Review of electrical impedance tomography in the pediatric patient.

Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) is a new method of monitoring non-invasive mechanical ventilation, at the bedside and useful in critically ill patients. It allows lung monitoring of ventilation and perfusion, obtaining images that provide information on lung function. It is based on the physical principle of impedanciometry or the body's ability to conduct an electrical current. Various studies have shown its usefulness both in adults and in pediatrics in respiratory distress syndrome, pneumonia and atelectasis in addition to pulmonary thromboembolism and pulmonary hypertension by also providing information on pulmonary perfusion, and may be very useful in perioperative medicine; especially in pediatrics avoiding repetitive imaging tests with ionizing radiation.

Metahemoglobinemia congénita. Reporte de caso / Congenital Methemoglobinemia. A Case Report

Resumen La metahemoglobinemia ocasionalmente causa cianosis, particularmente cuando es congénita. Debido a sus vías enzimáticas deficientes y a la disminución de la capacidad de transporte de oxígeno, para los pacientes con metahemoglobinemia congénita es importante evitar la exposición a agentes oxidantes. A continuación, presentamos un paciente pediátrico con metahemoglobinemia congénita no diagnosticada preoperatoriamente que fue sometido a cateterismo con diagnóstico probable de hipertensión pulmonar bajo anestesia general. El paciente pediátrico era un niño de 10 años que presentaba una lectura de oximetría de pulso (SpO2) 92% antes de la inducción de la anestesia. La metahemoglobinemia se sospechó intraoperatoriamente por primera vez debido a un desajuste de la SpO2 de la oximetría de pulso digital y la SaO2 (saturación arterial de oxígeno), y luego se confirmó mediante múltiples longitudes de onda con la CO-oximetría. Se discuten la fisiopatología, etiología, manifestaciones clínicas, consideraciones anestésicas y opciones de tratamiento de la metahemoglobinemia.

Abstract Methemoglobinemia occasionally causes cyanosis particularly in congenital methemoglobinemia. Avoidance of exposure to oxidizing agents is important for patients with congenital methemoglobinemia because of their deficient enzymatic pathways and decreased oxygen-carrying capacity. Here, we present a pediatric patient with preoperatively undiagnosed congenital methemoglobinemia who underwent catheterization with probably diagnosis of pulmonar hypertension under general anesthesia. The pediatric patient was a 10-year-old who displayed a low pulse oximetry reading of 92% prior to induction of anesthesia. Methemoglobinemia was first suspected intraoperatively because of a mismatch of SpO2 of finger pulse oximetry and SaO2 of arterial blood, and was later confirmed by multiplewavelength CO-oximetry. The pathophysiology, etiology, clinical manifestations, anesthetic considerations, and treatment options of methemoglobinemia are discussed.

Massive pleural empyema secondary to amoebic liver abscess in a child.

BACKGROUND: Pleural empyema secondary to a ruptured amoebic liver abscess is a rare complication in the pediatric population. CASE REPORT: We report the case of a 13-year-old male with right flank abdominal pain, productive cough with foul-smelling sputum, fever, and respiratory distress. Physical examination revealed breathlessness, decreased vesicular murmur in the right hemithorax, abdominal distension, hepatomegaly, and lower limb edema. Laboratory tests revealed mild anemia, leukocytosis without eosinophilia, elevated alkaline phosphatase, hypoalbuminemia, and positive immunoglobulin G antibodies against Entamoeba histolytica in pleural fluid. He required a chest tube and treatment with metronidazole. After 2 months of follow-up, the abscesses disappeared, and the empyema decreased. CONCLUSIONS: Massive pleural empyema secondary to a ruptured liver abscess is a rare complication. The epidemiological link associated with the symptoms and serological tests can help in the diagnosis.

INTRODUCCIÓN: El empiema pleural secundario a ruptura de absceso amebiano hepático es una complicación poco frecuente en la población pediátrica. CASO CLÍNICO: Se reporta el caso de un paciente de sexo masculino de 13 años que presentó dolor abdominal en flanco derecho, tos productiva con esputo de mal olor, fiebre y dificultad respiratoria. Al examen físico se encontró amplexación y murmullo vesicular disminuido en hemitórax derecho, distensión abdominal, hepatomegalia y edema de miembros inferiores. Los resultados del laboratorio evidenciaron anemia leve, leucocitosis sin eosinofilia, elevación de fosfatasa alcalina, hipoalbuminemia y anticuerpos IgG contra Entamoeba histolytica positivo en líquido pleural. Requirió tubo de drenaje torácico y tratamiento con metronidazol. A los dos meses de seguimiento los abscesos desaparecieron y el empiema disminuyó. CONCLUSIONES: El empiema pleural masivo secundario a ruptura de absceso hepático es una complicación poco frecuente. El nexo epidemiológico asociado con la sintomatología y pruebas serológicas pueden ser de ayuda en el diagnóstico.

