Obs and Gynae Flashcards
Outline the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis in females.
Hypothalamus releases GnRH which stimulates the Anterior Pituitary to produce and release LH and SH
FSH binds to granulosa cells to drive follicle development in the ovaries, oestrogen and inhibin secretion
LH binds to theca cells to produce testosterone
At what level does Inhibin inhibit FSH at?
Anterior pituitary
At what level does oestrogen inhibit the HPG axis?
Hypothalamus
What is the most common form of oestrogen in the body?
17-beta oestradiol
Where is progesterone produced?
Corpus luteum - following ovulation
At what point of gestation does progesterone production site switch?
Placenta at 10 weeks
Which hormone has a role in thermoregulation?
A. Oestrogen
B. LH
C. FSH
D. Progesterone
D
What is the relationship between body fat and puberty in young girls?
Body fat = WAT = aromatase which produces oestrogen
BMI»_space;> = precocious puberty e.g. PCOS
BMI «< = delayed puberty e.g. Anaemia; Anorexia
What staging system may be used in female puberty?
Tanner Staging
What hormonal changes occur during puberty?
Oestrogen increase
GnRH
FSH
LH
What is the event determining the phases of the menstrual cycle?
Ovulation
Follicular phase (1-14)
Luteal phase (14-28)
What follicular transition does FSH catalyse?
Secondary follicle to Antral follicle (Graafian follicle)
What hormone is responsible for ovulation?
LH causes the dormant follicle to release an ovum
What structure becomes the corpus luteum?
The follicle releasing the ovum becomes the corpus luteum, severing high levels of progesterone
Which structure is responsible for ßhCG release early on in pregnancy?
Syncytiotrophoblast
What is the structure of the primordial follicle?
Pregranulosa cells surround with a layer of basal lamina
What are the layers of the primary follicle?
3 layers:
- Oocyte
- Zona pellucida
- Granulosa cells
- Theca cells
what type of epithelium is present in a primary follicle?
Simple Cuboidal Epithelium - secreting into the zona pellucida
What is the outer layer of a primary follicle?
Theca layer - theca externa (CT) and theca interna (androgen hormones)
Outline the physiology of ovulation.
The LH surge results in LH binding to the theca externa which causes CT and SMC to contract which results in the follicle rupturing
What layers of the follicle does the sperm penetrate to fertilise the egg?
Corona radiata and zona pellucida
Which part of the blastocyst binds to the endometrium?
The syncytiotrophoblast
What are the layers of the chorion?
Cytotrophoblast
Syncytiotrophoblast
Outline the process of embryo development.
The morula becomes a blastocyst. The blastocyst comprises of an embryo blast, a blastocoele and trophoblast.
The syncytiotrophoblast layer (of the trophoblast) implants into the endometrium.
The embyroblast (ICM) splits into two sacs of the yolk sac and amniotic sac. The embryonic disc separates these two areas.
5 weeks gestation, embryonic disc develops into a foetal pole with 3 layers: ectoderm, mesoderm and endoderm
6 weeks, foetal heart develops (mesoderm) and begins to beat. The spinal cord and muscles develop.
At 8 weeks, all major organs have begun to develop
Which of the following is not a structure derived from the endoderm?
A. Pancreas
B. Thyroid
C. Liver
D. Kidneys
D - these are a mesodermal structure
Which of the following is not of endodermal origin?
A. Duodenum
B. Liver
C. Lungs
D. Heart
D
Which of the following is not a mesodermal structure?
A. Heart
B. Bone
C. Blood
D. Nervous system
D
List 3 structures of ectodermal origin.
Hair
Nails
Teeth
CNS
What cells become the placenta?
Chorion frondosum - cells located near connecting stalk of developing embryo
What structure is the umbilical cord derived from?
A. Chorion frondosum
B. Mesoderm
C. Yolk sac
D. Connecting stalk
D
What is the pathophysiology of pre-eclampsia in embryological development?
The formation of lacunae involves trophoblast invasion of the endometrium which results in spiral arteries breaking down to form lacunae.
Blood flows into lacunae via uterine arteries, drained by uterine veins.
Improper lacunae formation results in pre-eclampsia with elevated SVR in spiral arteries thus rise in maternal blood pressure
State 5 functions of the placenta.
Respiration: oxygen supply via uterine arteries and umbilical vein. HbF has higher affinity cf adult Hb thus O2 dissociation curve shifted to LHS.
Nutrition: glucose, vitamins, minerals (or other substances…harmful)
Excretion: urea and creatinine
Endocrine: hCG; Oestrogen; progesterone
Immunity: Abs
What side effects may progesterone cause in pregnancy?
Potent vasodilator
Relaxation of uterine muscle
GORD (relaxation of cardiac sphincter)
GI dysmotility
Headache
Strengthen pelvic wall muscles
Prevent lactation
Immunosuppression (prevent maternal rejection of trophoblast)
A mother is experiencing recurrent genital herpes, would her foetus be protected and why?
In recurrent genital herpes, the mother is producing antibodies to the HSV which may cross the placenta and protect the baby.
This immunity is not conferred in the absence of reinfection to the mother as Abs are not being produced.
A 34 y/o F patient (G3P2) is pregnant (G32+4). Her PMHx consists of asthma and rheumatoid arthritis.
However, she reports an improvement in her joint pain.
Explain why this may be.
In pregnancy, the anterior pituitary secretes increased ACTH, prolactin and MSH.
ACTH elevation increases cortisol and aldosterone secretion which can partially alleviate symptoms of autoimmune conditions
Why may linea nigra and melasma occur in pregnancy?
Increased MSH from the anterior pituitary results in pigmentation of the skin
Which of the following is not a cardiovascular change during pregnancy?
A. Increased plasma volume
B. Decreased peripheral vascular resistance
C. Varicose veins
D. Decreased cardiac output
D - CO is increased
Which of the following is not a renal change in pregnancy?
A. Increased eGFR
B. Increased aldosterone
C. Decreased protein excretion
D. Physiological hydronephrosis
C - increased proteinuria (<0.3g/24 hours)
Which of the following is not a haematological change in pregnancy?
A. Erythropoeisis
B. Increased fibrinogen
C. Increased white blood cells
D. Normal ALP
D - ALP may increase up to x4 due to placental secretion
Which of the following is not a dermatological change observed in pregnancy?
