Utilidad pronóstica de la procalcitonina, la proteína C reactiva, el índice PCR/PCT y el aclaramiento de ambas al ingreso a unidades de cuidados intensivos / Prognostic utility of procalcitonin, C-reactive protein, CRP/PCT index, and their clearance upon admission to intensive care units / Utilidade prognóstica da procalcitonina, proteína C reativa, índice PCR/PCT e clareamento de ambos na entrada em unidades de cuidados intensivos

Resumen El presente es un estudio retrospectivo, observacional, cuantitativo y descriptivo. Se evaluó la utilidad de la proteína C reactiva (PCR), la procalcitonina (PCT) y la relación PCR/PCT como marcadores de riesgo de sepsis, sumados al aclaramiento a las 72 h, como pronóstico de mortalidad y permanencia en unidades de cuidados intensivos (UCI). Se incluyeron 23 pacientes. Se clasificaron según qSOFA y se elaboraron curvas ROC. Se obtuvo un área bajo la curva de 0,79 para PCT. El valor umbral de PCT>0,88 ng/mL predice riesgo de sepsis con 77,78% de sensibilidad y 83,33% de especificidad. Utilizando PCR<31,23 mg/dL se obtuvo como parámetros destacados un 88,89% de sensibilidad y 83,33% de valor predictivo negativo, sin diferencias significativas (Mann-Whitney p<0,05) entre los grupos de sobrevivientes y óbitos y estadía prolongada vs. no prolongada. Se postula PCR como screening y PCT como marcador de riesgo de sepsis.

Abstract This is a retrospective, observational, quantitative and descriptive study. The utility of C reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT) and the CRP/PCT ratio as sepsis risk markers was evaluated and these, added to clearance at 72 hours, as predictors of mortality and permanence in intensive care units (ICU). Twenty-three patients were included. They were classified according to qSOFA, and ROC curves were prepared, highlighting an area under the curve of 0.79 for PCT. The threshold value of PCT>0.88 ng/mL predicts the of sepsis with 77.78% sensitivity and 83.33% specificity. Using CRP>31.23 mg/dL, 88.89% sensitivity and 83.33% negative predictive value were obtained as outstanding parameters. No significant differences (Mann-Whitney p<0.05) were found between survivors and dead and prolonged vs. non-prolonged stay groups. CRP is postulated for screening and PCT as a sepsis risk marker.

Resumo Este é um estudo retrospectivo, observacional, quantitativo e descritivo. Foi avaliada a utilidade da proteína C reativa (PCR), da procalcitonina (PCT) e da relação PCR/PCT como marcadores de risco de sepse junto com o clareamento em 72 horas, como preditores de mortalidade e permanência em unidades de terapia intensiva (UTI). Vinte e três pacientes foram incluídos. Eles foram classificados de acordo com o qSOFA e foram elaboradas curvas ROC, destacando uma área sob a curva de 0,79 para PCT. O valor limite de PCT>0,88 ng/mL prediz o risco de sepse com sensibilidade de 77,78% e especificidade de 83,33%. Utilizando PCR>31,23 mg/dL, obtiveram-se como parâmetros em destaque 88,89% de sensibilidade e 83,33% de valor preditivo negativo. Não houve diferenças significativas (Mann-Whitney p<0,05) entre os grupos de sobreviventes e óbitos e permanência prolongada vs. não prolongada. A PCR é postulada como triagem e a PCT como marcador de risco de sepse.

Preoperative neutrophil-to-C-reactive protein ratio as a predictor of post-operative complications of pancreas cancer.

OBJECTIVE: We would like to investigate the prognostic utility of the previously described factors and offer a new parameter called neutrophil-to-C-reactive protein ratio (NCR) as a predictor of post-operative complications of pancreas cancer. METHODS: 92 patients underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy for the pancreatic head tumor were enrolled in this study. Receiver operating curve analysis was performed to detect the cutoff values, and logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the independent risk factors of complications. RESULTS: In univariate analysis, complications were observed in lymphocyte-to-C-reactive protein ratio levels below 0.06 (Odds Ratio [OR]: 3.92, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.08-14.21, p = 0.037). In multivariate analysis, albumin < 3.6 (OR: 3.25, 95% CI: 1.16-9.06, p = 0.024) and NCR < 0.28 (OR: 2.81, 95 % CI: 1.07-7.63, p = 0.042) were the independent and significant predictors of the overall survival. DISCUSSION: Quantification of preoperative NCR and albumin may help surgeons to settle an effective perioperative management, take extra caution, and be aware of post-operative complications of pancreatic cancer patients.

OBJETIVO: Se investigó la proporción de neutrófilos a proteína C reactiva (NCR) como predictor de complicaciones posoperatorias del cáncer de páncreas. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: 92 pacientes fueron sometidos a pancreaticoduodenectomía (PD) por el tumor de la cabeza del páncreas incluidos en este estudio. Se realizaron análisis de curva operativa del receptor (ROC) y análisis de regresión logística para detectar los valores de corte y los factores de riesgo independientes de complicaciones. RESULTADOS: En análisis univariado; se observaron complicaciones en niveles de LCR por debajo de 0,06 (OR: 3.92, IC 95%: 1.08-14.21, p = 0.037). En análisis multivariado; albúmina < 3.6 (OR: 3.25, IC 95 %: 1.16-9.06, p = 0.024), NCR < 0.28 (OR: 2.81, IC 95 %: 1.07-7.63, p = 0.042) fueron los predictores independientes y significativos de la supervivencia. CONCLUSIÓN: La cuantificación de la NCR y la albúmina preoperatorias puede ayudar a los cirujanos a establecer un manejo perioperatorio efectivo, tomar precauciones adicionales y estar atentos a las complicaciones posoperatorias.

Association of oropharyngeal colostrum administration with decreased inflammatory indices in premature newborns weighing less than 1500 g.

BACKGROUND: The administration of colostrum through its absorption at the oropharyngeal level stimulates the mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue, providing a local immunological protection barrier. The study aimed to investigate the association of oropharyngeal colostrum administration with the reduction of inflammatory indices. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was an observational, ambispective, analytical study of newborns < 32 weeks of gestation at risk of sepsis. Oropharyngeal colostrum was administered at 0.2 mL every 4 h for 5 days. Inflammatory indices were analyzed. Statistical analysis included frequencies, percentages, mean and Standard deviation, contingency coefficient, and Kolmogorov-Smirnov test for the distribution curve of the numerical data. RESULTS: There were 50 patients, 33 (66%) female and 17 (34%) male, with a median gestational age of 30-31 weeks (95% confidence interval [CI]). Nineteen patients had sepsis. A lower positivity rate in C-reactive protein was found, with a median of 0.5-0.6 (95% CI) at 5 days of colostrum administration versus 0.5-1.1 (95% CI) as the initial C-reactive protein. Analysis with χ2 yielded a p = 0.13, and the contingency coefficient showed a p = 0.196, indicating an association. CONCLUSION: Oropharyngeal colostrum administration was associated with a lower C-reactive protein positivity rate and clinical improvement in premature newborns at risk of sepsis.