Massive pleural empyema secondary to amoebic liver abscess in a child / Empiema pleural masivo secundario a absceso hepático amebiano en un niño

Abstract Background: Pleural empyema secondary to a ruptured amoebic liver abscess is a rare complication in the pediatric population. Case report: We report the case of a 13-year-old male with right flank abdominal pain, productive cough with foul-smelling sputum, fever, and respiratory distress. Physical examination revealed breathlessness, decreased vesicular murmur in the right hemithorax, abdominal distension, hepatomegaly, and lower limb edema. Laboratory tests revealed mild anemia, leukocytosis without eosinophilia, elevated alkaline phosphatase, hypoalbuminemia, and positive immunoglobulin G antibodies against Entamoeba histolytica in pleural fluid. He required a chest tube and treatment with metronidazole. After 2 months of follow-up, the abscesses disappeared, and the empyema decreased. Conclusions: Massive pleural empyema secondary to a ruptured liver abscess is a rare complication. The epidemiological link associated with the symptoms and serological tests can help in the diagnosis.

Resumen Introducción: El empiema pleural secundario a ruptura de absceso amebiano hepático es una complicación poco frecuente en la población pediátrica. Caso clínico: Se reporta el caso de un paciente de sexo masculino de 13 años que presentó dolor abdominal en flanco derecho, tos productiva con esputo de mal olor, fiebre y dificultad respiratoria. Al examen físico se encontró amplexación y murmullo vesicular disminuido en hemitórax derecho, distensión abdominal, hepatomegalia y edema de miembros inferiores. Los resultados del laboratorio evidenciaron anemia leve, leucocitosis sin eosinofilia, elevación de fosfatasa alcalina, hipoalbuminemia y anticuerpos IgG contra Entamoeba histolytica positivo en líquido pleural. Requirió tubo de drenaje torácico y tratamiento con metronidazol. A los dos meses de seguimiento los abscesos desaparecieron y el empiema disminuyó. Conclusiones: El empiema pleural masivo secundario a ruptura de absceso hepático es una complicación poco frecuente. El nexo epidemiológico asociado con la sintomatología y pruebas serológicas pueden ser de ayuda en el diagnóstico.

Evaluation of tracheal intubations in a paediatric intensive care unit.

INTRODUCTION: Tracheal intubation is a frequent procedure in paediatric intensive care units (PICUs) that carries a risk of complications that can increase morbidity and mortality. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Prospective, longitudinal, observational study in patients intubated in a level III PICU between January and December 2020. We analysed the risk factors associated with failed intubation and adverse events. RESULTS: The analysis included 48 intubations. The most frequent indication for intubation was hypoxaemic respiratory failure (25%). The first attempt was successful in 60.4% of intubations, without differences between procedures performed by staff physicians and resident physicians (62.5% vs 56.3%; P = .759). Difficulty in bag-mask ventilation was associated with failed intubation in the first attempt (P = .028). Adverse events occurred in 12.5% of intubations, and severe events in 8.3%, including 1 case of cardiac arrest, 2 cases of severe hypotension and 1 of oesophageal intubation with delayed recognition. None of the patients died. Making multiple attempts was significantly associated with adverse events (P < .002). Systematic preparation of the procedure with cognitive aids and role allocation was independently associated with a lower incidence of adverse events. CONCLUSIONS: In critically ill children, first-attempt intubation failure is common and associated with difficulty in bag-mask ventilation. A significant percentage of intubations may result in serious adverse events. The implementation of intubation protocols could decrease the incidence of adverse events.

Lesiones de punta de dedo: experiencia en el manejo en los últimos 5 años en un centro pediátrico / Fingertip injuries: experience in handling the last 5 years in a pediatric center

Las lesiones de punta de dedo son comunes en pacientes pediátricos que acuden a salas de Emergencia; son causadas por accidentes en el hogar y con aplastamiento en puerta como principal mecanismo de trauma. El tratamiento se realiza individualizado por cirujanos plásticos y cirujanos pediátricos en dependencia de la herida y el compromiso tisular. El propósito de este estudio es describir el manejo de pacientes con lesiones de punta de dedo en un centro pediátrico. Se realizó un análisis de historias clínicas en el período entre enero 2015 y diciembre 2020, se evaluaron 228 pacientes atendidos en el Hospital de Niños Dr. Roberto Gilbert Elizalde, en Guayaquil, Ecuador. Los resultados incluyen un predominio de pacientes en edad preescolar (67%), masculinos (56%) y de mano derecha (53%). Los dedos más afectados fueron el medio y anular. Los procedimientos fueron realizados por cirujanos plásticos (55%) y la técnica electiva fue bajo anestesia general. La extensión del daño involucró tejidos blandos (92%), avulsión de uña (29%) y fracturas asociadas (15%). El 3% de los pacientes presentó complicaciones que requirieron seguimiento. El tipo de reparo se seleccionó en dependencia de la extensión de la herida, se realizaron suturas simples (37%) y suturas complejas con reparo de la uña (27%). Nuestros datos son similares a los descritos en la literatura internacional, con buenos resultados a largo plazo, menor tasa de complicaciones y respuestas similares en los reparos realizados por cirujanos plásticos y cirujanos pediatras.

