dinoprost and Infertility--Female

In dairy cows, hormonal treatments are commonly implemented for acyclicity, silent heat and endometritis. Before treatment, causes of infertility need to be detected and severe failures in housing, feeding or other diseases must be eliminated. Without sustainable improvement of herd management, the use of intensive hormonal treatments will not improve reproductive performance. The most common cause of anoestrous is silent heat. In cows with a palpable corpus luteum, injection of prostaglandin F2α (PGF) reliably induces oestrous. A satisfactory treatment for acyclicity (ovarian dystrophy, ovarian cysts) does not exist. Combinations of different hormones have greater treatment success than a single use of gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH) or human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG). Strategic use of PGF during the early postpartum period cannot be recommended because positive effects on uterus involution and resumption of the oestrous cycle after calving have not been verified. In contrast, application of GnRH combined with PGF in the puerperal phase appeared to have positive effects on fertility of cows with endometritis. The same applies to PGF for cows with chronic endometritis. Cases of endometritis with fetid odour of vaginal mucus or isolation of Trueperella pyogenes should be treated with antibiotics. Treatment before the 27th day post partum is not advisable. In conclusion, hormonal treatments can be used to treat fertility disorders. Nevertheless, in order to enhance the reproductive performance at the herd level, a sustainable improvement of the general conditions (housing, feeding, animal health, management) is a prerequisite.

Topics: Anestrus; Animals; Anti-Bacterial Agents; Cattle; Cattle Diseases; Chorionic Gonadotropin; Dinoprost; Endometritis; Female; Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone; Hormones; Infertility, Female

Topics: Animals; Corpus Luteum; Dinoprost; Female; Haplorhini; Humans; Infertility, Female; Luteinizing Hormone; Menstrual Cycle; Pituitary Gland; Pregnancy; Receptors, Estradiol; Receptors, Progesterone

To examine the effects of atosiban, given before transfer of frozen-thawed embryo to women with endometriosis (EMs).. A randomized, controlled clinical trial.. University hospital and IVF center.. One hundred twenty women with endometriosis undergoing frozen-thawed embryo transfer were randomly allocated into the atosiban treatment and the control groups. Another 120 women with infertility due to tubal factor were enrolled into a tubal factor group, to compare serum oxytocin (OT) and prostaglandin (PG)F2α levels and uterine contractions with the endometriosis group.. In the endometriosis treatment group, a single bolus (6.75 mg, 0.9 mL per vial) of atosiban was administrated before ET.. Implantation rate and pregnancy rate.. Serum OT level (1.89 ± 0.33 vs. 1.66 ± 0.32 ng/L), PGF2α (2.83 ± 0.34 vs. 2.36 ± 0.35 ng/L) level, and uterine contractions (2.5 ± 1.2 vs. 1.8 ± 1.0 waves per minute) in the endometriosis group were all significantly higher than in the tubal factor group. The clinical pregnancy rate per cycle and implantation rate per transfer were 58.3% and 41.0%, respectively, in the atosiban treatment group, significantly higher than in the control group (38.3% and 23.4%, respectively).. Women with endometriosis showed higher serum OT level, PGF2α level, and uterine contractions. Atosiban treatment before ET in endometriosis is effective in the priming of the uterus, suitable for embryo implantation. This is the first study to evaluate the effect of atosiban treatment in patients with endometriosis.. ChiCTR-IOQ-14005715.

Topics: Adult; Biomarkers; China; Cryopreservation; Dinoprost; Drug Administration Schedule; Embryo Implantation; Embryo Transfer; Endometriosis; Female; Fertility; Fertilization in Vitro; Hormone Antagonists; Hospitals, University; Humans; Infertility, Female; Middle Aged; Oxytocin; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Rate; Prospective Studies; Time Factors; Treatment Outcome; Uterine Contraction; Vasotocin; Young Adult

We investigated the activities and relevance of a validated panel of antioxidant enzymes, cytokines, specific lipid peroxidation end products and six fatty acids by correlational analyses with peak E(2) levels and pregnancy outcome after ovarian stimulation for IVF or IUI.. Blood samples obtained from 15 patients undergoing ovarian stimulation with rFSH or hMG were divided into two groups. Group-1 was baseline blood collected on day-2-3 of women cycle. Group-2 is blood collected at the end of FSH/hMG injection. Serum was collected and stored in liquid nitrogen at -196 °C until analysis. Standard IVF and IUI procedures were followed. The serum levels of Paraoxonase (PON1), Superoxide Dismutases (SOD), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx), 8-Isoprostane, and fatty acids Arachidic, Palmitic, Stearic, Oleic, Linoleic & Linolenic were measured.. With the exception of 8-Isoprostane, results showed a positive correlation between baseline and peak levels of E(2) and that of SOD, GPx, PON1, and IL-6. The PON1, IL-6 and SOD were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in pregnant than non-pregnant group. Fatty acid levels at baseline and peak E(2) were not different but pregnancy rates were found to be decreasing with higher palmitic, and stearic acid levels.. Ovarian stimulation causes a significant increase in serum PON1, SOD, GPx and IL-6 activity in women undergoing IVF or IUI. The high levels of IL-6, SOD, and PON1 and lower levels of palmitic, and stearic acids in the pregnancy positive group indicate that these oxidative stress and nutritional factors may be used as a predictive marker in controlled ovarian stimulation success.

Topics: Adult; Aryldialkylphosphatase; Biomarkers; Dinoprost; Endometriosis; Estradiol; Fatty Acids; Female; Fertilization in Vitro; Glutathione Peroxidase; Humans; Infertility, Female; Interleukin-6; Lipid Peroxidation; Ovulation Induction; Oxidative Stress; Polycystic Ovary Syndrome; Predictive Value of Tests; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Outcome; Pregnancy Rate; Prospective Studies; Sperm Injections, Intracytoplasmic; Superoxide Dismutase

