Characterization of clinical trials in Ecuador and their association with disease burden: Are there research gaps?

This study offers a detailed analysis of clinical trials conducted in Ecuador from 2010 to 2022 to assess alignment with the country's disease burden as indicated by the Global Burden of Disease study. Utilizing data from five registries, including ARCSA and Clinicaltrials.gov, we analyzed characteristics and coverage of 75 CTs after removing duplicates and ineligible studies. Findings reveal a 50% research gap across disease groups, with neoplasms being the only category matching disease burden. The scarcity of clinical research highlights the disparity between CTs and prevalent diseases such as cardiovascular and kidney diseases, diabetes, and other non-communicable conditions. Our results underscore the urgent need for increased clinical research investment addressing these critical health challenges in Ecuador.

Simultaneous Deep Endometriosis Affecting Abdominal Wall and Vermiform Appendix / Endometriosis Simultánea de Pared Abdominal y Apéndice Vermicular

SUMMARY: Endometriosis, defined as the presence of endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterine cavity, is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects between 8 % and 44 % of women of reproductive age. Occasionally it presents as a sensitive mass in the abdominal wall, in relation to a surgical scar. On the other hand, in the most severe stage of endometriosis, intestinal involvement is common, and endometriotic disease of the appendix may be present even in appendices with macroscopically normal appearance. Simultaneous affectation of both locations is very rare. Nevertheless, treatment of choice is the excision of both lesions with safety margins. The aim of this manuscript was to report a case of simultaneous deep endometriosis affecting the total abdominal wall and vermiform appendix, resected in a single surgical procedure, which subsequently required abdominal wall repair with mesh plasty. Since desmoid tumors and endometriosis share similar clinical signs and unspecific imaging exams, both options should be considered in case of abdominal wall mass in female patients of childbearing age, especially if they have a history of uterine-related surgery.

La endometriosis se define como la presencia de glándulas endometriales y estroma fuera del útero. Es una afección crónica que afecta entre el 8 % y el 44 % de las mujeres en edad reproductiva. Ocasionalmente se presenta como una masa sensible en la pared abdominal, en relación con una cicatriz quirúrgica. Por otro lado, en su estadio más grave de la endometriosis, la afectación intestinal es común y puede afectar al apéndice, pudiendo estar presente incluso en apéndices de apariencia macroscópicamente normal. La afectación de ambas localizaciones simultáneamente es muy infrecuente. Sin embargo, el tratamiento de ambas lesiones es su exéresis quirúrgica con márgenes de seguridad. El objetivo de este manuscrito fue reportar un caso de endometriosis profunda simultánea que afectaba la pared abdominal total y el apéndice vermiforme, las que fueron resecadas en un solo tiempo quirúrgico, incluyendo posteriormente reparación de la pared abdominal con uso de malla. Dado que los tumores desmoides y la endometriosis comparten signos clínicos similares y exámenes de imágenes inespecíficos, se deben considerar ambas opciones en caso de masas en la pared abdominal de mujeres en edad fértil, especialmente si tienen antecedentes de cirugía relacionada con el útero.

La Pregunta de Investigación y su Asociación con los Niveles de Evidencia y Grados de Recomendación en Estudios de Investigación Clínica / The Research Question and its Association with the Levels of Evidence and Grades of Recommendation in Clinical Research Studies

La mayoría de las preguntas de investigación (PI), conducirán a un proyecto que apunta a generar nuevo conocimiento, sin embargo el escenario, la población a estudio y la metodología pueden ser muy diferentes, lo que determinará que los resultados obtenidos y por ende, el nivel de evidencia (NE) y el grado de recomendación (GR) puedan variar notablemente. El objetivo de este artículo fue proporcionar recomendaciones para formular una PI asociada al NE y respectivos GR que se pueden desprender a partir de los resultados generados. Este artículo entregará algunos conocimientos sobre la PI y su relación con los NE y GR de la evidencia generada a partir de resultados obtenidos por un proceso de investigación en diferentes escenarios de investigación.

SUMMARY: Most research questions (RQ) will lead to a project that aims to generate new knowledge. However, the setting, study population and methodology may be very different, which will determine the results obtained and therefore, the level of evidence (LOE) and the grade of recommendation (GOR) may vary significantly. The aim of this study was to provide recommendations to formulate a RQ associated with the LOE and respective GOR that can be derived from the generated results. This article will provide some knowledge about the RQ and its relationship with the LEO and GOR of the generated evidence from results obtained by a research process in different research scenarios.

Trends in traffic accident mortality and social inequalities in Ecuador from 2011 to 2022.

