For prepubertal children, however, the options are limited and in some cases still experimental. It is essential that this work continues so that we may offer children and adolescents the right to an open future and preserve their fertility potential., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)
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- 2024
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43. Fertility preservation written by ChatGPT-4: correspondence.
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Daungsupawong H and Wiwanitkit V
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- Humans, Female, Cryopreservation methods, Oocytes growth & development, Male, Fertility Preservation methods
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- 2024
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44. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation for fertility preservation: with innovation must come the development of guidelines and best practices.
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Yazdani A, Amir J, and Christianson MS
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- Humans, Female, Diffusion of Innovation, Fertility, Cryopreservation standards, Cryopreservation methods, Fertility Preservation standards, Fertility Preservation methods, Ovary, Practice Guidelines as Topic standards
- Abstract
Competing Interests: Declaration of Interests A.Y. has nothing to disclose. J.A. has nothing to disclose. M.S.C. has nothing to disclose.
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45. Fertility preservation in women with endometriosis: Oocyte cryopreservation and other techniques.
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Gazzo I, Moffa F, and Ferrero S
- Subjects
- Humans, Female, Ovulation Induction methods, Ovary, Oocyte Retrieval methods, Infertility, Female prevention & control, Infertility, Female etiology, Infertility, Female therapy, Cryopreservation methods, Fertility Preservation methods, Endometriosis surgery, Oocytes
- Abstract
In recent years, advancements in cryopreservation techniques for oocytes, embryos, and ovarian tissue have enabled offering fertility preservation (FP) options to women with endometriosis. It is recommended to always conduct specialized counselling on FP, especially before considering surgical interventions for endometriosis. The decision regarding the methods of FP, the timing, and to which women affected by endometriosis these techniques should be offered are still subjects of discussion. However, several studies suggest that it can be proposed before surgical interventions for endometriosis, particularly if the patient is undergoing mono or bilateral endometrioma surgery. The most recommended technique is ovarian stimulation, followed by oocyte cryopreservation. Nevertheless, the literature contains various studies describing FP through embryo cryopreservation or the retrieval and cryopreservation of ovarian tissue., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors have no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)
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- 2024
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46. Laparoscopic medulla-sparing ovarian tissue biopsy for cryopreservation: step-by-step surgical technique.
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Raimondo D, Raspollini A, Bertoldo L, Ferla S, Vicenti R, Magnani V, Raffone A, and Seracchioli R
- Subjects
- Humans, Female, Adult, Biopsy, Hodgkin Disease pathology, Hodgkin Disease therapy, Hodgkin Disease surgery, Primary Ovarian Insufficiency etiology, Cryopreservation methods, Fertility Preservation methods, Ovary pathology, Ovary surgery, Laparoscopy adverse effects
- Abstract
Objective: To describe a laparoscopic technique for ovarian tissue biopsy (OTB) for fertility preservation. In the last years, the demand for fertility preservation has grown because of the increasing survival rates among patients with cancer and the rising awareness of the importance of quality of life after gonadotoxic therapy. Among fertility-sparing approaches, ovarian tissue cryopreservation is a valid strategy to preserve ovarian endocrine and reproductive function in prepubertal and postpubertal women who will undergo gonadotoxic cancer treatments. Currently, there is no universal consensus regarding ovarian tissue retrieval technique for fertility preservation., Design: Step-by-step description of the surgical technique with narrated video footage., Setting: Academic tertiary hospital., Patient(s): Patients with a high risk of premature ovarian insufficiency, usually due to gonadotoxic treatments, who undergo OTB for fertility preservation were included in the study. In this video, we