Prevalencia de consumo de cocaína y cannabis en pacientes traumatizados ingresados a medicina intensiva / Prevalence of cocaine and cannabis use in trauma patients admitted to intensive care / Prevalência do uso de cocaína e canábis em doentes traumatizados internados em cuidados intensivos

Introducción: Las drogas psicoactivas constituyen un factor de riesgo para traumatismos graves ya que alteran el comportamiento y el nivel de conciencia. Objetivo: Conocer la prevalencia de traumatizados graves expuestos a cocaína y cannabis, perfil epidemiológico y comparar resultados según presencia de consumo. Metodología: Estudio observacional prospectivo realizado durante 12 meses entre mayo 2021 y abril 2022 en la unidad de cuidados intensivos del Hospital Maciel. Se incluyeron traumatizados graves ingresados a terapia intensiva en los cuales se realizó detección cualitativa de metabolitos de cocaína y cannabis en orina. Resultados: Se incluyeron 111 pacientes, 89% hombres, edad (media ± desvío) 32 ±11 años, Simplified Acute Physiology Score (SAPS III) 43 ±14, Injury Severity Score (ISS) 26 ±16, mortalidad 10 (9%). Se detectó consumo de cocaína en 62 (55,9%), cannabis en 72 (64,9%) y en 42 (37,8%) para ambas. Pacientes con screening positivo fueron más jóvenes (30,5 ±9,4 vs 40,6 ±16,7; p <0,02) y predominantemente hombres (86% vs 58%; p= 0,02). No se hallaron diferencias significativas con relación a mortalidad, necesidad o duración de ventilación mecánica y estadía. El despertar excitado en consumidores fue (53,3% vs 36,8%), la autoextubación (13,3% vs 7,7%), extubación fallida (4,8% vs 0%) y reintubación (12% vs 0%), diferencias estadísticamente no significativas. Conclusiones: La prevalencia de consumo de cocaína y cannabis en pacientes traumatizados que ingresaron a nuestra unidad de medicina intensiva es elevada. El perfil epidemiológico corresponde a pacientes jóvenes, de sexo masculino. No se encontró mayor mortalidad, complicaciones o mayor estadía en terapia intensiva.

Introduction: Psychoactive drugs constitute a risk factor for severe trauma as they alter behavior and consciousness levels. Objective: To determine the prevalence of severely traumatized patients exposed to cocaine and cannabis, assess the epidemiological profile, and compare outcomes based on substance use. Methodology: Prospective observational study conducted over 12 months between May 2021 and April 2022 in the intensive care unit of Hospital Maciel. Severely traumatized patients admitted to intensive care underwent qualitative detection of cocaine and cannabis metabolites in urine. Results: A total of 111 patients were included, 89% were male, mean age (± standard deviation) 32 ± 11 years, Simplified Acute Physiology Score (SAPS III) 43 ± 14, Injury Severity Score (ISS) 26 ± 16, mortality 10 (9%). Cocaine use was detected in 62 (55,9%) patients, cannabis in 72 (64,9%), and both in 42 (37,8%). Patients with positive screening were younger (30,5 ± 9,4 vs. 40,6 ± 16,7; p < 0,02) and predominantly male (86% vs. 58%; p = 0,02). No significant differences were found in terms of mortality, need or duration of mechanical ventilation, and ICU length of stay. Agitated awakening was observed in users (53,3% vs. 36,8%), self-extubation (13,3% vs. 7,7%), failed extubation (4,8% vs. 0%), and reintubation (12% vs. 0%), with statistically non-significant differences. Conclusions: The prevalence of cocaine and cannabis use among traumatized patients admitted to our intensive care unit is high. The epidemiological profile corresponds to young male patients. There was no increased mortality, complications, or prolonged ICU stay observed.

Introdução: Drogas psicoativas constituem um fator de risco para trauma grave, pois alteram o comportamento e o nível de consciência. Objetivo: Determinar a prevalência de pacientes gravemente traumatizados expostos a cocaína e cannabis, avaliar o perfil epidemiológico e comparar os resultados com base no uso dessas substâncias. Metodologia: Estudo observacional prospectivo realizado ao longo de 12 meses entre maio de 2021 e abril de 2022 na unidade de terapia intensiva do Hospital Maciel. Pacientes gravemente traumatizados admitidos na UTI foram submetidos à detecção qualitativa de metabólitos de cocaína e cannabis na urina. Resultados: Um total de 111 pacientes foram incluídos, 89% eram homens, idade média (± desvio padrão) de 32 ± 11 anos, Simplified Acute Physiology Score (SAPS III) de 43 ± 14, Injury Severity Score (ISS) de 26 ± 16, mortalidade de 10 (9%). O consumo de cocaína foi detectado em 62 (55,9%) pacientes, cannabis em 72 (64,9%), e ambos em 42 (37,8%). Pacientes com resultado positivo no rastreamento eram mais jovens (30,5 ± 9,4 vs. 40,6 ± 16,7; p < 0,02) e predominantemente do sexo masculino (86% vs. 58%; p = 0,02). Não foram encontradas diferenças significativas em relação à mortalidade, necessidade ou duração da ventilação mecânica e tempo de internação na UTI. Um despertar agitado foi observado entre os usuários (53,3% vs. 36,8%), autoextubação (13,3% vs. 7,7%), falha na extubação (4,8% vs. 0%) e reintubação (12% vs. 0%), com diferenças estatisticamente não significativas. Conclusões: A prevalência de consumo de cocaína e cannabis entre pacientes traumatizados admitidos em nossa unidade de terapia intensiva é elevada. O perfil epidemiológico corresponde a pacientes jovens do sexo masculino. Não houve aumento da mortalidade, complicações ou prolongamento da estadia na UTI observados.

