Archivio Italiano di Urologia e Andrologia最新文献

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a major global health concern, particularly in resource-limited regions where antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is increasingly prevalent. This study aimed to describe the demographic characteristics, pathogen distribution, and antimicrobial resistance patterns among UTI patients, and to identify clinical predictors of multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) infections.

Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 216 clinically confirmed UTI cases processed at the Infectious Bacteriology and Biochemistry Laboratory affiliated with IBB University between January 2023 and September 2024. Data collected included patient demographics, clinical symptoms, comorbidities, bacterial isolates, and antimicrobial susceptibility profiles. MDR and XDR were classified according to internationally recognized definitions. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent predictors of MDR/XDR infections.

Results: The majority of patients were adults aged 15-65 years (83.3%, n=180), with a slight male predominance (53.2%, n=115). Escherichia coli was the most frequently isolated pathogen (29.6%, n=64), followed by Staphylococcus aureus (19.0%, n=41) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (6.0%, n=13). A substantial proportion of isolates exhibited MDR or XDR phenotypes (80.1%, n=173). Among E. coli isolates, resistance rates to ciprofloxacin and ceftriaxone exceeded 60%. Notably, all Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates were MDR (100%), and 92.3% of P. aeruginosa isolates were MDR. Nitrofurantoin and carbapenems demonstrated relatively higher susceptibility rates. Multivariate analysis identified prior hospitalization (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 3.15; 95% CI:1.50-6.60; p=0.002) and E. coli infection (aOR = 2.41; 95%CI: 1.02-5.70; p=0.04) as significant predictors of MDR/XDR infections.

Conclusions: The high prevalence of MDR and XDR uropathogens, particularly E. coli, underscores the urgent need for sustained antimicrobial resistance surveillance and stewardship programs in resource-limited settings. Identifying key clinical predictors can inform empirical treatment strategies, improve patient outcomes, and help contain the spread of resistant organisms.

Introduction: Varicocele affects 10-15% of adult males, and is linked to infertility (35%) and testicular pain (10%). Microsurgical varicocelectomy (MV) is considered the gold standard treatment due to its low complication rates and superior anatomical outcomes. However, conventional MV using a 2D exoscope presents limitations in image depth and surgeon ergonomics. This study presents the use of a 3D video exoscope as a novel tool to enhance visualization and ergonomics during MV.

Materials and methods: We report a series of four patients undergoing 3D-assisted microsurgical varicocelectomy using a Zeiss microscope integrated with a 3D video exoscope system. Patients presented with either infertility, testicular pain, or both, with varicocele diagnoses confirmed by physical examination and ultrasound. Procedures were performed subinguinally with artery- and lymphatic-sparing techniques, and the ergonomics and image quality were assessed.

Results: All surgeries were successfully completed with the aid of the 3D exoscope. Surgeons reported improved ergonomics, reduced neck and back strain, and enhanced image depth and clarity. The system allowed for up to 10x optical magnification, full-screen UHD 3D visualization, and a wide field of view. No intraoperative complications were noted. Patients tolerated the procedure well, and early outcomes were favorable in terms of symptom relief and semen parameter improvement.

Conclusions: The integration of a 3D video exoscope in microsurgical varicocelectomy is a promising innovation. It offers superior image quality, improved surgeon comfort, and may enhance surgical precision. Further studies with larger cohorts and long-term follow-up are warranted to validate these findings.

Dear Editor, Prostate cancer (PCa) remains one of the most common malignancies among men worldwide, representing a major healthcare burden both in terms of morbidity and economic cost...

Introduction and objective: Circumcision is the most frequently performed surgical procedure worldwide. The World Health Organization recommends that circumcisions be performed by dorsal slit incision. This study introduces the dorsal buttonhole slit, a novel modification of the conventional dorsal slit technique, and aims to evaluate its clinical outcomes and safety in a pediatric cohort.

Materials and methods: This retrospective descriptive study was conducted on 107 pediatric patients aged 1-10 years who underwent circumcision for religious reasons or phimosis between January 2022 and December 2023. Patients were divided into two groups based on the surgical technique used: dorsal buttonhole slit (n=56) vs conventional dorsal slit (n=51). The assessment parameters included intra-operative hemorrhage, operating time, healing time, postoperative complications, and parental satisfaction.

Results: The mean operative time was significantly shorter in the dorsal buttonhole slit group compared to the conventional group (293.79 vs 320.67 seconds, respectively; p=0.028). There was no significant difference in wound healing time between the two groups. No postoperative complications, such as hemorrhage or need for revision, were observed in any patient during the 1-month follow-up period. All parents reported satisfaction with the functional and cosmetic results.