BACKGROUND: Traffic accidents (TA) remain a significant global public health concern, impacting low-and middle-income countries. This study aimed to describe the trend in TA mortality and inequalities in Ecuador for 2011-2022, distributed by year, gender, age group, geographical location, type of accident, and social inequalities. METHODS: An ecological study was conducted using INEC national-level data on TA fatalities in Ecuador. Mortality rates were calculated per 100,000 population and analyzed by year, gender, age group, geographic region, and accident type. Annual percentage variation (APV) was determined using linear regression models. Inequality analyses examined associations between TA mortality and socioeconomic factors like per capita income and literacy rates. Complex measures such as the Slope Inequality Index (SII) were calculated to assess the magnitude of inequalities. RESULTS: There were 38,355 TA fatalities in Ecuador from 2011 to 2022, with an overall mortality rate of 19.4 per 100,000 inhabitants. The rate showed a non-significant decreasing trend (APV - 0.4%, p = 0.280). Males had significantly higher mortality rates than females (31.99 vs. 7.19 per 100,000), with the gender gap widening over time (APV 0.85%, p = 0.003). The Amazon region had the highest rate (24.4 per 100,000), followed by the Coast (20.4 per 100,000). Adults aged ≥ 60 years had the highest mortality (31.0 per 100,000), followed by those aged 25-40 years (28.6 per 100,000). The ≥ 60 age group showed the most significant rate decrease over time (APV - 2.25%, p < 0.001). Pedestrians were the most affected group after excluding unspecified accidents, with a notable decreasing trend (APV - 5.68%, p < 0.001). Motorcyclist fatalities showed an increasing trend, ranking third in TA-related deaths. Lower literacy rates and per capita income were associated with higher TA mortality risks. Inequality in TA mortality between provinces with the highest and lowest per capita income increased by 247.7% from 2011 to 2019, as measured by the SII. CONCLUSION: While overall TA mortality slightly decreased in Ecuador, significant disparities persist across demographic groups and geographic regions. Older adults, males, pedestrians, and economically disadvantaged populations face disproportionately higher risks. The increasing trend in motorcycle-related fatalities and widening socioeconomic inequalities are particularly concerning.

Sclerosing Hemangioma of the Liver. Unusual and Benign Hepatic Neoplasm / Hemangioma Esclerosante del Hígado. Neoplasia Hepática Inusual y Benigna

SUMMARY: Hemangiomas are the most common non-cystic benign liver tumors. Typically, they are incidentally discovered through routine radiological imaging. These tumors can become complicated and develop fibrosis, with the extreme presentation being hepatic sclerosing hemangioma (HSH), a very rare, atypical benign tumor. Initial diagnosis of HSH is often erroneous, as it can be confused with primary or secondary malignant liver neoplasms. Consequently, HSH are frequently resected, and the diagnosis is confirmed through histological and immunohistochemical studies of the resected specimen. The aim of this manuscript was to report a surgically treated case of HSH and review the existing evidence regarding its clinical and morphological characteristics. The case of a 79-year-old male patient, who underwent surgical intervention for HSH at RedSalud Mayor Temuco Clinic in October 2023, was examined. A solid tumor situated Segment VI, measuring 4 cm in its largest dimension was identified. MRI demonstrated a mass with low-signal intensity mass on T1-weighted images and areas of high-signal intensity on T2-weighted images and a hypointense mass in the hepatobiliary phase. The tumor was completely excised. Subsequent to histopathological analysis, immunohistochemical staining was performed for WT1, CD31, ERG, CD34, and Pancitoqueratina AE3 & AE1. The patient experienced an uneventful postoperative course and was discharged on the third day after the surgery. During follow-up assessments, the patient's overall condition remains satisfactory. HSH is an exceedingly rare tumor. Clinical features and imaging findings associated with this type of lesion are non-specific. It should be included in the differential diagnosis of solid liver lesions. Complete surgical resection with clear margins is the treatment of choice, and it prognosis is favorable.

Los hemangiomas son los tumores hepáticos no quísticos benignos más comunes. Lo habitual es que se descubran de forma incidental con imágenes radiológicas de rutina. Estos pueden complicarse y desarrollar fibrosis, cuya presentación extrema es el hemangioma esclerosante hepático (HEH); un tumor benigno atípico muy poco frecuente, cuyo diagnóstico inicial suele ser erróneo, confundiéndose con neoplasias malignas primarias o secundarias del hígado. Por ello, es frecuente que sean resecadas y que el diagnóstico se establezca mediante estudios histológicos y de inmunohistoquímica del espécimen resecado. El objetivo de este manuscrito fue reportar un caso de HEH, que fue intervenido quirúrgicamente; y revisar la evidencia existente respecto de sus características morfológicas y clínicas. Caso clínico: Hombre de 79 años, con HEH intervenido quirúrgicamente en Clínica RedSalud Mayor Temuco en octubre de 2023. Se verificó un tumor sólido de 4 cm de diámetro mayor, localizado en el segmento VI del hígado. La resonancia magnética demostró una masa con baja intensidad de señal en T1 y áreas de alta intensidad de señal en T2. El tumor fue extirpado por completo. Después del estudio histopatológico, se realizaron tinciones inmunohistoquímicas complementarias para WT1, CD31, ERG, CD34 y Pancitoqueratina AE3 & AE1. El paciente tuvo un curso postoperatorio sin incidentes, siendo dado de alta al tercer día postoperatorio. En el control alejado, se encuentra en buenas condiciones generales. El HEH es un tumor muy poco frecuente. Las características clínicas e imágenes de este tipo de lesiones son inespecíficas. Debe de las lesiones sólidas del hígado. La resección considerarse en el diagnóstico diferencial quirúrgica completa con bordes libres es el tratamiento de elección; y su pronóstico es favorable.