Valproate-associated hyperammonemic encephalopathy in subarachnoid hemorrhage: a diagnosis to consider. / Encefalopatia hiperamonêmica associada ao valproato na hemorragia subaracnóidea: um diagnóstico a considerar.

OBJECTIVE: Subarachnoid hemorrhage is a prevalent disease with high morbidity and mortality. Numerous complications contribute to brain injury and defy the clinical practitioner on diagnosis and management. Valproate-associated hyperammonemic encephalopathy is a rare, underdiagnosed, serious and important entity to consider. We present a case of a patient with subarachnoid hemorrhage who received anticonvulsant prophylaxis with valproate and developed neuroworsening associated with high levels of ammoniemia and periodic discharge electroencephalographic patterns without other identifiable causes. Discontinuing valproic acid treatment and normalization of ammoniemia resulted in improvement in clinical and electroencephalographic neurological status.

OBJETIVO: A hemorragia subaracnóidea é uma doença prevalente com alta morbidade e mortalidade. Inúmeras complicações contribuem para a lesão cerebral e desafiam o médico no diagnóstico e tratamento. A encefalopatia hiperamonêmica associada ao valproato é uma entidade rara, subdiagnosticada, grave e importante a ser considerada. Apresentamos o caso de um paciente com hemorragia subaracnóidea que recebeu profilaxia anticonvulsivante com valproato e evoluiu com piora neurológica associada a níveis plasmáticos elevados de amônia e descargas periódicas no eletroencefalograma, sem outras causas identificáveis. A interrupção do tratamento com ácido valproico e a normalização dos níveis plasmáticos de amônia resultaram em melhora do quadro neurológico e eletroencefalográfico.

Utilidad del panel de PCR multiplex en el diagnóstico microbiológico temprano y adecuación antimicrobiana en pacientes críticos con neumonía / Usefulness of the multiplex PCR panel in the early microbiological diagnosis and antimicrobial suitability in critical patients with pneumonia / Utilidade do painel de PCR multiplex no diagnóstico microbiológico precoce e adequação antimicrobiana em pacientes críticos com pneumonia

Resumen: Introducción: el inicio temprano de la antibioticoterapia adecuada en infecciones graves se asocia con reducción de la mortalidad. La identificación precoz del microorganismo es fundamental para realizar un tratamiento dirigido y disminuir la terapéutica inicial inapropiada. Objetivo: valorar la utilidad de una técnica de biología molecular por amplificación de ácidos nucleicos mediante reacción en cadena de polimerasa en tiempo real para diagnóstico microbiológico temprano y adecuación de la antibioticoterapia en pacientes con neumonías graves. Metodología: estudio retrospectivo observacional llevado a cabo en la unidad de cuidados intensivos del Hospital Maciel. Se analizaron muestras respiratorias de pacientes con diagnóstico o sospecha de neumonía. Se compararon los resultados microbiológicos obtenidos por técnicas convencionales y por biología molecular multiplex (panel neumonía). Resultados: se incluyeron 53 muestras obtenidas de 51 pacientes. El multiplex detectó al menos un microorganismo en 38 (71,7%) muestras frente a 30 (56.6%) desarrollos en cultivos tradicionales. La mayoría de las muestras se obtuvieron bajo antibioticoterapia previa (86.8%). El panel neumonía mostró un porcentaje de concordancia positiva combinado de 100% y un porcentaje de concordancia negativa del 94% para la identificación bacteriana en comparación con los métodos microbiológicos tradicionales. En 27 (51%) casos el resultado del panel de neumonía determinó un cambio en la conducta terapéutica. Conclusiones: la técnica de PCR permite la identificación temprana de microorganismos causantes de neumonía optimizando la terapéutica empírica inicial y racionalizando el uso de antimicrobianos. Un panel negativo aleja el planteo de infección respiratoria a gérmenes habituales y permite considerar diagnósticos diferenciales en cuanto a foco y/o etiología.

Summary: Introduction: the early initiation of the adequate antibiotic therapy in severe infections is associated to a reduction in mortality. Early identification of the microorganism is essential to define directed therapy and decrease the initial inadequate treatment. Objective: to assess usefulness of a molecular biology technique by nucleic acid amplification through a polymerase chain reaction in real time for an early microbiological diagnosis and correction of the antibiotic therapy in patients with severe pneumonias. Method: retrospective, observational study conducted in the intensive care unit of Maciel Hospital. The respiratory samples of patients with a diagnosis of pneumonia or suspicious to have pneumonia were analyzed. The microbiological results obtained were compared using conventional techniques and multiplex molecular biology (pneumonia panel). Results: 53 samples obtained from 51 patients were included in the study. Multiplex detected at least one microorganism in 38 (71.7%) samples compared to 30 (56.6%) in traditional cultures. Most samples were obtained under the previous antibiotic therapy (86.8%). The pneumonia panel showed a combined positive agreement percentage of 100% and a negative agreement of 94% for the identification of bacteria when compared to the traditional microbiological methods. In 27 cases (51%) the pneumonia panel results determined changing the therapeutic behavior. Conclusions: the PCR technique allows for the early identification of microorganisms causing pneumonia, thus optimizing initial empirical therapy and rationalizing the use of antibiotics. A negative panel reduces the suspicion of a respiratory infection caused by the usual germs and enables considering differential diagnosis in terms of etiology or cause.