A. Striae gravidarum
B. Melasma
C. Palmar erythema
D. Jaundice
D - may indicate obstetric cholestasis
If the cervix is 7cm dilated, what stage of pregnancy are they at?
A. Second
B. Third
C. First
D. Fourth
C - <10cm = stage 1
If the placenta has not been delivered, what stage of pregnancy is the lady in?
A. First
B. Second
C. Third
D. None of the above
B
What supportive measures may be used to manage Braxton-Hicks contractions?
Hydration
Relaxing
Which of the following statements is false?
A. The latent phase is from 0-3cm of cervical dilation with irregular contractions
B. The active phase is from 3-7cm cervical dilation with regular contractions
C. The transition phase occurs from 7-10cm dilation with strong and regular contractions
D. The latent phase progresses at 1cm per hour
D - the latent phase is ‘late’ thus slower, at 0.5cm/hour
What are the three Ps of the second stage of labour?
Passenger> Size; attitude (posture); lie and presentation
Passage: size + shape of pelvis
Power: strength of uterine contractions
What is the difference between a complete breech presentation and a frank breech presentation?
In a complete breech, the hips and knees are flexed (cannonball position) whilst in a frank breech the hips are flexed and the knees are extended (bottom first)
What are the cardinal movements of labour?
Engagement
Descent
Flexion
IR
Extension
ER
Expulsion
How can you characterise descent?
Descent can be determined by position of baby’s head in relation to maternal ischial spines during descent phase (cm)
-5 = high up in pelvic inlet
0 = head at ischial spines
+5 = foetal head descended
What is the indication for active management of the third stage of labour?
What does this involve?
Haemorrhage
60 minute delay of placental delivery
Deliver of IM Oxytocin to stimulate myometrial contraction + umbilical cord traction
Which of the following is not a cause of secondary amenorrhoea?
A. Cushing’s Disease
B. Contraception
C. Low body weight in the 20s
D. Imperforate hymen
D
Which of the following is not a cause of secondary amenorrhoea?
A. Cushing’s Disease
B. CAH
C. Low body weight in the 20s
D. PCOS
B
Which of the following is not a cause of primary amenorrhoea?
A. Congenital malformation of genital tract
B. Contraception
C. CAH
D. Imperforate hymen
B
Which of the following is an unlikely cause of IMB?
A. STI
B. Malignancy
C. Ectropion
D. Tampon insertion
D - unlikely to cause bleeding between periods. Would be inserted during period and not likely to cause trauma resulting in bleeding
Give 3 causes of dysmenorrhoea.
Copper coil Fibroids Endometriosis PID STI Malignancy (cervical/ovarian)
Give 3 causes of postcoital bleeding.
Trauma
Atrophic vaginitis
STI
Malignancy
Give 10 causes of pelvic pain in a female.
IBS IBD Prolapse Pelvic adhesions Appendicitis Dysmenorrhoea Mittelschmerz PID UTI Ectopic pregnancy Ovarian torsion Endometriosis
Give 5 causes of pruritus vulvae.
STI Irritants - soaps, underwear Candidiasis Eczema Lichen sclerosus (white plaques and itch) Stress Vulval malignancy Urinary/faecal incontinence
How may amenorrhoea be classified?
Primary (no menstruation by 15 + secondary sexual characteristics OR no menstruation by 13 with no secondary sexual characteristics)
Secondary: cessation for 3-6 months (normal periods) or 6-12 (oligomenorrhoea)
What is the initial investigation to conduct in a 30 year old female presenting with amenorrhoea?
A. Gonadotrophins
B. ßhCG
C. Prolactin
D. Androgen levels
B - pregnancy until proven otherwise
Which of the following is not a hypogonadotropic hypogonadism?
A. Hypopituitarism
B. Cystic fibrosis
C. Turner’s Syndrome
D. Kallman Syndrome
C - this is a hypergonadotropic hypogonadism due to gonads failing to respond to gonadotrophin stimulation
What clinical features are associated with Kallman Syndrome?
Anosmia + Amenorrhoea
Which investigations may be used in a patient with amenorrhoea?
Pregnancy test FBC U+Es Anti-TTG/anti-EMA (Coeliac) FSH/LH TFTs IGF-I (GH deficiency) Testosterone (PCOS; Androgen insensitivity; CAH) Genetic testing (Turner's syndrome) XR (constitutional delay) Pelvic-US MRI-Brain
How may you medically manage a Prolactinoma?
DA agonists to suppress PL secretion e.g. Bromocriptine
How often are withdrawal bleeds required in women with PCOS and why?
3-4 months to reduce risk of endometrial hyperplasia and endometrial cancer
Done via medoxyprogesterone (14 days) or COCP regularly
What are the clinical features of premenstrual syndrome?
anxiety
stress
fatigue
mood swings
bloating
breast pain
How can you manage premenstrual syndrome?
Supportive: sleep; exercise; smoking cessation; frequently and balanced meals
+
Medical: COCP; SSRI
What phase of the menstrual cycle is premenstrual syndrome experienced?
Luteal phase, prior to endometrial breakdown
A 34 year old woman is presenting with menorrhagia for the 3/12. She has had the same partner for the last 12 years and is monogamous. She uses barrier contraception and has no other symptoms.
PV examination is unremarkable.
Her pregnancy test is negative. Her bloods are unremarkable as are swabs.
What is your differential?
Dysfunctional uterine bleeding
How may menorrhagia be managed?
Decide on whether contraception is required.
Required:
- IUS (mirena coil)
- COCP
- LARC with progesterone
Not required:
- Mefenamic acid 500mg TDS (if pain)
- TXA (no pain)
What surgical management of menorrhagia exists?
Balloon thermal ablation/Endometrial ablation
Hysterectomy
Which ethnic minority is associated with uterine fibroids?
Afro-caribbean women
Why may polycythaemia be a clinical feature of uterine fibroids?
Ectopic EPO production
What is the gold-standard investigation to confirm Uterine fibroids?
A. Surgical exploration
B. TV-US
C. Transabdominal Ultrasound
D. Clinical examination
B
What is the gold-standard management of menorrhagia secondary to fibroids?
A. Ullipristal
B. NSAIDs
C. LNG-IUS
D. Uterine artery embolisation
C
What treatment may be used to shrink/remove fibroids?