Conclusions: The dorsal buttonhole slit technique was associated with a shorter operative time and excellent safety outcomes. While these results are promising, prospective randomized trials are required to definitively confirm the efficacy and safety of this method. The technique shows potential as a reproducible and reliable alternative for pediatric circumcision.

Background: Standard medical treatments for patients with uncomplicated LUTS include alpha-blockers, 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors (5ARIs), phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, antimuscarinics, and beta-3 agonists. The lipido-sterolic extract of Serenoa repens (Sr) is also recommended as a therapeutic option. Our study prospectively evaluated the impact of a 6-month assumption of lipido-sterolic extract of Sr alone or in combination with Phenolmicin P3 and Bosexil medical devices suppositories on symptoms and on PSA levels in patients affected by BPO related-LUTS.

Methods: We prospectively enrolled 509 patients: 194 (group 1) were prescribed only a 6-month assumption of Sr extract, while 315 (group 2) were also prescribed a 20-day therapy with Phenolmicin P3 and Bosexil medical devices suppositories.

Results: After 6 months, 371 patients' data were registered and analyzed. Furthermore, patients' withdrawal and motivations were also considered.

Conclusions: In our clinical study, the patients treated with Sr extract (320 mg daily) showed a significant relief regarding LUTS, and the association of a 6-month assumption of Sr extract with a 20-day prescription of Phenolmicin P3 and Bosexil medical device in suppository form seems to significantly improve both efficacy on LUTS and decrease of PSA levels.

Background: diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with testicular damage, leading to male infertility. This study investigates the effects of telmisartan, moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, and their combination on testicular histopathology in a streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat model.

Methods: male Wistar rats were divided into five groups: healthy control (K0), diabetic control (K1), telmisartan monotherapy (K2), aerobic exercise monotherapy (K3), and combination therapy (K4). Diabetes was induced using streptozotocin (STZ), and treatments were administered for 10 weeks. Testicular histopathology was assessed by evaluating Johnsen score, Sertoli cell count, Leydig cell count, and seminiferous tubule diameter.

Results: diabetic rats (K1) showed significant declines in Johnsen score, Sertoli and Leydig cell counts, and seminiferous tubule diameter (p<0.05). Telmisartan (K2) and combination therapy (K4) significantly improved all parameters, with values approaching those of healthy controls (K0). Aerobic exercise (K3) improved seminiferous tubule diameter but had limited effects on Johnsen score, Sertoli, and Leydig cells. Kruskal- Wallis, Mann-Whitney U, ANOVA, Games-Howell, and LSD tests confirmed these findings.

Conclusions: Telmisartan, either as monotherapy or in combination with moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, effectively ameliorates testicular damage in diabetic rats. Aerobic exercise alone has a partial protective effect. These findings suggest potential therapeutic strategies for preventing diabetes-induced male infertility.

Background: Khat (Catha edulis) chewing is a culturally ingrained practice in Yemen and has been associated with potential impairment of male reproductive function. However, rigorous quantitative assessments of its effects on seminal parameters are limited. This study investigates the relationship between khat consumption and semen characteristics and examines the reversibility of any adverse effects following cessation.  Methods: A prospective two-phase study was conducted at Dr. Najat Al-Malas IVF Center in Sana'a, Yemen (2019-2024). Phase 1 compared semen volume and related parameters across four age-, BMI-, education-, and socioeconomic-matched cohorts: infertile khat chewers (n=91), infertile non-chewers (n=60), fertile khat chewers (n=91), and fertile non-chewers (n=32). Phase 2 involved a three-month supervised khat cessation intervention among infertile chewers. Semen samples were obtained via standardized collection methods. Associations between khat use and seminal parameters were analyzed using univariate and multivariate regression models.  Results: Khat chewers demonstrated significantly reduced semen volumes compared to non-chewers in all comparisons. Infertile chewers had lower volumes (1.94±0.48 mL) than fertile chewers (2.36±0.52 mL; p<0.001, d=0.85) and infertile nonchewers (3.07±0.74 mL; p<0.001, d=1.72). Pooled analysis indicated that chewers (n=182) had 29.6% lower semen volumes than non-chewers (n=92) (2.15±0.89 mL vs. 3.04 ± 0.76 mL; p<0.001). Notably, cessation of khat chewing led to a 35% increase in volume among infertile chewers (from 1.94±0.48 mL to 2.62 ± 0.52 mL; p<0.001, d=1.21). Hormonal analysis (n=15) showed increased testosterone and decreased prolactin post-cessation (p<0.05).