To compare diagnostic techniques, and to assess the economic effects of diagnosing and treating dairy cows not detected in oestrus before the planned start of mating (PSM).. Cows from 12 herds were defined as anoestrus at Day -9 (where Day 0=PSM) based on presence of tail paint that had been applied at Day -35. The presence of a corpus luteum (CL) was diagnosed by palpation or ultrasonography on Day -9, or by determining the concentration of progesterone (P4) in milk at Days -16 and -9. Cows with concentrations of P4 in milk >1 ng/ml at one or both times were defined as CL+. Cows were randomly assigned to be treated with (a) nothing (Control; n=558); (b) gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) on Day -9, prostaglandin F(2alpha) (PGF(2alpha)) on Day -2, and GnRH on Day 0, with set-time artificial insemination (AI) 16-20 h after the second GnRH treatment (Ovsynch; n=553); or (c) as for (b) but with placement of an intravaginal P4-releasing device on Day -9, and removal on Day -2 (Ovsynch+P4; n=551). Cows detected in oestrus between Day -2 and the second GnRH treatment did not receive the second GnRH treatment. Pregnancy diagnosis took place on three occasions, and the date of conception estimated, from which the PSM-to-conception interval was calculated. Agreement between the three diagnostic techniques for CL status was evaluated using Kappa analyses, and sensitivities and specificities were calculated using a Bayesian Monte Carlo approach that does not assume a gold standard. Partial budgets and decision trees were constructed to assess the cost effectiveness of diagnosis and treatment.. The level of agreement was higher between ultrasonography and concentration of P4 in milk (0.64) than for palpation and ultrasonography or concentration of P4 in milk (0.50 and 0.49, respectively). The Ovsynch+P4 treatment had a higher net benefit than Ovsynch relative to no treatment (NZ$80.40 and NZ$47.50/cow treated, respectively) in the absence of diagnosis of CL status. Following diagnosis, the Ovsynch+P4 treatment remained the most cost-effective option for both CL+ and CL- cows. It was concluded that the Ovsynch+P4 treatment without any diagnostic procedure was the most cost-effective option.. Treatment of anoestrous cows was more cost-effective than no treatment, with Ovsynch+P4 more cost-effective than Ovsynch in cows with or without a CL. Differentiation of anoestrous cows into CL+ and CL- groups for treatment was not cost-effective.

Topics: Administration, Intravaginal; Animals; Cattle; Cattle Diseases; Corpus Luteum; Dairying; Decision Trees; Dinoprost; Estrous Cycle; Female; Fertility Agents, Female; Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone; Infertility, Female; Milk; Pregnancy; Progesterone; Sensitivity and Specificity; Ultrasonography

To evaluate the effect of 2 postpartum prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF 2 alpha) treatment protocols on reproductive performance of dairy cows at risk for low fertility. In addition, various medical conditions in cows that are recognized as having adverse effects on fertility were evaluated as criteria for fertility treatment.. Prospective study.. 291 cows with, and 271 cows without, risk factors for low fertility.. Cows at risk for low fertility were randomly assigned to 2 treatment groups. Group-1 cows received 3 i.m. injections of PGF2 alpha at weekly intervals after parturition, and group-2 cows received 1 i.m. injection of PGF2 alpha 17 to 24 days after parturition.. Compared with a single PGF2 alpha treatment 17 to 24 days after parturition, there was no added benefit of 3 treatments with PGF2 alpha 3 to 10, 10 to 17, and 17 to 24 days after parturition in cows at risk for low fertility. Cows without risk factors for low fertility had 20% higher pregnancy rates, compared with cows with risk factors for low fertility. Twinning had a negative effect on future fertility.. Results of this study indicate that further consideration should be given to the timing and intervals of PGF2 alpha administration after parturition. Risk factors for low fertility, such as retained placenta, twins, and assisted calvings, are valid criteria to evaluate different treatment options to improve fertility in dairy cows.

Topics: Animals; Cattle; Cattle Diseases; Confidence Intervals; Dinoprost; Dystocia; Endometritis; Female; Infertility, Female; Injections, Intramuscular; Placenta, Retained; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Rate; Pregnancy, Multiple; Proportional Hazards Models; Prospective Studies; Risk Factors; Twins

Four intrauterine treatment strategies were evaluated for effectiveness in mares that were confirmed to be susceptible to chronic uterine infection. Pretreatment samples were obtained at detection of estrus, and a genital strain of Streptococcus zooepidemicus was infused into the uterus when a preovulatory (> 35 mm) follicle was detected. At 12 hours after inoculation, mares were assigned to 1 of 4 selected treatment groups: autologous plasma, 100 ml (n = 5); potassium penicillin, 5 million U in 100 ml of phosphate-buffered saline solution (PBSS; n = 5); 10 mg of prostaglandin F2 alpha in 100 ml of PBSS (n = 5)' and large-volume lavage with normal saline solution (1,000 ml increments). A fifth group, treated with vehicle alone (100 ml of PBSS), served as a negative control (n = 7). All treatments were administered into the uterus. To assess the effectiveness of the treatment, samples for culture and cytologic examination were collected at 96 hours after bacterial inoculation. An effect of treatment was observed on the number of uterine neutrophils (P = 0.02) and growth of S zooepidemicus (P < 0.01). Intrauterine treatment with potassium penicillin, prostaglandin F2 alpha, and large-volume uterine lavage significantly reduced the growth of S zooepidemicus (P < 0.01) as well as the number of neutrophils (P < 0.02). Autologous plasma reduced the number of neutrophils (P < 0.05), but not growth of S zooepidemicus. There was significant correlation between the number of uterine neutrophils and growth of S zooepidemicus for each treatment group (r = 0.57; P < 0.05).

Topics: Analysis of Variance; Animals; Biopsy; Blood Transfusion, Autologous; Dinoprost; Disease Susceptibility; Endometrium; Female; Horse Diseases; Horses; Infertility, Female; Neutrophils; Penicillins; Streptococcal Infections; Streptococcus; Therapeutic Irrigation; Uterine Diseases; Uterus

Oxidative stress in the follicular fluid (FF) is thought to be responsible for the abnormal development of oocytes. In our study patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and tubal infertility factor (TIF), and healthy women with a male factor of infertility, were prospectively enrolled. From each patient, a sample of individual FF was collected from a dominant follicle. Concentration levels of TAS, 8-IP, 8-OHdG, and AMH were determined. In women with PCOS, we found significantly lower values of oxidative stress markers in the FF. 8-IP and TAS levels were lower in the FF of women with endometriosis. In women with TIF, we also found significantly lower values of all tested markers in the FF, except for 8-OHdG and AMH. We wanted to see whether the biomarker measured in the FF in an individual diagnosis could predict a successfully obtained embryo from this particular follicle. The FF 8-OHdG result in PCOS patients stood out and proved to be a good predictive marker of matured and fertilized oocytes in these patients. Further research is needed to be able to apply the acquired knowledge in improving the outcome of IVF procedures.