Una Sola Salud. Un Enfoque Multisectorial y Transdisciplinario / One Health. A Multisectoral and Transdisciplinary Health Approach

Una sola salud (USS), es un enfoque integral y unificador diseñado para equilibrar y optimizar la salud tanto de seres humanos, animales y ecosistemas, aprovechando la interrelación entre estos ámbitos para establecer nuevas metodologías de vigilancia y control de enfermedades. Es así como, la forma en que se utiliza el suelo puede influir en el número de casos de malaria; las condiciones meteorológicas y controles artificiales del agua pueden afectar enfermedades como el dengue; el comercio de animales salvajes vivos puede aumentar la probabilidad de que ciertas enfermedades infecciosas se transmitan de animales a humanos (zoonosis), entre otros ejemplos. Es decir, un esfuerzo integrador de múltiples disciplinas que trabajan de manera colaborativa a nivel local, nacional y global en todos los aspectos del cuidado de la salud de los seres humanos, los animales y el medio ambiente. El objetivo de este manuscrito fue reportar y discutir el concepto USS, como nuevo enfoque sanitario inter y transdisciplinario. Debemos adoptar la filosofía de USS desde el nivel global hasta el más local para reducir entre otras, los riesgos de pandemias que pueden ocurrir con mayor frecuencia considerando el crecimiento exponencial de la población mundial y la urbanización.

SUMMARY: One Health (OH) represents a comprehensive and unifying approach designed to balance and optimize the health of humans, animals, and ecosystems. By leveraging the interdependent links among these domains, OH establishes new methodologies for disease surveillance and control. The manner in which land is utilized can influence the incidence of malaria; meteorological conditions and artificial water controls can impact diseases such as dengue, and the trade of live wildlife can escalate the likelihood of certain infectious diseases being transmitted from animals to humans (zoonoses), among other interconnected factors. That is, an integrative effort of multiple disciplines working collaboratively and locally, nationally, and globally in all aspects of health care for humans, animals, and the environment. The aim of this manuscript was to elucidate and discuss the OH concept as an interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary paradigm in healthcare. In conclusion,it is imperative to embrace the OH philosophy from a global to local scale in order to mitigate, among other concerns, the heightened risks of pandemics. This consideration is especially pertinent given the exponential growth of the global population and urbanization trends, which may contribute to an increased frequency of pandemic occurrences.

Phenotypic Characterization of Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in a Population from the Ecuadorian Andes: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a highly prevalent endocrine-metabolic disorder in women of reproductive age. Diagnosis is based on the evidence-based international guideline 2018 and the Rotterdam Consensus to classify PCOS phenotypes. This study aims to characterize the biodemographic, clinical, metabolic, and reproductive variables and their relationship with PCOS phenotypes in a population from the Ecuadorian Andes. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted with a non-random consecutive sample of 92 women who attended the outpatient gynecology and endocrinology clinic at the Hospital of the Technical University of Loja (UTPL)-Santa Inés, Loja, Ecuador, between January 2022 and July 2023. Descriptive statistics, mean calculations, standard deviation, parametric and nonparametric tests, odds ratios (OR), confidence intervals (CI), and p-values were employed. Results: The average age was 22 ± 3.4 years, with a predominantly mestizo, urban, single, highly educated, and medium-high socioeconomic level population. It was identified that phenotypes A + B are at a higher risk of developing oligomenorrhea and hypertriglyceridemia compared to phenotypes C + D, with statistically significant differences (p < 0.05). Furthermore, in terms of reproductive variables, phenotypes A + B exhibit a significantly higher frequency of elevated anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) compared to phenotypes C + D, also with statistical significance (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The classical phenotypes A and B of PCOS are the most common in Ecuadorian Andean women and carry a higher risk of insulin resistance, anovulation, metabolic disorders, and elevated triglyceride levels compared to phenotypes C and D. Ethnic diversity and sociocultural habits influence the prevalence and clinical manifestations of these phenotypes.

Linfangioma Quístico del Páncreas. Un Tumor poco Frecuente / Pancreas Cystic Lymphangioma. A Rare Tumor

El linfangioma quístico del páncreas (LQP), es un tumor extremadamente raro y representa solo el 1% de los linfangiomas abdominales. El objetivo de este manuscrito fue reportar un caso de LQP intervenido quirúrgicamente; y revisar la evidencia existente respecto de sus características morfológicas, terapéuticas y pronósticas. Mujer de 67 años, con LQP operada en Clínica RedSalud Mayor Temuco en septiembre de 2023. Se verificó un tumor sólido-quístico de 16 cm de diámetro mayor, adherido al páncreas a nivel del cuerpo de la glándula, de 867 gramos de peso, con líquido amarillento en su interior; la que fue extirpada completamente. Después del estudio histológico, se realizaron tinciones inmunohistoquímicas complementarias para CD31, D2-40 y calretina. La paciente tuvo un curso postoperatorio sin incidentes, siendo dado de alta al tercer día postoperatorio. En el control alejado, se encontraba en buenas condiciones generales. El LQP es un tumor muy poco frecuente. Las características clínicas e imágenes de este tipo de lesiones son inespecíficas. Debe considerarse en el diagnóstico diferencial de las lesiones quísticas pancreáticas. La resección quirúrgica completa con márgenes libres es el tratamiento de elección; y el pronóstico del LQP es favorable si se reseca por completo.

