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Biomedical subjects

H Fernandez

Publications and source records attributed to H Fernandez.

At least 217 records · Page 12Linked to original sources
PubMed1993

[Weak transplacental passage of prazosin (Alpress) during the third trimester of pregnancy. 3 cases].

Prazosin is a selective peripheral alpha 1-adrenoceptor antagonist used in the treatment of hypertension and heart failure. This drug has the disadvantage of relatively short terminal half-life (of the order of 2 to 3 hours); its wide use has been limited by the number of daily administrations. Recently, a new formulation of prazosin has been commercialized i.e., prazosin-gastrointestinal therapeutic system (P-GITS) given once daily in doses of either 2.5 or 5.0 mg (i.e., Alpress). The potential suitability of this controlled-release system as treatment of hypertension during pregnancy seems important. However, the possible transplacental passage of PRZ was unknown. We aimed to study this phenomenon in three pregnant women given a once daily 5 mg dose of P-GITS during the third trimester of pregnancy. There is a slight transplancental passage of prazosin i.e., of the order of 10 to 20% of the maternal concentration level determined at the same time. Concerning neonatal outcome, no problems were noted and the babies left the hospital in good health. Prazosin-GITS offers a new approach to control and improve the outcome of hypertensive therapy during pregnancy.

Adult↗
PubMed1993

Fewer PGE2 and PGF2 alpha receptors in brain synaptosomes of newborn than of adult pigs.

PGE2 and PGF2 alpha decrease cerebral metabolism in the adult but increase it in the newborn. The present study was done using synaptosomes from newborn and adult pigs to find out whether these diverse cerebral effects of prostanoids are a consequence of newborn synaptosomes containing fewer or no EP2 receptors for PGE2 (mediating cAMP increase and in turn cerebral metabolism decrease) and PGF2 alpha receptors [mediating IP3 (inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate) increase and in turn cerebral metabolism decrease]. It was found that maximum binding values (fmol/mg protein) of [3H]PGE2 and [3H]PGF2 alpha were, respectively, only 11.6 +/- 0.8 and 8.6 +/- 1.4 on newborn synaptosomes compared with 41.8 +/- 1.8 and 31.2 +/- 4.8 on adult tissues. EP1 receptors were virtually absent in newborn and adult preparations. Practically all the PGE2 receptors on newborn synaptosomes were EP3 subtype, whereas adult brain synaptosomes contained both EP2 and EP3 subtypes; this was indicated by the ability of M&B 28,767, a specific EP3 receptor agonist, to cause 100% displacement of [3H]PGE2 binding to synaptosomes of the newborn but only 51% in the case of the adult. Also, PGE2, 11-deoxy PGE1 (a nonselective EP2 and EP3 agonist) and M&B 28,767 (an EP3 agonist) caused comparable decreases in cAMP formation in synaptosomes from the newborn, whereas in those from the adult, PGE2 and 11-deoxy PGE1 increased and M&B 28,767 decreased cAMP production. PGF2 alpha markedly increased IP3 synthesis in synaptosomes of the adult but not of the newborn.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Aging↗
PubMed1993

[Clinical pharmacokinetics of ceftriaxone during the third trimester of pregnancy and study of its transplacental passage in two patients].

The purpose of this study was to determine ceftriaxone (CTX) pharmacokinetics during pregnancy. Six women (26 to 34 years of age) admitted for chorioamnionitis (n = 4) or pyelonephritis (n = 2) were included. Gestational age ranged from 29 1/7 to 40 5/7 weeks. Initial intravenous treatment was ceftriaxone (CTX) (2 g/d), tobramycin (3 mg/kd/d) and ornidazole (1 g/d). Blood specimens were collected during the first treatment day (D1) to determine the primary pharmacokinetic profile of CTX then at steady-state (D7) to look for systemic accumulation. In two patients, transplacental passage of CTX was evaluated by determining the ratio of fetal and maternal concentrations (F/M) at delivery. Plasma CTX levels were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography. A noncompartmental method was used for pharmacokinetic analysis. Each patient served as her own control. Data obtained on D1 and D7 were compared using Wilcoxon's test (values of p < or = 0.05 were considered significant). A group of healthy controls given a similar regimen was also used. 1) Tolerance was outstanding, recovery was achieved in every case, and there were no premature deliveries. 2) No evidence of accumulation of CTX was found and kinetic profiles on D1 and D7 were not significantly different. 3) Mean kinetic parameter values were closely similar to those found in healthy volunteers. 4) Residual levels of total CTX and free CTX determined after 24 hours were greater than the minimal inhibitory concentration (MICs) of susceptible organisms. 5) The usual recommended dosage of CTX (2 g/d) proved adequate during the third trimester of pregnancy.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Adult↗
PubMed1993