Resumo: Introdução: o início precoce da antibioticoterapia adequada em infecções graves está associado à redução da mortalidade. A identificação precoce do microrganismo é essencial para realizar o tratamento dirigido e reduzir o uso inicial inadequado de antimicrobianos. Objetivo: avaliar a utilidade de uma técnica de biologia molecular para amplificação de ácidos nucleicos por reação em cadeia da polimerase em tempo real para diagnóstico microbiológico precoce e adequação da antibioticoterapia em pacientes com pneumonia grave. Metodologia: estudo observacional retrospectivo realizado na unidade de terapia intensiva do Hospital Maciel. Amostras respiratórias de pacientes com diagnóstico ou suspeita de pneumonia foram analisadas. Os resultados microbiológicos obtidos por técnicas convencionais e por biologia molecular multiplex (painel de pneumonia) foram comparados. Resultados: foram incluídas 53 amostras obtidas de 51 pacientes. O multiplex detectou pelo menos um microrganismo em 38 (71,7%) amostras em comparação com 30 (56,6%) usando culturas tradicionais. A maioria das amostras foi obtida com antibioticoterapia prévia (86,8%). O painel de pneumonia mostrou uma concordância percentual positiva combinada de 100% e uma concordância percentual negativa de 94% para identificação bacteriana em comparação com métodos microbiológicos tradicionais. Em 27 (51%) casos, o resultado do painel de pneumonia determinou mudança no comportamento terapêutico. Conclusões: a técnica de PCR permite a identificação precoce de microrganismos causadores de pneumonia, otimizando a terapia empírica inicial e racionalizando o uso de antimicrobianos. Um painel negativo afasta a suspeita de infecção respiratória pelos germes usuais e permite considerar diagnósticos diferenciais em termos de foco e/ou etiologia.

Encefalopatia hiperamonêmica associada ao valproato na hemorragia subaracnóidea: um diagnóstico a considerar / Valproate-associated hyperammonemic encephalopathy in subarachnoid hemorrhage: a diagnosis to consider

RESUMO Objetivo: A hemorragia subaracnóidea é uma doença prevalente com alta morbidade e mortalidade. Inúmeras complicações contribuem para a lesão cerebral e desafiam o médico no diagnóstico e tratamento. A encefalopatia hiperamonêmica associada ao valproato é uma entidade rara, subdiagnosticada, grave e importante a ser considerada. Apresentamos o caso de um paciente com hemorragia subaracnóidea que recebeu profilaxia anticonvulsivante com valproato e evoluiu com piora neurológica associada a níveis plasmáticos elevados de amônia e descargas periódicas no eletroencefalograma, sem outras causas identificáveis. A interrupção do tratamento com ácido valproico e a normalização dos níveis plasmáticos de amônia resultaram em melhora do quadro neurológico e eletroencefalográfico.

ABSTRACT Objective: Subarachnoid hemorrhage is a prevalent disease with high morbidity and mortality. Numerous complications contribute to brain injury and defy the clinical practitioner on diagnosis and management. Valproate-associated hyperammonemic encephalopathy is a rare, underdiagnosed, serious and important entity to consider. We present a case of a patient with subarachnoid hemorrhage who received anticonvulsant prophylaxis with valproate and developed neuroworsening associated with high levels of ammoniemia and periodic discharge electroencephalographic patterns without other identifiable causes. Discontinuing valproic acid treatment and normalization of ammoniemia resulted in improvement in clinical and electroencephalographic neurological status.

Individual variation of tentorial notch morphometry in a series of neurocritical patients.

BACKGROUND: Cadaveric studies on humans have shown anatomical variabilities in the morphometric characteristics of the tentorial notch. These anatomical variations could influence the worsening of neurocritical patients. OBJECTIVES: 1) To investigate the morphometric characteristics of the tentorial notch in neurocritical patients using computed tomography (CT); 2) To investigate the correlation between tentorial notch measurements by CT and by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); and 3) To analyze the individual variability of the tentorial notch anatomy seen in neurocritical patients. METHODS: Prospective series of neurocritical patients was examined. An imaging protocol for measurements was designed for CT and MRI. The level of the agreement of the measurements from CT and MR images was established. According to the measurements found, patients were divided into different types of tentorial notch. RESULTS: We studied 34 neurocritical patients by CT and MRI. Measurements of the tentorial notch via CT and MRI showed significant agreement: concordance correlation coefficient of 0.96 for notch length and 0.85 for maximum width of tentorial notch. Classification of tentorial notch measurements according to the criteria established by Adler and Milhorat, we found the following: 15 patients (58%) corresponded to a "short" subtype; 7 (21%) to "small"; 3 (9%) to "narrow"; 2 (6%) to "wide"; 2 (6%) to "large"; 1 (3%) to "long"; and 4 (12%) to "typical". CONCLUSIONS: The anatomical variability of the tentorial notch could be detected in vivo by means of CT scan and MRI. Good agreement between the measurements made using these two imaging methods was found.