INTRODUCCIÓN: La administración del calostro a través de su absorción a nivel orofaríngeo estimula el tejido linfoide asociado a mucosas, proporcionando una barrera de protección local e inmunológica. Conocer la asociación de la administración de calostro orofaríngeo con la disminución de los índices inflamatorios. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Observacional, ambispectivo, analítico, recién nacidos < 32 semanas de gestación con riesgo de sepsis, se administró calostro orofaríngeo 0.2 ml cada 4 horas durante 5 días. se analizó índices inflamatorios, evolución clínica. Análisis estadístico: frecuencias, porcentajes, media y DS, coeficiente de contingencia y prueba de Kolmogorov Smirnov para la curva de distribución de los datos numéricos. RESULTADOS: Fueron 50 pacientes, 33 (66%) femenino, 17 (34%) masculino, edad gestacional mediana 30-31 semanas (IC 95%), 19 pacientes cursaron con sepsis encontrando menor índice de positividad en la PCR, mediana de 0.5-0.6 (IC 95%) a los 5 días de administración de calostro vs 0.5-1.1 (IC 95%) como PCR inicial, analizando con Chi cuadrada con valor p = 0.13, mediante coeficiente de contingencia con p = 0.196, traduciendo asociación. CONCLUSIÓN: La calostroterapia se asoció con menor índice de positividad en la PCR; clínicamente hacia la mejoría, en recién nacidos prematuros con riesgo de sepsis.

Proteína C reactiva, aspectos cardiovasculares de una proteína de fase aguda: una actualización para el médico / C-reactive protein, cardiovascular issues of an acute-phase protein: an update for the clinician

Resumen La inflamación es un factor patogénico importante para el desarrollo de la enfermedad cardiovascular aterosclerótica. Actualmente, el biomarcador utilizado con mayor frecuencia que refleja la inflamación sistémica es la proteína C reactiva (PCR), una proteína de fase aguda producida principalmente por los hepatocitos bajo la influencia de la interleucina 6, la interleucina 1 beta y el factor de necrosis tumoral. La evidencia proveniente de estudios epidemiológicos ha demostrado una fuerte asociación entre las concentraciones elevadas de PCR en suero o plasma y la incidencia de un primer evento cardiovascular (incluido infarto agudo de miocardio, accidente vascular cerebral isquémico y muerte cardíaca súbita) en la población general, así como la recurrencia de eventos cardiovasculares adversos en los pacientes con enfermedad establecida. El valor aditivo que la medición de la PCR otorga a los factores de riesgo tradicionales se refleja en novedosas calculadoras de riesgo cardiovascular y en los actuales regímenes de intervención, que ya consideran a la PCR como objetivo terapéutico. Sin embargo, las variaciones en los niveles de PCR, que dependen del sexo, la etnia, el estado hormonal y algunas peculiaridades de los ensayos de medición, deben tenerse en cuenta al decidir implementar la PCR como un biomarcador útil en el estudio y el tratamiento de la enfermedad cardiovascular aterosclerótica. Esta revisión pretende ofrecer una visión actualizada de la importancia de medir la PCR como biomarcador de riesgo cardiovascular más allá de los factores tradicionales que estiman el riesgo de enfermedad aterosclerótica.

Abstract Inflammation is an important pathogenic factor for the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Currently, the most frequently used biomarker reflecting systemic inflammation is C-reactive protein (CRP), an acute-phase protein produced primarily by hepatocytes under the influence of interleukin-6, interleukin-1 beta, and tumor necrosis factor. Growing evidence from epidemiological studies has shown a robust association between elevated serum or plasma CRP concentrations and the incidence of a first cardiovascular adverse event (including acute myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, and sudden cardiac death) in the general population, as well as recurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events among patients with established disease. The additive value that CRP measurement gives to traditional risk factors is reflected in novel cardiovascular risk calculators and in current intervention regimens, which already consider CRP as a target therapeutic. However, the variations in CRP levels, that depend on sex, ethnicity, hormonal status, and some peculiarities of the measurement assays, must be taken into consideration when deciding to implement CRP as a useful biomarker in the study and treatment of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. This review aims to offer an updated vision of the importance of measuring CRP levels as a biomarker of cardiovascular risk beyond the traditional factors that estimate the risk of atherosclerotic disease.

Association of oropharyngeal colostrum administration with decreased inflammatory indices in premature newborns weighing less than 1500 g / Asociación de la administración de calostro orofaríngeo con la disminución de los índices inflamatorios en recién nacidos prematuros menor de 1500 g

Abstract Background: The administration of colostrum through its absorption at the oropharyngeal level stimulates the mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue, providing a local immunological protection barrier. The study aimed to investigate the association of oropharyngeal colostrum administration with the reduction of inflammatory indices. Materials and methods: This was an observational, ambispective, analytical study of newborns < 32 weeks of gestation at risk of sepsis. Oropharyngeal colostrum was administered at 0.2 mL every 4 h for 5 days. Inflammatory indices were analyzed. Statistical analysis included frequencies, percentages, mean and Standard deviation, contingency coefficient, and Kolmogorov–Smirnov test for the distribution curve of the numerical data. Results: There were 50 patients, 33 (66%) female and 17 (34%) male, with a median gestational age of 30-31 weeks (95% confidence interval [CI]). Nineteen patients had sepsis. A lower positivity rate in C-reactive protein was found, with a median of 0.5-0.6 (95% CI) at 5 days of colostrum administration versus 0.5-1.1 (95% CI) as the initial C-reactive protein. Analysis with χ2 yielded a p = 0.13, and the contingency coefficient showed a p = 0.196, indicating an association. Conclusion: Oropharyngeal colostrum administration was associated with a lower C-reactive protein positivity rate and clinical improvement in premature newborns at risk of sepsis.