Conclusions: Khat chewing is significantly associated with reduced semen volume and impaired seminal fluid parameters in men. Importantly, cessation of khat use leads to a marked improvement in semen volume and favorable hormonal changes, indicating partial reversibility of its adverse effects. These findings highlight khat's detrimental impact on male reproductive health and underscore the potential benefits of quitting khat for fertility restoration.

Background: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common age-related condition that often results in lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), reduced quality of life, and sexual dysfunction. Conventional pharmacotherapies, while effective, are frequently associated with adverse effects on sexual and ejaculatory function. This study evaluated the sexual safety and clinical efficacy of a dietary supplement containing pollen extract and teupolioside, in men with BPH.

Methods: In this prospective, single-arm observational study, 25 men with moderate LUTS due to BPH received daily pollen extract and teupolioside supplementation for 90 days. The primary endpoints were sexual function (International Index of Erectile Function, IIEF-5), ejaculatory function (Male Sexual Health Questionnaire-Ejaculatory Dysfunction, MSHQ-EjD), quality of life (IPSS-QoL), and patient global impression of improvement (PGI-I). Secondary endpoints included changes in urinary flow (Qmax) and LUTS severity (International Prostate Symptom Score, IPSS). Assessments were conducted at baseline, 1 month, and 3 months.

Results: Sexual and ejaculatory functions remained stable over the treatment period, with no statistically significant deterioration observed. QoL improved significantly by the 3-month mark (IPSS-QoL median score reduced from 3 to 2; p<0.008), and PGI-I scores reflected high patient satisfaction (median 2, IQR 1). Qmax significantly increased from 12.4 mL/s at baseline to 15.5 mL/s at 3 months (p<0.001), and IPSS scores significantly declined from 11 to 8 (p<0.008), indicating improved urinary function.

Conclusions: The pollen extract and teupolioside supplementation was well tolerated and associated with improved QoL and urinary outcomes, without compromising sexual or ejaculatory function. These findings support its potential as a non-pharmacologic adjunct in the management of BPH, particularly in patients concerned about sexual side effects. Further randomized controlled studies are warranted to confirm these results.

Background: urinary incontinence (UI) and overactive bladder (OAB) are common lower urinary tract symptoms that significantly impact quality of life. Conventional pharmacologic treatments are often associated with side effects and limited efficacy, highlighting the need for alternative therapies. Vitamin D, known for its role in muscle function and its presence in the receptors of the bladder and prostate, has been proposed as a potential non-invasive intervention. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of vitamin D supplementation in the management of UI and OAB.

Methods: a systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Twelve studies (six RCTs and six cohort studies) were included. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) and the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Statistical analysis was conducted using Review Manager 5.4. Standardized mean differences (SMDs) and risk ratios (RRs) were used to compare outcomes. A meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model, which was applied due to heterogeneity, as assessed by the I² statistic. Sensitivity analysis was performed using the leave-one-out method.

Results: no significant difference was found between the vitamin D and control groups in improving UI scales (SMD = -1.04; 95% CI: -2.35 to 0.27, p=0.12) with an I² of 94%. There were no significant effects on the risk of OAB (RR = 1.03, p=0.16) or UI (RR = 0.88, p=0.59), nor on UI improvement or worsening. The sensitivity analysis revealed that excluding one unusual study resulted in more consistent results and confirmed similar patterns.

Conclusions: no substantial advantage of vitamin D was observed in UI or OAB patients compared to the control groups.

Introduction: The Authors report their 38-year experience with the use of nocturnal penile tumescence (NPT) testing.

Methods: Among over 46,000 patients evaluated for andrological issues since 1980, the NPT test was selectively proposed in cases of suspected psychogenic erectile dysfunction, as part of a standardized diagnostic workup, which included medical history, physical and genital examination, blood tests, and hormonal evaluation. The test aimed to assess nocturnal erectile function and support differential diagnosis.

Results: From June 20, 1986, to December 31, 2024, a total of 1,587 NPT recordings were performed in patients aged 16 to 90 years. Among these, 992 tests were conducted over three nights, 486 over two nights, and 109 for a single night. The majority of tests were completed without major issues and provided interpretable data. Overall, the test was well tolerated, with good patient compliance and minimal technical difficulties. In many cases, the recordings allowed useful diagnostic insights into the nature of erectile dysfunction. In nearly all cases, patients exhibited varying degrees of anxiety concerning their ED, often interpreted as a consequence rather than the cause of an underlying organic condition.

Conclusions: After nearly four decades of clinical use, NPT testing has proven to be a reliable and informative component of the diagnostic approach to erectile dysfunction. Its ability to offer objective data in a home setting, with minimal discomfort and high patient compliance, makes it a useful adjunct in distinguishing psychogenic from etiologies.