Medical: Gorsorelin
±
Surgical: Myomectomy; Hysteroscopic endometrial ablation; Hysterectomy; Uterine artery embolisation
What are the RFs of red degeneration?
2nd/3rd trimester pregnancy
Large leiomyoma (>5cm)
What is the management of a uterine fibroid that is 4cm?
Uterine fibroids >3cm requires a referral to a gynaecologist
Supportive: NSAIDs; Mefenamic acid (pain); TXA (no pain)
+
Medical: Mirena coil; COCP
±
Surgical: Myomectomy; Hysterectomy; Uterine artery embolisation
What are the complications of fibroids?
Menorrhagia continued - iron deficiency anaemia Reduced fertility Pregnancy complications Constipation Urinary outflow obstruction UTIs Red degeneration Torsion Malignancy - leiomyosarcoma
What are the clinical features of red degeneration of fibroids?
N/V
Severe abdominal pain
Low-grade fever
Tachycardia
What is the gold-standard investigation for endometriosis?
Laparoscopy
Give 5 clinical features of endometriosis.
Chronic pelvic pain
Dysmenorrhoea
Deep dyspareunia
Subfertility
Urinary symptoms (dysuria; urgency; haematuria)
Dyschezia
Tender nodularity in posterior vaginal fornix and visible vaginal endometriosis lesions may be observed
What is the first line management of endometriosis?
NSAIDs/Paracetamol
COCP/Progesterone
When should a patient be referred to gynaecology for endometriosis?
What may they do?
Failed analgesia/hormonal Tx or fertility concerns
Medical: GnRH analogues
or
Surgery: Laparoscopic excision; Laser ablation
A 42 year old lady G3P2 presents with painful menstruation and heavy bleeding for 8/12. She is on no contraception, has one partner, has no discharge or pruritus. She reports no risky behaviour.
O/E she has an enlarged boggy uterus.
What is your DDx?
A. Fibroids
B. Endometriosis
C. Adenomyosis
D. Menopause
C
What is the gold-standard diagnosis of adenomyosis?
Histological examination as shows endometrial tissue in the myometrium
What are the associations of adenomyosis?
Infertility Miscarriage Pre-term birth SGA PPROM Malpresentation LUTS PPH
When is contraceptive recommended in menopause?
12 months following last period if >50
24 months following last period if <50 years
What are the clinical features of menopause?
Change in menstruation - oligomenorrhoea; amenorrhoea
Vasomotor symptoms - hot flushes; night sweats
Urogenital changes - vaginal dryness and atrophy; urinary frequency
Psychological - mood change
OP
IHD
How is menopause diagnosed?
Absence of period for 12 months with the presence of perimenopausal symptoms and the absence of an unlikely diagnosis
How is menopause managed?
Supportive: exercise; weight management; stress reduction; sleep; vaginal lubricant; self-help
+
Medical: topical/TD oestrogen (if uterus present); oral oestrogen (if hysterectomy);
SSRIs
Tx other Sx
Why is oral oestrogen contraindicated in women without a TAH?
Risk of endometrial cancer
What are the risks associated with HRT?
VTE
Stroke
CHD
Breast cancer
Ovarian cancer
Endometrial cancer
Risk can be mitigated with topical/transdermal HRT
What difference does tapering HRT compared to a sudden reduction in HRT make?
Gradual reduction (tapering) reduces risk of recurrence in short-term but long-term no difference in symptom control
When should a woman be referred to secondary care?
She should be referred to secondary care if treatment has been ineffective, if there are ongoing side effects or if there is unexplained bleeding.
A woman asks what the causes of her postmenopausal bleeding may be. What do you tell her?
What investigations would you conduct?
Numerous causes for postmenopausal bleeding, more commonly vaginal atrophy, HRT side effect, endometrial hyperplasia, trauma, bleeding disorders
Or more worryingly, endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer or vulval cancer.
Hx + CEx
Ix:
- Urgent referral if >55 years
- FBC
- CA-125
- TV-US (>5mm thickness or high clinical suspicion)
- Endometrial biopsy (hysteroscopy or aspiration biopsy)
When is the defined period of perimenopause?
Symptomatic onset to 12 months following the last period
What are the long term complications of menopause?
Reduced oestrogen levels thus impact on BMD and atherosclerosis so:
Osteoporosis
Ischaemic Heart Disease
How is menopause managed?
Manage with supportive (lifestyle) changes, HRT and non-HRT - largely treating the symptoms of menopause
Supportive: Regular exercise; weight loss; stress coping mechanisms; counselling
+
Medical: HRT; vaginal oestrogen; SSRIs
What are the indications for HRT?
Vasomotor symptoms such as flushing, insomnia and headaches
Premature menopause
What is the benefit of using Tibolone as HRT?
Both oestrogenic and progesterogenic activity with androgenic activity also
What route of HRT is preferable in a woman at risk of VTE?
Transdermal route
What are the contraindications of HRT?
History of breast cancer
Current breast cancer
Oestrogen-sensitive cancer
Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding
Untreated endometrial hyperplasia
What are the risks of HRT?
VTE - no increased risk with transdermal
Stroke
CHD - combined HRT may be associated with slightly increased risk
Breast cancer - risk of dying not increased
Ovarian cancer
CVD + Cancer
Mnemonic: HRT is associated with the 2 C’s
What is premature ovarian insufficiency?
Reduction in oestrogen and elevated FSH/LH prior to 40 years.
1% prevalence
Give 5 causes of premature ovarian insufficiency.
Idiopathic (most common - 50%)
Iatrogenic: Bilateral oophorectomy; Radiotherapy; Chemotherapy
Infection e.g. Mumps; TB; CMV
Autoimmune conditions: Thyroid; T1DM; Coeliac; Adrenal insufficiency
Genetic: Turner’s Syndrome
What type of hormonal disturbance is seen in premature ovarian insufficiency?
A. Hypergonadotropic hypogonadism
B. Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism
C. Hypergonadotropic hypergonadism
D. No change
B - Hypogonadism results in lock of negative feedback on the pituitary gland, thus HPG axis is accelerated leading to excess GnRH with subsequent LH and FSH produced
Which of the following is not a clinical feature of premature ovarian insufficiency?
A. Oligomenorrhea
B. Vaginal dryness
C. Hot flushes
D. Pregnancy
D
How is premature ovarian insufficiency managed?
