Brain abscesses caused by Listeria monocytogenes in a patient with myasthenia gravis - Case report and systematic review.

Background: Listeriosis is a known cause of community acquired bacterial meningitis/meningoencephalitis. It occurs more frequently in neonates, older people and immunocompromised hosts. Rarely, brain abscesses can complicate the course of infection, which poses a difficulty in the management and elevates morbidity and mortality. Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disease that often requires immunosuppressive treatment, which increases the risk for invasive infections. Case description: A 75-year-old myasthenic patient, treated with prednisone and pyridostigmine, was diagnosed with invasive listeriosis. He presented with muscle weakness, dyspnea, hemiparesis and altered mental status. Brain imaging revealed multiple abscesses and blood cultures were positive for Listeria monocytogenes. Despite combination antibiotic therapy, he died 6 weeks after admission. Systematic review: Ninety-six cases of brain abscesses from 1968 to 2023 were reviewed; the majority of the patients were men, 54 years-old on average, and had at least one risk factor for invasive listeriosis. The mortality exceeded 22%. Blood cultures and CSF/abscess cultures were positive in only 79.2% and 54.6%, respectively. The most common therapeutic approach was a combination regimen that included amoxicillin or ampicillin. Only 8 patients underwent surgery, of which one died. Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of L. monocytogenes as a cause of brain abscesses in populations at risk, including myasthenic patients. The challenge of diagnosing and treating this condition is aggravated by the paucity of literature and the high mortality rate.

Relationship between peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve, persistent hyperlactatemia, and its temporal dynamics in sepsis: a post hoc study.

OBJECTIVE: To measure the prognostic value of peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve in the context of persistent sepsis-induced hyperlactatemia and measure its influence on the temporal dynamics of lactate and the strength of association between these variables. METHODS: This post hoc analysis of the peripheral perfusion index/postocclusive reactive hyperemia trial, an observational cohort study that enrolled patients with sepsis who persisted with lactate levels ≥ 2mmol/L after fluid resuscitation (with or without shock). Peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve was evaluated using the association of the peripheral perfusion index and postocclusive reactive hyperemia techniques. The cutoff point of ∆ peripheral perfusion index peak values (%) defined the groups with low (≤ 62%) and high peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve (> 62%). RESULTS: A total of 108 consecutive patients with persistent sepsis-induced hyperlactatemia were studied. The high peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve group showed higher 28-day mortality than the low peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve group (p < 0.01). The temporal dynamics of lactate within the first 48 hours showed a rapid decrease in lactate levels in the low peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve group (p < 0.01). However, this result was not reproduced in the linear mixed effects model. A weak correlation between peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve (%) and lactate level (mmol/L) was observed within the first 24 hours (r = 0.23; p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The prognostic value of high peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve was confirmed in the context of persistent sepsis-induced hyperlactatemia. Although there was a weak positive correlation between peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve value and lactate level within the first 24 hours of sepsis diagnosis, the low peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve group appeared to have a faster decrease in lactate over the 48 hours of follow-up.

Mechanical hyperinflation maneuver and intracranial compliance of critical neurological patients: protocol for a randomized controlled equivalence trial.

BACKGROUND: Mechanical hyperinflation maneuver (MHM) is a technique known for optimizing bronchial hygiene and respiratory mechanics; however, its effects on intracranial compliance are not known. METHODS: Sixty patients aged ≥ 18 years, with clinical diagnosis of acute stroke, confirmed by neuroimaging examination, with onset of symptoms within 72 h, under mechanical ventilation through tracheal tube, will participate in this study. Participants will be randomly allocated into 2 groups: experimental group (n = 30)-MHM plus tracheal aspiration-and control group (n = 30)-tracheal aspiration only. Intracranial compliance will be measured by a non-invasive technique using Brain4care BcMM-R-2000 sensor. This will be the primary outcome. Results will be recorded at 5 times: T0 (start of monitoring), T1 (moment before MHM), T2 (moment after the MHM and before tracheal aspiration), T3 (moment after tracheal aspiration), T4, and T5 (monitoring 10 and 20 min after T3). Secondary outcomes are respiratory mechanics and hemodynamic parameters. DISCUSSION: This study will be the first clinical trial to examine the effects and safety of MHM on intracranial compliance measured by non-invasive monitoring. Limitation includes the impossibility of blinding the physical therapist who will supervise the interventions. It is expected with this study to demonstrate that MHM can improve respiratory mechanics and hemodynamic parameters and provide a safe intervention with no changes in intracranial compliance in stroke patients.

