Systemic Markers of Collagen Metabolism and Vitamin C in Smokers and Non-Smokers With Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Tissue destructive disorders are more common in smokers than in non-smokers. Alterations in wound healing and connective tissue turnover are suggested mechanisms, but exact details remain to be discovered. The synthesis of subcutaneous collagen in smokers is specifically impeded, and that smokers have less collagen compared to non-smokers. Jorgensen et al study showed that smokers tend to have less procollagen I N-propeptide (PINP) levels in the blood, less vitamin C and higher levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-9), these findings reversed after smoking cessation.

Since smoking is one of the promoting and modifiable factors in the development of prolapse, understanding its effects on the support of pelvic organs may help modify the course of the POP condition in the future. Understanding the connective tissue effects of smoking using systemic markers of collagen metabolism in female smokers with prolapse may help future management and counseling of these patients. In addition, description of the markers of collagen metabolism in POP has not previously been documented.

Inclusion criteria

PROLAPSE group

• More than 18 years old
• Symptomatic POP at or beyond the hymen as determined by physical examination and a positive answer to the screening questions
• For smoker group- smoke more than one pack per day
• For non smoker group- non smoker for more than 7 years

No Prolapse group:

• Absence of prolapse and negative answer to the screening questions

Exclusion criteria

• Using Hormone Replacement Therapy (systemic estrogen, progesterone or testosterone)
• Using vaginal estrogen (cream, ring, tablet)
• Chronic steroid use
• Past medical history of connective tissue disease
• Scurvy, malabsorption, alcoholism, pregnancy, hyperthyroidism, liver disease and renal failure