SUMMARY: Pancreas cystic lymphangioma (PCL) are extremely rare, accounting for only 1% of abdominal lymphangiomas. The aim of this study was to report a rare case of PCL, who underwent surgery; and review the existing evidence regarding its morphological, therapeutic and prognostic characteristics. 67-year-woman patient with PCL who underwent surgery at Clínica RedSalud Mayor Temuco in September 2023. In this case, a solid-cystic tumor with a major diameter of 16 cm was identified, adhering to the pancreas at the level of the body of the gland, weighing 867 grams and containing yellowish fluid in its interior. The tumor was completely excised. Subsequent to histological examination, additional immunohistochemical staining was performed for CD31, D2-40, and calretinin. The patient experienced an uneventful postoperative course and was discharged on the third postoperative day. During the follow-up, the patient remains in good general condition. LQP is a very rare tumor. Clinical features and images of this type of lesions are nonspecific. It should be considered in the differential diagnosis of pancreatic cystic lesions. Complete surgical resection with free margins is the treatment of choice; and the prognosis of LQP is favorable if it is completely resected.

Cholangiohydatidosis. Clinical features, postoperative complications and hospital mortality. A systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Cholangiohydatidosis (CH) is an evolutionary complication of hepatic cystic echinococcosis, associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to describe the available evidence regarding clinical characteristics of CH, postoperative complications and hospital mortality. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: Systematic review. Studies related to CH with no language or publication restriction were included. Sensitive searches were performed in Trip Database, SciELO, BIREME-BVS, WoS, PubMed, EMBASE and SCOPUS. MeSH and free terms were used, including articles up to April 2023. The main outcome variables were postoperative complications and hospital mortality; the secondary ones were publication year, origin and design of primary studies, main clinical manifestation, anatomical location and type of cysts, hospital stay, surgical procedure performed, reinterventions; and methodological quality of primary studies, which was assessed using MInCir-T and MInCir-P scales. Descriptive statistics, calculation of weighted averages and their comparison by least squares logistic regression were applied. 446 studies were retrieved from the searches performed, 102 of which met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The studies analyzed represent 1241 patients. The highest proportion of articles was published in the last decade (39.2%). Reports are mainly from Turkey (28.4%), Greece (9.8%), Morocco and Spain (8.8% each). With a weighted mean of 14.3 days of hospital stance; it was verified that 26.2% of patients developed postoperative complications (74,3% Clavien y Dindo III y IV), 6.7% needed re-interventions, and 3.7% died. When comparing the variables age, postoperative complications, hospital mortality, and reinterventions in two periods of time (1982-2006 vs. 2007-2023), no statistically significant differences were found. When applying the MInCir-T and MInCir-P scales, the methodological quality of the primary studies was 9.6±1.1 and 14.5±4.3 points, respectively. CONCLUSION/SIGNIFICANCE: CH is associated with severe postoperative complications and significant hospital mortality, independent of the development of therapeutic support associated with the passage of time.

Cáncer Gástrico Bifocal con Linfonodos Negativos en un Paciente con Cirrosis Hepática / Bifocal Gastric Cancer with Negative Lymph Nodes in a Hepatic Cirrhosis Patient

El cáncer gástrico (CG), es la primera causa de muerte por cáncer, en hombres, y la tercera en mujeres, en Chile. No obstante ello, el CG bifocal (CGB) es una situación poco frecuente. El objetivo de este manuscrito fue reportar un caso de CGB, con linfonodos negativos en un paciente con cirrosis hepática, que fue intervenido quirúrgicamente; y revisar la evidencia existente respecto de sus características morfológicas, terapéuticas y pronósticas. Caso clínico: Hombre de 74 años diabético, hipertenso, insuficiente cardíaco y cirrótico; portador de CGB (subcardial y antro-pilórico), diagnosticado por endoscopia y con confirmación histológica de ambas lesiones; operado en Clínica RedSalud Mayor Temuco en septiembre de 2023. En el intraoperatorio se verificó además la coexistencia de una lesión de aspecto metastásico en el segmento III del hígado, y adhesión de la región antro-pilórica a la vesícula biliar. Se realizó gastrectomía total, linfadenectomía D2, esófago-yeyuno anastomosis término-lateral, resección segmentaria hepática (segmento III) y colecistectomía. El paciente permaneció 6 días en la UCI debido a que desarrolló insuficiencia hepática (encefalopatía leve y ascitis). Se alimentó vía enteral por sonda naso-yeyunal. Posteriormente inició alimentación oral progresiva, la que fue bien tolerada. Completó 11 días de hospitalización en servicio médico-quirúrgico, donde mejoró actividad neurológica, hasta su alta domiciliaria. Actualmente, lleva dos meses desde su operación, se encuentra en buenas condiciones generales, y el Comité Oncológico decidió no dar quimioterapia adyuvante. Se presenta un caso inusual de CG de tipo bifocal, respecto de lo cual hay escasa información disponible. Se logró realizar cirugía con intención curativa en un paciente de alto riesgo, con un resultado exitoso.

SUMMARY: Gastric cancer (GC) is the first cause of death from cancer in men, and the third one in women, in Chile. However, a bifocal GC (BGC) is uncommon. The aim of this study was to report a case of CGB, with negative-lymph nodes in a patient with liver cirrhosis, who underwent surgery; and review the existing evidence regarding its morphological, therapeutic and prognostic characteristics. Clinical case: A 74-year-old male patient with a medical history of diabetes, hypertension, congestive heart failure, and cirrhosis underwent surgical intervention for GC located in subcardial and antro- pyloric regions. The diagnosis was established via endoscopy and confirmed histologically. Surgery was performed at the RedSalud Mayor Temuco Clinic in September 2023. During intraoperative assessment, the coexistence of a lesion with metastatic-like characteristics in segment III of the liver was also verified, along with adhesions between the antro-pyloric region and the gallbladder. Surgical approach encompassed total gastrectomy, D2 lymphadenectomy, esophago-jejunostomy, segmental hepatic resection, and cholecystectomy. Subsequently, the patient required a six-day stay in ICU due to the development of hepatic insufficiency, characterized by mild encephalopathy and ascites. Enteral nutrition was administered via a naso-jejunal tube, followed by a gradual transition to oral feeding, which was well-tolerated. The patient completed an 11-day hospitalization period in the medical-surgical ward, during which his neurological function improved significantly, resulting in his discharge. At present, 2 months post-surgery, the patient remains in satisfactory general health, and the Oncology Committee decided not to proceed with adjuvant chemotherapy. This case represents a rare instance of bifocal GC, for which there is limited available literature. Surgical intervention with curative intent was successfully carried out in a high-risk patient, yielding a positive outcome.