Relationship between peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve, persistent hyperlactatemia, and its temporal dynamics in sepsis: a post hoc study / Relação entre reserva microvascular isquêmica periférica, hiperlactatemia persistente e sua dinâmica temporal na sepse: um estudo post hoc

ABSTRACT Objective: To measure the prognostic value of peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve in the context of persistent sepsis-induced hyperlactatemia and measure its influence on the temporal dynamics of lactate and the strength of association between these variables. Methods: This post hoc analysis of the peripheral perfusion index/postocclusive reactive hyperemia trial, an observational cohort study that enrolled patients with sepsis who persisted with lactate levels ≥ 2mmol/L after fluid resuscitation (with or without shock). Peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve was evaluated using the association of the peripheral perfusion index and postocclusive reactive hyperemia techniques. The cutoff point of ∆ peripheral perfusion index peak values (%) defined the groups with low (≤ 62%) and high peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve (> 62%). Results: A total of 108 consecutive patients with persistent sepsis-induced hyperlactatemia were studied. The high peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve group showed higher 28-day mortality than the low peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve group (p < 0.01). The temporal dynamics of lactate within the first 48 hours showed a rapid decrease in lactate levels in the low peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve group (p < 0.01). However, this result was not reproduced in the linear mixed effects model. A weak correlation between peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve (%) and lactate level (mmol/L) was observed within the first 24 hours (r = 0.23; p < 0.05). Conclusion: The prognostic value of high peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve was confirmed in the context of persistent sepsis-induced hyperlactatemia. Although there was a weak positive correlation between peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve value and lactate level within the first 24 hours of sepsis diagnosis, the low peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve group appeared to have a faster decrease in lactate over the 48 hours of follow-up.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o valor prognóstico da reserva microvascular isquêmica periférica no contexto da hiperlactatemia persistente induzida pela sepse, determinar sua influência na dinâmica temporal de lactato e analisar a força da associação entre essas variáveis. Métodos: Análise post hoc do estudo de índice de perfusão periférica/hiperemia reativa pós-oclusiva caracterizada por uma coorte observacional que incluiu pacientes com sepse que persistiram com níveis de lactato ≥ 2mmol/L após a ressuscitação volêmica (com ou sem choque). A reserva microvascular isquêmica periférica foi mensurada utilizando-se a associação dos métodos do índice de perfusão periférica e hiperemia reativa pós-oclusiva. O ponto de corte dos valores da ∆ índice de perfusão periférica de pico (%) definiu os grupos com baixa (≤ 62%) e alta (> 62%) reserva microvascular isquêmica periférica. Resultados: Estudaram-se 108 pacientes consecutivos com hiperlactatemia persistente induzida pela sepse. O grupo com alta reserva microvascular isquêmica periférica apresentou maior mortalidade aos 28 dias em relação ao grupo com baixa reserva microvascular isquêmica periférica (p < 0,01). A dinâmica temporal de lactato nas primeiras 48 horas mostrou redução rápida dos níveis de lactato no grupo com baixa reserva microvascular isquêmica periférica (p < 0,01). No entanto, esse resultado não foi reproduzido no modelo de efeitos mistos lineares. Observou-se fraca correlação (%) entre os valores da reserva microvascular isquêmica periférica e níveis de lactato (mmol/L) nas primeiras 24 horas (r = 0,23; p < 0,05). Conclusão: O valor prognóstico da alta reserva microvascular isquêmica periférica foi confirmado no contexto da hiperlactatemia persistente induzida por sepse. Embora tenha sido observada uma baixa correlação positiva entre os valores da reserva microvascular isquêmica periférica e os níveis de lactato nas primeiras 24 horas do diagnóstico de sepse, o grupo com baixa reserva microvascular isquêmica periférica pareceu apresentar redução mais rápida do lactato nas 48 horas de seguimento.