Fingertip injuries are common in pediatric patients who present to the emergency room. They are usually caused by accidents at home, being door-crush the main mechanism. Treatment is performed on an individual basis, by a Plastic or General Pediatric Surgeon, according to the wound findings and tissue involvement. The purpose of this study is to describe the management on a pediatric center in patients with a fingertip wound. A descriptive and retrospective analysis of medical records was carried out from January 2015 until December 2020. In this period 228 patients were seen in the Dr. Roberto Gilbert Elizalde Children´s Hospital in Guayaquil, Ecuador. A high incidence was found in the preschool age with 67% of cases. The injuries were more common in males (56 %) and more predominant on the right hand (53%). The most affected fingers were the middle and annular. Procedures were mostly performed by Pediatric Surgeons (55%) and the elective technique was under general anesthesia. Damage extension of the fingertip included soft tissues in 92% of patients, nail avulsion in 29% and associated fractures in 15%. Only 3% of patients developed complications that required follow up. The type of repair was selected according to the extension of the injury. Mostly simple sutures (37%) and complex sutures with nail repair (27%)were used.Our data is similar to the one found in international literature, with good long-term outcomes, minor complications and similar results when the repair was performed by a Plastic or Pediatric surgeon

Clinical utility of the maximum area of detrusor tracing measurement in the urodynamic studies in pediatric population diagnosed with neuropathic bladder: A pilot study.

INTRODUCTION: Neuropathic bladder (NB) is a lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) that may lead to kidney failure. Urodynamic study is the gold standard for its diagnosis and follow-up. A classic prognostic parameter to predict the risk of upper urinary tract damage (UUTD) is the detrusor leak point pressure (DLPP) ≥  40 cmH2O, although this factor alone may lack prognostic value. The area under the curve (AUC) of the detrusor pressure tracing has been recently described as a prognostic factor. AIM: To analyze the clinical utility of the AUC of the detrusor pressure tracing in the pediatric population (<15 years). METHODS: Retrospective study of urodynamic recordings in pediatric population with NB from 2011 to 2020. The following variables were evaluated: detrusor leak point pressure ≥ 40 cmH2O, voiding dysfunction, bladder compliance and overactivity. The sample is classified according to clinical-radiological findings at the time of the UD. AUC is calculated using Newton-Cotes rules (trapezium, Simpson's rule) and its indexes are calculated according to bladder capacity (TI: Trapezium Index, SI: Simpson Index). Statistical significance: P < .05. RESULTS: Fifty-five recordings are analyzed. Unfavorable clinical condition was identified in 41.8% (n = 23) patients. Voiding dysfunction, low compliance and both indexes were associated with an unfavorable clinical condition (P < .05). ROC analysis showed the following AUC for the new indexes: TI (0.736, P = 0.0006), SI (0.755, P = .0001) with a cut-off value of 10,69 and 8 cmH2O·s/cc, respectively. We did not find differences in the diagnostic performance between them (P > .05). CONCLUSIONS: The analyzed indexes are useful in the diagnosis of patients with NB and unfavorable clinical condition.

Influence in the outcome of neuropathic pediatric patients after early treatment.

BACKGROUND: Clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) and anticholinergic drugs are the mainstay treatment for neuropathic bladder (NB). However, there is not consensus about the time therapy should be started in pediatric patients. AIM: To analyze the impact of early start (first year of life) of CIC and anticholinergic treatment on long-term renal and bladder function. Our hypothesis is that those children who start conservative treatment in the first year of life have better outcome in terms of bladder and renal function and less need of surgical procedures, compared to those who started treatment later in life. PATIENTS AND METHOD: Retrospective study of pediatric patients with NB treated in our hospital (1995-2005) dividing them for comparison in two groups: group 1 started treatment in the first year of life and group 2 between 1 and 5 years old. Collected data included: date of CIC and anticholinergic initiation, presence of VUR or UHN, renal function, UTIs, renal scars, bladder behavior, surgery and urinary continence. RESULTS: Sixty-one patients were included, 25 in group 1 and 36 in group 2. Initially vesico-ureteral reflux (VUR) and overactive bladders were more frequent in group 2. In group 1 one overactive bladder changed to low compliant and in group 2, one normal bladder and 4 overactive bladders changed. At the end of follow-up there were 11 low compliant bladders in group 1 and 17 in group 2. However, in group 1, only 2 patients required bladder augmentation (BA) while in group 2, 12 patients needed it. At the end of the study only 2 patients in group 2 had slight renal insufficiency. CONCLUSIONS: Patients who started conservative treatment in the first year of life have better long-term outcome in terms of UTI, renal scars and surgical procedures. Even if they initially had low compliant bladders, these patients require less BA.