¿Ensayos clínicos de superioridad, equivalencia o no inferioridad? / ¿Clinical trials of superiority, non-inferiority or equivalence?

La eficacia de una nueva intervención se establece generalmente a través de ensayos clínicos (EC) con asignación aleatoria (AA). Sin embargo, entre otros tantos desafíos metodológicos, el especificar la hipótesis de un EC con AA, sigue siendo un problema complejo de resolver para los investigadores clínicos. En este manuscrito discutimos las características de tres variantes de los EC con AA: EC de superioridad (ECS), EC de no-inferioridad (ECNI), y EC de equivalencia (ECE). Estos tres tipos de EC tienen supuestos diferentes sobre los efectos de una intervención, por lo que plantear hipótesis y definir objetivos requiere conocer algunos supuestos subyacentes a estos EC, incluso hasta elementos relacionados con la estimación del tamaño de muestra para cada cual. El objetivo de este manuscrito fue describir las diferencias metodológicas entre ECS, ECNI y ECE.

Efficacy and effectivity of new interventions are generally established through randomized clinical trials (RCTs). However, among many other methodological challenges, specifying the hypothesis of a RCT remains complex problem for clinical researchers. In this manuscript we discuss the characteristics of three variants of RCTs: superiority RCT (SRCT), non-inferiority RCT (NIRCT), and equivalence RCT (ERCT). These three types of RCT have different assumptions about the effects of an intervention, so setting hypotheses and defining objectives requires knowing some assumptions underlying these RCTs, including elements related to the estimation of the sample size for each one. The aim of this manuscript was to describe methodological differences between SRCT, NIRCT and ERCT.

Prevalence of cystic echinococcosis in relatives of patients undergoing surgery for hepatic cystic echinococcosis in an endemic region.

BACKGROUND: Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is an endemic disease in southern Chile. The aim of this study was to ascertain the prevalence of CE among relatives of patients who underwent surgical intervention for this disease in Cautín, a province of southern Chile. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: Cross-sectional study. Relatives of patients who underwent surgery for hepatic echinococcosis (HE), who lived at the same address, during the period 2000-2020 were studied. A total of 288 relatives of 322 patients who underwent surgery for HE participated in a CE screening. All these relatives were interviewed and underwent abdominal ultrasonography, chest X-ray and immunodiagnostic studies (relatives who had been diagnosed with or had undergone surgery for CE were excluded). Descriptive statistics were applied. Prevalence calculation, odds ratio (OR), and their respective 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were determined. Abdominal or thoracic CE was verified in 42 relatives of subjects operated on for HE (mean age 41±8 years; 73.8% women; 38.1% of cases had two or more cysts), all of them new and asymptomatic cases. CE was detected in the lungs, liver, peritoneum, and spleen in 16.7%; 71.4%; 7.1%; and 4.8%, respectively. The overall prevalence of EQ during the studied time period was 14,6% (17.9% and 12.3% in relatives of first and second degree respectively (OR:1.56; CI 95%: 0.81; 3.01). CONCLUSION/SIGNIFICANCE: There is a high prevalence of CE in relatives of patients undergoing surgery by this disease in the province of Cautín, Chile.

Early vs. Standard Loop Ileostomy Closure: An Unmatched Case-Control Study / Cierre Temprano vs Estándar de Ileostomía en Asa. Estudio de Casos y Controles no Emparejado

SUMMARY: Early closure of a loop ileostomy (ECI) is a relatively new practice, for which there is insufficient evidence regarding its effectiveness in relation to closure at conventional times. The aim of this study was to report postoperative complications (POC) and hospital mortality in patients with loop ileostomy (LI) who underwent ECI, compared with patients with LI who underwent late closure. Un- matched case-control study. Patients with LI who underwent surgery at Clínica RedSalud Mayor Temuco (2010-2022) were included. Cases were defined as patients with LI who underwent early closure and controls as subjects who underwent closure at the usual times. No matching was performed, but a 1:1 relationship between cases and controls was considered. Outcome variables were postoperative complications and hospital mortality. Other variables of interest were surgical time and hospital stay. Descriptive statistics were applied with calculation of proportions and measures of central tendency. Subsequently, t-test and Pearson Chi2 for comparison of averages and proportions was applied, and odds ratios and their respective 95 % CI were calculated. In this study 39 patients with AI were operated on (18 cases and 21 controls). Age and BMI average of the studied subjects was 71.3±7.1 years and 27.3±19.8 kg/m2 respectively. Mean LI closure time, surgical time, and hospitalization were: 10.0±0.7 months; 62.5±10.6min; 3.8±0.1 days respectively. POC were only surgical site infections. Three in cases (16.7 %) and 3 in controls (14.3 %). No anastomotic dehiscence or hospital mortality was observed in either cases or controls. There were no differences in comorbidities or surgical site infection between cases and controls (OR of 0.6 and 1.2 respectively) In this experience, the results of performing the CTI were similar to the late closing in relation to the variables studied.

