Vaia Sarli

Dr. Vaia Sarli

orcid

Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

3Years (2024-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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25 April 2025 in Journal of Clinical Medicine
Verified
Journal Article
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Alexandra IoannidouAlexandra Ioannidou
Alexandra Ioannidou
MSMaria Sakellariou
Maria Sakellariou
VSVaia Sarli
Vaia Sarli
PPPeriklis Panagopoulos
Periklis Panagopoulos
NMNIKOLAOS MACHAIRIOTIS
NIKOLAOS MACHAIRIOTIS
Background: Endometriosis is a benign gynecologic condition that has the risk of malignant transformation in approximately 0.5–1% of cases, most of which develop into endometriosis-associated ovarian cancers (EAOCs), such as clear cell and endometrioid adenocarcinomas. The current systematic review aims to condense recent information on the genetic and molecular mechanisms, clinical risk factors, and possible therapeutic targets of the malignant transformation of endometriosis. Methods: A systematic literature search of PubMed, Europe PMC, and Google Scholar was carried out according to PRISMA guidelines for articles published until December 2024. Following a screening of 44,629 titles, 43 full articles were included after meeting inclusion criteria. No case reports or reviews were included, and articles had to mention a malignant transformation of endometriosis and not just a diagnosis of cancer. The quality and risk of bias of studies were evaluated using ROBINS-I. Results: Malignant transformation of endometriosis is associated with genetic alterations, including ARID1A mutations, microsatellite instability, and abnormal PI3K/Akt and mTOR pathway activation. Increased oxidative stress, inflammation-driven mismatch repair deficiency, and epigenetic alterations like RUNX3 and RASSF2 hypermethylation are implicated in carcinogenesis. Clinical risk factors are advanced age (40–60 years), large ovarian endometriomas (>9 cm), postmenopausal status, and prolonged estrogen exposure. Imaging techniques like MR relaxometry and risk models based on machine learning are highly predictive for early detection. Conclusions: Endometriosis carcinogenesis is a multifactorial process driven by genetic changes, oxidative stress, and inflammatory mechanisms. Identification of high-risk individuals through molecular and imaging biomarkers may result in early detection and personalized therapy. Further research should aim at the development of more precise predictive models and exploration of precision medicine approaches to inhibit the emergence of EAOC.

4 June 2024 in Diseases
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Journal Article
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ENEleni Nazou
Eleni Nazou
Anastasios PotirisAnastasios Potiris
Anastasios Potiris
DMDespoina Mavrogianni
Despoina Mavrogianni
EDEirini Drakaki
Eirini Drakaki
AVAris-Anargyros Vogiatzis
Aris-Anargyros Vogiatzis
SSSofoklis Stavros
Sofoklis Stavros
Cellular metabolism, apoptosis, fertilization, and proliferation of granulosa cells belong to a battery of processes where microRNAs can be detected and associated with infertility. The aim of the present review is to focus on mammalian oocyte maturation events and the association between oocyte growth and miRNA expression. PubMed/Medline, Google Scholar and Scopus databases were searched, and 33 studies were included. Regarding the correlation among miRNA expression and the regulation of granulosa cells and cumulus cells, the most important miRNAs were let-7b, let-7c and miR-21. Additionally, the loss of Dicer, an enzyme involved in miRNA biogenesis, is probably a crucial factor in oogenesis, oocyte maturation and embryogenesis. Furthermore, miRNAs interfere with different cellular mechanisms like apoptosis, steroidogenesis, genome integrity, angiogenesis, antioxidative response and, consequently, oocyte maturation. Hence, it is of major importance to clarify the role and mechanism of each miRNA as understanding its action may develop new tools and establish new diagnostic and treatment approaches for infertility and ovarian disorders.

29 November 2025 in Cureus
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Journal Article
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EDEftichia Damoulaki
Eftichia Damoulaki
DSDimos Sioutis
Dimos Sioutis
VSVaia Sarli
Vaia Sarli
ETEutychios Trakakis
Eutychios Trakakis
GMGeorge Mastorakos
George Mastorakos
CCChrysi Christodoulaki
Chrysi Christodoulaki
Acne vulgaris is one of the most prevalent dermatologic disorders in adolescent and adult women. Beyond classic pathogenic factors, such as sebaceous hypersecretion, follicular hyperkeratinization, Cutibacterium acnes overgrowth, and inflammation, endocrine drivers are pivotal. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is common across reproductive ages and frequently presents with dermatologic manifestations, notably acne, through mechanisms dominated by hyperandrogenism and compounded by insulin resistance (IR). This narrative review synthesizes current evidence linking PCOS with acne, explains the interrelated roles of hyperandrogenism and IR, and outlines evidence-based management strategies tailored to women with PCOS. The Rotterdam diagnostic framework remains the globally favored standard for PCOS, emphasizing combinations of oligo-/anovulation, clinical/biochemical hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovarian morphology. PCOS pathophysiology involves dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis with increased gonadotropin-releasing hormone pulsatility, elevated luteinizing hormone, and suppression of follicle-stimulating hormone, promoting thecal androgen excess and impaired folliculogenesis. IR, prevalent in PCOS, augments ovarian/adrenal androgen synthesis and lowers sex hormone-binding globulin levels, increasing free testosterone and sebum production; IGF-1 signaling further amplifies sebogenesis and follicular hyperkeratinization. Emerging data implicate genetic/epigenetic determinants, endocrine-disrupting chemicals, gut microbiome dysbiosis, and endoplasmic reticulum stress as modulators of the PCOS-acne phenotype. Epidemiologic studies and meta-analyses report higher acne prevalence and severity in PCOS, particularly among adolescents. First-line therapy includes combined oral contraceptive pills with antiandrogenic progestins; spironolactone is an effective adjunct. Where indicated, metformin addresses IR and may improve acne and ovulatory function. Judicious use of standard acne modalities such as topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and oral/topical antibiotics remains essential; oral isotretinoin is reserved for refractory disease with careful risk management. PCOS-associated acne reflects converging endocrine and metabolic disturbances. Integrating androgen-targeted therapy, IR mitigation, and guideline-based acne care provides the most durable control. Future research should refine phenotype-directed treatment and clarify the contributions of microbiome, environmental exposures, and cellular stress pathways.