Tétanos generalizado en un niño parcialmente inmunizado

Resumen El tétanos continúa siendo un problema de salud pública, y que afecta a todas las edades. La mortalidad aumenta por bajas coberturas de vacunación y escasez de recursos para un tratamiento temprano. Es causado por la toxina de Clostridium tetani (tetanoespasmina) el cual ingresa al organismo a través de heridas contaminadas por cuerpos extraños. La clínica más frecuente del tétanos es del tipo generalizado y se caracteriza por la contracción tónica de músculos esqueléticos, espasmos musculares intensos, dolorosos, e hiperactividad autonómica. El diagnóstico es principalmente clínico. Se presenta el caso clínico de un tétanos generalizado en un niño con vacunación incompleta. Se discute la importancia de la vacunación y el diagnóstico y tratamiento precoz para mejorar el pronóstico de la enfermedad.

Abstract Tetanus continues to be a public health problem, which affects all age groups. Mortality increases when immunization programs have low coverage and there is a lack of resources for early treatment. This disease is caused by the toxin of Clostridium tetani (tetanospasmin) which enters the body via wounds contaminated by foreign bodies. The most common symptoms of tetanus are of the generalized type and are characterized by tonic contraction of skeletal muscles, intense, painful muscle spasms, and autonomic hyperactivity. The diagnosis is clinical and the previous vaccination history becomes important. We report the case of generalized tetanus in a child with incomplete immunizations. Highlight the importance of vaccination and early diagnosis and treatment.

La valoración preanestésica del paciente pediátrico durante la pandemia por COVID-19 / Preanesthetic assessment of the pediatric patient during the COVID-19 pandemic

Resumen: En la pandemia actual por SARS-CoV-2, poca atención se ha puesto a la población pediátrica debido a su baja morbimortalidad. Debido al amplio espectro de presentación de esta enfermedad en los pacientes pediátricos, es necesario reconocer sus diferentes presentaciones clínicas y la importancia de la valoración preanestésica en procedimientos electivos y de urgencia a fin de evitar la exposición del personal de salud a pacientes contagiados y disminuir la morbilidad perioperatoria en el paciente pediátrico con COVID-19.

Abstract: In the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, little attention has been paid to the pediatric population due to its low morbidity and mortality. Due to the wide spectrum of presentation of this disease, in pediatric patients, it is necessary to recognize its different clinical presentations and the importance of pre-anesthetic evaluation in elective and emergency procedures in order to avoid the exposure of health personnel with infected patients and to reduce the perioperative morbidity in the pediatric patient with COVID-19.

Influence in the outcome of neuropathic pediatric patients after early treatment. / Influencia del inicio precoz del tratamiento conservador en la evolución del paciente pediátrico con vejiga neuropática.

BACKGROUND: Clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) and anticholinergic drugs are the mainstay treatment for neuropathic bladder (NB). However, there is not consensus about the time therapy should be started in pediatric patients. AIM: To analyze the impact of early start (first year of life) of CIC and anticholinergic treatment on long-term renal and bladder function. Our hypothesis is that those children who start conservative treatment in the first year of life have better outcome in terms of bladder and renal function and less need of surgical procedures, compared to those who started treatment later in life. PATIENTS AND METHOD: Retrospective study of pediatric patients with NB treated in our hospital (1995-2005) dividing them for comparison in two groups: group 1 started treatment in the first year of life and group 2 between 1 and 5 years old. Collected data included: date of CIC and anticholinergic initiation, presence of VUR or UHN, renal function, UTIs, renal scars, bladder behavior, surgery and urinary continence. RESULTS: Sixty-one patients were included, 25 in group 1 and 36 in group 2. Initially vesico-ureteral reflux (VUR) and overactive bladders were more frequent in group 2. In group 1 one overactive bladder changed to low compliant and in group 2, one normal bladder and 4 overactive bladders changed. At the end of follow-up there were 11 low compliant bladders in group 1 and 17 in group 2. However, in group 1, only 2 patients required bladder augmentation (BA) while in group 2, 12 patients needed it. At the end of the study only 2 patients in group 2 had slight renal insufficiency. CONCLUSIONS: Patients who started conservative treatment in the first year of life have better long-term outcome in terms of UTI, renal scars and surgical procedures. Even if they initially had low compliant bladders, these patients require less BA.