Topics: 8-Hydroxy-2'-Deoxyguanosine; Adult; Anti-Mullerian Hormone; Biomarkers; Dinoprost; Endometriosis; Female; Follicular Fluid; Humans; Infertility, Female; Live Birth; Oxidative Stress; Polycystic Ovary Syndrome; Pregnancy; Statistics, Nonparametric

To evaluate the influence of phthalates on human luteal cell function.. Laboratory study.. University hospital.. Twenty-three normally menstruating patients in the midluteal phase.. Human luteal cells isolated from corpora lutea for primary cultures.. Progesterone (P4) and prostaglandin release assayed by enzyme immunoassay, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) secretion by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and VEGF mRNA expression by real-time polymerase chain reaction.. We investigated the effect of di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP), di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP), and butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP) on basal and hCG-induced progesterone (P4) release, as well as DEHP effect on the balance between prostaglandin (PG) E2, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-luteotrophic factors, and the luteolitic PGF2α in isolated human steroidogenc cells. Phthalates influence on VEGF expression has been also evaluated. DEHP, DBP, and BBP were able to reduce both basal and hCG-stimulated P4 as well as PGE2 release. PGF2α release was reduced after DEHP incubation. VEGF protein release was decreased by the incubation with the tested phthalates. VEGF mRNA expression was not affected by DEHP, DBP, and BBP. As expected, both hCG and cobalt chloride were able to induce P4 release and VEGF release and mRNA expression in human luteal cells respectively.. The results show the ability of phthalates to affect luteal steroidogenesis as well as the balance between luteotrophic and luteolytic factors suggesting an interference of phthalates in human luteal function. These data may contribute to clarify the classically known impaired reproductive health observed after phthalates exposure.

Topics: Adult; Cells, Cultured; Dibutyl Phthalate; Diethylhexyl Phthalate; Dinoprost; Endocrine Disruptors; Female; Humans; Infertility, Female; Luteal Cells; Phthalic Acids; Progesterone; Reproduction; Toxicity Tests

Our research aimed to evaluate the effect of endometriosis on folliculogenesis and pregnancy, and to assess the involvement of inflammatory factors (IL1b, PGE2, PGF2α, and TGFβ2) in follicular fluid.. A total of 65 follicular fluid aspirates were collected. Concentrations of inflammatory factors (IL1b, PGE2, PGF2α, and TGFβ2) and steroid hormones (E2, progesterone, FSH, and LH) within follicular fluid as well as serum E2 and LH concentrations were measured. The mRNA expression of IL1b, Ptgs2, aromatase, and PPARγ in granulosa cells was determined. The outcome of ART was monitored and recorded.. The oocyte retrieval, rate of metaphase II oocyte, cleavage rate, effective embryo rate, and pregnancy rates of patients with endometriosis were all significantly lower than those of the control patients. In those with endometriosis, serum E2 concentrations were lower than those observed in controls. Aromatase levels in the granulosa cells of the endometriosis group were lower while concentrations of PGE2 in follicular fluid were higher than in the control group. Concentrations of PGE2, PGF2α, TGFβ2, and IL1b were significantly correlated with each other.. These results suggest that the outcomes of ART, in relation to serum E2 concentration, were adversely affected by the presence of endometriosis. Furthermore, the results supported that, among the endocrine and inflammatory factors, PGE2 within the follicular fluid impairs the number and quality of oocytes.

Topics: Adult; Aromatase; Cytokines; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Endometriosis; Estradiol; Female; Follicle Stimulating Hormone; Follicular Fluid; Granulosa Cells; Hormones; Humans; Infertility, Female; Interleukin-1beta; Luteinizing Hormone; Progesterone; Reproductive Techniques, Assisted; RNA, Messenger; Transforming Growth Factor beta2; Treatment Outcome

Anestrus is one of the most important reproductive disorders in dairy buffaloes. The clinical features of anestrus in buffaloes, however, have not been well described. The objectives of this study were to describe the causes of anestrus in buffaloes and their reproductive performance after treatment under field conditions in southern Nepal. Of 135 anestrus buffalo cows, 61.4% had true anestrus with ovarian dysfunction and 33.3% had silent ovulation. In 111 buffalo heifers, 76.6% were in true anestrus and 18.9% had silent ovulation. The duration of anestrus after calving was longer than 6 months in 83% of buffalo cows and 61.5% of the buffalo cows had durations longer than 10 months. The interval between the last breeding and diagnosis of anestrus was more than 5 months in 67.4% of cows and heifers. Treatment of anestrus with prostaglandin F(2)alpha in cows and heifers with a corpus luteum resulted in higher pregnancy rates within one (P<0.01) and two months (P<0.05) after treatment as compared with treatment with a vitamin/mineral mixture. Buffalo cows and heifers with inactive ovaries bearing a dominant follicle were also successfully treated with gonadotropin releasing hormone, resulting in higher pregnancy rate within one month after treatment (P<0.05). In conclusion, the predominant cause of anestrus in dairy buffaloes in this region was true anestrus with inactive ovaries, and the duration of anestrus after calving as well as breeding was extremely long. Routine reproductive examination and adequate hormone treatment may improve the reproductive performance of these buffaloes.

Topics: Anestrus; Animals; Breeding; Buffaloes; Corpus Luteum; Dinoprost; Female; Infertility, Female; Minerals; Nepal; Ovarian Follicle; Pregnancy; Vitamins

The objectives were to determine the effects of PGF(2alpha) treatment on the prevalence of subclinical endometritis (SCE) and fertility of dairy cows. A total of 406 Holstein cows (167 primiparous and 239 multiparous) from 5 herds were used. Uterine lavage for diagnosis of SCE, PGF(2alpha) treatment, evaluation of body condition scores (BCS), and collection of blood samples for estrous cyclicity determination were performed at 21, 35, and 49 d in milk (DIM). Polymorphonuclear cells (PMN) were quantified and thresholds for diagnosing SCE were selected by receiver operating characteristics analysis. Cows classified as having SCE at 35 DIM (>or=6.5% PMN) and 49 DIM (>or=4.0% PMN) had increased time to pregnancy; however, cows classified as having SCE at 21 DIM (>or=8.5% PMN) did not. Median days to pregnancy were delayed by 30 (151 vs. 121 d) and 40 (169 vs. 129) d for cows classified as having SCE at 35 and 49 DIM, respectively. Treatment with PGF(2alpha) did not affect the prevalence of SCE either at 35 (37.9 vs. 38.4%) or at 49 DIM (34.0 vs. 40.4%). Treatment with PGF(2alpha) did not affect time to first insemination (AI; median 76 DIM for cows treated with PGF(2alpha); 79 DIM for control. Nonetheless, PGF(2alpha) treatment increased pregnancy to first AI in all the cows (35.5 vs. 24.1%) and hazard ratio (HR) of pregnancy in cows with BCS