HRT - treat like menopause
What is the diagnostic criteria for Premature Ovarian Insufficiency?
Younger than 40 years
Menstrual symptoms
Elevated FSH - >25IU/L on two consecutive samples 4 weeks apart
What is Premature Ovarian Insufficiency associated with?
CVD
Stroke
Osteoporosis
Cognitive impairment
Dementia
Parkinsonism
What is the pathophysiology regarding Premature ovarian insufficiency and Dementia?
Oestrogen has beneficial effects on the brain in a cellular and molecular manner thus reduced oestrogen may compromise these effects.
∆ Synaptic plasticity
Cerebral blood flow
Anti-oxidative effect
Anti-atherogenic effect - improves endothelial cell function; reduces SMC proliferation and reduces inflammation
What is the pathophysiology regarding Premature Ovarian Insufficiency and Parkinsonism?
Oestrogen has a beneficial effect on neurological functioning at the cellular, molecular and tissue level. A reduction in these, reduces the neuronal functioning.
Reduced protection against neurotoxic substances
Reduced anti-oxidative effects
Reduced neurotrophic factors
Reduced protection of dopaminergic neurones
What diagnostic criteria is used in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome?
Rotterdam Criteria:
- Multiple cysts (>12 with 2-9cm or 1 >9cm)
- Oligoovulation/Anovulation
- Hyperandrogenism (acne/hirsutism)
What are the clinical features of PCOS?
- Oligomenorrhoea/Amenorrhoea
- Anovulation thus Infertility
- Obesity
- Hirsutism
- Acne
- Hair loss in a male pattern (androgenic alopecia)
Other:
- Insulin resistance/Diabetes mellitus
- Acanthosis nigricans
- Dyslipidaemia
- OSA
- Metabolic syndrome
- Sexual problems
- Mood disorder
Give 3 other causes of hirsutism.
Iatrogenic: Testosterone; Anabolic steroids; Glucocorticoids; Ciclosporin; Phenytoin
Ovarian/Adrenal tumours
Cushing’s Syndrome
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia
What is the pathophysiology regarding insulin resistance and androgen secretion in PCOS?
Insulin resistance results in hyperinsulinaemia due to increased pancreatic secretion. The excess insulin can promote androgen release from ovaries and adrenal glands. Additionally insulin depresses SHBG from the liver.
1) Increased androgens
2) Reduced SHBG (thus increased FAI)
Calculate the free androgen index of a patient with:
Total testosterone = 200
SHBG = 20
FAI = (T/SHBG) x 100
= (200/20) x 100 = 10%
Normal can be 0.18-7%
What is the gold-standard investigation in PCOS?
TVUS
> 12 cysts of 2-9cm
or
1 cyst >10cm
What radiographic find may be seen in PCOS?
What imaging modality is this usually seen on?
“String of pearls” sign seen on TVUS
What is the screening test for diabetes mellitus in PCOS?
What are the criteria?
OGTT with 75g glucose bolus then measure 2 hours later
Impaired fasting glucose = 6.1-6.9mmol/L before glucose drink
Impaired glucose tolerance = 7.8-11.1mmol/L
Diabetes = >11.1mmol/L
How is PCOS managed?
Largely managing symptoms and risk reduction
Supportive: weight loss; diet management; exercise; smoking cessation; anti-hypertensives; statins
± BMI > 30
- Orlistat
± Infertility
- Weight reduction
- Clomiphene (SERM)
- Letrozole (aromatase inhibitor)
- IVF
- Laparoscopic drilling
± Hirsutism
- Co-cyprindiol
- Topical eflornithine
- Laser hair removal
- Finasteride
± Acne
- COCP (Co-cyprindiol)
What are the options for risk reduction of endometrial hyperplasia/cancer in PCOS?
Mirena coil - progestogen secretion
Cyclical progestogen (medroxyprogesterone acetate 10mg OD for 14 days)
COCP
What should be done in a woman with extended gaps (>3/12) or abnormal bleeding prior to pelvic ultrasound?
What is an abnormal finding?
In order to assess endometrial thickness, cyclical progestogen such as medroxyprogestorone acetate 10mg PO OD 14 days should be used prior to TVUS
Abnormal finding = >10mm
Finding of >10mm warrants a biopsy
How long is co-cyprindiol used for and why?
Used for 3 months usually then stopped due to risk of VTE
What are the clinical features of ovarian cysts?
Can be an incidental find - asymptomatic
Pelvic pain
Bloating
Abdominal fullness
Palpable pelvic mass
Symptoms related to the cyst
Give the types of Ovarian cysts and their key features.
Follicular cyst (thin wall and empty) Corpus luteum (delayed menstruation)
Serous cystadenoma (looks like a serous carcinoma; bilateral 20%)
Mucinous cystaednoma (large; rupture may cause psuedomyxoma peritonei)
Dermoid cyst (teratoma, derived from germ cell - % torsion)
Sex cord/Stromal tumour
Endometrioma (chocolate cyst)
State 5 RFs for Ovarian malignancy.
Increasing age Post-menopausal Increased number of ovulations Obesity HRT Smoking Breastfeeding (reduces risk) BRCA1 / BRCA2
Which tumour marker is used for Ovarian cancer?
Ca125
Give 5 causes of raised Ca125.
Endometriosis Fibroids Adenomyosis Pelvic infection Liver disease Pregnancy
Which set of women with an ovarian cyst need no further investigation?
Premenopausal with <5cm cyst that is a simple, ovarian cyst
State the criteria for simple ovarian cyst management based on size in premenopausal women.
<5cm will resolve in 3 cycles
5-7cm requires yearly US-monitoring and gynaecology referral
> 7cm requires referral and MRI/surgical evaluation
What is the referral criteria of a cyst in a postmenopausal woman?
Urgent referral to gynaecology
Functional cyst less likely as circulating hormones are less
Which of the following is least commonly associated with ovarian cysts?
A. All of the below
B. Pseudomyxoma peritonei
C. Haemorrhage
D. Cushing’s disease
A
What are the clinical features of Meig’s Syndrome?
Pleural effusion
Ascites
Ovarian fibroma
Give 3 RFs for Ovarian Torsion
Ovarian mass
Pregnancy
Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome
PCOS
Reproductive age
What is the gold-standard diagnosis of an ovarian torsion?
Laparoscopic surgery
How is an ovarian torsion managed?
