Position paper of diagnosis and treatment of post-extubation laryngitis in children: a multidisciplinary expert-based opinion.

OBJECTIVES: To make recommendations on the diagnosis and treatment of post-extubation laryngitis (PEL) in children with or without other comorbidities. METHODS: A three-iterative modified Delphi method was applied. Specialists were recruited representing pediatric otolaryngologists, pediatric and neonatal intensivists. Questions and statements approached topics encompassing definition, diagnosis, endoscopic airway evaluation, risk factors, comorbidities, management, and follow-up. A consensus was defined as a supermajority >70%. RESULTS: Stridor was considered the most frequent symptom and airway endoscopy was recommended for definitive diagnosis. Gastroesophageal reflux and previous history of intubation were considered risk factors. Specific length of intubation did not achieve a consensus as a risk factor. Systemic corticosteroids should be part of the medical treatment and dexamethasone was the drug of choice. No consensus was achieved regarding dosage of corticosteroids, although endoscopic findings help defining dosage and length of treatment. Non-invasive ventilation, laryngeal rest, and use of comfort sedation scales were recommended. Indications for microlaryngoscopy and bronchoscopy under anesthesia were symptoms progression or failure to improve after the first 72-h of medical treatment post-extubation, after two failed extubations, and/or suspicion of severe lesions on flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopy. CONCLUSIONS: Management of post-extubation laryngitis is challenging and can be facilitated by a multidisciplinary approach. Airway endoscopy is mandatory and impacts decision-making, although there is no consensus regarding dosage and length of treatment.

Bocaparvovirus in infants hospitalized in a neonatal intensive care unit in Midwest Brazil during the COVID-19 pandemic (2021-2022).

Human bocaparvoviruses (HBoVs) belong to the Parvoviridae family, being currently classified into four species (HBoV1-4). These viruses have been found in association with respiratory and gastroenteric symptoms, as well as in asymptomatic individuals. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of HBoVs in infants under 5 months old admitted to a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) during the COVID-19 pandemic (between March 2021 and March 2022). Clinical samples (nasopharyngeal swab, serum, stool, and urine) were screened by qPCR TaqMan. The HBoV was detected in samples of 31.6% (12/38) of participants. The most frequent alteration among the HBoV-positive neonates was the chest X-ray with interstitial infiltrate, followed by tachycardia and vomiting. Viral DNA was detected in more than one type of clinical sample in three of the participants in association with respiratory symptoms. Two participants had positive stool samples with or without enteric symptoms. HBoV intermittent and continuous positivity patterns were observed. The present study stands out for the prospective evaluation of positivity for HBoV in different types of clinical samples from a population of hospitalized infants. Our data supports circulation of HBoV in nosocomial environment during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Position paper of diagnosis and treatment of post-extubation laryngitis in children: a multidisciplinary expert-based opinion

Abstract Objectives To make recommendations on the diagnosis and treatment of post-extubation laryngitis (PEL) in children with or without other comorbidities. Methods A three-iterative modified Delphi method was applied. Specialists were recruited representing pediatric otolaryngologists, pediatric and neonatal intensivists. Questions and statements approached topics encompassing definition, diagnosis, endoscopic airway evaluation, risk factors, comorbidities, management, and follow-up. A consensus was defined as a supermajority >70%. Results Stridor was considered the most frequent symptom and airway endoscopy was recommended for definitive diagnosis. Gastroesophageal reflux and previous history of intubation were considered risk factors. Specific length of intubation did not achieve a consensus as a risk factor. Systemic corticosteroids should be part of the medical treatment and dexamethasone was the drug of choice. No consensus was achieved regarding dosage of corticosteroids, although endoscopic findings help defining dosage and length of treatment. Non-invasive ventilation, laryngeal rest, and use of comfort sedation scales were recommended. Indications for microlaryngoscopy and bronchoscopy under anesthesia were symptoms progression or failure to improve after the first 72-h of medical treatment post-extubation, after two failed extubations, and/or suspicion of severe lesions on flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopy. Conclusions Management of post-extubation laryngitis is challenging and can be facilitated by a multidisciplinary approach. Airway endoscopy is mandatory and impacts decision-making, although there is no consensus regarding dosage and length of treatment.

Viral Coinfection of Children Hospitalized with Severe Acute Respiratory Infections during COVID-19 Pandemic.