Topics: Animals; Cattle; Cattle Diseases; Corpus Luteum; Dinoprost; Endometritis; Female; Fertility; Infertility, Female; Insemination, Artificial; Lactation; Pregnancy; Progesterone

Repeat breeding is one of the most important reproductive disorders in buffaloes. Its etiology, however, is not well described. The aim of this study was to show the clinical features of repeat breeding buffaloes referred to infertility camps in the southern region of Nepal. Eighty-five buffaloes mated three times or more without conception were clinically examined. Sixty percent of the buffaloes were heifers. Fifty-nine percent of the buffalo cows with repeat breeding were already 10 months or more after calving. Indications of cervicitis were observed in 25% of the repeat breeders. Buffalo cows 12 months or more after calving and heifers in adequate nutritional condition were treated with either GnRH or PGF2alpha, and showed a satisfactory conception rate after treatment. Cows within 12 months post partum and heifers at a relatively younger age were treated with a vitamin/mineral mixture supplement, and this resulted in a moderate conception rate. In conclusion, the major clinical features of repeat breeding buffaloes include a large proportion of heifers, a long interval from calving to treatment, a high incidence of cervicitis, and a high or moderate response to treatment with PGF2alpha and GnRH or vitamin/mineral mixture. More attention needs to be paid to estrous detection and management of mating with bulls.

Topics: Age Factors; Animals; Breeding; Buffaloes; Dinoprost; Female; Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone; Infertility, Female; Nepal; Treatment Outcome; Uterine Cervicitis; Vitamins

Mares are occasionally encountered that consistently fail to conceive when inseminated, naturally or artificially, with fertile stallion semen in the absence of any identifiable pathology of either the structure or function of their reproductive tract.. Temporary blockage of the oviducts by accumulations of naturally occurring oviducal masses may be preventing oviducal transport of the embryo to the uterus.. Mares, with known reproductive histories, that had exhibited inexplicable failure of conception were treated by laparoscopically guided administration of PGE2-laced triacetin gel directly onto the surface of their oviducts.. Fifteen mares age 10-21 years that had exhibited inexplicable failure of conception during 1-4 years were treated, of which 14 (93%) conceived within the same or subsequent breeding season.. The high success rate of this treatment supports the tentative diagnosis of oviducal obstruction in these mares and indicates that blockage of the mare's oviducts may occur in the form of a moveable accumulation of debris rather than from permanent fibrous adhesions resulting from salpingitis.. This laparoscopic application of PGE2 to the oviducts constitutes a sound and practical method of restoring fertility in mares suffering oviducal obstruction and further studies involving the procedure are warranted.

Topics: Animals; Dinoprost; Fallopian Tubes; Female; Gels; Horses; Infertility, Female; Laparoscopy; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Rate; Reproduction

Cystic ovarian disease is an important cause of reproductive failure. The objective of this study was to evaluate transrectal ultrasonography as a diagnostic tool and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) as a therapeutic approach for ovarian follicular cysts in goats. Goats were considered to have a follicular cyst(s) if a non-echoic structure >10 mm in diameter was detected in the absence of corpora lutea (CL) in three ultrasonic examinations performed at 5-day intervals. After diagnosis (Day 0), goats with ovarian follicular cysts (n = 5) were treated with a single bolus injection of 10.5 microg synthetic GnRH followed by administration of 125 microg prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2alpha) 10 days later. Five blood samples were collected at 5-day intervals for determination of progesterone and estradiol-17beta. For detection of LH surge, blood samples were collected every 2 h. Ovulation rate was determined and pregnancy was confirmed by transrectal ultrasonography. The results showed that transrectal ultrasonography is reliable for diagnosis of ovarian follicular cysts and the mean diameter of the follicular cysts was 12.6 +/- 0.4 mm. Plasma concentrations of progesterone and estradiol-17beta at the time of diagnosis of follicular cysts (Day 0) were 0.7 +/- 0.2 ng/ml and 12.7 +/- 0.9 pg/ml, respectively. The concentration of progesterone increased to 4.0 +/- 0.5 ng/ml 10 days after administration of GnRH indicating luteinization of the ovarian follicular cysts concomitant with a decrease in the concentration of estradiol-17beta (3.5 +/- 0.4 pg/ml). Administration of GnRH to cystic goats resulted in a surge of LH within 2 h of treatment. The interval from PGF2alpha injection to the preovulatory LH surge was 62.8 +/- 1.4 h. All goats exhibited estrus 55.2 +/- 2.3 h after PGF2alpha injection and four goats out of the five ovulated. The ovulation rate was 1.5 +/- 0.3. In conclusion, results of this study suggest that transrectal ultrasonography is a reliable tool for diagnosis of ovarian follicular cysts. In addition, GnRH can be used to effectively treat ovarian follicular cysts in goats with 80% success rate.

Topics: Animals; Dinoprost; Estradiol; Estrus; Female; Goat Diseases; Goats; Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone; Infertility, Female; Luteinizing Hormone; Ovarian Cysts; Ovarian Follicle; Ovulation; Pregnancy; Progesterone; Rectum; Time Factors; Ultrasonography

Arachidonate released by various stimuli is rapidly reesterified into membrane phospholipids initiated by acyl-CoA synthetase (ACS) and subsequent acyl-transfer reactions. ACS4 is an arachidonate-preferring enzyme abundant in steroidogenic tissues and postulated to modulate eicosanoid production. Female mice heterozygous for ACS4 deficiency become pregnant less frequently and produce small litters with extremely low transmission of the disrupted alleles. Striking morphological changes, including extremely enlarged uteri and lumina filled with numerous proliferative cysts of various sizes, were detected in ACS4+/- females. Furthermore, marked accumulation of prostaglandins was seen in the uterus of the heterozygous females. These results indicate that ACS4 modulates female fertility and uterine prostaglandin production.