present the clinical case of a 28-year-old patient affected by Hodgkin lymphoma who underwent laparoscopy for OTB before chemotherapy., Intervention(s): After exposing the chosen ovary, an incision at the tubal pole of the ovary is made with scissors. Through section and dissection, a large cortical biopsy of the ovary is performed without removing and avoiding any damage to the medulla. At the end of the procedure, hemostasis was achieved with selective coagulation using bipolar coagulation., Main Outcome Measure(s): Step by step educational video., Result(s): The post-operative course was uneventful and the patient was discharge 24 hours after surgery., Conclusion(s): Standardization of a step-by-step laparoscopic technique can provide an effective method to optimize ovarian tissue removal while minimizing tissue injury. Medulla-sparing ovarian biopsy allows retrieval of only the cortical part of the ovary, maximizing the number of primordial follicles obtained without damaging the vascular supply of the ovary contained within the medulla. Primordial follicles are resistant to cryoinjury owing to their relatively inactive metabolism, and they are usually found at approximately 0.8 mm below the surface of the cortex. This technique could also reduce the back-table processing time of the ovarian tissue before cryopreservation. One disadvantage could be the difficulty of the technique compared to an oophorectomy because it requires a skilled surgeon that can easily find the cleavage plane between the medulla and the cortex, even in patients submitted to previous chemoradiotherapy or during gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogue therapy., Competing Interests: Declaration of Interests D.R. has nothing to disclose. A. Raspollini has nothing to disclose. L.B. has nothing to disclose. S.F. has nothing to disclose. R.V. has nothing to disclose. V.M. has nothing to disclose. A. Raffone has nothing to disclose. R.S. has nothing to disclose., (Copyright © 2024 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)
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- 2024
- Full Text
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47. GnRH agonist early follicular challenge test as a predictor of ovarian response in antagonist cycles for fertility preservation.
- Author
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Yerushalmi GM, Avraham S, Kedem A, Youngster M, Barkat J, Baruchin O, Gat I, Yaakov O, Gidoni Y, and Hourvitz A
- Subjects
- Humans, Female, Adult, Prospective Studies, Oocyte Retrieval methods, Ovarian Follicle drug effects, Fertilization in Vitro methods, Oocytes drug effects, Cryopreservation methods, Ovary drug effects, Estradiol blood, Hormone Antagonists administration & dosage, Hormone Antagonists pharmacology, Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone antagonists & inhibitors, Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone agonists, Fertility Preservation methods, Ovulation Induction methods
- Abstract
The aim of our study was to evaluate if the response to follicular GnRH agonist (GnRHa) trigger be used to predict intracycle ovarian response in GnRH antagonist cycles among women undergoing fertility preservation IVF. We conducted a prospective study of 146 GnRH antagonist oocyte pickup (OPU) cycles to evaluate GnRHa stimulation test (GAST). On day 2 of the cycle, basal E2 were measured, followed by injection of 0.2 mg GnRHa as part of the initial ovarian stimulation. 12 h later blood sampling was repeated (GAST E3). E2 response was used as test parameter. The major outcome was the number of mature cryopreserved oocytes. We found a linear correlation between both GAST E3 level and GAST E3/E2 ratio and number of M2 oocytes. ROC curve analysis of GAST E3, GAST E3/E2 ratio, AFC and day 3 FSH for > 15 M2 and < 5 M2 oocytes was calculated. For GAST E3 levels obtaining < 5 M2 oocytes, an AUC value of 0.79 was found. For GAST E3 levels obtaining > 15 M2 oocytes, AUC value of 0.8. Patients with GAST E3 ≤ 384 pmol/l has 58.6% risk to obtain < 5 oocytes. Patients younger than 35 with GAST E3 > 708 pmol/l have 66% chance for freezing > 15 oocytes. The response to single GnRHa administration during GnRH antagonist cycle can be used as biomarker of ovarian reserve. This simple, widely available marker, which reflect the estradiol response of small follicles, might predict the response of the specific cycle, and can potentially be used to adjust the treatment dose.Trial registration number: 0304-20-ASF., (© 2024. The Author(s).)
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- 2024
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48. Chemoprotection of the ovary: a leading role or a complementary strategy in fertility preservation?