The main pathogens of severe respiratory infection in children are respiratory viruses, and the current molecular technology allows for a rapid and simultaneous detection of a wide spectrum of these viral pathogens, facilitating the diagnosis and evaluation of viral coinfection. METHODS: This study was conducted between March 2020 and December 2021. All children admitted to the ICU with a diagnosis of SARI and who were tested by polymerase chain reaction on nasopharyngeal swabs for SARS-CoV-2 and other common respiratory viral pathogens were included in the study. RESULTS: The result of the viral panel identified 446 children, with one infected with a single virus and 160 co-infected with two or more viruses. This study employed descriptive analyses, where a total of twenty-two coinfections among SARI-causing viruses were identified. Thus, the five most frequent coinfections that were selected for the study are: hRV/SARS-CoV-2 (17.91%), hRV/RSV (14.18%), RSV/SARS-CoV-2 (12.69%), hRV/BoV (10.45%), and hRV/AdV (8.21%). The most significant age group was 38.1%, representing patients aged between 24 and 59 months (61 individuals). Patients older than 59 months represented a total of 27.5%, comprising forty-four patients. The use of oxygen therapy was statistically significant in coinfections with Bocavirus, other CoVs, Metapneumovirus, and RSV. Coinfections with SARS-CoV-2 and the other different coinfections presented a similar time of use of oxygen therapy with a value of (p > 0.05). In the year 2020, hRV/BoV was more frequent in relation to other types of coinfections, representing a total of 35.1%. The year 2021 presented a divergent profile, with hRV/SARS-CoV-2 coinfection being the most frequent (30.8%), followed by hRV/RSV (28.2%). Additionally, 25.6% and 15.4% represented coinfections between RSV/SARS-CoV-2 and hRV/AdV, respectively. We saw that two of the patients coinfected with hRV/SARS-CoV-2 died, representing 9.52% of all deaths in the study. In addition, both hRV/hBoV and hRV/RSV had death records for each case, representing 8.33% and 6.67% of all deaths, respectively. CONCLUSION: Coinfections with respiratory viruses, such as RSV and hBoV, can increase the severity of the disease in children with SARI who are admitted to the ICU, and children infected with SARS-CoV-2 have their clinical condition worsened when they have comorbidities.

Profile analysis of emerging respiratory virus in children.

Acute respiratory infections (ARIs) are caused by a variety of microorganisms. Of all ARIs, 80% are caused by viruses such as human respiratory syncytial virus, metapneumovirus, influenza, parainfluenza, rhinovirus, and, more recently, Sars-CoV-2, which has been responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. The objective of our study was to evaluate clinical data from a viral panel performed in children hospitalized with SARS or COVID-19 in the infirmary or ICU of 5 pediatric hospitals in the city of Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were collected for analysis, and data on the outcomes underwent statistical treatment. A total of 128 patients were selected for the study, 54% of whom were male and 46% female. The viral panel included rhinovirus, COVID-19, metapneumovirus, adenovirus, and parainfluenza. Descriptive analyses of age profile showed differences in the involvement of particular viruses. The percentage of patients who required hospitalization in the ICU, infirmary, as well as individuals who were discharged after therapy or who died, were described. Our work shows that epidemiological surveillance measures are indispensable, especially if used in the continued analysis of viral panels in all pediatric patients with SARS.

Characterization of T Helper 1 and 2 Cytokine Profiles in Newborns of Mothers with COVID-19.

An infectious disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19 greatly affects the pediatric population and is 3 times more prevalent in newborns than in the general population. In newborns, the overexpression of immunological molecules may also induce a so-called cytokine storm. In our study, we evaluated the expression of cytokines in newborns admitted to a neonatal ICU whose mothers had SARS-CoV-2 and symptoms of SARS. The blood of newborns of infected and healthy mothers was collected to identify their Th1 and Th2 cytokine profiles, and via flow cytometry, the cytokines TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-6, and IL-10 were identified. Overexpression was observed in the Th1 and Th2 cytokine profiles of newborns from infected mothers compared with the control group. Statistical analysis also revealed significant differences between the cellular and humoral responses of the infected group versus the control group. The cellular versus humoral responses of the newborns of infected mothers were also compared, which revealed the prevalence of the cellular immune response. These data demonstrate that some cytokines identified relate to more severe symptoms and even some comorbidities. IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-10 may especially be related to cytokine storms in neonates of mothers with COVID-19.

Rhino-Orbital Mucormycosis After COVID-19 Recovery: A Case Report.

The pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 remains a health care concern, despite vaccination programs. Mucormycosis, especially rhino-orbital-mucormycosis, has been described as a severe complication of COVID-19. Although it has been described mostly in India and other developing countries, few cases in the western world have also been described. We present a case of rhino-orbito-mucormycosis after recovery from severe COVID-19 in Portugal. A 75-year-old diabetic and obese man presented with right proptosis associated with right eye pain and low vision one month after recovery from severe COVID-19. Considering the most probable etiology for this clinical picture, anti-fungal therapy with liposomal amphotericin B was promptly initiated, followed by endoscopic sinus debridement. However, due to persistent and progressive infection, and after a multidisciplinary revision of the case, orbital exenteration was performed. One year after surgery, the patient is stable, without clinical or imagological signs of relapse of the disease. Although the evolution of the pandemic, along with vaccination programs, led to a lower incidence of severe COVID-19 disease, there are still patients presenting with severe COVID-19, requiring intensive care and at risk for serious complications. This case illustrates the importance of being aware of the development of post-COVID-19 mucormycosis and the need for close surveillance of patients recovering from severe COVID-19. COVID-19 prompt diagnosis and multidisciplinary approach are essential for a timely intervention achieving better survival while minimizing morbidity.

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C): a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical characteristics, treatment, and outcomes

Abstract Objective: The clinical cases of patients with multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) were analyzed via a systematic review and meta-analysis of the clinical findings, treatments, and possible outcomes of articles retrieved via database searches. Sources: The authors searched the PubMed, Scielo, Web of Science, Science Direct, EMBASA, EBSCO, and Scopus databases for articles containing the keywords "multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children" or "MIS-C" or "PIMS-TS" or "SIMP" and "COVID-19" or "SARS-CoV-2" published between December 1st, 2019 and July 10th, 2021. Patient characteristics, tissue and organ comorbidities, the incidence of symptoms after COVID-19 infection, treatment, and patient evolution in the articles found were evaluated. The data were abstracted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Findings: In total, 98 articles (2275 patients) were selected for demographics, clinical treatment, and outcomes of patients diagnosed with MIS-C. The average age of children with MIS-C, 56.8% of whom were male, was of nine years. Fever (100%), gastrointestinal (GI) (82%), and abdominal pain (68%) were the decisive symptoms for the diagnosis of MIS-C. Shock and/or hypotension were common in patients with MIS-C. Cardiac symptoms (66%) predominated over respiratory (39%) and neurological (28%) symptoms. MIS-C treatment followed the common guidelines for treating children with septic shock and Kawasaki disease (KD) and proved to be effective. Conclusions: This meta-analysis highlights the main clinical symptoms used for the diagnosis of MIS-C, the differences between MIS-C and KD, and the severity of the inflammatory process and urgency for hospital care.

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C): a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical characteristics, treatment, and outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: The clinical cases of patients with multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) were analyzed via a systematic review and meta-analysis of the clinical findings, treatments, and possible outcomes of articles retrieved via database searches. SOURCES: The authors searched the PubMed, Scielo, Web of Science, Science Direct, EMBASA, EBSCO, and Scopus databases for articles containing the keywords "multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children" or "MIS-C" or "PIMS-TS" or "SIMP" and "COVID-19" or "SARS-CoV-2" published between December 1st, 2019 and July 10th, 2021. Patient characteristics, tissue and organ comorbidities, the incidence of symptoms after COVID-19 infection, treatment, and patient evolution in the articles found were evaluated. The data were abstracted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). FINDINGS: In total, 98 articles (2275 patients) were selected for demographics, clinical treatment, and outcomes of patients diagnosed with MIS-C. The average age of children with MIS-C, 56.8% of whom were male, was of nine years. Fever (100%), gastrointestinal (GI) (82%), and abdominal pain (68%) were the decisive symptoms for the diagnosis of MIS-C. Shock and/or hypotension were common in patients with MIS-C. Cardiac symptoms (66%) predominated over respiratory (39%) and neurological (28%) symptoms. MIS-C treatment followed the common guidelines for treating children with septic shock and Kawasaki disease (KD) and proved to be effective. CONCLUSIONS: This meta-analysis highlights the main clinical symptoms used for the diagnosis of MIS-C, the differences between MIS-C and KD, and the severity of the inflammatory process and urgency for hospital care.