Laparoscopic surgery: Detorsion ± Oophorectomy
What is the gold-standard diagnosis for Asherman’s Syndrome?
Hysteroscopy
How is Asherman’s Syndrome managed?
Dissection
Relate the pathophysiological cellular change to the clinical features of ectropion.
Elevated oestrogen levels (COCP/premenopausal) are associated with metaplasia of cervical epithelia.
Simple columnar epithelium migrates inferiorly, replacing previously Stratified squamous epithelia.
The simple columnar epithelia is predominantly for secretory function, thus more fragile. This results in vagina discharge and post-coital bleeding
How is cervical ectropion managed?
Only problematic bleeding refer for cauterisation or cold coagulation via colposcopy
Explain the pathophysiology of a Nabothian cyst.
Simple columnar epithelia of the endocervix produces cervical mucus. When the squamous epithelium blocks the mucus-secreting columnar epithelium, mucous aggregates to form a cyst.
What are the clinical features of a Nabothian Cyst?
Mnemonic: Nabothian causes Nae Bother
Incidental find
Small (2-3cm), white/yellow bump near the Os
How is a Nabothian cyst managed?
Diagnosis assured: assurance
Diagnosis uncertain: colposcopy/referral ± Excised/Biopsy
How can you categorise a pelvic organ prolapse?
Anterior vaginal wall prolapse: Cystocoele/Urethrocoele
Posterior vaginal wall prolapse: Rectocoele/Enterocoele
Total uterine prolapse
Give 5 RFs for pelvic organ prolapse.
Non-obstetric vs Obstetric RFs
SVD Macrosomia Multiple births Prolonged labour Surgery
Obesity
Spina bifida
CT diseases
What is the management of a pelvic organ prolapse?
Supportive: Weight loss; reduce caffeine; exercise; Pelvic floor exercises (stress); Pelvic training (urgency); Pessaries
+
Medical: Oestrogen
±
Surgery: Sacrocolpopexy; Uteroplexy; Sacrohysteropexy
+ Tx symptoms
How do you grade a pelvic organ prolapse?
Pelvic organ prolapse quantification (POP-Q) System
Grade 0 = normal
Grade 1 = 1cm from introits
Grade 2 = 1cm either side
Grade 3 = 1cm outside
Grade 4 = full descent with eversion of vagina
What are the 3 types of urinary incontinence?
Urgency
Stress
Mixed
Overflow
How can you clinically assess the strength of pelvic muscle contraction?
Modified Oxford Grading system in a bimanual examination.
0 = no contraction 1 = flicker 2 = weak 3 = moderate, with resistance 4 = good, with resistance 5 = strong contraction, firm squeeze and drawing inwards
What may urodynamic testing comprise of?
Cystometry
Uroflowmetry
Leak point pressure
Post-void residual bladder volume
Video urodynamic testing
What is the MOA of Mirabegron?
ß3 agonist, stimulating SNS and raising blood pressure - hypertension risk
What is the management of urge urinary incontinence?
Supportive: Reduce fluids; Reduce caffeine; Bladder retraining
+
Medical: Oxybutynin; Tolterodine; Mirabegron
±
Surgical: Botulinum type A toxin; Sacral nerve stimulation; Urinary diversion
What is the management of stress urinary incontinence?
Supportive: Caffeine reduction; reduced fluids; weight loss; Pelvic floor exercises
+
Medical: Duloxetine
±
Surgical: Colposuspension; Intramural urethral bulking; Tension-free Vaginal Tape
Outline the pathophysiology of atrophic vaginitis.
The epithelial lining of the vagina and urinary tract responds to oestrogen by becoming thicker, more elastic and producing secretions. As women enter the menopause, oestrogen levels fall, resulting in the mucosa becoming thinner, less elastic and more dry. The tissue is more prone to inflammation. There are also changes in the vaginal pH and microbial flora that can contribute to localised infections.
How is atrophic vaginitis managed?
Supportive: Vaginal lubricant
+
Medical: Topical oestrogen
Where is a bartholin’s gland located?
Either side of posterior part of vaginal introitus
How is a Bartholin’s cyst managed?
Supportive: hygiene; warm compress ± Biopsy
± Abscess
Medical: ABX
+
Surgical: word catheter; marsupialisation
What are the clinical features of Lichen Sclerosus?
Chronic inflammation with plaques, excoriations and thickened skin
Itching Soreness (worse at night) Skin tightness Painful sex Erosions Fissures Koebner phenomenon (worse from trauma)
Porcelain white Shiny Tight Thin Raised
How is Lichen Sclerosus managed?
Topical steroids - clobetasol propionate 0.05% OD for 4/52 - then reduce frequency
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Emollients
What are the complications of lichen sclerosus?
Squamous cell carcinoma of vulva (5%)
Pain and discomfort
Sexual dysfunction
Bleeding
Narrowing of vaginal/urethral openings
When might you consider the risk of FGM?
Pregnant women with FGM with a possible female child
Siblings or daughters of women or girls affected by FGM
Extended trips with infants or children to areas where FGM is practised
Women that decline examination or cervical screening
New patients from communities that practise FGM
What are the complications of FGM?
Pain Bleeding Infection Urinary retention Urethral damage
UTI Dysmenoorhoea Dyspareunia Infertility Psychological issues Reduced engagement with healthcare
How do you manage FGM?
Report to police if u18
Social services/paediatrics/gynaecology/counselling
Surgery: De-infibulation surgery (if type 3 FGM)
Where is the female reproductive system derived from?
What hormone dictates this?
Mullerian ducts (paramesonephric ducts)
No Y chromosome thus no SRY to code for TDF, reduced T and remains with Wolffian ducts degenerate
State 3 congenital structural abnormalities in Gynae.
Bicornuate Uterus (two uteruses - heart shape)
Imperforate hymen (primary amenorrhoea)
Transverse vaginal septa (perforate or imperforate)
Vaginal hypoplasia/agenesis (failure of Mullerian ducts to develop
How is Androgen insensitivity syndrome transmitted?
X-linked recessive
What genotype is a patient with Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome?
A. XO
B. XX
C. XY
D. XXY
C
How may a patient with androgen insensitivity syndrome present?
Inguinal hernia
Primary amenorrhoea
Female phenotype externally (no testosterone receptor gene)
Ambiguous genitalia
Raised LH
N/Raised FSH
N/raised T (for a male)
Raised E (for a male)
How is androgen insensitivity syndrome managed?