Resumen Introducción: La administración del calostro a través de su absorción a nivel orofaríngeo estimula el tejido linfoide asociado a mucosas, proporcionando una barrera de protección local e inmunológica. Conocer la asociación de la administración de calostro orofaríngeo con la disminución de los índices inflamatorios. Material y métodos: Observacional, ambispectivo, analítico, recién nacidos < 32 semanas de gestación con riesgo de sepsis, se administró calostro orofaríngeo 0.2 ml cada 4 horas durante 5 días. se analizó índices inflamatorios, evolución clínica. Análisis estadístico: frecuencias, porcentajes, media y DS, coeficiente de contingencia y prueba de Kolmogorov Smirnov para la curva de distribución de los datos numéricos. Resultados: Fueron 50 pacientes, 33 (66%) femenino, 17 (34%) masculino, edad gestacional mediana 30-31 semanas (IC 95%), 19 pacientes cursaron con sepsis encontrando menor índice de positividad en la PCR, mediana de 0.5-0.6 (IC 95%) a los 5 días de administración de calostro vs 0.5-1.1 (IC 95%) como PCR inicial, analizando con Chi cuadrada con valor p = 0.13, mediante coeficiente de contingencia con p = 0.196, traduciendo asociación. Conclusión: La calostroterapia se asoció con menor índice de positividad en la PCR; clínicamente hacia la mejoría, en recién nacidos prematuros con riesgo de sepsis.

Lymphocyte-to-C-reactive protein ratio as a new biomarker for predicting mortality and morbidity in Fournier's gangrene.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to research the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), lymphocyte-to-C-reactive protein ratio (LCR), and Fournier's Gangrene Severity Index (FGSI) for predicting prognosis and mortality in patients with Fournier's gangrene (FG). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Patients diagnosed with FG and treated in a tertiary referral hospital in the period from January 2013 to June 2020 were reviewed. LCR, FGSI, and NLR values were calculated. RESULTS: Our series included a total of 41 patients. Of the patients, 78% survived and 21.9% (n = 9) died. Survivors were significantly younger than non-survivors (p = 0.009). Hospital costs were higher in non-survivors and close to statistical significance (p = 0.08). The ROC analysis revealed that the FGSI, LCR, and NLR parameters were significant in identifying survivors and non-survivors (AUC = 0.941 [0.870-1.000], p < 0.001; AUC = 0.747 [0.593-0.900], p = 0.025; and AUC = 0.724 [0.548-0.900], p = 0.042). CONCLUSION: A low LCR value can be used as a marker to assess mortality and disease severity in patients with Fournier's gangrene.

OBJETIVO: Investigar el cociente neutrófilos-linfocitos (CNL), el cociente linfocitos-proteína C reactiva (CLP) y el índice de gravedad de la gangrena de Fournier (IGGF) para predecir el pronóstico y la mortalidad en pacientes con gangrena de Fournier (GF). MÉTODO: Se revisaron los pacientes diagnosticados de GF y atendidos en un hospital de tercer nivel de referencia en el período de enero de 2013 a junio de 2020. Se calcularon los valores de CLP, IGGF y CNL. RESULTADOS: Nuestra serie incluyó 41 pacientes, de los cuales el 78% sobrevivieron y el 21.9% (n = 9) fallecieron. Los supervivientes eran significativamente más jóvenes que los no supervivientes (p = 0.009). Los costes hospitalarios fueron mayores en los no supervivientes y cercanos a la significación estadística (p = 0.08). El análisis ROC reveló que los parámetros IGGF, CLP y CNL fueron significativos para identificar supervivientes y no supervivientes (AUC: 0.941 [0.870-1.000], p < 0.001; AUC: 0.747 [0.593-0.900], p = 0.025; AUC: 0.724 [0.548-0.900], p = 0.042). CONCLUSIONES: Un valor bajo de CLP se puede utilizar como marcador para evaluar la mortalidad y la gravedad de la enfermedad en pacientes con GF.

Validez de herramientas diagnósticas en pacientes pediátricos hospitalizados con diagnóstico presuntivo de dengue en un Hospital de Referencia de Paraguay / Validity of diagnostic tools in pediatric patients hospitalized with a presumptive diagnosis of dengue in a Reference Hospital in Paraguay

Introducción: El dengue es la enfermedad arboviral más común en los seres humanos. Un diagnóstico temprano y preciso del dengue puede respaldar el manejo clínico, la vigilancia y el control de la enfermedad y es fundamental, por ello en el diagnóstico del dengue es importante contar con pautas clínicas y epidemiológicas que permitan la identificación oportuna y una conducta terapéutica adecuada. Objetivos: Evaluar la validez de herramientas diagnósticas en pacientes pediátricos hospitalizados con diagnóstico presuntivo de dengue en un Hospital de Referencia de Paraguay durante los años de 2012 a 2020. Materiales y métodos: Estudio analítico de tipo observacional, retrospectivo correspondientes a pacientes pediátricos (0 a 18 años) internados en el Hospital de Referencia de Paraguay el periodo enero 2012 a julio 2020 con diagnostico presuntivo de dengue al ingreso. Se realizó́ un análisis bivariado relacionando las frecuencias de 20 grupos de criterios diagnósticos combinados y 3 criterios diagnósticos aislados (OMS 2009, nexo epidemiológico y antigenemia NS1 para dengue) con el gold standard de diagnóstico que fue la conversión serológica. Resultados: Participaron del estudio 342 sujetos. EL 44% tenía edad escolar y 70% tenía 5 años o más. El 52,76% (191) fueron masculinos. Se encontraron desnutrición y sobrepeso en el 13% y 2%, respectivamente. La combinación de proteína C reactiva con plaquetopenia se encontró́ en 0.45% de los pacientes sin dengue y en el 6% de los pacientes con diagnóstico final de dengue (p=0.004). Conclusión: Este resultado aporta la alternativa de uso de una combinación sencilla de exámenes de laboratorio que puede replicarse en salas de urgencias como en salas de internación en un primer contacto con pacientes febriles con sospecha de fiebre dengue.

Introduction: Dengue is the most common arboviral disease in humans. An early and accurate diagnosis of dengue can support the clinical management, surveillance and control of the disease and is essential, therefore in the diagnosis of dengue it is important to have clinical and epidemiological guidelines that allow timely identification and appropriate therapeutic conduct. Objectives: To evaluate the validity of diagnostic tools in pediatric patients hospitalized with a presumptive diagnosis of dengue in a Reference Hospital in Paraguay during the years 2012 to 2020. Materials and methods: Analytical study of case and control type, observational, longitudinal, retrospective corresponding to pediatric patients (0 to 18 years) admitted to the Reference Hospital of Paraguay from January 2012 to July 2020 with a presumptive diagnosis of dengue at income. A bivariate analysis was performed relating the frequencies of 20 groups of combined diagnostic criteria and 3 isolated diagnostic criteria (WHO 2009, epidemiological link and NS1 antigenemia for dengue) with the gold standard of diagnosis, which was serological conversion. Results: 342 subjects participated in the study. 44% were school age and 70% were 5 years old or older. 52.76% (191) were male. Malnutrition and overweight were found in 13% and 2%, respectively. The combination of C-reactive protein with thrombocytopenia was found in 0.45% of patients without dengue and in 6% of patients with a final diagnosis of dengue (p=0.004). Conclusion: This result provides the alternative of using a simple combination of laboratory tests that can be replicated in emergency rooms and inpatient wards in a first contact with febrile patients with suspected dengue fever.