[The value of RU-486 (mifepristone) in medical indications of the induction of labor at term. Results of a double-blind randomized prospective study (RU-486 versus placebo)].

One hundred and twenty term women (> 37.5 weeks amenorrhea) with unripe cervixes (Bishop < 4) and with a clear clinical indication for labour induction were randomized to receive either mifepristone (RU 486) or placebo. The patients' regimens consisted of 200 mg of mifepristone on days 1 and 2 over an observation period of 4 days, with labour induction planned for day 4. Within 12 hours after taking the first tablet, fetal distress was diagnosed in 8 patients (3 in the Mifepristone group and 5 in the control group), who underwent immediate cesarean section. These 8 patients could not therefore participate in our survey and have been excluded from the final results. Forty one patients had spontaneous onset of labour, 31 in the mifepristone group and 10 in the control group (p < 0.001). Forty seven patients needed cervical maturation with prostaglandin, 32 from the control group and 13 from the mifepristone group (p < 0.001). Thirteen patients in each group had cervical maturation sufficient for classical labour induction. We noted that patients delivering vaginally needed significantly lower amount of oxytocin in the mefepristone group and that the mean time interval between day 1 and the onset of labour was also significantly shorter in this group. The high cesarean section rate (32%), which is equivalent in both the placebo and the treated groups, may be attributed to the fact most of the patients in this survey had high risk pregnancies. There was no difference in the occurrence of fetal distress during labour in the 2 groups. Neonatal parameters were similar in both groups. These results establish mifepristone as an induction agent for the initiation of labour in term women. Though more studies are needed, Mifepristone has shown itself to be safe and appropriate in situations where labor has to be induced in term women.

Adult↗
PubMed1992

[Pregnancy in patients with essential thrombocythemia. Three cases].

The authors report 3 pregnancies in 3 patients with essential thrombocythemia. In the 3 cases, the course of the pregnancy was successful, with normal delivery in 2 cases, and premature delivery of a live fetus because of an abruptio placentae in the third case. From these 3 cases and a review of the literature, the authors analyse the fetal and maternal risks of pregnancy in these patients and the potential usefulness of preventive treatments (platelet antiaggregating drugs, anticoagulants). Besides, in these 3 cases a steadily decrease in blood platelet counts was observed during pregnancy with a nadir just before delivery followed by a sharp increase in the days following delivery. These findings may give some useful information on the regulation of thrombopoiesis.

Adult↗
PubMed1992

[Appendectomy, a risk factor for ectopic pregnancy].

As part of a case-control study of ectopic pregnancy, we evaluated the potential etiological role of appendectomy. Previous appendectomy was associated with an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy (adjusted Odds-ratio: 2.2; 95 percent CI: 1.5-3.2). Ruptured appendix did not appear to be more strongly associated with an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy than unruptured appendix. Such confounding factors as absence of pathological diagnosis of appendicitis and relationship between age of appendectomy and age of first sexual intercourse are discussed. This study provides an additional argument in favor of laparoscopy in childbearing age to diagnose appendicitis and salpingitis.

Adolescent↗
PubMed1992

Serum concentrations of local anaesthetics following intraperitoneal administration during laparoscopy.