MDT input
Bilateral orchidectomy
Oestrogen therapy
Vaginal dilators/vaginal surgery
A 30 year old lady G3P2 presents with PV bleeding at 8+4 in her pregnancy. The bleeding is less than her usual menstruation. The cervical os is closed.
What type of miscarriage is this?
A. Threatened
B. Missed
C. Inevitable
D. Incomplete miscarriage
A
Before 24 weeks, usually 6-9 weeks
Complicates up to 25% pregnancies
A 30 year old lady G3P2 presents with painless PV bleeding at 8+4 in her pregnancy. The bleeding is less than her usual menstruation. The cervical os is closed. US shows no foetal heart rate with no embryonic foetal part.
What type of miscarriage is this?
A. Threatened
B. Missed
C. Inevitable
D. Incomplete miscarriage
B
A 30 year old lady G3P2 presents with painful PV bleeding at 8+4 in her pregnancy. The bleeding is more than her usual menstruation. The cervical os is open.
What type of miscarriage is this?
A. Threatened
B. Missed
C. Inevitable
D. Incomplete miscarriage
C
A 30 year old lady G3P2 presents with pain PV bleeding at 18+4 in her pregnancy. The bleeding is less than her usual menstruation. The cervical os is open. US shows some PoC in the uterus.
What type of miscarriage is this?
A. Threatened
B. Missed
C. Inevitable
D. Incomplete miscarriage
D
What is an absolute contraindication for injectable progesterone contraception?
Current breast cancer
When is external cephalic version conducted?
36 weeks
What is the most common form of Cervical Cancer?
Squamous cell cancer (derived from the ectocervix) ≈ 80%
Which serotypes of HPV are associated with cervical cancer?
HPV-16; HPV-18
Which of the following is the greatest risk factor for Cervical Cancer?
A. Smoking
B. COCP
C. High parity
D. HPV-18
D - others are all risk factors also
State 5 RFs for Cervical Cancer.
HPV-16; HPV-18 - produce oncogenes E6 (inhibits p53) and E7 (inhibits RB suppressor gene) High parity HIV Lower socioeconomic status COCP Early first intercourse Numerous sexual partners
What is the pathophysiology regarding E6 protein and cervical cancer?
Inhibits p53 tumour suppressor gene
What is the pathophysiology regarding E7 protein and cervical cancer?
E7 protein inhibits Rb tumour suppressor gene
How is CIN diagnosed?
Colposcopy (and biopsy)
What are the grades of CIN? State them.
CIN I = mild dysplasia affecting 1/3 thickness
CIN II = moderate dysplasia, affecting 2/3 thickness of epithelial layer
CIN III = severe dysplasia, likely to progress to cancer if untreated (“cervical carcinoma in situ”)
What is the difference between dysplasia and dyskaryosis?
Dysplasia is abnormal changes in cells/tissue whereas dyskaryosis is a change in the cells
When is a woman invited for cervical screening?
25+
25-49 = 3 years
50-65 = 5 years
Mnemonic: 3 years in your 30s, 5 years in your 50s
Who may follow a different cervical screening routine? Give 3 examples.
HIV
Over 65 if not had one since 50
Immunosuppressed women
Pregnant women (3 months post-partum)
What are the benefits of LBC for smears?
Reduced rate of inadequate smears
Increased sensitivity and specificity
When is the best time to take a cervical smear?
A. Pre-cycle
B. Mid-cycle
C. End of cycle
D. Any time
B
A 32 year old female attends for her routine smear. She has an uncomplicated PMHx. She is fit and healthy, working as a receptionist in the local law firm.
The sample is HPV negative.
What should happen now?
A. Test in 3 years
B. Test in 5 years
C. Colposcopy
D. Examine cytology of cells
A - return to routine recall
A 52 year old female attends for her routine smear. She has an uncomplicated PMHx. She is fit and healthy, working as a receptionist in the local law firm.
The sample is HPV negative.
What should happen now?
A. Test in 3 years
B. Test in 5 years
C. Colposcopy
D. Examine cytology of cells
B - return to routine follow up
When should a patient on the test of cure pathway, following CIN be tested?
Test again in 6 months
A 32 year old female attends for her routine smear. She has an uncomplicated PMHx. She is fit and healthy, working as a receptionist in the local law firm.
The sample is HPV positive.
What should happen now?
A. Test in 3 years
B. Test in 5 years
C. Colposcopy
D. Examine cytology of cells
D
A 32 year old female attends for her routine smear. She has an uncomplicated PMHx. She is fit and healthy, working as a receptionist in the local law firm.
The sample is HPV negative. The cytology is abnormal, showing high-grade dyskaryosis.
What should happen now?
A. Test in 3 years
B. Test in 5 years
C. Colposcopy
D. Examine cytology of cells
C
A 32 year old female attends for her routine smear. She has an uncomplicated PMHx. She is fit and healthy, working as a receptionist in the local law firm.
The sample is HPV positive. The cytology is normal.
What should happen now?
A. Test in 12 months
B. Test in 5 years
C. Test in 3 years
D. Examine cytology of cells
A - test in 12 months
A 32 year old female attends for her routine smear. She has an uncomplicated PMHx. She is fit and healthy, working as a receptionist in the local law firm.
The sample is HPV positive. Cytology is normal. A test 12 months later shows hrHPV negative.
What should happen now?
A. Test in 3 years
B. Test in 5 years
C. Colposcopy
D. Examine cytology of cells
A - return to norma screening
A 32 year old female attends for her routine smear. She has an uncomplicated PMHx. She is fit and healthy, working as a receptionist in the local law firm.
The sample is HPV positive. Cytology is normal. A test 12 months later shows hrHPV positive.
What should happen now?
A. Test in 3 years
B. Test in 5 years
C. Colposcopy
D. Test in 12 months
D - repeat test again in 12 months
A 32 year old female attends for her routine smear. She has an uncomplicated PMHx. She is fit and healthy, working as a receptionist in the local law firm.
The sample is HPV positive. Cytology is normal. A repeat test 12 months ago then showed HPV positive. A further 12 months on, she is HPV positive.
What should happen now?
A. Test in 3 years
B. Test in 5 years
C. Colposcopy
D. Examine cytology of cells
C
A 32 year old female attends for her routine smear. She has an uncomplicated PMHx. She is fit and healthy, working as a receptionist in the local law firm.