Coagulopatía asociada al trauma en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos / Trauma associated coagulopathy in the Intensive Care Unit / Coagulopatia associada a trauma em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva

Resumen: Introducción: la enfermedad traumática es un problema de salud mundial. La coagulopatía asociada al trauma (CAT) constituye una complicación grave, multifactorial y de diagnóstico controversial. Objetivos: valorar la incidencia de CAT, los factores asociados a su desarrollo y su asociación con el pronóstico, en una serie de pacientes traumatizados ingresados a la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos de nuestro hospital. Pacientes y métodos: estudio prospectivo de todos los pacientes ingresados con diagnóstico de trauma grave a la UCI. Se definió CAT en base a los parámetros clásicos de laboratorio, por la presencia de al menos uno de: INR mayor a 1,3, plaquetopenia menor a 100.000/mm3, y/o aPTT mayor a 38 segundos. Las variables continuas se expresaron como la media ± desvío estándar. Se realizó análisis de chi cuadrado, test exacto de Fisher y regresión logística binaria para estudiar la asociación entre las variables. Se consideró significativo un valor p < 0,05. Resultados: se analizaron 103 pacientes, con media de edad de 33 años y predominio de sexo masculino. Se encontró CAT en 42 pacientes (40,8%), presentándose al ingreso hospitalario en la mayoría de los casos. Los factores de riesgo asociados a CAT fueron: gravedad al ingreso, shock, hipoperfusión, acidosis, transfusión masiva, sangrado significativo (estudio univariado), así como trauma penetrante y disfunción multiorgánica (estudio multivariado). No se encontró asociación significativa entre CAT y mortalidad. Conclusiones: presentamos el primer reporte de este tema en nuestro medio. En nuestra población la CAT es frecuente y se presenta ya al ingreso hospitalario. Se relaciona con la gravedad y el tipo de trauma. Su diagnóstico precoz es clave en el manejo de los pacientes con trauma grave.

Abstract: Introduction: trauma is a global health problem. Trauma-associated coagulopathy constitutes a severe and multifactorial complication whose diagnosis is controversial. Objectives: to assess the incidence of trauma-associated coagulopathy, the factors associated to the development of this condition and their impact on prognosis in a series of trauma patients admitted into the intensive care unit of our hospital. Method: prospective study of all patients admitted to the ICU with a diagnosis of acute trauma. Trauma-associated coagulopathy was defined according to classical laboratory parameters, when it complies with one of the following: International normalized ratio (INR) greater than 1.3, thrombocytopenia smaller than 100000/mm3, and/or aPTT greater than 38 seconds. Continuous variables were expressed as the average ± standard deviation. The chi square analysis, Fisher exact test and binary logistic regression were performed, p < 0,05 being considered significant. Results: 103 patients were analysed, average age was 33 years old and they were mostly male. Trauma-associated coagulopathy was found in 42 patients (40.8 %), and it was seen in most patients at the time they were hospitalized. Risk factors of trauma-associated coagulopathy were the following: severity upon hospitalization, shock, hypoperfusion, acidosis, massive transfusion, significant bleeding (univariate analysis); penetrating trauma and multi-organ dysfunction (multivariate analysis). No significant association between trauma- associated coagulopathy and mortality was found. Conclusions: the study presents the first report on this topic in our country. Trauma associated coagulopathy is rather common in our population and it is seen upon hospitalization. This condition is related to severity and the kind of trauma. Early diagnosis is essential in the handling of patients with severe trauma.

Resumo: Introdução: as doenças traumáticas são um problema de saúde global. A coagulopatia associada a trauma (TAC) é uma complicação diagnóstica séria, multifatorial e controversa. Objetivos: avaliar a incidência de TAC, os fatores associados ao seu desenvolvimento e sua associação com o prognóstico, em uma série de pacientes com trauma internados na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva do Hospital Maciel em Montevidéu, Uruguai. Pacientes e métodos: estudo prospectivo de todos os pacientes admitidos na UTI com diagnóstico de trauma grave. A TAC foi definida com base nos parâmetros laboratoriais clássicos, pela presença de pelo menos um dos seguintes: coeficiente internacional normalizado - INR maior que 1,3, trombocitopenia menor que 100.000 / mm3 e / ou PTTa maior que 38 segundos. As variáveis contínuas foram expressas como média ± desvio padrão. A análise do qui-quadrado, o teste exato de Fisher e a regressão logística binária foram realizados para estudar a associação entre as variáveis. Um valor de p <0,05 foi considerado significativo. Resultados: foram analisados 103 pacientes, com média de idade de 33 anos e predomínio do sexo masculino. A TAC foi encontrada em 42 pacientes (40,8%), apresentando-se na admissão hospitalar na maioria dos casos. Os fatores de risco associados à TAC foram: gravidade na admissão, choque, hipoperfusão, acidose, transfusão massiva, sangramento significativo (estudo univariado); bem como trauma penetrante e disfunção de múltiplos órgãos (estudo multivariado). Nenhuma associação significativa foi encontrada entre CAT e mortalidade. Conclusões: apresentamos o primeiro relatório sobre o tema em nosso meio. Em nossa população, a TAC é frequente e já está presente na admissão hospitalar. Está relacionado à gravidade e ao tipo de trauma. Seu diagnóstico precoce é fundamental no manejo de pacientes com traumas graves.