Mirada bioética en la atención al paciente pediátrico frente a la Covid-19 / Bioethical look at pediatric patient care in the face of Covid-19 / Olhar bioético no atendimento ao paciente pediátrico em face da Covid-19

RESUMEN La pandemia causada por la COVID-19 se acompaña de desafíos bioéticos en vínculo con la atención a la salud de la población pediátrica, favorecido por las singularidades del grupo poblacional, la elevada transmisión viral, y el conocimiento aun limitado de las manifestaciones clínicas de la enfermedad en pacientes pediátricos. La presente investigación cumple el propósito de describir elementos teórico-prácticos que conforman la necesidad de una mirada bioética ante los retos multiplicados que se presentan durante la atención al paciente pediátrico en condiciones del nuevo escenario impuesto por la contingencia epidemiológica de la COVID-19. La revisión se realizó con la utilización de motores de búsqueda como el Google Académico, fueron consultados artículos en español e inglés en las bases de SciELO y Pubmed. Se exponen consideraciones bioéticas centradas en el paciente pediátrico y en el equipo de salud, que aportan una perspectiva ético-atencional más ampliada. El dominio y la aplicación práctica de los aspectos abordados permiten establecer cursos de acción que configuran la posibilidad de una atención sanitaria más próxima e integral, en beneficio de una mayor protección a la salud de niños y adolescentes.

ABSTRACT The pandemic caused by COVID-19 is accompanied by bioethical challenges in connection with health care for the pediatric population, favored by the singularities of the population group, high viral transmission, and the still limited knowledge of the clinical manifestations of the disease. disease in pediatric patients. The present research fulfills the purpose of describing theoretical-practical elements that make up the need for a bioethical look at the multiplied challenges that arise during pediatric patient care under the conditions of the new scenario imposed by the epidemiological contingency of COVID-19. The review was carried out using search engines such as Google Scholar, articles in Spanish and English were consulted in the databases of SciELO and Pubmed. Bioethical considerations focused on the pediatric patient and the health team are presented, which provide a broader ethical-attentional perspective. The mastery and practical application of the aspects addressed make it possible to establish courses of action that configure the possibility of closer and more comprehensive health care, for the benefit of greater protection of the health of children and adolescents.

RESUMO A pandemia causada pela COVID-19 ver acompanhada de desafios bioéticos na atenção à saúde da população pediátrica, favorecida pelas singularidades do grupo populacional, alta transmissão viral e o linda limitado conhecimento das manifestaros clínicas da doença. pacientes pediátricos. A presente investigação compra o propósito de descrever elementos teórico-práticos que compõem a necessidade de um olhar bioético para os múltiplos desafios que se colocam durante a assistência ao paciente pediátrico nas condições do novo cenário imposto pela contingência epidemiológica do COVID-19. A revisão foi realizada em buscadores como o Google Scholar, os artigos em espanhol e inglês foram consultados nas bases de dados SciELO e Pubmed. São apresentadas considerações bioéticas voltadas para o paciente pediátrico e a equipe de saúde, que fornecem uma perspectiva ético-atencional mais ampla. O domínio e a aplicação prática dos aspectos abordados permitem estabelecer linhas de ação que configuram a possibilidade de uma atenção à saúde mais próxima e integral, em benefício de uma maior proteção à saúde da criança e do adolescente.

Analysis of pain perception associated with urodynamic testing in children over 3 years old. / Análisis de la percepción del dolor asociado al estudio urodinámico en niños mayores de tres años.

OBJECTIVE: To measure the tolerance of urodynamic testing (UDT) in the pediatric patient by means of the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). To analyze which clinical and UDT-related variables influence pain perception. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study of 139 pediatric patients undergoing UDT (December 2013 - May 2018). INCLUSION CRITERIA: understanding and expressing their experience after UDT (preschool and school age). No adolescents were included. Measurement instrument Visual Analog Scale (0-10). Other clinical and UDT-associated variables were obtained. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal Wallis test. Spearman's rank correlation analysis (rs). Multivariate analysis through ordinal logistic regression. Significance p < 0.05. RESULTS: Mean age 7.7 years (SD 2.4), median VAS score, 2 (2-6). In 41% (n = 57), the score was ≥ 4 (moderate pain). Multivariate analysis. Explanatory variables for obtaining a high VAS score: high APUDT score (identifying patient anxiety prior to UDT), sensory-motor alteration in the lower limbs, difficult bladder catheterization and the appearance of pain during the filling phase. Age and duration of the UDT have not influenced the VAS score. CONCLUSIONS: Although the UDT has resulted in 40% of the pediatric patients in our study expressing discomfort or pain, it is a well-tolerated test. The variables that have influenced on pain perception were patient's anxiety prior to UDT, a sensory-motor alteration located in the lumbosacral metameres, difficult bladder catheterization and the appearance of pain during bladder filling.

Evaluación y apoyo nutricional en el paciente pediátrico críticamente enfermo: Revisión de la literatura

RESUMEN Esta revisión se basa en la mejor evidencia actualmente disponible, y en ella se definen las directrices en relación con la evaluación y manejo nutricional en niños críticamente enfermos. Estas directrices incluyen, los criterios para la detección de la malnutrición, tanto por déficit o exceso, así como, se identifican las recomendaciones y consensos de expertos sobre la estimación energética y de macronutrientes, los cuales pueden ser determinantes en prevenir tanto la sobrealimentación como subalimentación. También se señalan las recomendaciones internacionales sobre el momento de inicio del soporte nutricional para que esta sea oportuna, efectiva y segura, eligiendo la vía de alimentación según condición clínica y tipo de patología en función de disminuir el riesgo de morbimortalidad de estos pacientes. A modo general, se sugiere intensificar la investigación científica, con el fin de disponer de mejor evidencia para diseñar protocolos clínicos internacionales y locales para el manejo nutricional del paciente pediátrico críticamente enfermo.