The present study is a comparison of the pharmacokinetics of four local anaesthetics injected double blind in the right subdiaphragmatic area during outpatient laparoscopy performed under standard general anaesthesia in 28 young women. 80 ml of one of the following solutions was injected: Group A 0.5% plain lidocaine (n = 7), Group B 0.5% lidocaine with 1/320.000 adrenaline (n = 8), Group C 0.5% lidocaine with 1/800.000 adrenaline (n = 7), and Group D 0.125% bupivacaine with 1/800.000 adrenaline (n = 6). Blood samples were collected over 360 min from an iv catheter and serum concentrations were measured by gas chromatography. No adverse effects occurred in the study period. In Group A (plain lidocaine), Cmax was significantly higher and tmax significantly earlier than in Groups B and C (lidocaine with adrenaline). A toxic level was not found after either solution in any patient. The intraperitoneal use of doses of 400 mg lidocaine or 100 mg bupivacaine for perioperative analgesia was safe and solutions of lidocaine containing adrenaline appeared to pose even less risk than plain solutions.

Adult↗
PubMed1992

Controlled preparation of the endometrium with exogenous oestradiol and progesterone: a novel regimen not using a gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist.

In women having inactive ovaries, controlled preparation of the endometrium has been achieved with exogenous oestradiol and progesterone. We report on the feasibility and practicality of using a similar regimen for timing transfers of cryopreserved embryos in women whose ovaries have not been suppressed. A total of 91 women having cryopreserved embryos from previous in-vitro fertilization (IVF) attempts received 4 mg/day of oestradiol valerate, starting on cycle day 1 of spontaneous (n = 85) or induced (n = 6) menstruation. A single blood sample was obtained on cycle day 14 for the measurement of plasma progesterone, oestradiol and luteinizing hormone (LH). Vaginal administration of micronized progesterone (300 mg/day) was started on day 15. Cryopreserved embryos were transferred on day 17 or 18 provided that day 14 plasma progesterone remained < or = 0.5 ng/ml, thereby confirming the absence of spontaneous ovulation prior to the administration of exogenous progesterone. Out of 91 cycles studied, plasma progesterone was found to be elevated (> 1 ng/ml) in only three (3.2%). Of the 88 scheduled transfers, 31 did not take place because no embryo survived thawing. In the remaining 57 cycles, 116 embryos were transferred resulting in 10 pregnancies, giving pregnancy and embryo implantation rates of 17.5 and 8.6% respectively. When a positive beta human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) titre was obtained, supplementation with oral oestradiol and vaginal progesterone was continued until placental autonomy was achieved. Of the 10 pregnancies, five (50%) were lost during the first trimester (biochemical, n = 1; miscarriage, n = 3; ectopic, n = 1).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Abortion, Spontaneous↗
PubMed1992

[Pregnancy after renal transplantation. 27 patients and review of the literature].

We report the course and outcome of 30 pregnancies in 27 renal transplant patients between 1970 and 1988. Delay between transplantation and pregnancy was 7.3 +/- 4.8 years. There were 1 twin pregnancy and 3 successive pregnancies. Immunosuppressive regime was prednisone and azathioprine in 28 cases and cyclosporine in 2. Hypertension (33%), preterm delivery (74%) and premature rupture of the membranes (33%) were the main complication encountered. The cesarean section rate was 73%, mainly because of these complications. Twenty-seven patients delivered of 31 healthy children. There was no congenital anomaly. Mean birth weight was 2.640 +/- 645 g. In utero growth retardation occurred in 7 cases (23%). Pregnancy after renal transplantation is of good prognosis for both the mother and child but the course of pregnancy can be complicated by hypertension, preterm birth and growth retardation.

Adult↗
PubMed1992

[Pregnancy after hepatic transplantation. 17 pregnancies].