Usefulness of extended inflammatory parameters related to neutrophil activation reported by Sysmex XN-1000 hematology analyzer for predicting complicated acute appendicitis. Comparison with canonical inflammatory laboratory tests.

AIM: Accurate diagnosis of complicated appendicitis is of importance to ensure that patients receive early and effective treatment, minimizing the risk of postoperative complications to promote successful recovery. Biochemical markers are a promising tool to identify complicated appendicitis. We aimed to evaluate the potential role of novel parameters related with neutrophil activation, known as "Extended Inflammation Parameters" (EIP), included in blood cell count reported by Sysmex XN-Series analyzers, compared to other canonical biomarkers in identifying complicated appendicitis. METHOD: Prospective observational study including patients with confirmed diagnosis of acute appendicitis. C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin, cell blood count, including white blood cell (WBC), absolute neutrophil (ANC) and immature granulocyte (IG) count and EIP (neutrophil reactivity [NEUT-RI] and granularity intensity [NEUT-GI]) were analyzed before surgery. Their accuracy to diagnose complicated appendicitis was tested in an ROC curve analysis. RESULTS: Our population study included 119 patients, and appendicitis was complicated in 58 (48.7%). NLR, CRP and procalcitonin levels, ANC and IG count and NEUT-RI and NEUT-GI were higher in patients with complicated appendicitis. Regarding accuracy for complicated appendicitis, CRP was the biomarker with the highest performance (ROC AUC: 0.829), with an optimal cutoff of 73.1 mg/L (sensitivity: 63.8%, specificity: 88.5%). NEUT-RI and NEUT-GI achieved both significant but poor accuracy, with ROC AUC of 0.606 and 0.637, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Novel laboratory tests reported by Sysmex XN-Series analyzers have poor accuracy for identifying complicated appendicitis. In this study, CRP was the biomarker with the highest performance and may be useful as predictor of the severity of acute appendicitis.

Proteína-C reactiva de alta sensibilidad y homocisteína en pacientes con enfermedad cerebrovascular isquémica

Fundamento: la proteína C reactiva de alta sensibilidad (PCR-as) y la homocisteína (Hci) parecen relacionarse con la enfermedad cerebrovascular isquémica, pero sus hallazgos sobre el riesgo y pronóstico de esta enfermedad resultan controversiales y no concluyentes. Objetivo caracterizar la proteína C reactiva de alta sensibilidad y homocisteína en pacientes con enfermedad cerebrovascular isquémica. Métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo y retrospectivo de corte transversal en pacientes con enfermedad cerebrovascular isquémica, ingresados en el Servicio de Ictus del Instituto de Neurología y Neurocirugía entre 2016 y 2019. Se recogieron variables demográficas, manifestaciones clínicas, tiempo de evolución, etiología y localización del infarto y factores riesgo. Se cuantificaron la PCR-as (riesgo cardiovascular) y la Hci. Resultados las medias de PCR-as (7,0±8,3 mg/L) y Hci (17,1±7,3 µM) fueron elevadas. El riesgo cardiovascular moderado y alto se presentaron en igual proporción (46,8 %). Hubo diferencias estadísticas en la relación entre el riesgo cardiovascular y la edad (p=0,00); pero ni el tiempo de evolución ni los factores de riesgo de la enfermedad mostraron este comportamiento. Los pacientes con riesgo cardiovascular alto (PCR-as >3 mg/L) y elevada Hci (>15 (M) exhibieron mayores frecuencias de etiologías aterotrombótica o cardioembólica. Conclusiones el riesgo cardiovascular aumenta en la medida que se incrementa la edad de pacientes con enfermedad cerebrovascular isquémica. Las características demográficas, clínicas y neurológicas no mostraron relación con el alto riesgo cardiovascular y los valores elevados de Hci, aunque se encontró una tendencia asociativa de la etiología aterotrombótica con el incremento de PCR-as y Hci.

Foundation: High-sensitivity C-reactive protein and homocysteine seem to be related to ischemic cerebrovascular disease, but their findings on the risk and prognosis of this disease are controversial and inconclusive. Objective: to characterize high sensitivity C-reactive protein and homocysteine in patients with ischemic cerebrovascular disease. Methods: a descriptive and retrospective cross-sectional study was carried out in patients with ischemic cerebrovascular disease, admitted to the Stroke Service of the Neurology and Neurosurgery Institute between 2016 and 2019. Demographic variables, clinical manifestations, time of evolution, etiology and infarction location, risk factors. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (cardiovascular risk) and homocysteine were quantified. Results: the means of C-reactive protein (7.0±8.3 mg/L) and homocysteine (17.1±7.3 µM) were high. Moderate and high cardiovascular risk occurred in equal proportions (46.8%). There were statistical differences in the relationship between cardiovascular risk and age (p=0.00); but neither the time of evolution nor the risk factors of the disease showed this behavior. Patients with high cardiovascular risk (hs-CRP >3 mg/L) and high homocysteine (>15 (M), exhibited higher frequencies of atherothrombotic or cardioembolic etiologies. Conclusions: cardiovascular risk increases as the age of patients with ischemic cerebrovascular disease increases. Demographic, clinical and neurological characteristics did not show a relationship with high cardiovascular risk and high homocysteine values, although an associative trend of atherothrombotic etiology was found with increased high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and homocysteine.

New atherogenic index for the prediction of carotid atherosclerosis based on the non-ultrasensitive c-reactive protein/HDL ratio. / Nuevo índice aterogénico para la predicción de aterosclerosis carotídea basado en la ratio proteína C reactiva no ultrasensible/HDL.