18 January 2026 in Cureus
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
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VSVaia Sarli
Vaia Sarli
EKEmmanouil Kalampokas
Emmanouil Kalampokas
TKTheodoros Kalampokas
Theodoros Kalampokas
Implantation failure remains a major challenge in assisted reproductive technology, particularly in women with thin endometrium, repeated implantation failure (RIF), Asherman’s syndrome (AS), or chronic endometritis (CE). In recent years, autologous intrauterine platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been proposed as a regenerative approach aimed at improving endometrial receptivity through the local release of growth factors, cytokines, and angiogenic mediators. A narrative review of the literature published between 2015 and 2021 was performed using PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science. Studies assessing intrauterine PRP administration in women undergoing assisted reproduction were included. Due to the limited availability of high-quality randomized evidence, data from a wide range of study designs-including randomized controlled trials, observational studies, pilot studies, and case reports-were reviewed in order to reflect current clinical experience. Reported outcomes included endometrial thickness, implantation rate, clinical pregnancy rate, and live birth rate in patients with thin endometrium, RIF, AS, and CE. Most studies described an association between PRP administration and improvements in endometrial thickness, vascularity, implantation, and clinical pregnancy rates. In women with thin endometrium, PRP was frequently associated with an increase in endometrial thickness to at least 7 mm and improved reproductive outcomes. In cases of repeated implantation failure, some randomized controlled trials suggested higher pregnancy and implantation rates in PRP-treated patients compared with controls. Evidence regarding AS and CE was largely derived from case reports and small case series, reporting enhanced endometrial regeneration and occasional successful pregnancies. Overall, intrauterine PRP appears to be a promising and well-tolerated autologous intervention for women with poor prognostic factors. Nevertheless, the available evidence remains preliminary, and further large-scale randomized controlled trials using standardized PRP preparation and administration protocols are required to clarify its effectiveness and define its role in evidence-based assisted reproduction.

4 July 2025 in Cureus
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
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VSVaia Sarli
Vaia Sarli
AVAikaterini Lydia Vogiatzoglou
Aikaterini Lydia Vogiatzoglou
TCTheofanakis Charalampos
Theofanakis Charalampos
DSDimos Sioutis
Dimos Sioutis
PPPeriklis Panagopoulos
Periklis Panagopoulos
NMNikolaos Machairiotis
Nikolaos Machairiotis
Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are common benign tumors in women of reproductive age and are often associated with infertility, heavy menstrual bleeding, and pelvic discomfort. Laparoscopic myomectomy (LSM) has emerged as a fertility-preserving alternative to open surgery, offering faster recovery and reduced perioperative morbidity. This review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of laparoscopic myomectomy in improving pregnancy outcomes among women with fibroid-related infertility. A literature review was conducted using PubMed and Web of Science to identify retrospective cohort studies, case reports, and systematic reviews assessing fertility outcomes after LSM. Data on patient demographics, fibroid characteristics, surgical technique, and reproductive outcomes were extracted and analyzed to assess trends in pregnancy rates, delivery methods, and complications. Fifteen retrospective cohort studies and one case report were included in the analysis. Postoperative pregnancy rates ranged from 44% to 62% across studies, with a high proportion of successful full-term deliveries. Vaginal delivery was feasible in many cases, and complications such as uterine rupture were rare (<1%). Proper suturing techniques and minimally invasive approaches contributed to favorable reproductive outcomes, with LSM proving to be effective even in cases of multiple or large fibroids. Laparoscopic myomectomy is a safe and effective surgical option for women seeking fertility preservation. The procedure is associated with high postoperative pregnancy and live birth rates, minimal complications, and promising obstetric outcomes. Continued advancements in laparoscopic techniques and further large-scale studies with long-term follow-up are needed to refine patient selection and optimize results.

3 May 2025 in Cureus
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
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PMPavlos Machairoudias
Pavlos Machairoudias
MHMaria-Gesthimani Housmekeridou
Maria-Gesthimani Housmekeridou
KLKonstantinos Louis
Konstantinos Louis
CPCharikleia Papageorgiou
Charikleia Papageorgiou
DSDimos Sioutis
Dimos Sioutis
VSVaia Sarli
Vaia Sarli
Isolated fallopian tube torsion (IFTT) is a rare cause of acute pelvic pain that is often misdiagnosed due to its non-specific clinical findings. Early diagnosis and operative intervention are vital for the preservation of fertility. We report two cases of IFTT. The first case is of a 16-year-old female with a seven-day history of right lower abdominal pain and fevers. No flow was noted on Doppler studies of the right adnexal mass on ultrasound. Laparoscopy showed torsion of the fallopian tube, and a salpingectomy was performed. The second case was in a 42-year-old woman with a two-day history of lower abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Radiology revealed a right fallopian tube cystic mass with decreased perfusion. Histopathology of the specimen showed ischemic changes, and a laparoscopic salpingectomy was performed. The postoperative course of both patients was uneventful. IFTT is a rare but clinically significant differential diagnosis of acute pelvic pain. A high index of suspicion, early imaging, and laparoscopic definitive management aid in optimizing outcomes and preserving fertility in these patients.