Perforación esofágica espontánea: síndrome de Boerhaave. Caso clínico y revisión de la literatura / Boerhaave síndrome: spontaneous esophageal perforation. A clinical case and review of literature / Perfuração esofágica espontânea: síndrome de Boerhaave. Relato de caso e revisão bibliográfica

Resumen: La perforación esofágica espontánea o síndrome de Boerhaave es una entidad poco frecuente. Se define como la rotura del esófago no relacionada con traumatismos, exploraciones invasivas, patología esofágica previa o cuerpos extraños. Las roturas esofágicas se consideran como la perforación más grave del tracto digestivo, con una alta tasa de morbimortalidad relacionada principalmente con el desarrollo de mediastinitis posterior. Presentamos un paciente de sexo masculino de 63 años, que postingesta copiosa presenta esfuerzo de vómito inefectivo y posteriormente intenso dolor epigástrico, acompañado de enfisema subcutáneo. Se realiza tomografía de tórax que evidencia colección de contraste paraesofágica. Con planteo de síndrome de Boerhaave se decide cirugía de urgencia. Destacamos que el principal elemento pronóstico es el tiempo de resolución quirúrgica, por lo que debemos considerar esta patología como diagnóstico diferencial en pacientes con dolor torácico de inicio agudo.

Summary: Spontaneous esophageal perforation or Boerhaave syndrome is rather an unusual condition. It may be defined as the rupture of the esophagus that is not associated to trauma, invasive explorations, previous esophagus pathology or foreign bodies. Esophageal ruptures are considered as the most severe perforations of the digestive tract, with high morbimortality rates which are mainly associated to the development of subsequent mediastinitis. The study presents a 63-year-old patient who, after copious food intake, evidences unsuccessful effort to vomit effort and subsequent intense epigastric pain, accompanied by subcutaneous emphysema. Abdominal contrast scan reveals paraesophageal collection and a decision is made to perform an emergency surgery upon the suspicion of Boerhaave syndrome. It is worth pointing out that time for surgical resolution is the main prognostic element, and thus, this condition is to be considered as differential diagnosis in patients with acute thoracic pain.

Resumo: A perfuração esofágica espontânea ou síndrome de Boerhaave é uma entidade rara. É definida como ruptura do esôfago não relacionada a trauma, exames invasivos, patologia esofágica prévia ou corpos estranhos. As rupturas esofágicas são consideradas as perfurações mais graves do trato digestivo, com alto índice de morbimortalidade principalmente relacionado ao desenvolvimento de mediastinite posterior. Apresentamos um paciente do sexo masculino, 63 anos, que após ingestão abundante apresentou esforço ineficaz de vômito e, posteriormente, dor epigástrica intensa, acompanhada de enfisema subcutâneo. Foi realizada tomografia de tórax que evidenciou coleção de contraste paraesofágico. Com diagnóstico de síndrome de Boerhaave, a cirurgia de emergência foi decidida. Ressaltamos que o principal elemento prognóstico é o tempo de resolução cirúrgica, portanto, devemos considerar essa patologia como um diagnóstico diferencial em pacientes com dor torácica de início agudo.

Insuficiencia arterial aguda severa vinculada a ergotismo / Severe acute arterial insufficiency linked to ergotism / Insuficiência arterial aguda severa vinculada a ergotismo

El ergotismo es un síndrome clínico poco frecuente pero potencialmente letal vinculado a la intoxicación aguda o crónica con el uso de alcaloides del ergot en el tratamiento de la migraña. Se caracteriza por un vasoespasmo severo generalizado que puede generar isquemia periférica o visceral y conducir a disfunción orgánica múltiple y muerte. Existen numerosos fármacos de metabolismo hepático que pueden alterar la metabolización de la ergotamina pudiendo alcanzar concentraciones tóxicas incluso a bajas dosis. Presentamos el caso de un paciente infectado con virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana bajo tratamiento antirretroviral que incluía inhibidores de la proteasa y que se había automedicado con ergotamina. El paciente presentó posteriormente sintomatología sensitivo motora deficitaria de miembros superiores e inferiores, acompañada de elementos de hipoperfusión distal severa. Se solicitó Doppler arterial que evidenció vasoespasmo de ejes arteriales de miembros. Se realizó diagnóstico de ergotismo secundario a la asociación de ergotamina - ritonavir, ingresando a cuidados intensivos. Se inició tratamiento en base a suspensión de ambos fármacos, vasodilatación arterial con nitroprusiato y antiagregación con ácido acetilsalicílico. En relación con este caso se presenta una revisión del mecanismo de toxicidad de la ergotamina, sus interacciones farmacológicas, así como diagnóstico y tratamiento disponibles para esta patología. (AU)