- Author
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Massarotti C, Ammar OF, Liperis G, Mincheva M, Fraire-Zamora JJ, Sharma K, Rosario R, Winship AL, Lambertini M, and Makieva S
- Subjects
- Humans, Female, Cryopreservation methods, Antineoplastic Agents adverse effects, Antineoplastic Agents therapeutic use, Fertility Preservation methods, Ovary drug effects
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
49. Fertility preservation in male adolescents with cancer (2011-2020): A retrospective study in China.
- Author
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Liu S, Wang Q, Zhu W, Zhang Z, Tang W, Sheng H, Yang J, Li Y, Liang X, Meng T, Wang Z, Lin F, Dong H, He X, Jiang X, Dai S, Zhang A, Song C, Liang Z, Zhang F, Wang X, Liang P, Gong G, Huai X, Wang Y, Li F, and Zhang X
- Subjects
- Humans, Male, Adolescent, Retrospective Studies, China epidemiology, Young Adult, Infertility, Male etiology, Infertility, Male prevention & control, Cryopreservation methods, Child, Fertility Preservation methods, Neoplasms radiotherapy, Semen Analysis
- Abstract
Background: According to the studies, more than 80% of pediatric patients with cancer can achieve a survival rate greater than 5 years; however, long-term chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy may seriously affect their reproductive ability. Fertility preservation in adolescents with cancer in China was initiated late, and related research is lacking. Analyze data to understand the current situation and implement measures to improve current practices., Methods: From 2011 to 2020, data on 275 male adolescents with cancer whose age ranged from 0 to 19 years old were collected from 16 human sperm banks for this retrospective study. Methods include comparing the basic situation of male adolescents with cancer, the distribution of cancer types, and semen quality to analyze the status of fertility preservation., Results: The mean age was 17.39 ± 1.46 years, with 13 cases (4.7%) aged 13-14 years and 262 cases (95.3%) aged 15-19 years. Basic diagnoses included leukemia (55 patients), lymphomas (76), germ cell and gonadal tumors (65), epithelial tumors (37), soft tissue sarcomas (14), osteosarcoma (7), brain tumors (5), and other cancers (16). There are differences in tumor types in different age stages and regions. The tumor type often affects semen quality, while age affects semen volume. Significant differences were found in sperm concentration and progressive motility before and after treatment (p < 0.001). Moreover, 90.5% of patients had sperm in their semen and sperm were frozen successfully in 244 patients (88.7%)., Conclusions: The aim of this study is to raise awareness of fertility preservation in male adolescents with cancer, to advocate for fertility preservation prior to gonadotoxic therapy or other procedures that may impair future fertility, and to improve the fertility status of future patients., (© 2024 The Author(s). Cancer Medicine published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)
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- 2024
- Full Text
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50. Understanding the Strengths and Limitations of Online Oocyte Cryopreservation Calculators.
- Author
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Wolf AT, Minis E, and Mahalingaiah S
- Subjects
- Humans, Female, Internet, Emotions, Patient Education as Topic methods, Pregnancy, Counseling methods, Oocyte Retrieval methods, Cryopreservation methods, Oocytes physiology, Fertility Preservation methods
- Abstract
Between 2010 and 2016, elective oocyte cryopreservation (OC) increased in use by 880% in the United States; however, there have been increasing reports of regret among patients after elective OC. There is a growing need for individualized counseling on the timing and number of oocytes to cryopreserve for patients to make informed choices and set realistic expectations, but currently available tools seem to be insufficient. The purpose of this review is to describe the OC calculators currently available online, identify sources of regret, and illustrate the need for unified counseling tools for improved patient care and education. OC calculators were identified via Google search. Only calculators that cite scientific literature were included in the review. Calculators for in vitro fertilization or embryo transfer were excluded. Thirteen OC calculators were found; however, only six cited literature supporting the calculator's design. When entering the same hypothetical patient parameters for age and number of oocytes cryopreserved, the calculators provided drastically different probabilities of live births. The lack of cohesive online educational materials creates confusion and stress for patients considering OC, leading to unrealistic expectations and increased feelings of regret thereafter. Physicians need tools to provide comprehensive guidance to patients seeking to cryopreserve oocytes., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest and nothing to disclose., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
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