The number of orthotopic liver transplantations (OLT) is increasing and longterm survival is improving. More women recipients may choose to become pregnant. We report a one-center experience with the course and outcome of 17 pregnancies in 17 liver transplant out of 675 OLT since 1985. 10 women delivered of 10 healthy infants at 38 +/- 1.5 week's gestation. There was no preterm delivery and the mean birth weight was 2.990 +/- 370 g, birth weight was adequate for gestational age in any case. Four cesarean sections were performed for obstetrical indications. No congenital anomalies occurred in the children. Hypertension occurred in 2 out of twelve patients and appeared as the main complication to deal with. There was one case with graft function impairment at 37 weeks' gestation. One uncomplicated pregnancy is ongoing at 29 weeks' gestation. There were 4 spontaneous and 2 therapeutic abortions for impaired liver function. Pregnancy is successful in a large proportion of these patients but must be planned and managed as high-risk situations by an obstetrician and a specialist of the liver transplant. Pregnancy should be advised against in patients with poor liver function or active viral infection; a 12 months interval from OLT to pregnancy is since to be the minimal requirement. Post-transplant immunosuppressive therapy consisted of azathioprine, corticosteroids and ciclosporin A, and was maintained throughout pregnancy. Genetic counselling should be provided when the primary liver disease is inherited. This being said, as shown by the results of our study and those reported in the literature, pregnancy is not only feasible but also successful in a large proportion of OLT recipients.

Abortion, Spontaneous↗
PubMed1992

Labor induction in women at term with mifepristone (RU 486): a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the efficacy and safety of mifepristone as an induction agent for the initiation of labor or as a cervical ripening agent in women at term. METHODS: Our study group contained 120 women at term (after 37.5 weeks' amenorrhea) who had clear clinical indications for labor induction. They were randomized to receive either 200 mg of mifepristone or placebo on days 1 and 2 of a 4-day observation period, with labor induction planned for day 4. Eight patients, three treated with mifepristone and five receiving placebo, had to be excluded from the survey because they required cesareans for medical reasons (fetal distress or maternal complications) less than 12 hours after taking the first tablet. RESULTS: Forty-one subjects entered spontaneous labor, 31 treated with mifepristone and ten in the control group (P < .001). Forty-five needed cervical maturation with prostaglandins on day 4, 13 of whom had received mifepristone and 32 of whom had been given placebo (P < .001). Thirteen women treated with mifepristone and 13 who had taken placebo had mature cervices sufficient for classic labor induction with oxytocin and amniotomy. Patients who delivered vaginally needed a much lower amount of oxytocin when mifepristone had been given, and the mean time interval between day 1 of the survey and the onset of labor was also significantly shorter in this group. CONCLUSION: Although more studies are needed, we have found mifepristone to be a safe, efficient, and suitable induction agent for initiation of labor in women at term.

Adult↗
PubMed1992

Necropsy findings in a fetus with a 46,XY,dic t(X;21)(p11.1;p11.1).

We report the findings in a fetus terminated because of multiple abnormalities diagnosed on ultrasound, including asymmetry of the limbs, a hypoplastic diaphragm, unilateral duplex kidney with a double ureter, unilateral cystic kidney, and congenital heart disease including total pulmonary atresia. Cytogenetic studies showed an unbalanced translocation of the long arm of the X chromosome to chromosome 21, resulting in a 46,XY,dic t(X;21)(p11.1;p11.1) karyotype. The cytogenetics were confirmed by non-isotopic in situ hybridisation using probes specific to pericentric alphoid repeats. Parental chromosomes were normal indicating this to be a de novo translocation. It is suggested that the inactivation of the long arm of the X chromosome has resulted in an effective monosomy for chromosome 21.

Abnormalities, Multiple↗
PubMed1991

Tubal schistosomiasis as a cause of ectopic pregnancy in endemic areas?; a report of three cases.

Tubal schistosomiasis as a cause of ectopic pregnancy is uncommon. We are reporting three cases of tubal pregnancies in which the histopathological examination showed a bilharzial disease of the tube. Schistosomiasis to Schistosoma haematobium occurs in Gabon with an incidence of 8% to 44% of the adult population, and schistosoma ova have been found in 2.5% of histopathological examinations in removal of any genital tissue. Even if schistosomiasis was not the main causative agent of infertility, in this population which has the lowest fertility index in subsaharan Africa, it might impair an already altered tubal function by salpingitis. We suggest that parasitic examination should be made as a part of the management program of infertility and after an ectopic pregnancy in endemic areas.

Adult↗