INTRODUCTION: Current guidelines recommend cardiovascular risk assessment as a preventive measure for cardiovascular diseases, whose fundamental etiology is arteriosclerosis. One of the tools used to estimate risk in clinical practice are atherogenic indices (AI), ratios between lipid fractions with well-established reference ranges. Despite its widespread use, there is still limited information on its clinical utility. In recent years, some research has reinforced the role of inflammation in the etiology and chronicity of the atherosclerotic process. The inclusion of inflammatory parameters in the AI calculation could improve its diagnostic performance in the detection of arteriosclerosis. We sought to evaluate a new AI as a ratio between C-reactive protein (CRP) values and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) values. METHODS: A total of 282 asymptomatic patients with no history of cardiovascular disease were included in the study. Laboratory tests with lipid profile and CRP, and carotid ultrasound to assess the presence of atheromatosis were performed in all of them. The new AI is established as the ratio between non-ultrasensitive CRP value in mg/dL (multiplied by 100) and HDL value in mg/dL. It was compared with the Castelli I and II indices, and the plasma atherogenic index. The optimal cut-off point of the new AI was value=1 as determined by ROC curve, with an area under the curve of 0.678 (95% CI 0.60-0.75; p<0.001). RESULTS: Mean age of patients was 60.4±14.5 years. A total of 118 patients (41.8% of total) had carotid arteriosclerosis. When evaluating the diagnostic performance of different AIs, we found that CRP·100/HDL ratio showed the highest values of sensitivity and positive predictive value (0.73 and 0.68, respectively) compared to the Castelli I and II indices, and the plasma atherogenic index. It was also the only predictor of carotid atheromatosis both when considering its values quantitatively (with OR 1.4 [95% CI 1.1-1.7]; p=0.005), and qualitatively (with OR 2.9 [95% CI 1.5-5.5]; p<0.001) in patients with a CRP·100/HDL ratio>1. CONCLUSIONS: The new PCR·100/HDL index showed the best diagnostic performance in the detection of carotid atheromatosis compared to other classic AIs in this Spanish population of asymptomatic patients.

Proteína C reactiva como predictor de gravedad en pacientes con COVID-19 / C - reactive protei n as predicto r of gravity in pat ients with COVID - 19

Introducción: Numerosos estudios han reportado que la gravedad de la COVID-19 está más asociada con altos niveles de proteína C reactiva que en la enfermedad no grave; sin embargo, existen controversias en los resultados. Objetivo: Determinar si la proteína C reactiva es un biomarcador de gravedad en pacientes con COVID-19. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo descriptivo en 148 pacientes ingresados en el Hospital Provincial General Camilo Cienfuegos de Sancti Spíritus en el mes de junio de 2021. La variable analizada fue proteína C reactiva. Se comparó la media entre grupos: graves y no graves mediante la prueba t Student para muestras independientes con un nivel de significación de 0,05. La capacidad predictora del biomarcador se determinó con el análisis de la curva ROC. Se evaluó la exactitud diagnóstica. Resultados: El valor medio de proteína C reactiva en el grupo de los graves y no graves fue 106,73 (88,43-125,03) y 26,87 (23,51-30,23), respectivamente; con diferencias altamente significativas. El área bajo la curva ROC fue de 0,991 (0,975-1,000). La mayor sensibilidad y la menor razón de falsos positivos para discriminar entre ambos grupos se encontró en 47,1 mg/L. Conclusiones: La capacidad predictora de gravedad de la prueba fue excelente. El punto de corte óptimo para definir la probabilidad de evolucionar hacia la gravedad de un paciente fue de 47,1 mg/L. La cuantificación de este parámetro bioquímico podría optimizar estrategias diagnósticas y terapéuticas.

Introduction: Several studies have reported that severe COVID-19 is associated with higher levels of C reactive protein than mild disease; however, there are controversy in the results. Objective: To determine whether C-reactive protein is a biomarker of severity in patients with COVID-19. Methods: A retrospective and descriptive study was carried out on 148 inpatients at Camilo Cienfuegos Hospital, in Sancti Spíritus. The variable analyzed was C-reactive protein. The mean between groups: severe and non-severe, was compared using t Student test for independent samples with a significance level of 0.05. Predictive capacity of the biomarker by ROC curve analysis was determined. Diagnostic accuracy was evaluated. Results: The mean value of C-reactive protein in the severe an non severe groups was 106.73 (88.43-125.03) and 26.87 (23.51-30.23), respectively; with highly significant differences. The area under the ROC curve was 0.991(0.975-1.000). The highest sensitivity and the lowest rate of false positive to discriminate between both groups was found at 47.1 mg/L. Conclusions: The severity predictive capacity of the test was excellent. The optimal cut-off point to define when a patient was likely to progress to severity was 47.1 mg/L. The quantification of this biochemical parameter could optimize diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

Dímero D, ferritina y proteína C reactiva. Valor en la estratificación de pacientes con COVID-19 / D-dimer, ferritin and C-reactive protein. Value in the stratification of patients with COVID-19

Introducción: La pandemia de COVID-19 continúa desafiando a los sistemas de salud. La estratificación de los pacientes afectados a partir de biomarcadores, estrategia menos invasiva, aún es controversial. Objetivo: Comprobar la capacidad discriminante de la ferritina, proteína C reactiva y dímero D entre pacientes con COVID-19 moderados y severos. Métodos: Se aplicó un diseño transversal entre junio y noviembre de 2021. Las variables cualitativas y la edad fueron registradas por revisión de la historia clínica. La determinación de los biomarcadores mencionados fue realizada en el momento de inclusión en el estudio con el empleo de reactivos Roche en el analizador Hitachi cobas c 311. Se empleó el programa estadístico SSPS para el análisis de datos. Resultados: Existió predominio de hipertensos en ambos grupos. La vacunación y el sexo femenino prevalecieron entre los moderados, mientras los hombres y las enfermedades crónicas entre los graves. Se manifestaron mayores niveles de los tres biomarcadores analizados en el grupo grave (Mann-Whitney p 0,5; p < 0,05). Conclusiones: La presencia de comorbilidades crónicas y de individuos no vacunados predominó entre los pacientes graves. Se demostró una estrecha correlación entre los biomarcadores analizados en ambos grupos de pacientes. Los biomarcadores mostraron capacidad discriminante entre la enfermedad COVID-19 moderada y grave(AU)

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic continues to challenge healthcare systems. The stratification of affected patients from biomarkers, a less invasive strategy, is still controversial. Objective: To check the discriminating capacity of ferritin, C-reactive protein and D-dimer in patients with moderate and severe COVID-19. Methods: A cross-sectional design was applied from June to November 2021. The qualitative variables and age were recorded by review of the patient's clinical records. The determination of the aforementioned biomarkers was carried out at the time of inclusion in the study using the Roche reagents in the HITACHI Cobas C 311 analyzer. The SPSS statistical program was used for analyzing dates. Results: There was a predominance of hypertensive patients in both groups. Vaccination and female sex prevailed among the moderate ones, while men and chronic diseases among the severe ones. Higher levels of the three analyzed biomarkers were observed in the severe group (Mann-Whitney test p < 0.05). The association between these was significant in both groups (Spearman correlation, p < 0.05). 366 μg/L of ferritin; 36.25 mg/L of C- reactive protein and 1.02 μg/mL of D-dimer, acceptably distinguished between severe and moderate (area under the curve ˃ 0.5; p < 0.05). Conclusions: The presence of chronic comorbidities and unvaccinated individuals predominated among severe patients. A close correlation was shown between the biomarkers analyzed in both patient groups. Biomarkers showed discriminating capacity between moderate and severe COVID-19 disease(AU)