El cierre temprano de una ileostomía en asa (IA), es una práctica relativamente nueva, sobre la que no hay suficiente evidencia respecto de su efectividad en relación con el cierre en tiempos convencionales. El objetivo de este estudio fue verificar diferencias en la tasa de complicaciones postoperatorias (CPO) y de mortalidad hospitalaria en pacientes con IA sometidos a cierre temprano comparados con pacientes con IA sometidos a cierre tardío. Estudio de casos y controles sin emparejamiento. Se incluyeron pacientes con IA que fueron sometidos a cirugía en la Clínica RedSalud Mayor Temuco (2010-2022). Los casos se definieron como pacientes con IA sometidos a cierre temprano y los controles como sujetos con IA sometidos a cierre en tiempos habituales. No se realizó emparejamiento. Se consideró una relación 1:1 entre casos y controles. Las variables de resultado fueron CPO y mortalidad hospitalaria. Otras variables de interés fueron: tiempo quirúrgico y hospitalización. Se aplicó estadísticas descriptivas (cálculo de proporciones y medidas de tendencia central). Posteriormente, se aplicó prueba t-test y Chi2 para comparación de promedios y proporciones; y se calcularon odds ratios e intervalos de confianza del 95 %. Se operaron 39 pacientes con IA (18 casos y 21 controles). El promedio de edad e IMC fue 71,3±7,1 años y 27,3±19,8 kg/m2, respectivamente. El tiempo promedio de cierre de IA, tiempo quirúrgico y hospitalización fueron: 10,0±0,7 meses; 62,5±10,6 minutos; 3,8±0,1 días, respectivamente. Las CPO fueron infecciones del sitio quirúrgico (3 casos; 16,7 % y 3 controles; 14,3 %). No se observó dehiscencia anastomótica ni mortalidad hospitalaria en casos ni controles. No hubo diferencias en comorbilidades ni en infecciones del sitio quirúrgico entre casos y controles (OR de 0,6 y 1,2, respectivamente). No se evidenciaron diferencias entre realizar cierre temprano o tardío de IA, respecto de las variables CPO y de mortalidad hospitalaria.

Desbridamiento retroperitoneal video asistido: una nueva técnica quirúrgica para una vieja patología, la pancreatitis aguda severa presentación de caso clínico / Video-assisted retroperitoneal debridement: a new surgical technique for an old pathology, severe acute pancreatitis clinical case presentation

INTRODUCCIÓN: el desbridamiento retroperitoneal video asistido (DRVA) es una técnica mínimamente invasiva usada para el tratamiento de la necrosis pancreática infectada (NPI). MATERIAL Y MÉTODO: reporte de caso. RESULTADOS: se presenta un caso de pancreatitis aguda severa tratada con DRVA en una paciente femenina de 43 años, con un cuadro clínico de 5 días de evolución caracterizado por dolor abdominal espasmódico en hipocondrio derecho, de moderada intensidad, irradiado a epigastrio y en cinturón a ambos flancos. La paciente recibió atención privada en dos centros previos al ingreso al nuestro. Al ingreso, en el laboratorio, presenta leucocitosis y desvió izquierdo, amilasémia y lipasémia altas. Se realizaron tomografías contrastadas y punciones guiadas por TAC y DRVA cuando se evidencia necrosis amurallada. Se describe la técnica quirúrgica. Súbitamente la paciente presenta insuficiencia respiratoria y datos compatibles con tromboembolia pulmonar y fallece. CONCLUSIÓN: bajo la visión de terapia escalonada, el desbridamiento retroperitoneal video asistido va ganando adeptos en el manejo de la Pancreatitis Aguda Severa

BACKGROUND: video-assisted retroperitoneal debridement (VARD) is a minimally invasive technique used for the treatment of infected necrotizing pancreatitis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: case report. RESULTS: a case of severe necrotizing pancreatitis is presented in a 43 years old female patient, with 5 days clinical evolution with spasmodic abdominal pain in epigastrium and right hypochondrium of moderate intensity, irradiated to both flanks in belt. The patient received private care in two centers upon the admission in our hospital. In the laboratory at the admission, she showed leukocytosis and left deviation, high level in amylase and lipase. Contrasted enhanced tomography and guided punctures were realized and VARD were considered when evidence of wall of necrosis was observed in scanner. The surgical technique is described. Suddenly the patient presented acute respiratory failure with massive pulmonary thromboembolism and died. CONCLUSION: under the step-up approach vision, the video-assisted retroperitoneal debridement is gaining popularity in the management of the acute necrotizing pancreatitis

Metástasis Pancreática Metacrónica de un Carcinoma de Células Renales. Reporte de un Caso / Metachronic Pancreatic Metastasis of a Renal Cell Carcinoma. Case Report