Secondary household transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among children and adolescents: Clinical and epidemiological aspects.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the secondary attack rate (SAR) in children and adolescents, contacts of essential activities workers who were infected by SARS-CoV-2; and to describe associated clinical and epidemiological data. METHODS: A cross-sectional study conducted in children and adolescents aged 5 to 19 years of age, that were household contacts of parents and other relatives who were infected by SARS-CoV-2 in the city of Goiânia, Central Brazil, from March to October 2020. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected from all participants. Nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swabs were collected and tested for SARS-CoV-2 RNA using real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Factors associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection and SAR were analyzed using Poisson regression. RESULTS: A total of 267 children and adolescents were investigated. The prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA by the real-time RT-PCR test and/or the presence of COVID-19 associated symptoms (anosmia/ageusia and flu syndrome) was 25.1% (95.0% Confidence Interval [95.0% CI] = 20.3-30.6). More than half (55.1%) of the participants had sygns and symptoms. The most prevalent signs and symptoms in positive individuals were nasal congestion (62.7%), headache (55.2%), cough (50.8%), myalgia (47.8%), runny nose (47.8%), and anosmia (47.8%). The Poisson model showed that the following signs or symptoms were associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection: fever, nasal congestion, decreased appetite, nausea, anosmia, and ageusia. Families that had more than one infected adult, in addition to the index case, presented greater transmissibility to children and adolescents. CONCLUSIONS: Our results contribute to the hypothesis that children and adolescents are not important sources of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in the home environment during a period of social distancing and school closure; even though they are susceptible to infection in the household (around » of our study population).

Queilite actínica: relato de caso / Actinic cheilitis: case report

A Queilite Actínica (QA) é uma condição clínica que acomete o vermelhão do lábio inferior intimamente relacionada com com exposição excessiva à luz solar. Geralmente acomete o sexo masculino acima de 45 anos. O caso apresenta um paciente gênero masculino, leucoderma, 59 anos, com lesão de atrofia da borda do vermelhão do lábio inferior, superfícies lisas, manchas eritroleucoplásicas, limites nítidos e formato irregular. O diagnóstico clínico foi de Queilite Actínica. A biópsia incisional foi conduzida e apresentou microscopicamente um epitélio estratificado pavimentoso hiperqueratinizado com áreas de acantose, a lâmina própria era fibrosa, exibia infiltrado inflamatório crônico e uma faixa basofílica amorfa e acelular consistente com elastose solar proeminente e um quadro de Displasia Moderada. O tratamento proposto foi a vermelhectomia, mas houve recusa do paciente em realizar esse procedimento. Diante das alterações, percebe-se a importância do cirurgião- dentista na precisão do diagnóstico precoce e tratamento, impedindo a transformação maligna da lesão. (AU)

Actinic cheilitis (AC) is a common clinical condiction which affects the lower lip vermilion closely related to excessive exposure to sunlight. Usually affects males above 45 years. The case features a male patient, leucoderma, 59, edge of atrophic lesion of the lower lip vermilion, smooth surfaces, eritroleucoplásicas spots, clear limits and irregular shape. The clinical diagnosis was Actinic cheilitis. The incisional biopsy was conducted and microscopically presented a stratified epithelium hiperqueratinizado with areas of acanthosis, the lamina propria was fibrous, showed chronic inflammatory infiltrate and basophilic amorphous band and acellular consistent with prominent solar elastosis and Dysplasia Moderate frame. The proposed treatment was vermilionectomy but was patient refusal to perform this procedure. Faced with the changes, we see the importance of dental surgeon on the accuracy of early diagnosis and treatment, preventing malignant transformation of the lesion. (AU)

First Clinical Consensus and National Recommendations on Tracheostomized Children of the Brazilian Academy of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology (ABOPe) and Brazilian Society of Pediatrics (SBP) / Primeiro Consenso Clínico e Recomendações Nacionais em Crianças Traqueostomizadas da Academia Brasileira de Otorrinolaringologia Pediátrica (ABOPe) e Sociedade Brasileira de Pediatria (SBP)

Abstract Introduction: Tracheostomy is a procedure that can be performed in any age group, including children under 1 year of age. Unfortunately health professionals in Brazil have great difficulty dealing with this condition due to the lack of standard care orientation. Objective: This clinical consensus by Academia Brasileira de Otorrinolaringologia Pediátrica (ABOPe) and Sociedade Brasileira de Pediatria (SBP) aims to generate national recommendations on the care concerning tracheostomized children. Methods: A group of experts experienced in pediatric tracheostomy (otorhinolaryngologists, intensive care pediatricians, endoscopists, and pediatric pulmonologists) were selected, taking into account the different regions of Brazil and following inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: The results generated from this document were based on the agreement of the majority of participants regarding the indications, type of cannula, surgical techniques, care, and general guidelines and decannulation. Conclusion: These guidelines can be used as directives for a wide range of health professionals across the country that deal with tracheostomized children.

