No abstract

Implantation of a pregnancy within a Caesarean fibrous tissue scar is considered to be the rarest form of ectopic pregnancy and a life-threatening condition. We conducted a computer search of the English literature of all studies since 2002 to gather updated data on the outcome of such pregnancies. Sixty-six new cases were reported since 2002, possibly reflecting the increasing number of Caesareans currently being performed as well as the more widespread use of the transvaginal scan allowing their earlier detection. Analysis of these women's obstetric history revealed that those at risk for pregnancy in a Caesarean scar appear to have a history of dilatation and curettage, placental pathology, ectopic pregnancy, and IVF. Twenty-one out of 39 for which this information was available (54%) had undergone multiple (> or =2) Caesareans and 13 had previous dilatation and curettage, which might also be an associated factor. We review and discuss the features of contemporary work-ups, including a high index of awareness, a detailed history and a skillful ultrasound examination for an early and accurate diagnosis. Healthcare professionals should be familiar with the possibility of untoward sequelae and how a modern work-up can help in guiding conservative options, thus reducing morbidity and preserving fertility.

Thyroid cancer exists in several forms. Differentiated thyroid cancers include papillary and follicular histologies. These tumors exist along a spectrum of differentiation, and their incidence continues to climb. A number of advances in the diagnosis and treatment of differentiated thyroid cancers now exist. These include molecular diagnostics and more advanced strategies for risk stratification. Medullary cancer arises from the parafollicular cells and not the follicular cells. Therefore, diagnosis and treatment differs from differentiated thyroid tumors. Genetic testing and newer adjuvant therapies has changed the diagnosis and treatment of medullary thyroid cancer. This review will focus on the epidemiology, diagnosis, work-up, and treatment of both differentiated and medullary thyroid cancers, focusing specifically on newer developments in the field.

The women at risk for pregnancy in a Caesarean section scar appear to be those with a history of placental pathology, ectopic pregnancy, multiple Caesarean sections and Caesarean breech delivery. Heightened awareness of this possibility and early diagnosis by means of transvaginal sonography can improve outcome and minimize the need for emergency extended surgery.

Background The impact of recent medical advances on disease presentation, extent of surgery, and disease specific survival (DSS) for patients with medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is unclear. Methods We used the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results registry to compare trends over three time periods, 1983–1992, 1993–2002, and 2003–2012. Results There were 2,940 patients diagnosed with MTC between 1983 and 2012. The incidence of MTC increased during this time period from 0.14 to 0.21 per 100,000 population, and mean age at diagnosis increased from 49.8 to 53.8 (p<0.001). The proportion of tumors ≤1cm also increased from 11.4% in 1983–1992, 19.6% in 1993–2002, to 25.1% in 2003–2012 (p<0.001), but stage at diagnosis remained constant (p=0.57). In addition, the proportion of patients undergoing a total thyroidectomy and lymph node dissection increased from 58.2% to 76.5% during the study period (p<0.001). In the most recent time interval, 5-year DSS improved from 86% to 89% in all patients (p<0.001), but especially for patients with regional (82% to 91%, p=0.003) and distant (40% to 51%, p=0.02) disease. Conclusions These data demonstrate that the extent of surgery is increasing for patients with MTC. DSS is also improving, primarily in patients with regional and distant disease.