Contrast-enhanced ultrasound for ovary assessment in a murine model: preliminary findings on the protective role of a gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogue from chemotherapy-induced ovarian damage

• DOI: 10.1186/s41747-018-0076-z
• Publication Date: 2018-12-18T21:36:52Z
• Authors: Massimo Venturini; Alice Bergamini; Laura Perani; Ana Maria Sanchez; Elena Giulia Rossi; Anna Colarieti; Micaela Petrone; Francesco De Cobelli; Alessandro Del Ma...; Paola Viganò; Giorgia Mangili; Massimo Candiani; Carlo Tacchetti; Antonio Esposito
• Keywords: Contrast-enhanced ultrasound; Neuroradiology

The prolonged, gonadotoxic effect of chemotherapy can finally lead to infertility in female cancer survivors. There is controversial evidence regarding the protective role gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogue (GnRH-a) on chemotherapy-induced ovarian damage. In present study a murine model, ultrasound (US) and contrast-enhanced US (CEUS) were firstly used characterise glands normal conditions validate preclinical model. addition, preliminary findings obtained anatomical vascular changes induced by GnRH-a based decapeptyl administration. Ovaries accurately assessed with CEUS model placed prone position, providing quantitative reproducible information. identified 40/40 cases analysis was successfully performed 20/20 100% technical success. A statistically significant increase diameter dominant follicle at reduced vascularisation decapeptyl-treated mice compared untreated control recorded. Further studies using combining chemotherapeutic agents will be needed obtain more translational information useful for clinical practice.