Resumo Introdução: A traqueostomia é um procedimento que pode ser feito em qualquer faixa etária, inclusive em crianças abaixo de um ano. Infelizmente no Brasil existe uma enorme dificuldade dos profissionais de saúde em lidar com esta condição e uma falta de padronização dos cuidados. Objetivo: Este consenso clínico realizado pela Academia Brasileira de Otorrinolaringologia Pediátrica (ABOPe) e Sociedade Brasileira de Pediatria (SBP) tem como objetivo gerar recomendações nacionais sobre os cuidados e condutas diante das crianças traqueostomizadas. Método: Foram selecionados um grupo de especialistas com experiência em traqueostomia na infância (otorrinolaringologistas, pediatras intensivistas, endoscopistas, pneumopediatras) que tivessem comprovada atuação prática no assunto, e que também contemplassem as diversas regiões do Brasil, de acordo com os critérios de inclusão e exclusão. Resultados: Os resultados gerados neste documento foram obtidos a partir da concordância da maioria dos participantes em relação as indicações, tipo de cânula, técnicas cirúrgicas, cuidados e orientações gerais e decanulação. Conclusão: Estas diretrizes poderão servir como norteadoras para os mais diversos profissionais de saúde em todo país que lidam com as dificuldades das crianças traqueostomizadas.

First Clinical Consensus and National Recommendations on Tracheostomized Children of the Brazilian Academy of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology (ABOPe) and Brazilian Society of Pediatrics (SBP).

INTRODUCTION: Tracheostomy is a procedure that can be performed in any age group, including children under 1year of age. Unfortunately health professionals in Brazil have great difficulty dealing with this condition due to the lack of standard care orientation. OBJECTIVE: This clinical consensus by Academia Brasileira de Otorrinolaringologia Pediátrica (ABOPe) and Sociedade Brasileira de Pediatria (SBP) aims to generate national recommendations on the care concerning tracheostomized children. METHODS: A group of experts experienced in pediatric tracheostomy (otorhinolaryngologists, intensive care pediatricians, endoscopists, and pediatric pulmonologists) were selected, taking into account the different regions of Brazil and following inclusion and exclusion criteria. RESULTS: The results generated from this document were based on the agreement of the majority of participants regarding the indications, type of cannula, surgical techniques, care, and general guidelines and decannulation. CONCLUSION: These guidelines can be used as directives for a wide range of health professionals across the country that deal with tracheostomized children.

Caracterização do atraso no diagnóstico do câncer de boca e orofaringe em dois centros de referência / Characterization of diagnostic delay in oral and oropharyngeal cancer at two referral centers

Resumo Objetivo Estimar se variáveis clínicas e epidemiológicas influenciam no atraso do diagnóstico em dois centros de referência. Métodos Foi realizado um estudo analítico longitudinal retrospectivo. Todos os prontuários de pacientes maiores de 18 anos diagnosticados no período de junho de 2005 a junho de 2013 foram analisados por meio do SPSS® 20. Para testar associações entre as variáveis epidemiológicas e clínicas com os atrasos do paciente e do profissional, foram utilizados os testes: ANOVA, t de Student e Kruskal-Wallis. Resultados Foram incluídos no estudo 121 prontuários. Prevaleceram pacientes do sexo masculino, com idade média de 64,3 anos (DP=12,94), pardos, procedentes do interior, analfabetos, tabagistas e etilistas. A grande maioria (85,1%) foi diagnosticada nos estádios avançados. O maior atraso estava relacionado ao paciente, com média de tempo de 197,8 dias (DP=323,9). O atraso no diagnóstico profissional foi de 20 dias (DP=25,9), e aquele relacionado ao sistema de saúde foi de 71,1 dias (DP=71,7). Não houve associação entre as variáveis clínicas/epidemiológicas e o atraso no diagnóstico (do paciente e do profissional). Conclusão De acordo com os resultados do presente estudo, as variáveis clínicas e epidemiológicas não influenciam no atraso do diagnóstico.