Ergotism is a rare but potentially lethal clinical syndrome linked to acute or chronic poisoning with the use of ergot alkaloids in the treatment of migraine. It is characterized by a severe generalized vasospasm that can generate peripheral or visceral ischemia and lead to multiple organ dysfunction and death. There are numerous drugs of hepatic metabolism that can alter the metabolism of ergotamine and can reach toxic concentrations even at low doses. We present the case of a patient infected with human immunodeficiency virus under antiretroviral treatment that included protease inhibitors and who had self-administered with ergotamine. The patient subsequently presented motor sensory deficit symptoms of upper and lower limbs, accompanied by elements of severe distal hypoperfusion. Arterial Doppler was requested, which showed vasospasm of the arterial axis of the limbs. A diagnosis of ergotism secondary to the ergotamine-ritonavir association was made, entering intensive care. Treatment was started based on suspension of both drugs, arterial vasodilatation with nitroprusside and antiaggregation with acetylsalicylic acid. In relation to this case, we present a review of the ergotamine toxicity mechanism, its pharmacological interactions, as well as the diagnosis and treatment available for this pathology. (AU)

O ergotismo é uma síndrome clínica pouco frequente, porém potencialmente letal vinculado à intoxicação aguda ou crônica pelo uso de alcalóides do Ergot no tratamento da enxaqueca. Caracteriza-se por um vaso espasmo severo generalizado que pode gerar isquemia periférica ou visceral e levar a disfunção orgânica múltipla e morte. Existem múltiplos fármacos de metabolismo hepático que podem alterar a metabolização da ergotamina podendo alcançar concentrações tóxicas inclusive em doses baixas. Apresentamos o caso de um paciente infectado com vírus da imunodeficiência humana recebendo tratamento antirretroviral que incluía inibidores da protease e que se automedicou com ergotamina. O paciente apresentou posteriormente sintomatologia sensitiva motora deficitária de membros superiores e inferiores, acompanhada de elementos de hipoperfusao distal severa. Solicitou-se Doppler arterial que mostrou vaso espasmo dos eixos arteriais de membros. Realizou-se diagnóstico de ergotismo secundário à associação ergotamina - ritonavir, e transferiu-se o paciente a cuidados intensivos. Iniciou-se tratamento com a suspensão de ambos os fármacos, vasodilatação arterial com nitroprussiato e antiagregaçao com ácido acetilsalicílico. Apresenta-se uma revisão do mecanismo de toxicidade da ergotamina, suas interações farmacológicas, seu diagnóstico e os tratamentos disponíveis para esta patologia. (AU)

Epidemiology of acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease in the intensive care unit. / Epidemiología de la injuria renal aguda y enfermedad renal crónica en la unidad de cuidados intensivos.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the epidemiology of acute kidney injury, its relationship to chronic kidney disease, and the factors associated with its incidence. METHODS: A cohort study and follow-up were conducted in an intensive care unit in Montevideo, Uruguay. We included patients admitted between November 2014 and October 2015 who were older than 15 years of age and who had at least two measurements of serum creatinine. We excluded patients who were hospitalized for less than 48 hours, patients who died at the time of hospitalization, and patients with chronic renal disease who were on hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis. There were no interventions. Acute kidney injury was defined according to the criteria set forth in Acute Kidney Injury Disease: Improving Global Outcomes, and chronic kidney disease was defined according to the Chronic Kidney Disease Work Group. RESULTS: We included 401 patients, 56.6% male, median age of 68 years (interquartile range (IQR) 51-79 years). The diagnosis at admission was severe sepsis 36.3%, neurocritical 16.3%, polytrauma 15.2%, and other 32.2%. The incidence of acute kidney injury was 50.1%, and 14.1% of the patients suffered from chronic kidney disease. The incidence of acute septic kidney injury was 75.3%. Mortality in patients with or without acute kidney injury was 41.8% and 14%, respectively (p < 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, the most significant variables for acute kidney injury were chronic kidney disease (odds ratio (OR) 5.39, 95%CI 2.04 - 14.29, p = 0.001), shock (OR 3.94, 95%CI 1.72 - 9.07, p = 0.001), and severe sepsis (OR 7.79, 95%CI 2.02 - 29.97, p = 0.003). CONCLUSION: The incidence of acute kidney injury is high mainly in septic patients. Chronic kidney disease was independently associated with the development of acute kidney injury.