The prognostic value of peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve in sepsis is not related to calcitonin gene-related peptide or substance P. / O valor prognóstico da reserva microvascular isquêmica periférica na sepse não está vinculado ao peptídeo relacionado ao gene da calcitonina ou à substância P.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the mechanisms attributed to the prognostic value of peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve in patients with sepsis. METHODS: This observational cohort study enrolled 46 consecutive septic patients in the intensive care unit between November 2020 and October 2021. After fluid resuscitation, the peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve was evaluated using the association of postocclusion reactive hyperemia with the peripheral perfusion index. Additionally, peripheral venous blood samples were used to evaluate the neuropeptide calcitonin gene-related peptide and substance P levels in the upper limb before and immediately after postocclusion reactive hyperemia. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant correlation (p > 0.05) between basal values (pg/mL) or variations from neuropeptide levels (%) and the peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve (%). CONCLUSION: Although calcitonin gene-related peptide and substance P may have a prognostic role in sepsis, these neuropeptides do not appear to contribute to peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar possíveis mecanismos atribuídos ao valor prognóstico da reserva microvascular isquêmica periférica em pacientes com sepse. MÉTODOS: Este estudo de coorte observacional incluiu 46 pacientes consecutivos com sepse em uma unidade de terapia intensiva entre novembro de 2020 e outubro de 2021. Após a ressuscitação volêmica com fluidos, avaliou-se a reserva microvascular isquêmica periférica mediante a associação dos testes hiperemia reativa pós-oclusão e índice de perfusão periférica. Adicionalmente, amostras de sangue venoso periférico foram coletadas para avaliar os níveis dos neuropeptídeos substância P e peptídeo relacionado ao gene da calcitonina no membro superior do paciente antes e imediatamente após o teste de hiperemia reativa pós-oclusão. RESULTADOS: Não houve correlação estatisticamente significativa (p > 0,05) entre os valores basais ou variações dos níveis de neuropeptídeos e a reserva microvascular isquêmica periférica. CONCLUSÃO: Embora o peptídeo relacionado ao gene da calcitonina e a substância P possam desempenhar papel prognóstico na sepse, esses neuropeptídeos não parecem contribuir para a reserva microvascular isquêmica periférica.

O valor prognóstico da reserva microvascular isquêmica periférica na sepse não está vinculado ao peptídeo relacionado ao gene da calcitonina ou à substância P / The prognostic value of peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve in sepsis is not related to calcitonin gene-related peptide or substance P

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar possíveis mecanismos atribuídos ao valor prognóstico da reserva microvascular isquêmica periférica em pacientes com sepse. Métodos: Este estudo de coorte observacional incluiu 46 pacientes consecutivos com sepse em uma unidade de terapia intensiva entre novembro de 2020 e outubro de 2021. Após a ressuscitação volêmica com fluidos, avaliou-se a reserva microvascular isquêmica periférica mediante a associação dos testes hiperemia reativa pós-oclusão e índice de perfusão periférica. Adicionalmente, amostras de sangue venoso periférico foram coletadas para avaliar os níveis dos neuropeptídeos substância P e peptídeo relacionado ao gene da calcitonina no membro superior do paciente antes e imediatamente após o teste de hiperemia reativa pós-oclusão. Resultados: Não houve correlação estatisticamente significativa (p > 0,05) entre os valores basais ou variações dos níveis de neuropeptídeos e a reserva microvascular isquêmica periférica. Conclusão: Embora o peptídeo relacionado ao gene da calcitonina e a substância P possam desempenhar papel prognóstico na sepse, esses neuropeptídeos não parecem contribuir para a reserva microvascular isquêmica periférica.

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the mechanisms attributed to the prognostic value of peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve in patients with sepsis. Methods: This observational cohort study enrolled 46 consecutive septic patients in the intensive care unit between November 2020 and October 2021. After fluid resuscitation, the peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve was evaluated using the association of postocclusion reactive hyperemia with the peripheral perfusion index. Additionally, peripheral venous blood samples were used to evaluate the neuropeptide calcitonin gene-related peptide and substance P levels in the upper limb before and immediately after postocclusion reactive hyperemia Results: There was no statistically significant correlation (p > 0.05) between basal values (pg/mL) or variations from neuropeptide levels (%) and the peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve (%). Conclusion: Although calcitonin gene-related peptide and substance P may have a prognostic role in sepsis, these neuropeptides do not appear to contribute to peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve.