ABSTRACT This review is based on the best evidence currently available and defines the guidelines for the nutritional assessment and management of critically ill children. These guidelines include the criteria for detecting malnutrition, whether due to deficit or excess, as well as the recommendations and consensus of experts on the estimation of energy and macronutrients, which can be decisive in preventing both overfeeding and underfeeding. International recommendations on the time of initiation of nutritional support are also indicated so that it is timely, effective and safe. Choice of feeding route according to clinical condition and pathology type in order to reduce the risk of morbi-mortality of these patients are discussed. In general, an increase in scientific research is suggested, in order to have better evidence to design international and local clinical protocols for the nutritional management of critically ill pediatric patients.

COVID-19 en el paciente pediátrico / COVID-19 in the pediatric patient

Resumen Este documento fue preparado (en junio de 2020) por y para los profesionales médicos (clínicos y proveedores de salud), y está disponible públicamente para propósitos de recomendaciones relacionada con pacientes pediátricos y enfermedad por coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). Según datos disponibles hasta la fecha, los niños de todas las edades pueden contraer la COVID-19; sin embargo, tienen mejor pronóstico que los adultos, siendo pocos los casos graves reportados, y los casos leves se recuperan en 1-2 semanas después del inicio de la enfermedad. El objetivo de este documento es aportar peculiaridades que consideramos importantes para el diagnóstico y tratamiento. Debido a los cambios en la actual situación epidemiológica se pueden modificar algunos conceptos y acciones, por lo que la información aquí contenida debe ser adaptada a cada paciente, basada en el juicio clínico, necesidades del paciente y recursos disponibles.

Abstract This document was prepared (June 2020) by and for medical professionals (clinicians and health providers), and it is available as a guideline for pediatric patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). So far, according to available data although children of all ages can acquire COVID-19, they have better outcome than adults, with a little proportion of severe disease, and in mild cases they have a 1 to 2-week recovery after the beginning of the infection. The objective of this document is to provide particularities that we consider important for diagnosis and treatment. Owe to the changing epidemiological situation some concepts and actions can change, so this information must be adapted to each specific case, based on the clinical judgement according to patient requirements and available resources.

[Influence of the coronavirus 2 (SARS-Cov-2) pandemic on acute appendicitis]. / Influencia de la pandemia por coronavirus 2 (SARS-Cov-2) en la apendicitis aguda.

INTRODUCTION: Acute appendicitis (AA) is the most common abdominal surgical emergency. No specific studies have been found that evaluate the impact of the coronavirus 2 (SARS-Cov-2) pandemic on AA and its surgical management. An analysis was made on the influence of this new pathology on the clinical course of AA. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective observational study was conducted on patients operated on for AA from January to April 2020. They were classified according to the time of the appendectomy, before the declaration of the state of alarm (pre-COVID-19), and after its declaration (post-COVID-19) in Spain, one the most affected countries in the world. An evaluation was made of demographic variables, duration of symptoms, type of appendicitis, surgical time, hospital stay, and postoperative complications. RESULTS: The study included 66 patients (41 pre-COVID-19; 25 post-COVID-19) with mean age of 10.7 ± 3 and 9.3 ± 3.1; P = .073, respectively. Fever was found in a higher number of post-COVID-19 patients (52 vs. 19.5%; P = 0.013), as well as a higher CRP (72.7 ± 96.2 vs. 31.3 ± 36.2 mg/dL; P = 0.042). This group presented with a higher proportion of complicated appendicitis when compared to pre-COVID-19 (32 vs. 7.3%; P = 0.015). The mean hospital stay was longer in the post-COVID-19 group (5.6 ± 5.9 vs. 3.2 ± 4.3 days; P = 0.041). No differences were found in the time of onset of symptoms or surgical time. CONCLUSIONS: The SARS-Cov-2 pandemic influenced the time of diagnosis of appendicitis, as well as its course, and mean hospital stay. Peritonitis was more frequently seen. As a result of the significant circumstances, delaying diagnosis and treatment of AA during SARS-Cov-2 pandemic, inappropriate management of this common surgical disorder has been noticed.

Anesthetic management during anterior mediastinal mass resection in a pediatric patient. A case report. / Manejo anestésico para la resección de masa mediastínica anterior (MMA) en paciente pediátrico. Descripción de un caso clínico.