Topics: 6-Ketoprostaglandin F1 alpha; Animals; Chimera; Coenzyme A Ligases; Crosses, Genetic; Cysts; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Female; Genotype; Heterozygote; Infertility, Female; Litter Size; Male; Mice; Mice, Knockout; Mice, Transgenic; Prostaglandins; Restriction Mapping; Sex Ratio; Uterine Diseases; Uterus

Transcervical collection of endometrial tissue specimens is a valuable and well established tool for the diagnosis of reproductive disorders in cows, mares and women, but it is not used currently in bitches. Endometrial biopsy samples were collected by transcervical cannulation from the cranial uterine body at defined stages of the oestrous cycle using biopsy forceps. In study 1, the histology of 45 biopsy specimens taken from 23 Beagle bitches were compared with larger tissue samples collected post mortem. For further evaluation of representative biopsy specimens, the expression of oestrogen and progesterone receptors was determined. Only 31.1% of the biopsy samples taken from bitches could be evaluated and they showed stroma, capillaries, luminal epithelium, glandular ducts and apical glands; however, basal glands and myometrium were not observed. Biopsy findings were in agreement with the diagnosis of the uterine specimens concerning endometrial differentiation, inflammatory and degenerative lesions. The expression of oestrogen and progesterone receptors was slightly lower in the biopsy samples. In study 2, a total of 49 serial biopsy samples were taken from 12 Beagle bitches. In eight bitches, the manipulation resulted in a haemomucometra. Treatment with PGF2 alpha and antibiotics led to a clinical cure in five of these dogs, two of which were mated successfully during the next oestrus. Three animals had to undergo ovariohysterectomy. Owing to the small proportion of biopsy specimens that was suitable for analysis and the high risk of biopsy-related endometritis, transcervical biopsy collection cannot be recommended as a routine technique in bitches.

Topics: Animals; Anti-Bacterial Agents; Bacterial Infections; Biopsy; Dinoprost; Dog Diseases; Dogs; Endometritis; Endometrium; Estrous Cycle; Female; Immunohistochemistry; Infertility, Female; Receptors, Estrogen; Receptors, Progesterone

Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) is a major cattle pathogen responsible for a spectrum of symptoms, including reproductive failure. This study was designed to establish the effects of BVDV infection on estradiol, progesterone and PGF2alpha secretion in the cow. Seven BVDV-free cows were challenged with non-cytopathogenic BVDV (strain Pe 515: 5x10(6) tissue culture infected dose50) so that peak viremia occurred during the initial phase of luteal development in a synchronized estrous cycle. Ovulation was also synchronized in 7 sham-infected animals. Within 2 wk of inoculation, viremia, leukopenia and serum neutralizing antibodies were recorded in all of the BVDV-infected cows but not the sham-infected animals. Between Day 4 and Day 9 post estrus the BVDV-infected cows had significantly (P<0.01) lower plasma estradiol levels than the sham-infected animals. However, the BVDV infection did not alter rectal temperatures, plasma progesterone concentrations or PGF2alpha secretion 17, 18 and 19 d post estrus. These data highlight a potential causal link between BVDV viremia, endocrine dysfunction and poor fertility in the cow.

Topics: Abortion, Veterinary; Animals; Antibodies, Viral; Bovine Virus Diarrhea-Mucosal Disease; Cattle; Diarrhea Viruses, Bovine Viral; Dinoprost; Estradiol; Female; Infertility, Female; Leukocyte Count; Pregnancy; Progesterone

The objective of this study was to determine the value of using plasma concentrations of PGFM to diagnose subclinical endometritis in the dairy cow, and its relationship to subsequent fertility. A total of 274 cows between 24 to 29 d post partum was divided into 4 groups on the basis of clinical features of the uterus and ovary. Cows in Group 1 (n = 74) had a normal, involuting uterus and a CL on the ovary; cows in Group 2 (n = 51) had a normal, involuting uterus but no CL on the ovary; cows in Group 3 (n = 83) did not have a normal, involuting uterus but had a CL on the ovary; and cows in Group 4 (n = 66) did not have a normal, involuting uterus or a CL on the ovary. A blood sample was obtained from each cow on the day they were placed on the study, and plasma concentrations of PGFM and P4 were determined using RIA. Cows were artificially inseminated (AI) at the first observed estrus after Day 60 post partum, and pregnancy was determined by palpation of the uterus per rectum between 45 and 50 d postAI. Reproductive responses evaluated were conception rate to first service, days open, and percentage of cows pregnant by 90, 120, 150 and 180 d post partum. Data were analyzed using GLM procedures of SAS and a 2 x 2 factorial with contrast procedures. Polynomial regression analysis was used to determine the shape of the PGFM, P4 and fertility curves. There was no difference among mean PGFM concentrations of cows in each group. The rate of decline of plasma PGFM concentrations was lower in cows with an abnormal uterus and a CL on the ovary compared with those without a CL. A lower percentage of cows with abnormal uteri was pregnant by 90 d post partum compared with cows with normal uteri. From the results of this study, it was concluded that plasma PGFM concentrations between Days 24 to 29 post partum were not effective in identifying cows with subclinical endometritis.

Topics: Animals; Cattle; Cattle Diseases; Dinoprost; Endometritis; Female; Infertility, Female; Insemination, Artificial; Linear Models; Male; Ovary; Postpartum Period; Pregnancy; Progesterone; Radioimmunoassay; Regression Analysis; Uterus

Four experiments were performed to determine whether cooling cows during final maturation of oocytes and early embryonic development or injection of vitamin E at AI prevented adverse effects of heat stress on pregnancy rates in lactating Holstein dairy cows. In Experiment 1, cows were placed in a cooling facility containing sprinklers and forced ventilation or received shade only from 2 to 3 d before until 5 to 6 d after breeding. Although cooling had no effect on detection of estrus, pregnancy rates were increased slightly for cooled cows (8 of 50 cows; 16.0%) compared with those for cows exposed to shade only (2 of 32 cows; 6.2%). In Experiments 2 through 4, cows were administered 3000 IU of vitamin E or placebo i.m. at AI during two consecutive summers and one winter in Florida. Administration of vitamin E had no consistent beneficial effect on pregnancy rates during summer or winter. Short-term cooling improved pregnancy rates slightly in heat-stressed cows, but administration of vitamin E had no beneficial effects on pregnancy rates during heat stress. Further improvements in cooling schemes during early pregnancy and delineation of antioxidant effects are necessary before such systems become practical for improvement of fertility in heat-stressed dairy cows.