Asociación de marcadores inflamatorios y de disfunción endotelial con la depresión en la enfermedad cerebrovascular isquémica

Fundamento: la depresión es una de las complicaciones no neurológicas más frecuentes en la enfermedad cerebrovascular isquémica. Objetivo: determinar la asociación de marcadores inflamatorios y de disfunción endotelial con la depresión en pacientes con enfermedad cerebrovascular isquémica. Métodos: se realizó un estudio analítico, prospectivo de corte transversal en pacientes con enfermedad cerebrovascular isquémica en fase aguda (N=22) y no aguda (N=37); atendidos en el Instituto de Neurología y Neurocirugía y el Hospital Manuel Fajardo, de La Habana, Cuba. Se recogieron variables demográficas, factores de riesgo, etiología y localización del infarto, deficiencia neurológica, discapacidad para las actividades de la vida diaria (índice de Barthel), neuropsicológicas (depresión por inventario de Beck y test de Hamilton). Se determinó proteína C-reactiva, alfa-1-antitripsina, complementos C3 y C4 y microalbuminuria. Resultados: las puntuaciones de las pruebas neuropsicológicas no tuvieron diferencias significativas entre la fase aguda y no aguda, pero hubo un aumento estadístico de la frecuencia de pacientes sin depresión y con ligera depresión en la fase no aguda. En la fase aguda, el complemento C4 y en la fase no aguda el complemento C3, la proteína C-reactiva y el alfa-1-antitripsina se correlacionaron directamente con la puntuación del inventario de Beck. La proteína C-reactiva y C3 se correlacionaron estadísticamente con la puntuación del test de Hamilton. En el análisis multivariado, la proteína C-reactiva mostró asociación independiente con el grado de depresión por el test de Hamilton. Conclusiones: la proteína C-reactiva pudiera estar relacionada con la severidad de la depresión, quizás por asociación con la discapacidad para las actividades de vida diaria.

Foundation: depression in ischemic cerebrovascular disease is one of the most frequent non-neurological complications. Objective: to determine the association of inflammatory markers and endothelial dysfunction with depression in patients with ischemic cerebrovascular disease. Methods: an analytical, prospective, cross-sectional study was carried out in patients with acute (N=22) and non-acute (N=37) ischemic cerebrovascular disease; treated at the Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery; and the Manuel Fajardo Hospital, in Havana, Cuba. Demographic variables, risk factors, etiology and location of the infarction, neurological deficiency, disability for activities of daily living (Barthel index), neuropsychological (depression by Beck inventory and Hamilton test) were collected. C-reactive protein, alpha-1-antitrypsin, C3 and C4 complements, and microalbuminuria were determined. Results: the scores of the neuropsychological tests did not have significant differences between the acute and non-acute phase, but there was a statistical increase in the frequency of patients without depression and with slight depression in the non-acute phase. In the acute phase, C4, and in the non-acute phase, C3, C-reactive protein and alpha-1-antitrypsin were directly correlated with the Beck inventory score. C-reactive protein and C3 were statistically correlated with the Hamilton test score. In the multivariate analysis, C-reactive protein showed an independent association with the degree of depression by the Hamilton test. Conclusions: C-reactive protein could be related to the severity of depression, perhaps by association with the disability for activities of daily living.

Procalcitonin and C-reactive protein: markers in the early diagnosis of anastomotic leak.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the efficacy of serum procalcitonin (PCT) and C-reactive protein (CRP) in the early diagnosis of anastomotic leak (AL) in patients undergoing colorectal surgery. METHOD: Diagnostic test in a tertiary care hospital. Patients who did not have preoperative measurements of PCT and CRP were excluded. Those with postoperative infection not related to AL were eliminated. The diagnostic efficacy measures were sensitivity (Sn), specificity (Sp), positive (PPV) and negative (NPV) predictive values, positive (LR+) and negative (LR-) likelihood ratios, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC). RESULTS: Thirty-nine patients were analyzed; six had AL (15.4%). PCT and CRP increased on the second postoperative day, only in patients with AL. The cut-off points at the second postoperative day were 1.55 ng/mL for PCT and 11.25 mg/L for CRP. The most efficacious test was PCR at second postoperative day (AUROC: 1.00; Sn: 100%; Sp: 96.7%; PPV: 85.7%; NPV: 100%; LR+: 33.0). CONCLUSIONS: CRP at second postoperative day was the most effective test in the early diagnosis of AL in patients undergoing colorectal surgery, with a cut-off point lower than that reported in the international literature.

OBJETIVO: Determinar la eficacia de la procalcitonina (PCT) y la proteína C reactiva (PCR) séricas en el diagnóstico de fuga anastomótica (FA) en los pacientes sometidos a cirugía colorrectal. MÉTODO: Prueba diagnóstica en un hospital de tercer nivel. Se excluyeron los pacientes que no tuvieron mediciones preoperatorias de PCT y PCR. Se eliminaron los que cursaron con infección posoperatoria no relacionada con FA. Las medidas de eficacia diagnóstica fueron sensibilidad (S), especificidad (E), valores predictivos positivo (VPP) y negativo (VPN), razones de verosimilitud positiva (RV+) y negativa (RV−), y área bajo la curva característica operativa del receptor (AUROC). RESULTADOS: Se analizaron 39 pacientes, de los cuales 6 (15.4%) tuvieron FA. La PCT y la PCR aumentaron al segundo día posoperatorio solo en los pacientes con FA. Los puntos de corte al día 2 fueron 1.55 ng/ml para PCT y 11.25 mg/l para PCR. La prueba más eficaz fue la PCR al día 2 (AUROC: 1.00; S: 100%; E: 96.7%; VPP: 85.7%; VPN: 100%; RV+: 33.0). CONCLUSIONES: La PCR en el segundo día posoperatorio fue la prueba más eficaz en el diagnóstico temprano de FA en los pacientes sometidos a cirugía colorrectal, con un punto de corte inferior a lo reportado en la literatura internacional.