OBJETIVO: Describir la epidemiología de la injuria renal aguda, la relación con la enfermedad renal crónica y los factores asociados a su incidencia. MÉTODOS: Estudio de cohorte y seguimiento en una unidad de terapia intensiva de Montevideo - Uruguay. Se incluyeron pacientes ingresados entre noviembre 2014 a octubre 2015, mayores de 15 años con dos mediciones de creatinina sérica. Se excluyeron pacientes con menos de 48 horas de internación o fallecidos en ese tiempo y portadores de enfermedad renal crónica en hemodiálisis o diálisis peritoneal. No hubo intervenciones. La injuria renal aguda se definió según criterios Acute Kidney Injury Disease Improving Global Outcomes y la enfermedad renal crónica según Cronic Kidney Disease Work Group. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 401 pacientes, sexo masculino 56,6%, mediana de edad 68 (rango intercuartílico - RIC 51 - 79) años. El diagnóstico al ingreso fue sepsis grave 36,3%, neurocrítico 16,3%, politrauma 15,2% y otros 32,2%. La incidencia de injuria renal aguda fue de 50,1%. El 14,1% eran portadores de enfermedad renal crónica. La incidencia de injuria renal aguda séptica fue de 75,3%. La mortalidad en los pacientes con o sin injuria renal aguda fue de 41,8 y 14% respectivamente (p < 0,001). En el análisis multivariado las variables de mayor significación para la injuria renal aguda fueron enfermedad renal crónica (odds ratio - OR 5,39 IC95% 2,04 - 14,29 p = 0,001), shock (OR 3,94 IC95% 1,72 - 9,07 p = 0,001) y sepsis grave (OR 7,79 IC 95% 2,02 - 29,97 p = 0,003). CONCLUSIÓN: La incidencia de injuria renal aguda es elevada principalmente en pacientes sépticos. La enfermedad renal crónica se asoció de forma independiente al desarrollo de injuria renal aguda.

Epidemiología de la injuria renal aguda y enfermedad renal crónica en la unidad de cuidados intensivos / Epidemiology of acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease in the intensive care unit

RESUMEN Objetivo: Describir la epidemiología de la injuria renal aguda, la relación con la enfermedad renal crónica y los factores asociados a su incidencia. Métodos: Estudio de cohorte y seguimiento en una unidad de terapia intensiva de Montevideo - Uruguay. Se incluyeron pacientes ingresados entre noviembre 2014 a octubre 2015, mayores de 15 años con dos mediciones de creatinina sérica. Se excluyeron pacientes con menos de 48 horas de internación o fallecidos en ese tiempo y portadores de enfermedad renal crónica en hemodiálisis o diálisis peritoneal. No hubo intervenciones. La injuria renal aguda se definió según criterios Acute Kidney Injury Disease Improving Global Outcomes y la enfermedad renal crónica según Cronic Kidney Disease Work Group. Resultados: Se incluyeron 401 pacientes, sexo masculino 56,6%, mediana de edad 68 (rango intercuartílico - RIC 51 - 79) años. El diagnóstico al ingreso fue sepsis grave 36,3%, neurocrítico 16,3%, politrauma 15,2% y otros 32,2%. La incidencia de injuria renal aguda fue de 50,1%. El 14,1% eran portadores de enfermedad renal crónica. La incidencia de injuria renal aguda séptica fue de 75,3%. La mortalidad en los pacientes con o sin injuria renal aguda fue de 41,8 y 14% respectivamente (p < 0,001). En el análisis multivariado las variables de mayor significación para la injuria renal aguda fueron enfermedad renal crónica (odds ratio - OR 5,39 IC95% 2,04 - 14,29 p = 0,001), shock (OR 3,94 IC95% 1,72 - 9,07 p = 0,001) y sepsis grave (OR 7,79 IC 95% 2,02 - 29,97 p = 0,003). Conclusión: La incidencia de injuria renal aguda es elevada principalmente en pacientes sépticos. La enfermedad renal crónica se asoció de forma independiente al desarrollo de injuria renal aguda.

ABSTRACT Objective: To describe the epidemiology of acute kidney injury, its relationship to chronic kidney disease, and the factors associated with its incidence. Methods: A cohort study and follow-up were conducted in an intensive care unit in Montevideo, Uruguay. We included patients admitted between November 2014 and October 2015 who were older than 15 years of age and who had at least two measurements of serum creatinine. We excluded patients who were hospitalized for less than 48 hours, patients who died at the time of hospitalization, and patients with chronic renal disease who were on hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis. There were no interventions. Acute kidney injury was defined according to the criteria set forth in Acute Kidney Injury Disease: Improving Global Outcomes, and chronic kidney disease was defined according to the Chronic Kidney Disease Work Group. Results: We included 401 patients, 56.6% male, median age of 68 years (interquartile range (IQR) 51-79 years). The diagnosis at admission was severe sepsis 36.3%, neurocritical 16.3%, polytrauma 15.2%, and other 32.2%. The incidence of acute kidney injury was 50.1%, and 14.1% of the patients suffered from chronic kidney disease. The incidence of acute septic kidney injury was 75.3%. Mortality in patients with or without acute kidney injury was 41.8% and 14%, respectively (p < 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, the most significant variables for acute kidney injury were chronic kidney disease (odds ratio (OR) 5.39, 95%CI 2.04 - 14.29, p = 0.001), shock (OR 3.94, 95%CI 1.72 - 9.07, p = 0.001), and severe sepsis (OR 7.79, 95%CI 2.02 - 29.97, p = 0.003). Conclusion: The incidence of acute kidney injury is high mainly in septic patients. Chronic kidney disease was independently associated with the development of acute kidney injury.

Diagnosis of ventriculostomy-related infection: Is cerebrospinal fluid lactate measurement a useful tool?