Safety and long-term improvement of mesenchymal stromal cell infusion in critically COVID-19 patients: a randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: COVID-19 is a multisystem disease that presents acute and persistent symptoms, the postacute sequelae (PASC). Long-term symptoms may be due to consequences from organ or tissue injury caused by SARS-CoV-2, associated clotting or inflammatory processes during acute COVID-19. Various strategies are being chosen by clinicians to prevent severe cases of COVID-19; however, a single treatment would not be efficient in treating such a complex disease. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are known for their immunomodulatory properties and regeneration ability; therefore, they are a promising tool for treating disorders involving immune dysregulation and extensive tissue damage, as is the case with COVID-19. This study aimed to assess the safety and explore the long-term efficacy of three intravenous doses of UC-MSCs (umbilical cord MSCs) as an adjunctive therapy in the recovery and postacute sequelae reduction caused by COVID-19. To our knowledge, this is one of the few reports that presents the longest follow-up after MSC treatment in COVID-19 patients. METHODS: This was a phase I/II, prospective, single-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Seventeen patients diagnosed with COVID-19 who require intensive care surveillance and invasive mechanical ventilation-critically ill patients-were included. The patient infusion was three doses of 5 × 105 cells/kg UC-MSCs, with a dosing interval of 48 h (n = 11) or placebo (n = 6). The evaluations consisted of a clinical assessment, viral load, laboratory testing, including blood count, serologic, biochemical, cell subpopulation, cytokines and CT scan. RESULTS: The results revealed that in the UC-MSC group, there was a reduction in the levels of ferritin, IL-6 and MCP1-CCL2 on the fourteen day. In the second month, a decrease in the levels of reactive C-protein, D-dimer and neutrophils and an increase in the numbers of TCD3, TCD4 and NK lymphocytes were observed. A decrease in extension of lung damage was observed at the fourth month. The improvement in all these parameters was maintained until the end of patient follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: UC-MSCs infusion is safe and can play an important role as an adjunctive therapy, both in the early stages, preventing severe complications and in the chronic phase with postacute sequelae reduction in critically ill COVID-19 patients. Trial registration Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (ReBEC), UTN code-U1111-1254-9819. Registered 31 October 2020-Retrospectively registered, https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-3fz9yr.

The Richards-Campbell Sleep Questionnaire and Sleep in the Intensive Care Unit Questionnaire: translation to Portuguese and cross-cultural adaptation for use in Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: To translate the Richards-Campbell Sleep Questionnaire (RCSQ) and Sleep in the Intensive Care Unit Questionnaire (SICUQ) to Portuguese, making the appropriate cross-cultural adaptations for their use in Brazil, as well as to determine the interobserver reliability of the instruments. METHODS: In this study, we evaluated medical and surgical patients admitted to the adult ICU of the Federal University of Paraná Hospital de Clínicas, in the city of Curitiba, Brazil, between June of 2017 and January of 2018. The translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the questionnaires involved the following steps: translation, synthesis, back-translation, revision by an expert panel, approval of the back-translation by the original authors, pretesting, and creation of the final versions. Two researchers applied the Portuguese-language versions in the evaluation of critically ill patients. Interobserver reliability was assessed by calculating the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and 95% CI. RESULTS: The sample comprised 50 patients, of whom 27 (54%) were women. The mean age was 47.7 ± 17.5 years. The main reason for ICU admission, in 10 patients (20%), was cancer. The interobserver reliability of the questionnaires ranged from good to excellent. For the RCSQ, the ICC was 0.84 (95% CI: 0.71-0.90). For SICUQ domains 1-5 (sleep quality and daytime sleepiness), the ICC was 0.75 (95% CI: 0.55-0.86), whereas it was 0.86 (95% CI: 0.76-0.92) for SICUQ domains 6 and 7 (causes of sleep disruption). CONCLUSIONS: The cross-culturally adapted, Portuguese-language versions of the RCSQ and SICUQ appear to have good interobserver reliability.

Perfusion index for assessing microvascular reactivity in septic shock after fluid resuscitation. / Uso do índice de perfusão para avaliar reatividade microvascular no choque séptico após ressuscitação volêmica.