Topics: Animals; Cattle; Cattle Diseases; Cold Temperature; Dinoprost; Estrus; Female; Hot Temperature; Infertility, Female; Parity; Pregnancy; Vitamin E

Prevention of postoperative adhesion is an issue that continues to elude the abdominal and reproductive surgeon. Adhesions seem to be a result of an inflammatory process and it is well known that prostaglandins play an important role in such an event. In an attempt to improve the results of microsurgery, we have tried in this study to examine the effect of local intraperitoneal application of prostaglandins (PGE2 and PGF2 alpha) on adhesion formation in the rat after traumatizing to the uterine horn. Prostaglandins applied locally were found to increase intraperitoneal adhesion formation at the injured sites, in comparison with controls. Also, we have reported on histological examination an increased accumulation of inflammatory cells in traumatized areas. However, we didn't observe a reduced fertility in rats treated with prostaglandins because these substances induce follicular rupture by activation of proteolytic enzyme located in the follicular wall. We conclude that prostaglandins play an important role in the process of adhesion formation. Using antiprostaglandins agents could improve the outcomes of reproductive surgery.

Topics: Animals; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Female; Infertility, Female; Inflammation; Microsurgery; Ovarian Follicle; Pregnancy; Prostaglandins; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Tissue Adhesions; Uterine Diseases; Uterus

To investigate the utility of using oily contrast medium (Lipiodol; Kodama, Tokyo, Japan) to treat infertility because of mild endometriosis.. Macrophages in the peritoneal cavity of ICR mice (Japan SLC, Shizuoka, Japan) were induced by administering OK-432 to simulate the condition of the peritoneal cavity of patients with mild endometriosis, and the pregnancy rate was examined after administration of Lipiodol and/or danazol (Bonzol; Tokyo Tanabe, Tokyo, Japan). Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta), prostaglandin (PG)F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha), and PGE2 levels in the supernatant were measured after incubating macrophages of mice with Lipiodol and/or danazol.. Pregnancy rate (PR) and IL-1 beta, PGF2 alpha, and PGE2 levels.. The PR of the Lipiodol group was significantly increased compared with that in control mice. Prostaglandin F2 alpha level in the supernatant was significantly increased, whereas that of IL-1 beta was reduced after incubation with Lipiodol.. Lipiodol may elevate PGF2 alpha level and reduce IL-1 beta level in the peritoneal cavity, and this drug may increase the PR of ICR mice.

Topics: Animals; Cells, Cultured; Danazol; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Endometriosis; Female; Infertility, Female; Interleukin-1; Iodized Oil; Macrophages; Male; Mice; Mice, Inbred ICR; Peritoneal Cavity; Picibanil; Pregnancy

To examine the concentration of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha) in human follicular fluid (FF) and its effects on cultured human granulosa-lutein cells.. The concentration of TNF alpha in FF from hyperstimulated cycles and in conditioned media from cultured granulosa-lutein cells was measured by radioimmunoassay (RIA) and bioassay using L929 cells. The effects of recombinant human TNF alpha (rTNF alpha) on proliferation and production of progesterone (P) and prostaglandin (PG, PGE2, and PGF2 alpha) by cultured human granulosa-lutein cells were assessed.. In vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) program at Reproductive Medicine Unit, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Woodville, South Australia, Australia.. Twenty-five women undergoing IVF-ET for tubal factor infertility.. The concentration of immunoreactive TNF alpha in FF was 0.36 +/- 0.02 microgram/L, and there were no significant correlations between levels of TNF alpha and steroids or FF volume. Bioactivity for TNF alpha was considerably less. Immunoreactive or bioactive TNF alpha was not detected in conditioned media from granulosa-lutein cell culture. Recombinant human TNF alpha dose-dependently stimulated proliferation of cultured granulosa-lutein cells as measured by incorporation of 3H-thymidine, but in contrast to earlier reports, we were not able to demonstrate any effect of rTNF alpha on basal or human chorionic gonadotropin-stimulated P accumulation during culture periods of up to 72 hours. The accumulation of both PGE2 and PGF2 alpha was dose-dependently increased by rTNF alpha during a 48-hour incubation period. Time course studies revealed that maximal levels of both PGE2 and PGF2 alpha were reached within 12 hours of culture.. Immunoreactive and bioactive TNF alpha is present in FF. Tumor necrosis factor alpha may have a physiological role in stimulating proliferation of follicular cells and PG production at the time of ovulation and formation of the corpus luteum.

Topics: Cell Division; Cells, Cultured; Chorionic Gonadotropin; Culture Media; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Female; Follicular Fluid; Granulosa Cells; Humans; Infertility, Female; Kinetics; Luteal Cells; Ovary; Progesterone; Prostaglandins; Recombinant Proteins; Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha

The serum albumin concentration and the albumin-globulin ratio had a significant effect on the rate of repeat breeding. In repeat breeders, low concentrations were found of albumin, progesterone, phosphorus, zinc, and glucose. The glycogen content of the cervical mucus was significantly lower in the repeat breeders. Treating repeat breeders with prostaglandin F2 alpha had positive effects on the parameter values.

Topics: Animals; Blood Glucose; Breeding; Cattle; Cattle Diseases; Cervix Mucus; Dinoprost; Egypt; Female; Globulins; Glycogen; Infertility, Female; Male; Phosphorus; Pregnancy; Progesterone; Reproduction; Serum Albumin, Bovine; Zinc

Intrauterine retention of fetal bone is a rare complication of abortion that can cause secondary infertility by an unknown mechanism. We report such a case in which menstrual fluid prostanoids were measured to elucidate the possible pathophysiology. The pattern of prostanoid increases was similar to that seen in intrauterine device users.

Topics: 6-Ketoprostaglandin F1 alpha; Abortion, Induced; Adult; Bone and Bones; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Endometrium; Female; Humans; Infertility, Female; Menstruation; Pregnancy; Prostaglandins; Thromboxane B2; Ultrasonography; Uterus

Topics: Adult; Dinoprost; Dysmenorrhea; Endometriosis; Female; Humans; Infertility, Female; Prostaglandins F

Oxytocin (OT), progesterone and prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) concentrations were measured in the utero-ovarian vein (UOV) of ewes which displayed persistence of the corpus luteum (CL). During the period of expected luteolysis, the frequency of OT and PGF2 alpha pulses in the UOV was significantly (P less than 0.005 for both) lower in ewes with persistent CLs, compared with ewes that underwent normal luteal regression. In contrast, the amplitude of both OT and PGF2 alpha pulses was similar in both groups of animals. It is suggested that persistence of the CL resulted from a decreased PGF2 alpha pulse frequency, which may have arisen from a decreased frequency of stimulation by OT. In two persistent CL ewes, however, it appeared that a failure at the level of the uterus may have contributed to the observed decrease in PGF2 alpha release. Although a PGF2 alpha analogue (Lutalyse) infusion into the uterine vein of two ewes with persistent CLs failed to induced luteolysis, it did stimulate a large release of OT into the UOV. This suggests that persistent CLs maybe more resistant to PGF2 alpha and, that at day 22 post-oestrus, these CLs are capable of releasing large quantities of OT into the UOV.