Abstract Objectives To analyze the chronology of diagnosis and determine whether clinical and epidemiological variables have an influence on diagnostic delay at two referral centers. Methods The medical records of all patients older than 18 years diagnosed with oral/oropharyngeal cancer from June 2005 to June 2013 were analyzed using SPSS® 20. The association between epidemiological and clinical variables with patient and professional delay was performed using ANOVA, Student’s t-test, and Kruskal-Wallis test. Results In total, 121 medical records were included in the study. Patients were predominantly brown, male, illiterate, living in country towns, smokers, and heavy drinkers (mean age 64.3 years, SD=12.94). The majority (85.1%) of patients were diagnosed at advanced stages of their disease. The greatest delay was patient-related, mean 197.8 days (SD=323.9). Delay in establishing the medical diagnosis averaged 20 days (SD=25.9), and health care system-related delay was 71.1 days (SD=71.7). There was no association of clinical and epidemiological variables with delayed diagnosis (patient and professional). Conclusion Data from the present study suggest that clinical and epidemiological variables do not influence diagnostic delay.

Reviewing the use of corticosteroids in bronchopulmonary dysplasia / Revendo o uso dos corticosteroides em displasia broncopulmonar

Abstract Objective: Review the risks and benefits of postnatal corticosteroid use for the treatment of bronchopulmonary dysplasia, considering that there is not a more effective therapy. Data sources: The literature review was carried out in the BIREME database, using the terms "bronchopulmonary dysplasia and corticosteroid" in the LILACS, IBECS, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and SciELO databases, selecting the most relevant articles on the subject, with emphasis on recent literature published in the last five years. Summary of the data: In preterm infants, bronchopulmonary dysplasia is still a common problem and remains without a specific therapy, despite knowledge of the several risk factors. The treatment essentially consists of supportive measures, but in the past, corticosteroids were widely used, as they are the only medications that have an impact on disease progression. However, the emergence of cerebral palsy associated with the indiscriminate use of corticosteroids has prevented the prescription of this drug in the last 15 years. Since then, no new measures have been taken, and the incidence of the disease tended to increase during this period, creating the need for a review of corticosteroid use and, possibly, more restricted indications. Conclusions: The association between risks and benefits of corticosteroid use in preterm infants needs to be considered due to the fact that some infant subpopulations may show more benefits than risks, such as those using mechanical ventilation with difficult weaning.

Resumo Objetivo: Revisar os riscos e benefícios do uso do corticoide pós-natal para o tratamento da displasia broncopulmonar, uma vez que ainda não há outra terapia mais eficaz. Fontes de dados: A revisão da literatura foi feita pelo banco de dados da Bireme, com os termos bronchopulmonary dysplasia and corticosteroid nos sistemas Lilacs, Ibecs, Medline, Biblioteca Cochrane e SciELO. Foram selecionados os artigos de maior relevância sobre o tema, com ênfase na literatura dos últimos cinco anos. Síntese dos dados: Em recém-nascidos prematuros, a broncodisplasia ainda é um problema frequente e sem terapêutica específica, apesar do conhecimento dos vários fatores de risco. O tratamento, basicamente, é feito por medidas de suporte, mas o corticoide no passado foi largamente usado por se tratar da única medicação com impacto na evolução da doença. Porém, o aparecimento de paralisia cerebral associada ao uso indiscriminado do corticoide inviabilizou a prescrição da droga nos últimos 15 anos. Desde então, nenhuma nova medida foi tomada, a incidência da doença tendeu a um aumento nesse período e criou a necessidade da revisão do uso do corticoide e de possíveis indicações mais restritas. Conclusões: A relação do risco e benefício dos corticoides usados em recém-nascidos prematuros precisa ser ponderada diante de algumas subpopulações de bebês que podem ter mais benefícios do que riscos, como naqueles em ventilação mecânica e com desmame difícil.

Reviewing the use of corticosteroids in bronchopulmonary dysplasia.

OBJECTIVE: Review the risks and benefits of postnatal corticosteroid use for the treatment of bronchopulmonary dysplasia, considering that there is not a more effective therapy. DATA SOURCES: The literature review was carried out in the BIREME database, using the terms "bronchopulmonary dysplasia and corticosteroid" in the LILACS, IBECS, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and SciELO databases, selecting the most relevant articles on the subject, with emphasis on recent literature published in the last five years. SUMMARY OF THE DATA: In preterm infants, bronchopulmonary dysplasia is still a common problem and remains without a specific therapy, despite knowledge of the several risk factors. The treatment essentially consists of supportive measures, but in the past, corticosteroids were widely used, as they are the only medications that have an impact on disease progression. However, the emergence of cerebral palsy associated with the indiscriminate use of corticosteroids has prevented the prescription of this drug in the last 15 years. Since then, no new measures have been taken, and the incidence of the disease tended to increase during this period, creating the need for a review of corticosteroid use and, possibly, more restricted indications. CONCLUSIONS: The association between risks and benefits of corticosteroid use in preterm infants needs to be considered due to the fact that some infant subpopulations may show more benefits than risks, such as those using mechanical ventilation with difficult weaning.