OBJECTIVE: Microcirculation disturbances are implicated in the prognosis of septic shock. Microvascular hyporesponsiveness can be assessed by an oximetry-derived perfusion index and reactive hyperemia. Using this perfusion index, we investigated reactive hyperemia and its relationship with peripheral perfusion and clinical-hemodynamic parameters in septic shock. METHODS: Eighty-two patients were evaluated: 47 with septic shock and 35 controls. Tests were performed within 24 hours after admission. The perfusion index was evaluated before and after a 3-min blood flow occlusion using a time-response analysis for 5 min. The perfusion index was also evaluated in the hyperemic phases and was mainly derived by mechanosensitive (ΔPI0-60) and metabolic mechanisms (ΔPI60-120). Correlation tests were performed between reactive hyperemia and clinical-hemodynamic data. RESULTS: Reactive hyperemia measured by the perfusion index was significantly lower in patients with septic shock, but this was only observed for the first 45 seconds after cuff-deflation. In the remaining period, there were no statistical differences between the groups. The peaks in the perfusion index were similar between groups, although the peak was reached more slowly in the septic group. Values of ΔPI0-60 were lower in shock [01% (-19% - -40%) versus 39% (6% - 75%); p = 0.001]. However, ΔPI60-120 was similar between the groups [43% (18% - 93%) versus 48% (18% - 98%); p = 0.58]. The time-to-peak of the perfusion index was correlated positively with the SOFA scores and negatively with C-reactive protein; the peak of the perfusion index was positively correlated with vasopressor doses; and the ΔPI60-120 values were positively correlated with C-reactive protein and vasopressor doses. No other significant correlations occurred. CONCLUSIONS: This perfusion index-based study suggests that septic shock promotes initial peripheral vascular hyporesponsiveness and preserves posterior vascular reactivity to a considerable degree. These results demonstrate a time-dependent peripheral hyperemic response and a significant ischemic reserve in septic shock.

OBJETIVO: Os distúrbios microcirculatórios estão implicados no prognóstico do choque séptico. A hiporresponsividade microvascular pode ser avaliada por meio do índice de perfusão, derivado da oximetria de pulso e hiperemia reativa. Com utilização do índice de perfusão, investigamos a hiperemia reativa e sua relação com a perfusão periférica e os parâmetros clínico-hemodinâmicos no choque séptico. MÉTODOS: Avaliaram-se 82 pacientes, 47 deles com choque séptico e 35 controles. Os exames foram realizados dentro de 24 horas após a admissão. O índice de perfusão foi avaliado antes e após uma oclusão do fluxo sanguíneo durante 3 minutos, utilizando-se análise de resposta temporal por 5 minutos. O índice de perfusão foi também avaliado nas fases hiperêmicas, principalmente com derivação de mecanismos mecanossensitivos (ΔIP0-60) e metabólicos (ΔIP60-120). Realizaram-se testes de correlação entre a hiperemia reativa e dados clínicos hemodinâmicos. RESULTADOS: A hiperemia reativa, medida pelo índice de perfusão, foi significantemente mais baixa no choque séptico apenas até 45 segundos após a desinflação do manguito. No período restante, não houve diferenças estatisticamente significantes entre os grupos. Os picos de índice de perfusão foram similares entre os grupos, embora o pico tenha sido atingido de forma mais lenta no grupo séptico. Os valores de ΔIP0-60 foram mais baixos no choque [1% (-19% - -40%) versus 39% (6% - 75%); p = 0,001]. No entanto, o ΔIP60-120 foi similar entre os grupos [43% (18% - 93%) versus 48% (18% - 98%); p = 0,58]. O tempo até o pico do índice de perfusão se correlacionou de forma positiva com o SOFA e negativamente com os níveis de proteína C-reativa. O pico de índice de perfusão se correlacionou de forma positiva com as doses de vasopressores; os valores de ΔIP60-120 tiveram correlação positiva com o nível de proteína C-reativa e as doses de vasopressores. Não ocorreram outras correlações significantes. CONCLUSÕES: Este estudo com base no índice de perfusão sugere que o choque séptico promove hiporresponsividade vascular periférica, enquanto a reatividade vascular posterior é consideravelmente preservada. Estes resultados demonstram resposta hiperêmica periférica dependente do tempo e significante reserva isquêmica no choque séptico.