Utility of neutrophil/albumin ratio and C-reactive protein/albumin ratio as novel inflammatory markers in Behcet's disease.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Behcet's disease (BD) is an autoimmune systemic inflammatory disease, and its exact pathogenesis is unknown. There are currently no specific tests to evaluate the disease activity of BD, making its management more difficult. This study aims to determine the neutrophil/albumin ratio (NAR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) to albumin ratio (CAR) and investigate their associations with clinical findings in patients with BD and to determine optimum cutoff levels of CAR and NAR. METHODS: The study included 75 consecutively recruited patients with BD with a mean age of 33.29±6.23 years and disease duration of 7.21±4.64 years, as well as 75 healthy participants. Clinical characteristics and laboratory data were obtained. Disease activity was assessed using the BD current activity form score (BDCAF). RESULTS: NAR and CAR were elevated in patients with BD compared with those of healthy controls (NAR: 1.08±0.34 vs. 0.607±0.06, CAR: 2.49±1.73 vs. 0.39±0.142; p<0.0001), as well as in active BD versus inactive BD. Both NAR and CAR were significantly correlated with CRP, active uveitis, and BDCAF score (p≤0.05). In patients with active BD, the cutoff value of NAR was >0.9744 (sensitivity: 89.74%, specificity: 80.56%), while that of CAR was >2.04 (sensitivity: 74.36%, specificity: 83.33%). CONCLUSIONS: NAR and CAR are both elevated in patients with BD and may contribute to its active state. NAR and CAR can be feasible and inexpensive markers for predicting BD activity.

Utilidad de la proteína C-reactiva para determinar la gravedad de infección por SARS-CoV-2 en Perú / Usefulness of C-reactive protein to determine the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection in Peru

INTRODUCCIÓN: En los últimos años se han estudiado diversos biomarcadores para determinar los casos graves de COVID-19. La proteína C-reactiva (PCR) ha mostrado alta sensibilidad en la identificación de pacientes con enfermedad grave y utilidad comparable a la tomografía. OBJETIVO: Determinar la utilidad de la PCR para predecir gravedad de la infección por SARS-CoV-2 en pacientes hospitalizados en el Centro Médico Naval del Perú durante el periodo enero-septiembre del año 2021. MÉTODOS: Se empleó un diseño de tipo cuantitativo, observacional, analítico, retrospectivo, y de tipo prueba diagnóstica. Se calculó un tamaño muestral de 503 pacientes, quienes fueron divididos en dos grupos de acuerdo a su gravedad. RESULTADOS: Se determinó un punto de corte óptimo de 10,92 mg/L de los valores de PCR para el diagnóstico de enfermedad grave por COVID-19. Se calculó un área bajo la curva (AUC) de 0,762 y se obtuvieron valores de sensibilidad, especificidad, valores predictores positivo, negativo y precisión diagnóstica de 78,88%, 66,4%; 41,42%; 87,01%; y 67,27%, respectivamente. El normograma de Fagan mostró una probabilidad posprueba de 41%. En el modelo ajustado fueron significativas la PCR (ORa = 4,853; IC95% 2,987-7,886; p = 0,001), además de la ferritina (ORa = 1,001; IC 95%: 1,001-1,002; p = 0,001) e hipotiroidismo (OR ajustado = 4,899; IC 95%: 1,272-18,872; p = 0,021). CONCLUSIONES: El presente estudio mostró la asociación entre la PCR y la gravedad de infección por SARS-CoV-2 en un modelo ajustado, mostrando su potencial utilidad y contribuyendo a determinar el punto de corte de la PCR en población peruana y su comparación a nivel internacional.

BACKGROUND: Recently, many biomarkers have been studied to determine severe cases of COVID-19. C-reactive protein (CRP) has shown high sensitivity in identifying patients with severe disease and utility comparable to computed tomography. AIM: To determine the usefulness of CRP to predict the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients hospitalized at the Naval Medical Center of Peru during the period January-September in the year 2021. METHODS: A quantitative, observational, analytical, retrospective, and diagnostic test type design was used. A sample size of 503 patients was calculated, which were divided into two groups according to their severity. RESULTS: An optimal cut-off point of 10.92 mg/L for CRP levels was determined for the diagnosis of severe COVID-19. An area under the curve (AUC) of 0.762 was calculated and sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values and diagnostic accuracy values of 78.88%, 66.4%; 41.42%; 87.01%; and 67.27%; respectively. Fagan's normogram showed a post-test probability of 41%. In the adjusted model, CRP (aOR = 4.853; 95% CI 2.987-7.886; p = 0.001), ferritin (aOR = 1.001; 95% CI: 1.001-1.002; p = 0.001) and hypothyroidism (adjusted OR = 4899; 95% CI: 1272-18872; p = 0.021) showed significance. CONCLUSIONS: The present study showed an association between CRP and the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection in an adjusted model, showing its potential utility and contributing to determine the cut-off point of CRP in the Peruvian population and its international comparison.

Predictive value of C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, and interleukin-6 on 30-day mortality in patients with bloodstream infections.

BACKGROUND: We aimed to assess the predictive performance of C-reactive protein (hsCRP), procalcitonin (PCT), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) at different times points of bloodstream infections (BSI) management. METHODS: The cases were collected from January 2020 to June 2021 in the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University (n=185). We collected patients' records of hsCRP, PCT, and IL-6 serum levels and calculated the clearance of these biomarkers on day 1, day 3, and day 5 (hsCRP-1, hsCRP-3, hsCRP-5, so do PCT, and IL-6). We analyzed these predictive performances for 30-day mortality with ROC and Logistic regression. The correlation between biomarkers and their clearance rates was performed by a rank correlation method. RESULTS: The 30-day mortality was 11.35% (21/185). Serial serum hsCRP-3, IL-6-3, PCT-1, PCT-3, and PCT-5 were statistically higher in BSI mortality than survivors. Significant predictive ability was found for 30-day mortality with blood culture (BC) reported fungi (OR, 0.033; 95% CI: 0.002-0.535) and PCT-5 (OR, 1.045; 95% CI: 1.013-1.078) levels, respectively. The AUC of PCT-5 levels for 30-day mortality was 0.784 (95% CI 0.678-0.949), and the cut-off value was 5.455ng/mL. CONCLUSIONS: PCT-5 is more valuable for the prognosis of 30-day mortality in patients with BSI compared to the other inflammatory biomarkers.

Lack of association between periodontitis and rheumatoid arthritis.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Periodontitis and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have been associated in a bidirectional way. The objective of this study was to determine the association between clinical parameters of periodontitis and RA. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy-five (75) participants distributed in 3 groups (21 patients with periodontitis without RA, 33 patients with periodontitis with RA and 21 patients with reduced periodontium with RA) were included in this cross-sectional study. A full periodontal and medical examination was performed in each patient. Additionally, subgingival plaque samples for the detection of Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) and blood samples for biochemical markers of RA were also taken. Logistic regression analysis adjusted for confounding variables, Spearman's rank correlation coefficient and a linear multivariate regression were used to analyze the data. RESULTS: Patients with RA presented less severity of periodontal parameters. The highest levels of anti-citrullinated protein antibodies were detected in non-periodontitis patients with RA. Covariates such as age, P. gingivalis, diabetes, smoking, osteoporosis and use of medication were not associated with RA. All periodontal variables and P. gingivalis expressed a negative correlation with biochemical markers of RA (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Periodontitis was not associated with RA. Furthermore, there was no correlation between periodontal clinical parameters and biochemical markers of RA.