El carcinoma de células renales (CCR) a nivel mundial presenta una incidencia de 431.288 casos anuales, causando 179.368 muertes en 2020. Sin embargo, a pesar de su incidencia, el desarrollo de metástasis pancreática (MP) de un RCC es un hecho inusual. El objetivo de este manuscrito fue reportar el caso de una paciente con una MP metacrónica de un CCR. Se trata de una paciente de 56 años, sexo femenino, nefrectomizada derecha hace 132 meses por un CCR, en adyuvancia con inmunoterapia. En un control imagenológico de rutina, se le pesquisó una lesión de aspecto tumoral en el cuerpo y cola del páncreas. Se intervino quirúrgicamente, realizándose una pancreatectomía córporo-caudal con preservación esplénica. Evolucionó de forma satisfactoria, sin complicaciones, siendo dada de alta al 4º día de su cirugía. El informe del estudio de la pieza operatoria con estudio inmunohistoquímico concluyó que se trataba de una MP de CCR. La paciente se encuentra en buenas condiciones generales y reinició quimioterapia con anticuerpos monoclonales. El seguimiento frecuente y prolongado de pacientes con antecedentes de CCR, facilita un diagnóstico y tratamiento oportuno de MP facilitando el mejor pronóstico de los pacientes, con tasas más altas de supervivencia.

SUMMARY: Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) worldwide has an incidence of 431,288 cases per year, causing 179,368 deaths in 2020. However, despite its incidence, the development of pancreatic metastasis (MP) from RCC is unusual. The aim of this manuscript was to report the case of a patient with a PM of a RCC. This is a 56-year-old female patient, underwent right nephrectomy 132 months earlier for RCC. While she was in adjuvant immunotherapy, in a routine imaging control, it was found a tumor lesion in the body and the tail of the pancreas. So, she underwent surgery, performing a corpora-caudal pancreatectomy with splenic preservation. Postoperative evolution was correct, without complications, and she was discharged on the 4th day after surgery. The report of the study of the surgical piece with an immunohistochemical study included, conclusive of PM of RCC. Currently, the patient is in good general condition and restarted chemotherapy with monoclonal antibodies. Frequent and prolonged follow-up of patients with a history of RCC facilitates timely diag- nosis and treatment of PM, facilitating the best prognosis for patients, with higher survival rates.

Metodologías de Medición de Volumetría Hepática / Methodologies For Measuring Hepatic Volumetry

Lograr determinar el volumen total de un hígado (VHT), o volumetría hepática, pasa a ser de relevancia en diversas situaciones, tales como, vigilancia del progreso de una enfermedad de carácter crónico, planificación de resecciones y trasplantes hepáticos; y observación del clearance hepático de algunos fármacos hepatotropos. La VHT se puede realizar utilizando métodos de segmentación en el curso de una tomografía computarizada (TC), ya sean estos manual, automáticos, y semiautomáticos; mediante resonancia nuclear (RN), utilizando softwares de distintas generaciones (1ª a 4ª). La medición de VHT está indicada en pacientes sometidos a resecciones hepáticas mayores, en el contexto del tratamiento de neoplasias (carcinoma hepatocelular, colangiocarcinoma, metástasis hepáticas o tumores benignos de gran tamaño), abscesos (piogénicos, amebianos), y después de un traumatismo hepático complejo; así como también en la etapa preoperatoria de un trasplante hepático. El objetivo de este manuscrito fue generar un documento de estudio sobre métodos para determinar volumetría hepática.

SUMMARY: Being able to determine the total hepatic volume (THV), or THV, becomes relevant in various situations, such as monitoring the progress of a chronic disease, planning resections and liver transplants; and observation of the hepatic clearance of some hepatotropic drugs. THV can be performed using segmentation methods in the course of a computed tomography (CT), whether manual, automatic, or semi-automated; by nuclear resonance (NR), using software from different generations (1st to 4st). THV measurement is indicated in patients undergoing major liver resections, in the context of treatment of neoplasms (hepatocellular carcinoma, cholangiocarcinoma, liver metastases or large benign tumors), abscesses (pyogenic, amoebic), and after liver trauma complex, as well as in the preoperative stage of a liver transplant. The aim of this manuscript was to generate a study document regarding methods for determine hepatic volumetry.

Diseño y Validación de una Aplicación Móvil, para el Diagnóstico de Anemia en Pre-Escolares. Estudio de Precisión Diagnóstica / Design and Validation of a Mobile Application for the Diagnosis of Anemia in Preschoolers. Diagnostic Accuracy Study

La anemia afecta a miles de niños. Para el diagnóstico se cuantifica la hemoglobina (Hb); técnica que no se encuentra al alcance de toda la población. Contar con un instrumento validado de fácil aplicación, puede ayudar al diagnóstico. El objetivo de este estudio fue validar una aplicación móvil (APP) para diagnosticar anemia en niños de 2 a 5 años, aplicable por padres o tutores. Estudio de validación de escalas. Mediante búsqueda bibliografía se recopilaron ítems y dominios relacionados con anemia en niños. Una vez reducidos, se construyó un cuestionario para pilotaje, con tres hematólogos pediatras. El resultado de este fue posteriormente validado por 22 expertos mediante aplicación de escalas tipo Likert. Los ítems validados, se contrastaron con la Hb de niños de 267 niños de 2 a 5 años de los andes ecuatorianos (2.560 msnm). Se determinó asociación de los ítems con Hb y con los resultados obtenidos y se construyó la APP. 14 ítems fueron analizados. Todos ellos puntuaron sobre la mediana de la distribución (35,5 puntos) y fueron valorados por, al menos el 50 % de los expertos. Se seleccionaron palidez palmar, astenia y sueño en horas no habituales. Todos mostraron asociación significativa con anemia (p<0,05), y fueron aplicados como preguntas a padres o tutores y contrastados con el valor de Hb. Sensibilidad y especificidad para palidez fue: 85,1 % y 85,0 %; astenia: 72,3 % y 87,7 %; sueño en horas no habituales: 68,1 % y 87,7 %; palidez más astenia o sueño: 95,7 % y 74,6 %; y debilidad más sueño: 92,5 % y 76,8 %. Se desarrolló y validó una APP para diagnóstico de anemia en niños de 2 a 5 años aplicable por padres o tutores.