Uso do índice de perfusão para avaliar reatividade microvascular no choque séptico após ressuscitação volêmica / Perfusion index for assessing microvascular reactivity in septic shock after fluid resuscitation

RESUMO Objetivo: Os distúrbios microcirculatórios estão implicados no prognóstico do choque séptico. A hiporresponsividade microvascular pode ser avaliada por meio do índice de perfusão, derivado da oximetria de pulso e hiperemia reativa. Com utilização do índice de perfusão, investigamos a hiperemia reativa e sua relação com a perfusão periférica e os parâmetros clínico-hemodinâmicos no choque séptico. Métodos: Avaliaram-se 82 pacientes, 47 deles com choque séptico e 35 controles. Os exames foram realizados dentro de 24 horas após a admissão. O índice de perfusão foi avaliado antes e após uma oclusão do fluxo sanguíneo durante 3 minutos, utilizando-se análise de resposta temporal por 5 minutos. O índice de perfusão foi também avaliado nas fases hiperêmicas, principalmente com derivação de mecanismos mecanossensitivos (ΔIP0-60) e metabólicos (ΔIP60-120). Realizaram-se testes de correlação entre a hiperemia reativa e dados clínicos hemodinâmicos. Resultados: A hiperemia reativa, medida pelo índice de perfusão, foi significantemente mais baixa no choque séptico apenas até 45 segundos após a desinflação do manguito. No período restante, não houve diferenças estatisticamente significantes entre os grupos. Os picos de índice de perfusão foram similares entre os grupos, embora o pico tenha sido atingido de forma mais lenta no grupo séptico. Os valores de ΔIP0-60 foram mais baixos no choque [1% (-19% - -40%) versus 39% (6% - 75%); p = 0,001]. No entanto, o ΔIP60-120 foi similar entre os grupos [43% (18% - 93%) versus 48% (18% - 98%); p = 0,58]. O tempo até o pico do índice de perfusão se correlacionou de forma positiva com o SOFA e negativamente com os níveis de proteína C-reativa. O pico de índice de perfusão se correlacionou de forma positiva com as doses de vasopressores; os valores de ΔIP60-120 tiveram correlação positiva com o nível de proteína C-reativa e as doses de vasopressores. Não ocorreram outras correlações significantes. Conclusões: Este estudo com base no índice de perfusão sugere que o choque séptico promove hiporresponsividade vascular periférica, enquanto a reatividade vascular posterior é consideravelmente preservada. Estes resultados demonstram resposta hiperêmica periférica dependente do tempo e significante reserva isquêmica no choque séptico.

ABSTRACT Objective: Microcirculation disturbances are implicated in the prognosis of septic shock. Microvascular hyporesponsiveness can be assessed by an oximetry-derived perfusion index and reactive hyperemia. Using this perfusion index, we investigated reactive hyperemia and its relationship with peripheral perfusion and clinical-hemodynamic parameters in septic shock. Methods: Eighty-two patients were evaluated: 47 with septic shock and 35 controls. Tests were performed within 24 hours after admission. The perfusion index was evaluated before and after a 3-min blood flow occlusion using a time-response analysis for 5 min. The perfusion index was also evaluated in the hyperemic phases and was mainly derived by mechanosensitive (ΔPI0-60) and metabolic mechanisms (ΔPI60-120). Correlation tests were performed between reactive hyperemia and clinical-hemodynamic data. Results: Reactive hyperemia measured by the perfusion index was significantly lower in patients with septic shock, but this was only observed for the first 45 seconds after cuff-deflation. In the remaining period, there were no statistical differences between the groups. The peaks in the perfusion index were similar between groups, although the peak was reached more slowly in the septic group. Values of ΔPI0-60 were lower in shock [01% (-19% - -40%) versus 39% (6% - 75%); p = 0.001]. However, ΔPI60-120 was similar between the groups [43% (18% - 93%) versus 48% (18% - 98%); p = 0.58]. The time-to-peak of the perfusion index was correlated positively with the SOFA scores and negatively with C-reactive protein; the peak of the perfusion index was positively correlated with vasopressor doses; and the ΔPI60-120 values were positively correlated with C-reactive protein and vasopressor doses. No other significant correlations occurred. Conclusions: This perfusion index-based study suggests that septic shock promotes initial peripheral vascular hyporesponsiveness and preserves posterior vascular reactivity to a considerable degree. These results demonstrate a time-dependent peripheral hyperemic response and a significant ischemic reserve in septic shock.

Muscle biopsy features in critical ill patients with 2009 influenza A (H1N1) virus infection.