The sample is HPV positive. Cytology is normal. A test 12 months later shows hrHPV positive. 12 months from this hrHPV is negative again.
What should happen now?
A. Test in 3 years
B. Test in 5 years
C. Colposcopy
D. Examine cytology of cells
Return to normal recall of 3 years (for her age)
How is CIN treated?
LLETZ
/
Cryotherapy
What staging system is used in cervical cancer?
Figo
IA = confined to cervix and <7mm wide
IB = cervix, clinically visible or >7mm
II = tumour extends beyond cervix but not pelvic wall
III = extension of tumour beyond pelvic wall
IV = extends beyond pelvis or involve bladder or rectum
Give 5 side effects of radiotherapy.
Short term: Diarrhoea Vaginal bleeding Radiation burns Dysuria Tiredness/weakness
Long term:
Ovarian failure
Fibrosis of bowel/vagina/skin/bladder
Lymphoedema
An acetowhite finding may suggest?
Occurs in cells with increased nuclear: cytoplasmic ratio (more nuclear material) such as CIN and cervical cancer when stained with Acetic Acid
How does Schiller’s iodine test work in Colposcopy?
Iodine solution stains cervical cells - healthy cells go a brown colour.
Abnormal areas do not stain
Outline the LLETZ procedure.
Loop biopsy under local anaesthetic during colposcopy procedure. Wire with diathermy (electrical current) used to remove abnormal epithelial tissue on the cervix.
Post-procedure may involve bleeding for several weeks.
How may cervical cancer be managed?
CIN: LLETZ/Cone biopsy
Stage 1b-2a: Radical hysterectomy and lymph node removal with chemo and radiotherapy
Stage 2b-4a: Radiotherapy and chemotherapy
Stage 4b = MDT treatment
What is pelvic exenteration?
operation that may be used in advanced cervical cancer. It involves removing most or all of the pelvic organs, including the vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, bladder and rectum. It is a vast operation and has significant implications on quality of life.
What is the role of Bevacizumab in ovarian cancer?
monoclonal antibody against VEGF-A which reduces neovascularisation, reducing cancer growth
What is the most common type of endometrial cancer?
Adenocarcinoma (80%)
Which of the following is not a risk factor for endometrial cancer?
A. Early menopause
B. Earlier onset of menstruation
C. Nulliparity
D. PCOS
A - late menopause is a RF
What proportion of endometrial hyperplasia goes on to develop endometrial cancer?
10%
Outline the pathophysiology regarding obesity and endometrial cancer?
WAT produces oestrogen in postmenopausal women via aromatase which converts androgens to oestrogen thus stimulates endometrial cells and increases the risk of endometrial hyperplasia
Why may Tamoxifen increase your risk of endometrial cancer?
anti-oestrogenic effect on breast tissue, but an oestrogenic effect on the endometrium. This increase the risk of endometrial cancer.
State 3 protective factors against endometrial cancer.
Smoking
Multiple pregnancies
Mirena coil
COCP
What is the referral criteria for endometrial cancer?
Postmenopausal bleeding
Unexplained vaginal discharge >55 years
Visible haematuria and raised platelets/anaemia/hyperglycaemia
What is a normal endometrial thickness?
<4mm
What is the staging system used in Endometrial cancer?
Outline it
FIGO
Stage 1 = confined to uterus
Stage 2 = invades cervix
Stage 3 = invades ovaries, fallopian tubes, vagina or lymph nodes
Stage 4 = invades bladder, rectum or beyond pelvis
How is endometrial cancer managed?
Stage 1/2
Surgery: TAH + BSO
Other: MDT treatment Radical hysterectomy (remove pelvic lymph nodes and surrounding tissue) Radiotherapy Chemotherapy Progesterone
What is the most common type of ovarian cancer?
Epithelial thus adenocarcinoma
State 5 RFs of Ovarian Cancer.
Smoking BRCA1 BRCA2 Early menarche Late menopause Nulliparity
Which tumour marker is representative of Ovarian Cancer?
Ca125
What may give an elevation in Ca125?
Ovarian cancer Endometriosis Menstruation Benign ovarian cysts PID Pregnancy Uterine fibroids Liver disease
State 5 subtypes of epithelial cell tumours of the ovary.
Serous tumours Clear cell tumours Endometrioid tumours Mucinous tumours Undifferentiated tumours
What is a Krukenberg tumour?
How do they appear on histology?
GI metastasis to the Ovary
Signet ring
What may be protective against Ovarian cancer?
COCP
Breastfeeding
Pregnancy
Why may an ovarian tumour cause hip pain?
What type of pain would this be? Specifically.
Ovarian tumour compressing the obturator nerve
Neuropathic due to neuropraxia.
What requires a 2 week urgent referral in the context of suspected ovarian cancer?
Ascites Pelvic mass (unexplained) Abdominal mass
How is the risk of malignancy regarding ovarian mass calculated?
Risk of malignancy index (RMI):
- Menopausal status
- US findings
- Ca125 level
How is an ovarian mass managed?
MDT management - surgery/chemotherapy
What is the most common type of vulval cancer?
Squamous cell carcinoma
State 3 RFs for vulval cancer.
Advanced age (>75 years old)
Immunosuppression
HPV
Lichen sclerosis
What proportion of lichen sclerosis results in vulval cancer?
5%
What are the types of vulval intraepithelial neoplasia?
High grade Vulval intraepithelial neoplasia - associated with HPV (35-50 years)
Differentiated Vulval intraepithelial neoplasia - associated with lichen sclerosus (50-60)
How may vulval cancer present?
Vulval lump Ulceration Bleeding Pain Itching Lymphadenopathy in the groin
What classification system is used in vulval cancer?
FIGO system
How is vulval cancer managed?
MDT decision
Wide local excision ± Groin lymph node dissection ± Chemo ± Radiotherapy
Which of the following pathogens does not cause bacterial vaginosis?
A. G vaginalis
B. M hominis
C. Prevotella
D. N gonorrhoea
D
What is the most common cause of bacterial vaginosis?
A. G vaginalis
B. M hominis
C. Prevotella
D. N gonorrhoea
A
What is the pathophysiology of Bacterial vaginosis?