Complications induced by general anesthesia (GA) and neuromuscular relaxation (NMR) in anterior mediastinal mass (AMM) resection can be serious, especially when there are signs of compression of the airway or large vessels (dyspnea, orthopnea, etc.) (1). It is preferable to perform the procedure in spontaneous ventilation to avoid respiratory or cardiovascular collapse due to the supine position or to loss of negative intrathoracic pressure with GA and NMR. If the supine position and NMR are unavoidable, procedures should be performed in a step-wise manner, and rescue strategies should be prepared (rescue position, bronchoscope, sternotomy). Correct preoperative evaluation, adequate planning, and a multidisciplinary approach will ensure patient safety. We present the case of a child with a history of severe orthopnea and a diagnosis of AMM and lymphoblastic lymphoma (respiratory arrest and cardiovascular collapse during sedation for lumbar puncture and bone marrow biopsy) that did not respond to medical treatment and required resection surgery under GA with NMR.

Tratamiento tardío de la intoxicación por paraquat en pacientes pediátricos: Reporte de dos casos / Late treatment of paraquat poisoning in pediatric patients: Report of two cases

El paraquat (PQ) pertenece al grupo de herbicidas de los bipiridilos. Su presentación es en forma líquida o en granulado, usándose con una concentración al 5 %, para uso en jardinería y al 20 % para uso agrícola. En la intoxicación en humanos el órgano blanco es el pulmón. Los pacientes desarrollan insuficiencia respiratoria que puede explicarse por una inicial actividad que involucra un gran estrés oxidativo, con presencia de radicales libres de oxígeno y peroxidación lipídica, con sus consecuentes daños, además de infiltración por polimorfonucleares que con su reacción de liberación empeoran la neumonitis. Puede haber mejoría de la neumonitis y el daño en algunos órganos, pero pronto la aparición de fibrosis pulmonar lleva a falta de respuesta a la administración de oxígeno y a la muerte por insuficiencia respiratoria en algunos días a semanas. De acuerdo con la cantidad ingerida varía la evolución de la severidad del cuadro clínico. Se presentan dos pacientes pediátricos con intoxicación por PQ, a quienes se les inició tratamiento inmunosupresor después de 48 horas de la exposición. Uno de los pacientes se intoxicó de manera no intencional y otro por suicidio. Los dos pacientes recibieron tratamiento similar, sin embargo, el paciente con intención suicida falleció días después de la exposición. Se hace una revisión de la literatura sobre el tratamiento administrado.

Paraquat (PQ) belongs to the bipyridyls herbicides. Its presentation is liquid or granulated, being used at concentrations of 5 %, in gardening and 20 % in agricultural use. In human poisoning, the target organ is the lung. The patients develop respiratory insufficiency that can be explained by an initial activity that involves a great oxidative stress, with the presence of oxygen free radicals and lipid peroxidation, with its consequent damages, in addition to polymorphonuclear infiltration that with its liberation reaction worsen pneumonitis. There may be improvement of pneumonitis, but the appearance of pulmonary fibrosis will lead to a lack of response to the administration of oxygen and death due to respiratory failure in a few days to a few weeks. According to the amount ingested, the evolution of the severity of the clinical picture varies. We present two pediatric patients with PQ poisoning, who were started on immunosuppressant treatment after 48 hours of exposure. One of the patients was poisoned incidentally and the other one by suicide. The two patients received similar treatment, however, the patient with suicidal intention died days after the exposure. A review of the literature on the treatment offered is made.

Protocolos de ultrasonografía en una Unidad Pediátrica de Quemados / Ultrasonography protocols in a Pediatric Burn Unit / Protocolos de ultrassom em uma unidade de queimados pediátrica

Resumen: Introducción: En las unidades pediátricas de quemados se atienden pacientes de urgencias y cuidados intensivos. La aplicación del ultrasonido como herramienta básica en el cuidado de pacientes gravemente enfermos en tiempo real, ha permitido responder a preguntas específicas sobre su condición clínica y se utiliza como una herramienta que guía diferentes procedimientos necesarios para el cuidado adecuado de este tipo de pacientes. Con estos antecedentes, y además del hecho de que el entorno de cuidados críticos está integrando las aplicaciones básicas del ultrasonido al monitoreo no invasivo, consideramos importante revisar los usos de la ecografía en una unidad pediátrica de quemados. Objetivo: Presentar los aspectos más importantes de los protocolos de ultrasonido más comunes en una unidad pediátrica de quemados. Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo, observacional, descriptivo, longitudinal y homodémico sobre protocolos de ultrasonido en la Unidad de Quemados de los Servicios de Salud del Estado de Puebla anexa al Hospital para el Niño Poblano, especificando su importancia en la toma de decisiones en el manejo integral de pacientes pediátricos quemados. Resultados: Se encontró que cuatro protocolos eran los más utilizados en los pediátricos quemados: Focus Assessment Sonography in Trauma, Rapid Ultrasound In Shock, ecocardiografía enfocada y diámetro de la vaina del nervio óptico. Conclusión: La ecografía está cubriendo un campo más amplio en unidades de cuidados intensivos pediátricos. En la Unidad de Quemados de los Servicios de Salud del Estado de Puebla consideramos que es una herramienta de diagnóstico que no se puede posponer.