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the value of CSF lactate (LCSF) for the diagnosis of ventriculostomy related infections (VRI), and compare it with other CSF markers. METHODS: Prospective study of neurocritical patients admitted to Maciel Hospital and Clinicas Hospital ICUs in which an external ventricular drain (EVD) was inserted. In patients with clinical suspicion of VRI, a CSF sample was obtained through the EVD for CSF culture and markers analysis (glucose, protein, lactate and leukocytes). We defined proven VRI according to preset criteria as: fever, plus CSF alterations (glucose <50mg/dl or leukocytes >500/µl), plus positive CSF culture. CSF markers were plotted in a receiver operating curve (ROC) to evaluate their diagnostic accuracy. RESULTS: 36 CSF samples were obtained: 14 corresponded to proven VRI and 22 to excluded VRI. Median LCSF was 9.90mmol/L (IQR: 4.7-12) for proven VRI versus 2.95mmol/L (IQR: 2.4-3.6) for excluded VRI (p<0.001). Both LCSF and CSF glucose showed a good diagnostic accuracy for VRI, with an AUC of 0.900 and 0.951 respectively. We found the following diagnostic values for LCSF: sensitivity of 86%, specificity of 86%, PPV of 80%, NPV of 91%, cut-off value of 4mM, positive likehood ratio of 6.1, negative likehood ratio of 0.16, Youden Index of 0.72 and Diagnostic Odds Ratio of 34. CONCLUSIONS: For the studied population, LCSF represents a good marker for VRI. It could be used as a quick and specific test to identify the need for antimicrobial therapy in patients with clinical suspicion of VRI.

Prognostic impact of the time of admission and discharge from the intensive care unit. / Impacto pronóstico del momento de ingreso y egreso de la unidad de cuidados intensivos.

OBJECTIVE:: To determine the impact of the day and time of admission and discharge from the intensive care unit on mortality. METHODS:: Prospective observational study that included patients admitted to the intensive care unit of the Hospital Maciel in Montevideo between April and November 2014. RESULTS:: We analyzed 325 patients with an average age of 55 (36 - 71) years and a SAPS II value of 43 (29 - 58) points. No differences were found in the mortality of patients in the intensive care unit when time of admission (35% on the weekend versus 31% on weekdays, p = ns) or the hour of entry (35% at night versus 31% in the daytime, p = ns) were compared. The time of discharge was associated with higher hospital mortality rates (57% for weekend discharges versus 14% for weekday discharges, p = 0.000). The factors independently associated with hospital mortality after discharge from the intensive care unit were age > 50 years (OR 2.4, 95%CI, 1.1 - 5.4) and weekend discharge (OR 7.7, 95%CI, 3.8-15.6). CONCLUSION:: This study identified the time of discharge from the intensive care unit as a factor that was independently associated with hospital mortality.

Impacto pronóstico del momento de ingreso y egreso de la unidad de cuidados intensivos / Prognostic impact of the time of admission and discharge from the intensive care unit

RESUMEN Objetivo: Determinar el impacto en la mortalidad del día y horario de admisión y alta de la unidad de cuidados intensivos. Métodos: Estudio prospectivo observacional, que incluyó pacientes admitidos entre abril y noviembre de 2014 en la unidad de cuidados intensivos del Hospital Maciel de Montevideo. Resultados: Se analizaron 325 pacientes con una edad de 55 (36 - 71) años y un valor SAPS II de 43 (29 - 58) puntos. No se encontraron diferencias en la mortalidad en unidad de cuidados intensivos de los pacientes al comparar el momento de ingreso (35% el fin de semana versus 31% en los días laborales, p = ns) ni el horario de ingreso (nocturnos 35% versus diurnos 31%, p = ns). El momento de egreso se asoció a mayor mortalidad en el hospital (57% en egresos del fin de semana versus 14% en días laborales, p = 0,000). Los factores independientemente asociados a mortalidad hospitalaria luego del alta de unidad de cuidados intensivos fueron la edad mayor de 50 años (OR 2,4; IC95%, 1,1 - 5,4) y el egreso durante el fin de semana (OR 7,7; IC95%, 3,8 - 15,6). Conclusión: Este estudio logró identificar al momento del alta de la unidad de cuidados intensivos como un factor independientemente asociado a mortalidad hospitalaria.

ABSTRACT Objective: To determine the impact of the day and time of admission and discharge from the intensive care unit on mortality. Methods: Prospective observational study that included patients admitted to the intensive care unit of the Hospital Maciel in Montevideo between April and November 2014. Results: We analyzed 325 patients with an average age of 55 (36 - 71) years and a SAPS II value of 43 (29 - 58) points. No differences were found in the mortality of patients in the intensive care unit when time of admission (35% on the weekend versus 31% on weekdays, p = ns) or the hour of entry (35% at night versus 31% in the daytime, p = ns) were compared. The time of discharge was associated with higher hospital mortality rates (57% for weekend discharges versus 14% for weekday discharges, p = 0.000). The factors independently associated with hospital mortality after discharge from the intensive care unit were age > 50 years (OR 2.4, 95%CI, 1.1 - 5.4) and weekend discharge (OR 7.7, 95%CI, 3.8-15.6). Conclusion: This study identified the time of discharge from the intensive care unit as a factor that was independently associated with hospital mortality.