SUMMARY: Anemia affects thousands of children, and to reach a diagnosis, hemoglobin (Hb) is quantified. This technique however, is not always accessible to the general population. Therefore, the availability of a validated instrument can be useful in the diagnosis. The aim of this study was to validate a mobile application (APP), to diagnose anemia in children from 2 to 5 years old, applicable by parents or guardians. Scale validation study. Through a bibliographic search, items and domains related to anemia in children were collected. Once reduced, a pilot questionnaire was constructed with three pediatric hematologists. The result was later validated by 22 experts through the application of the Likert-type scales. The validated items were contrasted with the Hb of children of 267 children from 2 to 5 years of age from the Ecuadorian Andes (2,560 meters above sea level). The association of the items with Hb and with the results obtained was determined, and the APP was constructed. 14 items were analyzed. All of them scored above the median of the distribution (35.5 points) and were valued by at least 50 % of the experts. Palmar pallor, asthenia, and sleep at unusual hours were selected. All showed a significant association with anemia (p<0.05) and were applied as questions to parents or guardians and contrasted with the Hb value. Sensitivity and specificity for pallor was: 85.1 % and 85.0 %; asthenia: 72.3 % and 87.7 %; sleep at unusual hours: 68.1 % and 87.7 %; paleness plus fatigue or sleepiness: 95.7 % and 74.6 %; and weakness plus sleep: 92.5 % and 76.8 %. An APP for the diagnosis of anemia in children from 2 to 5 years old applicable by parents or guardians was developed and validated.

¿Cuántos Tipos de Revisiones de la Literatura Existen? Enumeración, Descripción y Clasificación. Revisión Cualitativa / How Many Types of Literature Reviews are There? Listings, Description and Classification

La expansión y consolidación de la práctica clínica basada en la evidencia ha llevado entre otras, a la necesidad de realizar una variedad cada vez mayor de tipos de revisión de la literatura científica; lo que permite avanzar en el conocimiento y comprender la amplitud de la investigación sobre un tema de interés, teniendo en cuenta que una de las propiedades del conocimiento es su carácter acumulativo. Sin embargo, la diversidad de la terminología utilizada genera confusión de términos y conceptos. El objetivo de este manuscrito fue proporcionar un listado de los tipos de revisiones de la literatura más frecuentemente utilizados con sus características y algunos ejemplos de ellas. Revisión cualitativa. Se examinaron de forma dirigida las bases de datos PubMed, WoS y Scopus, en búsqueda de términos asociados a tipos de revisiones y síntesis de la literatura científica. Se encontraron 21 tipos de revisión; y 29 variantes y sinonimias asociadas; las que ilustran los procesos de cada una de ellas. Se da una descripción general de las características de cada cual, junto con las fortalezas y debilidades percibidas. No obstante, se verificó que sólo algunos tipos de revisión poseen metodologías propias y explícitas. Este enfoque, proporciona un punto de referencia para quienes realizan o interpretan revisiones en el ámbito sanitario, y sugiere dos tipos de propuestas de clasificación.

SUMMARY: The expansion and consolidation of evidence-based clinical practice has led, among other things, to the need to carry out an increasing variety of types of literature reviews, which allows advancing in knowledge and understanding the breadth of research on a topic of interest. However, the diversity of the terminology used generates confusion of terms and concepts. The aim of this manuscript was to provide a list of the most frequently used review types with their characteristics and some examples. Qualitative review. PubMed, WoS and Scopus databases were examined in a directed way, searching for terms associated with types of reviews and syntheses of the scientific literature. Twenty-one types of review, and 29 variants and associated synonymies were found; those that illustrate the processes of each of them. An overview of the characteristics of each is given, along with perceived strengths and weaknesses. However, it was verified that only some types of review have their own explicit methodologies. This approach, provides a point of reference for those who perform or interpret reviews in the health field and suggests two classification proposals.

Therapeutic Targets of Monoclonal Antibodies Used in the Treatment of Cancer: Current and Emerging.

Cancer is one of the leading global causes of death and disease, and treatment options are constantly evolving. In this sense, the use of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) in immunotherapy has been considered a fundamental aspect of modern cancer therapy. In order to avoid collateral damage, it is indispensable to identify specific molecular targets or biomarkers of therapy and/or diagnosis (theragnostic) when designing an appropriate immunotherapeutic regimen for any type of cancer. Furthermore, it is important to understand the currently employed mAbs in immunotherapy and their mechanisms of action in combating cancer. To achieve this, a comprehensive understanding of the biology of cancer cell antigens, domains, and functions is necessary, including both those presently utilized and those emerging as potential targets for the design of new mAbs in cancer treatment. This review aims to provide a description of the therapeutic targets utilized in cancer immunotherapy over the past 5 years, as well as emerging targets that hold promise as potential therapeutic options in the application of mAbs for immunotherapy. Additionally, the review explores the mechanisms of actin of the currently employed mAbs in immunotherapy.