Topics: Animals; Corpus Luteum; Dinoprost; Estrus; Female; Infertility, Female; Oxytocin; Progesterone; Prostaglandins F; Sheep

Topics: Adult; Complement C3; Dinoprost; Endometriosis; Female; Humans; Immunoglobulins; Infertility, Female; Prostaglandins F; Uterine Neoplasms

Topics: Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Endometriosis; Female; Humans; Infertility, Female; Prostaglandins E; Prostaglandins F

Peritoneal fluid from 35 women with endometriosis and from 34 control women was aspirated at laparoscopy and analyzed. No differences in prostanoid levels were found. The peritoneal fluid volume, macrophage concentration, macrophage content, and content of activated macrophages as measured by acid phosphatase staining were all significantly elevated in the endometriosis patients. The macrophages were incubated and the medium was added to the zona-free hamster egg sperm penetration assay. This medium caused a significant decrease in the percentage of ova penetrated in this assay. It is postulated that one of the mechanisms of infertility in women with endometriosis may involve the increased number of activated macrophages and their ability to interfere with sperm-egg interaction.

Topics: 6-Ketoprostaglandin F1 alpha; Acid Phosphatase; Ascitic Fluid; Cell Count; Dinoprost; Endometriosis; Female; Humans; Ibuprofen; Infertility, Female; Laparoscopy; Macrophage Activation; Macrophages; Male; Menstrual Cycle; Prostaglandins E; Prostaglandins F; Radioimmunoassay; Sperm-Ovum Interactions; Thromboxane B2

Although the factors involved in the pathophysiology of endometriosis are probably multiple and interrelated, prostaglandins may play an important role in the infertility of women with mild disease. In the present study, prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) and 17 beta-oestradiol were measured in the peritoneal fluid of a selected group of infertile women who had mild pelvic endometriosis (without anatomical distortion) and compared with those values in normal women who had no pelvic disease and in women with pelvic infection. Although there was a wide scatter of PGF2 alpha values, the mean (1,066 pg/ml) in the endometriosis group was significantly greater than that in the other 2 groups (542 pg/ml, normal and 688 pg/ml, pelvic infection); the increase was found in both phases of the menstrual cycle. The mean concentration of 17 beta oestradiol was markedly higher in the luteal than the follicular phase in all 3 groups; however, no significant differences were found between the groups. Interestingly, the mean value of PGF2 alpha and 17 beta-oestradiol was higher in women with endometriosis who failed to conceive than in those who became pregnant. An estimation of PGF2 alpha in the peritoneal fluid may have prognostic value in the evaluation of infertile patients, especially those with mild endometriosis or in whom the problem is unexplained.

Topics: Ascitic Fluid; Dinoprost; Endometriosis; Estradiol; Female; Follicular Phase; Humans; Infertility, Female; Luteal Phase; Pelvic Neoplasms; Pregnancy; Progesterone; Prognosis; Prostaglandins F

Elevated prostaglandin (PG) levels in peritoneal fluid have been implicated as playing a role in infertility associated with endometriosis. This study was designed to measure peritoneal fluid levels of PG and other hormones that may influence PG release. Specific hormones measured included PGF2 alpha, PGE2, TxB2, 6-keto-PGF1 alpha, estrogen, progesterone, and epidermal growth factor. Peritoneal fluid volume and levels of estrogen, progesterone, and epidermal growth factor were significantly (P less than .05) increased during the secretory, as opposed to the proliferative, phase in both groups of patients, but no significant differences in these parameters were found between patients with and without endometriosis during either the proliferative or secretory phases. Although PG levels did not vary during the menstrual cycle in either group of patients, all four prostanoids were present in significantly (P less than .05) higher concentrations in patients with endometriosis as compared with patients without endometriosis. Furthermore, increased PG levels in patients with endometriosis appear to be due primarily to an increase in PG levels during the secretory phase of the cycle.

Topics: 6-Ketoprostaglandin F1 alpha; Ascitic Fluid; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Endometriosis; Epidermal Growth Factor; Estrogens; Female; Humans; Infertility, Female; Menstrual Cycle; Pelvic Neoplasms; Progesterone; Prostaglandins; Prostaglandins E; Prostaglandins F; Radioimmunoassay; Thromboxane B2

Peritoneal fluid levels of 6-keto-PGF1 alpha, TxB2, PGE2 and PGF2 alpha were measured in 62 infertile women undergoing coelioscopy. In 10 patients with mild endometriosis, the levels of all prostanoids were significantly enhanced as compared to control group (15 infertile patients without pelvic lesion). In 5 patients with moderate endometriosis, only PGF2 alpha exhibited a significant enhancement. The results confirmed the prostanoid component alteration of peritoneal fluid in infertile women with mild or moderate endometriosis, which however not has been found by all authors. In 6 patients with chronic salpingitis, no difference was found in prostanoid levels as compared to control group. The 26 patients with pelvic adhesions were distributed in 3 groups on the criterion of easy lysed or not adhesions. In group I (not lysed adhesions, 7 patients), no difference was found in prostanoid levels as compared to control group. In group II (mixed adhesions, 13 patients), the levels of all prostanoids, particularly 6-keto-PGF1 alpha, were significantly higher than that found in control group. In group III (easy lysed adhesions, 6 patients), the levels of 6-keto-PGF1 alpha, TxB2 and particularly PGF2 alpha were significantly enhanced as compared to control group. The results of this study suggest that prostanoids are implicated in physiopathology of endometriosis and pelvic adhesions and perhaps in mechanism of the associated infertility.