Lactobacilli usually produce lactic acid which drops pH <4.5 however a reduction in lactobacilli results in proliferation of other bacteria which allows other bacteria to multiply
Which of the following is not a risk factor for bacterial vaginosis?
A. IUS
B. Smoking
C. Vaginal douching
D. Multiple sexual partners
A - an IUD aka Copper coil is a risk factor for Bacterial vaginosis
What type of cells are seen on microscopy in Bacterial vaginosis?
Clue cells - epithelial cells that have bacteria stuck inside them
What is the diagnostic criteria of Bacterial vaginosis?
Outline it.
Amsel criteria
3/4 needed White discharge Clue cells Vaginal pH >4.5 Positive whiff test (add KOH causing fishy odour)
What is the management of bacterial vaginosis?
Metronidazole 7/7
What is the management of bacterial vaginosis in pregnancy?
Oral metronidazole
What should be avoided when taking Metronidazole?
Avoid alcohol due to metronidazole interaction with alcohol to cause a disulfiram-like reaction with N/V and flushing with potential for shock
Give 3 RFs for Thrush.
Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus
Increased oestrogen
Immunosuppression
Broad-spectrum ABX
How can you differentiate between bacterial vaginosis and candidiasis?
Vaginal pH swab - lower in candidiasis
What type of swab should be used in Thrush?
Vulvovaginal swab - charcoal swab
How is thrush managed?
Topical/Pessary antifungals e.g. Clotrimazole - cream, pessary
Oral antifungal (if complicated or refractory)
What advice should be given to sexually-active women taking topical antifungals for Thrush?
Use contraception for at least 5 days after use as anti fungal creams can damage latex condoms and prevent spermicides
What is the difference between charcoal swabs and NAAT swabs?
Charcoal allows for microscopy, culture and sensitivity (MCS) whereas NAAT looks to amplify the genetic material (RNA or DNA) which is used for chlamydia and gonorrhoea.
NAAT can be performed from VVS; ECS or FPU
How is chlamydia managed?
Doxycycline 100mg BDS for 7 days
How do you manage chlamydia in pregnancy?
Erythromycin 500mg BDS for 7 days
Give 5 complications of Chlamydia.
PID Chronic pelvic pain Infertility Ectopic pregnancy Epididymo-orchitis Conjunctivitis Lymphogranuloma venereum Reactive arthritis
Preterm delivery PROM Microsomia Postpartum endometritis Neonatal conjunctivitis e.g. Trachoma
A male presents with a painless ulcer on the penis. NAAT show chlamydia.
What stage of lymphogranuloma venereum has he got?
A. Primary stage
B. Secondary stage
C. Tertiary stage
D. None of the above
A
A male presents with a lymphadenitis in the inguinal region. NAAT show chlamydia.
What stage of lymphogranuloma venereum has he got?
A. Primary stage
B. Secondary stage
C. Tertiary stage
D. None of the above
B
A male presents with a proctitis and tenesmus. NAAT show chlamydia.
What stage of lymphogranuloma venereum has he got?
A. Primary stage
B. Secondary stage
C. Tertiary stage
D. None of the above
C
Outline the stages of lymphogranuloma venereum.
Primary = penile painless ulcer
Secondary = lymphadenitis
Tertiary = proctitis/proctocolitis
How is lymphogranuloma venereum managed?
A. Doxycycline 100mg BDS for 7 days
B. Erythromycin 500mg BDS for 7 days
C. Erythromycin 500mg ODS for 14 days
D. Doxycycline 100mg BDS for 21 days
D - recommended by BASHH
Erythromycin, azithromycin and ofloxacin are alternatives
What is the morphology of gonorrhoea?
Gram-negative diplococcus bacteria
What is Reiters Syndrome?
Urethritis
Conjunctivitis
Arthralgia/Arthritis
How is gonorrhoea managed?
IM Ceftriaxone 1g STAT
Single dose of oral ciprofloxacin 500mg
When is a test of cure done in gonorrhoea?
14 days
Give 5 complications of gonorrhoea.
Conjunctivitis Arthritis Urethritis Septic arthritis Endocarditis Disseminated gonococcal infection
PID
Chronic pelvic pain
Infertility
Fitz-Hugh-Curtis Syndrome
Epididymo-orchitis
Prostatitis
Urethral strictures
Chorioamnionitis Premature delivery PROM Ophthalmia neonatorium Sepsis
What is the key feature of infection with M genitalium?
Urethritis
What is the management of Mycoplasma genitalium infection?
Doxycycline 100mg BDS for 7 days + Azithromycin 1g STAT with 500mg for 2/7
What may be used in complicated infections with Mycoplasma genitalium?
Moxifloxacin
Which of the following is not a risk factor for Pelvic Inflammatory Disease?
A. Multiple sexual partners
B. Middle aged
C. IUD
D. Not using barrier contraception
B - younger age
What are the clinical features of PID?
Pelvic/abdominal pain Abnormal vaginal discharge Abnormal bleeding Dyspareunia Fever Dysuria
Pelvic tenderness
Cervical motion tenderness
Inflamed cervix
Purulent discharge
How is PID managed?
Oral metronidazole + Oral doxycycline + IM Ceftriaxone
What tissue is affected in Fitz-Hugh-Curtis Syndrome?
Pelvic inflammation and infection of Glisson’s Capsule of the liver - resulting in adhesions of liver and peritoneum
What type of pathogen is Trichomoniasis caused by?
A. Bacteria
B. Virus
C. Fungi
D. Protozoa
D
Which of the following is not a potential consequence of Trichomonas?
A. Bacterial vaginosis
B. PID
C. Pre-term delivery
D. Reduced HIV risk
D - risk is increased due to vaginal mucosa damage
What cervical find is characteristic of Trichomonas?
Strawberry cervix
Which vaginal discharge is most likely to represent Trichomonas?
A. White
B. Green
C. Yellow-green
D. Translucent
C
How is Trichomonas managed?
Metronidazole
Which strain of Herpes is most likely to cause Genital herpes?
HSV-1
Which nerve ganglia are affected in genital herpes?
Sacral nerve ganglia
A patient presents with a painful skin lesion on a finger. They are known to be positive for HSV-2.
What is the likely lesion called?
Herpetic whitlow - painful skin lesion on digits
How is genital herpes managed?
Supportive: Saline bathing; Analgesia; Topical anaesthetic
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Medical: Oral aciclovir