Identification and quantification of anthocyanins in fruits from Neomitranthes obscura (DC.) N. Silveira an endemic specie from Brazil by comparison of chromatographic methodologies.

Neomitranthes obscura (DC.) N. Silveira is a Brazilian fruit belonging to the Myrtaceae family that contains anthocyanins in the peel and was studied for the first time in this work. Delphinidin-3-O-galactoside, delphinidin-3-O-glucoside, cyanidin-3-O-galactoside, cyanidin-3-O-glucoside, cyanidin-3-O-arabinoside, petunidin-3-O-glucoside, pelargonidin-3-O-glucoside, peonidin-3-O-galactoside, peonidin-3-O-glucoside, cyanidin-3-O-xyloside were separated and identified by LC/DAD/MS and by co-elution with standards. Reliable quantification of anthocyanins in the mature fruits was performed by HPLC/DAD using weighted linear regression model from 0.05 to 50mg of cyaniding-3-O-glucoside L(-1) because it gave better fit quality than least squares linear regression. Good precision and accuracy were obtained. The total anthocyanin content of mature fruits was 263.6 ± 8.2 mg of cyanidin-3-O-glucoside equivalents 100 g(-1) fresh weight, which was in the same range found in literature for anthocyanin rich fruits.

Teor de carotenoides em nutricosméticos: análise da adequação e qualidade do produto / Carotenoids content in nutricosmetics products: evaluation of product adequacy and quality

O objetivo deste trabalho foi verificar a adequação dos nutricosméticos contendo carotenoides em sua formulação em relação aos teores de β-caroteno, luteína, licopeno e zeaxantina, considerando-se as quantidades declaradas pelos fabricantes. Dezenove nutricosméticos foram adquiridos no comércio varejista do município do Rio de Janeiro, em 2012. Duas metodologias de extração foram aplicadas,variando-se de acordo com o tipo de invólucro (cápsula), veículos (excipientes) e carotenoides presentes.A quantificação e determinação do perfil de carotenoides nas amostras foram realizadas por cromatografialíquida de alta eficiência (CLAE) com método validado e acreditado. Quatro amostras das 19 analisadas estavam dentro dos limites estabelecidos pelas Boas Práticas de Fabricação (90 a 110 %). As demais amostras revelaram conteúdo inadequado de carotenoides e, consequentemente, falhas no controle de qualidade para a produção dos nutricosméticos. Desta forma, esta pesquisa demonstra que este setor deve ser objeto de atenção especial da vigilância sanitária, com necessidade de estabelecer legislação específica para regulamentar a fabricação, a rotulagem e a propaganda destes produtos.

The present study analyzed the nutricosmetics adequacy referring to the carotenoids contents, such asβ-carotene, lutein, lycopene and zeaxanthin, and these findings were compared with the contents declaredby the manufacturers. Nineteen carotenoids-containing nutricosmetics were purchased at retail marketin Rio de Janeiro city in 2012. Two methodologies of extraction were used according to the type of shell(capsules), carriers (excipients) and carotenoids. Quantification and determination of carotenoids profilewere performed in a High Performed Liquid Chromatograph (HPLC) with validated and accreditedmethodology. Of 19 analyzed samples, four were within the limits established by the Good ManufacturingPractice specification (90 to 110 %), and the others were out of this range, revealing an inadequacy inthe carotenoids contents and failures in the quality control of nutricosmetics production. This studydemonstrated that the nutricosmetics production sector should receive a special attention from the healthsurveillance, and it needs a specific legislation to regulate the manufacture, labeling and advertising ofthese products.