Higher serum creatine kinase (CK) levels in critically ill patients with a confirmed 2009 influenza A (H1N1) infection suggests a possible relationship between the H1N1 virus and muscle tissue. However, there have been no reports with an emphasis on muscle biopsies for patients infected with the H1N1 virus. The objective of this study was to investigate the histological characteristics of the muscle biopsies from critically ill patients with confirmed 2009 H1N1 infections. A series of ten patients with confirmed 2009 H1N1 infection, who presented increased serum CK levels, was analyzed. Histological study found small histochemical alterations in muscles fibers (mainly in NADH, SDH, COX, myophosphorylase, adenylate deaminase and PAS stains), and no histological changes were compatible with inflammatory myopathy. Although our critically ill patients had elevated CK levels, they exhibited few histological/histochemical abnormalities in their muscle biopsy samples; however, those alterations could be consistent with metabolic dysfunction associated with influenza H1N1 infection.

Muscle biopsy features in critical ill patients with 2009 influenza A (H1N1) virus infection / Alterações da biópsia muscular em pacientes gravemente acometidos pela infecção por vírus influenza A (H1N1) 2009

Higher serum creatine kinase (CK) levels in critically ill patients with a confirmed 2009 influenza A (H1N1) infection suggests a possible relationship between the H1N1 virus and muscle tissue. However, there have been no reports with an emphasis on muscle biopsies for patients infected with the H1N1 virus. The objective of this study was to investigate the histological characteristics of the muscle biopsies from critically ill patients with confirmed 2009 H1N1 infections. A series of ten patients with confirmed 2009 H1N1 infection, who presented increased serum CK levels, was analyzed. Histological study found small histochemical alterations in muscles fibers (mainly in NADH, SDH, COX, myophosphorylase, adenylate deaminase and PAS stains), and no histological changes were compatible with inflammatory myopathy. Although our critically ill patients had elevated CK levels, they exhibited few histological/histochemical abnormalities in their muscle biopsy samples; however, those alterations could be consistent with metabolic dysfunction associated with influenza H1N1 infection.

Os elevados níveis séricos da creatina quinase (CK) em pacientes gravemente acometidos pela infecção por influenza A (H1N1) 2009 sugerem uma possível relação entre infecção pelo vírus H1N1 e alterações do tecido muscular. No entanto, não existem relatos com ênfase nas alterações histológicas encontradas no músculo dos pacientes infectados pelo vírus H1N1. O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar as características histológicas, em biópsia muscular, de pacientes gravemente acometidos pela infecção por vírus H1N1 2009. Foi analisada uma série de dez pacientes com infecção confirmada por vírus H1N1, que apresentavam nível sérico elevado de CK. O estudo histológico evidenciou pequenas alterações histoquímicas nas fibras musculares (mais evidentes nas colorações por NADH, SDH, COX, miofosforilase, adenilato deaminase e PAS) mas sem alterações histológicas compatíveis com miopatia inflamatória. Embora nossos pacientes mostrassem níveis séricos elevados de CK, foram poucas as alterações histológicas e histoquímicas encontradas em suas biópsias musculares. Contudo, essas alterações podem ser consistentes com uma disfunção metabólica da fibra muscular associada à infecção pelo H1N1.

[Lay knowledge about stroke]. / Conhecimento leigo sobre doença vascular encefálica.

The significance of the risk factors and the rapid diagnosis of encephalic vascular disease (EVD) is the reason for this research, where the authors decided to register and analyze the non-medical people knowledge about these risk factors and the symptoms of this group of disease. For this purpose a questionnaire with questions about these facts was applied to 500 voluntaries without pre-selection, 72.6% of them with ages between 16-35 years old, and the answers analyzed by statistical methods. The authors recognized that the risk factors has a good level of knowledge by this population (87.8 % for hypertension, 76.8 % for smoking, 70.8 % for obesity, 68.7 % for sedentary persons, 66.7 % to stress, 66.3 % to alcohol ingest, 60.7 % for fat diet, 59 % to illicit drugs) while the signs and symptoms of EVD has a minor level of knowing and correction: lost sensitivity 70.3 %, headache 64.2 %, twisted mouth 59.5 %, lost or altered speech 57.5 %, dizziness 56 %, syncope 51.7 %, amaurosis 50.3 %, disequilibrium 45 %, deafness 31.2 %, weakness 41.1 %, nervousness 20.7%, chest pain 20.2 %, fatigue 15.3 % and tinnitus 18.9 %. According this data, the authors suggest that the correction or prevention of risk factors as well the precocious medical attention by the recognition of symptoms of EVD must be the object of public health programs.