Proteína C reactiva y su progresión en el tiempo para la detección de las fugas anastomóticas / C-reactive protein and its progression over time for the detection of anastomotic leaks

Introducción. Las fugas anastomóticas son una complicación común y crítica en cirugía gastrointestinal, por lo que su identificación y tratamiento temprano son necesarios para evitar resultados adversos. El uso convencional con un valor límite de la proteína C reactiva ha demostrado una utilidad limitada. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la utilidad de la medición seriada de la proteína C reactiva en la detección de fugas anastomóticas. Métodos. Revisión prospectiva de base de datos retrospectiva de pacientes sometidos a cirugía abdominal mayor con al menos una anastomosis intestinal. Se midió la proteína C reactiva al tercer y quinto día posoperatorio. Las complicaciones se categorizaron según la clasificación de Clavien-Dindo. La precisión diagnóstica fue evaluada por el área bajo la curva. Resultados. Se incluyeron 157 pacientes, el 52 % mujeres. La edad promedio fue de 63,7 años. El mayor número de cirugías correspondió a gastrectomía (36,3 %), resección anterior de recto (15,3 %) y hemicolectomía derecha (13,4 %). El 25,5 % tuvieron alguna complicación postoperatoria y el 32,5 % (n=13) presentaron fuga en la anastomosis. El aumento de la proteína C reactiva tuvo un área bajo la curva de 0,918 con un punto de corte de aumento en 1,3 mg/L, sensibilidad de 92,3 % (IC95% 78 ­ 100) y una especificidad de 92,4 % (IC95% 88 ­ 96). Conclusiones. El aumento de 1,3 mg/L en la proteína C reactiva entre el día de la cirugía y el quinto día fue un predictor preciso de fugas anastomóticas en pacientes con cirugía abdominal mayor

Introduction. Anastomotic leaks are a common and critical complication in gastrointestinal surgery. Their identification and early treatment are necessary to avoid adverse results, and conventional use with a cutoff value of C-reactive protein has shown limited utility. The objective of this study was to determine the usefulness of serial measurement of C-reactive protein in the detection of anastomotic leaks. Methods. Prospective review of a retrospective database of patients undergoing major abdominal surgery with at least one intestinal anastomosis. C-reactive protein was measured on the third and fifth postoperative days. Complications were classified according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. Diagnostic accuracy was evaluated by the area under the curve.Results. 157 patients were included, 52% were females. The average age was 63.7 years. The largest number of surgeries corresponded to gastrectomies (36.3%), anterior resection of the rectum (15.3%) and right hemicolectomies (13.4%). 25.5% had some postoperative complication and 32.5% (n=13) had anastomosis leaks. The increase in C-reactive protein had an area under the curve of 0.918 with an increase cut-off point of 1.3 mg/L, sensitivity of 92.3% (95% CI 78-100) and specificity of 92.4%. (95% CI 88-96). Conclusions. The 1.3 mg/L increase in C-reactive protein between the day of surgery and the fifth day was an accurate predictor of anastomotic leaks in patients with major abdominal surgery

Proteína C reactiva como biomarcador predictivo de fuga anastomótica en cirugía oncológica colorrectal: estudio de cohorte retrospectivo / C-reactive protein as a predictive biomarker of anastomotic leak in colorectal cancer surgery: A retrospective cohort study

Introducción. La fuga anastomótica es la complicación más grave del tratamiento quirúrgico del cáncer de colon por su alta morbimortalidad. El diagnóstico evidente, manifestado por la salida de contenido intestinal por drenajes o la herida quirúrgica, ocurre tardíamente (entre el 6º y 8º día). El objetivo de este trabajo fue estudiar la variación de los valores de la proteína C reactiva postoperatoria para hacer un diagnóstico precoz. Métodos. Estudio observacional, analítico, retrospectivo, de una cohorte de pacientes con neoplasia, en quienes se realizó cirugía oncológica con anastomosis intestinal, entre enero de 2019 y diciembre de 2021. Se midieron los valores en sangre de proteína C reactiva postoperatoria (1°, 3° y 5° días). Resultados. Se compararon 225 casos operados que no presentaron fuga con 45 casos con fuga. En los casos sin fuga, el valor de proteína C reactiva al 3º día fue de 148 mg/l y al 5º día de 71 mg/l, mientras en los casos con fuga, los valores fueron de 228,24 mg/l y 228,04 mg/l, respectivamente (p<0,05). Para un valor de 197 mg/l al 3º día la sensibilidad fue de 77 % y para un valor de 120 mg/l al 5º día la sensibilidad fue de 84 %. Conclusión. El mejor resultado de proteína C reactiva postoperatoria para detectar precozmente la fuga anastomótica se observó al 5º día. El valor de 127 mg/l tuvo la mejor sensibilidad, especificidad y valor predictivo negativo, lo cual permitiría el diagnóstico temprano y manejo oportuno de esta complicación

Introduction. Anastomotic leak is the most serious complication of surgical treatment of colon cancer due to its high morbidity and mortality. The obvious diagnosis manifested by the exit of intestinal content through drains or the operative wound, occurs late (between the 6th and 8th day). The objective of this work was to study the postoperative C-reactive protein values to make an early diagnosis. Methods. Observational, analytical, retrospective study of a cohort of patients undergoing colorectal surgery for neoplasia, between January 2019 and December 2021, who underwent oncological surgery with intestinal anastomosis and measured CRP blood values on 1st, 3rd and 5th post-operative days. Results. Two-hundred-twenty-five operated cases that did not present leaks were compared with 45 cases with leaks, with CRP values on the 3rd and 5th day of 148mg/l and 71mg/l in cases without leakage and CRP values of 228.24mg/l and 228.04 mg/l in cases with leakage on the 3rd and 5th day, respectively (p<0.05), CRP value of 197mg/l on the 3rd day has a sensitivity of 77%; CRP value of 120mg/l on the 5th day, has a sensitivity of 84%. Conclusions. The best result for CPR to early diagnosis of anastomotic leak was observed on the 5th day, having the value of 127 mg/l the best sensitivity, specificity and NPV, which would allow early diagnosis and timely management