Correction of simple congenital heart defects in children and adolescents through minithoracotomies.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the repair of congenital heart defects through minithoracotomies. METHODS: Between January 1998 and March 2005, 98 patients underwent minithoracotomies for simple congenital heart defect repairs at our institution. All patients were female between the ages of 14 months and 16 years (mean 4.6) with weights ranging from 8 to 58 Kg (mean 20). Diagnoses included 78 cases of atrial septal defects (ASD) (six with associated partial anomalous pulmonary venous drainage and four with pulmonary valve stenosis) and 20 cases of perimembranous ventricular septal defects (PVSD). All diagnoses were confirmed with an echocardiogram; therefore, cardiac catheterization was not required. A right submammary minithoracotomy was performed on 10 patients and a minithoracotomy with a partial median sternotomy was performed on 88 patients. RESULTS: All defects were corrected successfully with satisfactory exposure. Cardiopulmonary bypass times ranged from 8 to 30 min (mean 10) and aortic clamping times ranged from 5 to 22 min (mean 12). All patients were extubated in the operating room and hospital stays ranged from 3 to 7 days (mean 5). There were no deaths during the operation or severe postoperative complications. No residual shunts were observed. CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrated that the minithoracotomy is a safe effective and technically viable alternative to a median sternotomy to correct selected simple congenital heart defects. The advantages of this approach include less trauma, partial or complete preservation of sternum continuity and integrity, and elimination of postoperative deformities such as pectus carinatum. The cosmetic outcome was superior to a median sternotomy.

Correção de defeitos cardíacos congênitos simples em crianças e adolescentes por meio de minitoracotomias / Correction of simple congenital heart defects in children and adolescents through minithoracotomies

OBJETIVO: Revisar a experiência de correção de defeitos cardíacos congênitos por meio de minitoracotomias. MÉTODOS: No período de janeiro de 1998 a março de 2005, 98 pacientes foram submetidos a correção de defeitos congênitos simples, por meio de minitoracotomias, em nosso serviço. A idade variou de 14 meses a 16 anos (média de 4,6 anos), todos do sexo feminino e com peso variando de 8 kg a 58 kg (média de 20 kg). O diagnóstico incluiu defeito do septo atrial em 78 casos (seis associados com drenagem anômala das veias pulmonares parcial e quatro com estenose pulmonar valvar) e defeito do septo ventricular perimembranoso em 20. Todos tiveram confirmação do diagnóstico pela ecocardiografia, não necessitando de cateterismo cardíaco. Em 10 pacientes foi utilizada minitoracotomia submamária direita e em 88, minitoracotomia com esternotomia mediana parcial. RESULTADOS: Todos os defeitos foram corrigidos com sucesso, com exposição satisfatória. O tempo médio de circulação extracorpórea foi de oito a 30 minutos (média de 10 minutos) e o tempo de clampeamento aórtico, de cinco a 22 minutos (média de 12 minutos). Todos os pacientes foram extubados na sala de operação e o tempo médio de permanência hospitalar foi de três a sete dias (média de cinco dias). Não houve mortalidade operatória nem complicações pós-operatórias graves. Não foi observado nenhum defeito residual. CONCLUSÃO: Nossa experiência demonstrou que as minitoracotomias são tecnicamente possíveis, sendo procedimentos seguros e efetivos em alternativa à esternotomia mediana para correção de defeitos cardíacos congênitos simples e seletivos. As vantagens dessas abordagens incluíram menor dano e manutenção tanto da continuidade como da integridade do esterno, parcial ou total, prevenindo defeito do tipo peito de pombo pós-operatório. O resultado estético foi superior ao obtido por esternotomia mediana.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the repair of congenital heart defects through minithoracotomies. METHODS: Between January 1998 and March 2005, 98 patients underwent minithoracotomies for simple congenital heart defect repairs at our institution. All patients were female between the ages of 14 months and 16 years (mean 4.6) with weights ranging from 8 to 58 Kg (mean 20). Diagnoses included 78 cases of atrial septal defects (ASD) (six with associated partial anomalous pulmonary venous drainage and four with pulmonary valve stenosis) and 20 cases of perimembranous ventricular septal defects (PVSD). All diagnoses were confirmed with an echocardiogram; therefore, cardiac catheterization was not required. A right submammary minithoracotomy was performed on 10 patients and a minithoracotomy with a partial median sternotomy was performed on 88 patients. RESULTS: All defects were corrected successfully with satisfactory exposure. Cardiopulmonary bypass times ranged from 8 to 30 min (mean 10) and aortic clamping times ranged from 5 to 22 min (mean 12). All patients were extubated in the operating room and hospital stays ranged from 3 to 7 days (mean 5). There were no deaths during the operation or severe postoperative complications. No residual shunts were observed. CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrated that the minithoracotomy is a safe effective and technically viable alternative to a median sternotomy to correct selected simple congenital heart defects. The advantages of this approach include less trauma, partial or complete preservation of sternum continuity and integrity, and elimination of postoperative deformities such as pectus carinatum. The cosmetic outcome was superior to a median sternotomy.