Conhecimento leigo sobre doença vascular encefálica / Lay knowledge about stroke

A magnitude das doenças vasculares encefálicas (DVE), com a sua prevalência, gravidade e elevados índices de morbi-mortalidade, faz com que se busquem formas de prevençäo e de diagnóstico precoce. Considerando que as informaçöes sobre os fatores de risco e os sintomas de DVE, pelos doentes de risco e pela populaçäo em geral, tem um papel preponderante nesta estratégia de tratamento, os autores buscaram conhecer qual o grau deste conhecimento em um grupo populacional amplo e variado. Assim, aplicou-se em 500 pessoas leigas um questionário de que constavam questöes sobre os fatores de risco e sobre os sintomas de DVE com termos näo médicos. Os resultados da análise estatística mostraram surpreendente conhecimento sobre os fatores de risco, a par de menor reconhecimento sobre os sintomas e sinais de doença vascular. Os autores detalham os achados e comentam sobre este aspecto importante das DVE

Acidente vascular cerebral em pacientes jovens: análise de 164 casos / Stroke in young adults: analysis of 164 patients

Realizamos análise epidemiológica de 164 pacientes com AVC, cujo primeiro episódio ocorreu entre 15 e 49 anos de idade através de um estudo retrospectivo de pacientes ambulatoriais. O principal tipo de apresentaçäo foi AVC isquêmico (AVCI) em 141 pacientes, ocorrendo AVC hemorrágico (AVCH) em16 casos e 7 pacientes com trombose venosa. A presença de fatores de risco aterotrombóticos foi prevalente, em 48,22 por cento dos pacientes com AVCI sendo que a hipertensäo arterial sistêmica (HAS), nos casos de AVCH, foi a etiologia mais frequente. Em 32 por cento dos casos näo se pode determinar a sua causa. Embora a populaçäo jovem possua determinantes diferentes e geralmente deva ter uma investigaçäo etiológica mais abrangente, no grupo estudado foram prevalentes os fatores de risco conhecidos e potencialmente controláveis, sugerindo que campanhas de prevençäo e detecçäo precoce devam ser incentivados

As contribuiçöes de Charcot e de Marsden para o desenvolvimento dos distúrbios do movimento nos séculos XIX e XX / Contributions of Charcot and Marsden to the development of movement disorders in the 19th and 20th centuries

Charcot contribuiu significativamente no século XIX na descrição de várias enfermidades neurológicas, em particular na área dos distúrbios do movimento. Charcot contribuiu de forma exponencial na descrição clínica minuciosa da doença de Parkinson, além de introduzir o primeiro tratamento farmacológico. Na área das hipercinesias realizou estudos sobre a síndrome de Tourette, o diagnóstico diferencial dos tremores, das coréias e o estudo inicial sobre startle. Marsden, recentemente falecido, destacou-se no século XX com inúmeras publicações na área dos movimentos anormais.São contribuições seminais os estudos sobre a doença de Parkinson, distonias, mioclonias , tremor essencial, a descrição das síndromes "Painful Legs Moving Toes", "Gait Ignition Failure" e o "Tremor Primário da Escrita". As contribuições de Charcot no século XIX e de Marsden no século XX na área dos distúrbios do movimento permitem concluir que ambos foram as figuras mais representativas desta área nos últimos dois séculos.

Nevralgia do occipital maior associada a lesäo osteolítica occipital: relato de caso / Greater occipital neuralgia associated to an occipital osteolytic lesion: case report

A distribuiçao anatômica do nervo occipital maior durante o seu trajeto permite íntima relaçao com estruturas musculares, tendinosas, vasculares e ósseas. A quebra deste relacionamento pode originar a sua irritaçao e cefaléia. Descrevemos uma associaçao rara: sexo feminino; 50 anos; cefaléia com evoluçao de 2 anos; localizada em regiao occipital direita irradiando-se para regiao hemicrânica e supraorbitária direita; espontânea e ou desencadeada pela digito compressao sobre a regiao de emergência do nervo occipital maior ao nível do trapézio; duraçao de 30 minutos; compressiva; moderada intensidade; sem fenômenos autonômicos associados; sem resposta terapêutica com o bloqueio anestésico do nervo occipital maior. Investigaçao radiológica mostrou lesao osteolítica localizada e aderida ao nível da inserçao do tendao do músculo trapézio. A melhora total dos sintomas após descompressao cirúrgica do nervo permite relacionar esta lesao aos sintomas álgicos apresentados, compatíveis com nevralgia do occipital maior.