Topics: 6-Ketoprostaglandin F1 alpha; Adult; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Endometriosis; Female; Humans; Infertility, Female; Pelvic Inflammatory Disease; Peritoneal Cavity; Prostaglandins; Prostaglandins E; Prostaglandins F; Salpingitis; Thromboxane B2

Thirty-nine patients with pelvic endometriosis and 45 patients with no evidence of endometriosis were entered in this study. The mean age was 29 years for each group. The volume of peritoneal fluid showed an increase towards the end of the cycle in both groups. Although the volume was higher in the endometriosis group than the control group, the difference between them was not significant. The concentration of prostaglandins F2 alpha and E2 was higher in patients with endometriosis than in the control group. The difference was significant (P less than 0.05) during days 9-16 and 17-24 for both prostaglandins, and during days 1-8 for prostaglandin F 2 alpha only. The high concentration of prostaglandins in the periovulatory and early luteal phases of the cycle may have adverse effects on tubo-ovarian function in endometriosis patients. Prostaglandin studies in peritoneal fluid are of significance during days 9-24 of the cycle when the effect of regurgitated menstrual fluid in the early phase of days 1-8 may be avoided.

Topics: Ascitic Fluid; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Endometriosis; Female; Humans; Infertility, Female; Pelvic Neoplasms; Prostaglandins E; Prostaglandins F

Topics: Anestrus; Animals; Cattle; Cattle Diseases; Dinoprost; Drug Evaluation; Endometritis; Female; Infertility, Female; Insemination, Artificial; Pregnancy; Prostaglandins F

Topics: Anestrus; Animal Husbandry; Animals; Cattle; Cattle Diseases; Delayed-Action Preparations; Dinoprost; Estradiol; Estrus; Female; Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone; Infertility, Female; Progesterone; Prostaglandins F; Vagina

Cellular components in peritoneal fluid of infertile patients with and without endometriosis were evaluated in 102 patients with Wright's-Giemsa and Papanicolaou stains. The secretory activity of these cells was studied indirectly by assaying acid phosphatase, prostaglandin (PG) F2 alpha and PGE2 and complement components C3c and C4. The results showed that macrophages and lymphocytes were the dominant cells in peritoneal fluid of these patients. These cells were significantly increased in endometriosis patients, as compared with control subjects. In addition, peritoneal fluid acid phosphatase, PGF2 alpha and PGE2, and complement components C3c and C4 were significantly increased in patients with endometriosis. These cellular changes and their activation in peritoneal fluid may explain infertility associated with endometriosis.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adolescent; Adult; Ascitic Fluid; Complement C3; Complement C3c; Complement C4; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Endometriosis; Fallopian Tube Patency Tests; Female; Humans; Infertility, Female; Lymphocytes; Macrophages; Peritoneal Neoplasms; Prostaglandins E; Prostaglandins F; Staining and Labeling

Topics: Adult; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Endometriosis; Endometrium; Female; Humans; Infertility, Female; Menstruation Disturbances; Middle Aged; Prostaglandins E; Prostaglandins F

To study the relationship between peritoneal fluid prostaglandins and infertility associated with endometriosis, we autografted endometrial or adipose tissue to the pelvic peritoneum in 21 monkeys. Peritoneal washings were collected prior to tissue transplantation and during a subsequent laparotomy performed for biopsy of the implants. Monkeys were mated and peritoneal washings were collected during three subsequent cycles. The content of prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) in adipose tissue autografts was significantly less (p less than 0.05) than in endometrial tissue autografts. The PGF2 alpha concentration in peritoneal fluid increased significantly (p less than 0.05) only in monkeys that developed moderate or severe endometriosis. Prostaglandin E levels in tissue autografts or peritoneal fluid were similar in all animals. Infertility in monkeys with endometriosis was associated with luteinized unruptured follicles, luteal phase defects, and pelvic adhesions. Although PGF2 alpha concentrations in peritoneal washings obtained during these cycles were increased in comparison with those of ovulatory cycles, the difference was not significant. A relationship between spontaneous abortion and prostaglandin concentrations in peritoneal fluid was not established.

Topics: Animals; Body Fluids; Dinoprost; Endometriosis; Female; Infertility, Female; Macaca fascicularis; Menstrual Cycle; Peritoneum; Pregnancy; Prostaglandins E; Prostaglandins F

Pelvic fluid was collected from 66 women undergoing laparoscopic sterilization or diagnostic laparoscopy for evaluation of infertility. Cells consisting mainly of macrophages were separated, counted, and subjected to histochemical staining for acid phosphatase and myeloperoxidase as markers of cell irritation. Pelvic fluid was analyzed for acid phosphatase, neutral protease, and extractable prostaglandin E2 and F2 alpha. A higher proportion (46% versus 15%) of the macrophages in the group with mild endometriosis exhibited positive staining for acid phosphatase as compared with the fertile group. Pelvic fluid from patients with mild endometriosis had higher acid phosphatase and neutral protease activity than that from fertile patients (p less than 0.05, p less than 0.01). The content of either prostaglandin was not significantly higher in the endometriosis group as compared with the fertile group. The results suggest that mild endometriosis is associated with activation of macrophages and release of active substances into peritoneal fluid that may be responsible for the associated infertility.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Endometriosis; Endopeptidases; Female; Humans; Infertility, Female; Macrophages; Neprilysin; Pelvic Neoplasms; Prostaglandins E; Prostaglandins F

Prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) metabolite (13,14-dihydro-15-keto PGF2 alpha) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) were assayed in the cul-de-sac fluid aspirated from 15 patients with endometriosis, in saline peritoneal washings of 5 patients with unexplained infertility, and in 5 control subjects. The fluid from the cul-de-sac of patients with endometriosis showed wide variations in the concentrations of PGF2 alpha metabolite and PGE2. There was no correlation between the concentration of these prostaglandins (PGs) and the stage of the cycle. Saline peritoneal washings from patients with unexplained infertility had significantly higher concentrations of PGF2 alpha metabolite than the control subjects. The concentration of PGE2 in the saline peritoneal washings was higher in the group with unexplained infertility than in the control group; however, the difference was not significant. The concentration of PGF2 alpha metabolite and PGE2 in the peritoneal saline washings from patients with unexplained infertility were no different from the concentrations of these PGs in the peritoneal fluid (PF) from patients with endometriosis. PG concentration in PF of infertile patients with or without endometriosis is a new variable for evaluation in these patients.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Ascitic Fluid; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Endometriosis; Female; Humans; Infertility, Female; Prostaglandins E; Prostaglandins F