Abstract: Introduction: In pediatric burn units, emergency and intensive care patients are attended. The application of ultrasound as a basic tool in the care of seriously ill patients in real time, has allowed responding to specific questions about their clinical condition and used as a tool that guides different procedures necessary in the proper care of this type of patients. With this background and in addition to the fact that the critical care environment is integrating the basic applications of ultrasound in non-invasive monitoring, we consider it important to review the uses of ultrasonography in a pediatric burn unit. Objective: To present the most important aspects of the most common ultrasound protocols in a pediatric burn unit. Material and methods: A retrospective, observational, descriptive, longitudinal and homodemic study was conducted on ultrasound protocols in the Unidad de Quemados de los Servicios de Salud del Estado de Puebla anexa al Hospital para el Niño Poblano, specifying its importance in the decision making in the integral management of burned pediatric patients. Results: Four protocols were found to be the most used in the burned pediatric patients: FAST, RUSH, focused echocardiography and DVNO. Conclusion: Ultrasound is covering a wider field in pediatric intensive care units. In the Unidad de Quemados de los Servicios de Salud del Estado de Puebla we consider that it is a diagnostic tool that can not be postponed.

Resumo: Introdução: Nas unidades de queimados pediátrica são atendidos pacientes de emergência e terapia intensiva. A aplicação do ultrassom como ferramenta básica no atendimento de pacientes graves em tempo real, permitiu-nos responder a perguntas específicas sobre sua condição clínica e é utilizada como ferramenta que orienta os diferentes procedimentos necessários para o atendimento adequado desse tipo de paciente. Com esse pano de fundo e além do fato de o ambiente de cuidados intensivos integrar as aplicações básicas do ultrassom ao monitoramento não invasivo, consideramos importante revisar os usos do ultrassom em uma unidade de queimados pediátrica. Objetivo: Apresentar os aspectos mais importantes dos protocolos de ultrassom mais comuns em uma unidade de queimados pediátrica. Material e métodos: Foi realizado um estudo retrospectivo, observacional, descritivo, longitudinal e homodêmico dos protocolos de ultrassom no UQSSEP-HNP, especificando sua importância na tomada de decisão no manejo integral de pacientes pediátricos queimados. Resultados: Verificou-se que quatro protocolos foram os mais utilizados em pacientes pediátricos queimados: FAST, RUSH, ecocardiografia focada e DVNO. Conclusão: O ultrassom está cobrindo um campo mais amplo nas unidades de terapia intensiva pediátrica. No UQSSEP, consideramos uma ferramenta de diagnóstico que não pode ser posposta.

Colombian consensus on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of Candida Spp. disease in children and adults, / Consenso Colombiano Para el Diagnóstico, Tratamiento y Prevención de la Enfermedad por Candida Spp. en Niños y Adultos

Invasive Candidiasis (IC) and candidemia (as its most frequent manifestation) have become the main cause of opportunistic mycosis at hospital settings. This study, made by members of the Colombian Association of Infectious Diseases (ACIN), was aimed at providing a set of recommendations for the management, follow-up and prevention of IC / candidemia and mucous membrane candida infection in adult, pediatric and neonatal patients in a hospital setting, including the hemato-oncological and critical care units. All the data obtained through an exhaustive search were reviewed and analyzed in a comprehensive manner by all the members of the group, and the recommendations issued are being made after a careful review of the scientific literature available and the consensus of all specialists involved; the emergence of Candida Spp. problem is highlighted and a correct orientation to health professionals regarding the management of patients with candidiasis is provided in a rational and practical way, emphasizing patient evaluation, diagnostic strategies, prophylaxis, empirical treatment, directed treatment and preventative therapy.

La Candidiasis Invasora (CI) y la candidemia, como su manifestación más frecuente, se ha convertido en la principal causa de micosis oportunista a nivel hospitalario. Este manuscrito realizado por miembros de la Asociación Colombiana de Infectología (ACIN), tuvo como objetivo proporcionar un conjunto de recomendaciones para manejo, seguimiento y prevención de la CI/candidemia y de la infección candidiásica de mucosas, en población adulta, pediátrica y neonatal, en un entorno hospitalario, incluyendo las unidades hemato-oncológicas y unidades de cuidado crítico. Todos los datos obtenidos mediante una búsqueda exhaustiva, fueron revisados y analizados de manera amplia por todos los miembros del grupo, y las recomendaciones emitidas se elaboraron luego de la evaluación de la literatura científica disponible, y el consenso de todos los especialistas involucrados, reconociendo el problema de la emergencia de las infecciones por Candida Spp. y brindando una correcta orientación a los profesionales de la salud sobre el manejo de pacientes con enfermedad candidiásica, de una forma racional y práctica, enfatizando en la evaluación del paciente, estrategias de diagnóstico, profilaxis, tratamiento empírico, tratamiento dirigido y terapia preventiva.