RESUMEN
PURPOSE: To assess clinical and radiological outcomes at 2-year follow-up of one-level minimally invasive transforaminal interbody fusion with unilateral pedicle screw fixation (UNILIF) in the treatment of stable lumbar degenerative diseases. METHODS: From January 1, 2012 to January 31, 2013, we prospectively collected clinical and radiological data on patients with stable degenerative lumbar disease managed by UNILIF in a single institution. Preoperatively and at 2 years, we recorded ODI, SF-12, Quebec and VAS. Interbody fusion was analyzed on radiography and on a CT scan, and sagittal balance was tested on full spine radiography. RESULTS: Mean operation time was 74.5 min ± 16.8, mean blood loss was 130.8 ml ± 210.9. At 2 years, ODI, SF-12, Quebec and VAS were significantly improved (p > 0.005).The fusion rate was 96.8% on radiographic analysis and was 87.9% on CT scan analysis. CONCLUSIONS: One-level UNILIF constitutes an effective alternative for management of stable lumbar degenerative diseases. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.
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Vértebras Lumbares/cirugía , Procedimientos Quirúrgicos Mínimamente Invasivos/métodos , Tornillos Pediculares/efectos adversos , Enfermedades de la Columna Vertebral/cirugía , Fusión Vertebral/métodos , Adulto , Anciano , Femenino , Estudios de Seguimiento , Humanos , Vértebras Lumbares/diagnóstico por imagen , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Procedimientos Quirúrgicos Mínimamente Invasivos/efectos adversos , Estudios Prospectivos , Calidad de Vida , Fusión Vertebral/efectos adversos , Resultado del TratamientoRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Links between sagittal spinal alignment and acetabular orientation attract considerable research attention with the goal of optimising prosthetic cup position. However, whether pelvic incidence (PI) is related to anatomic acetabular orientation remains unknown. We therefore conducted a radiological study with the following objectives: to look for correlations between PI and anatomic acetabular parameters; to describe the sacro-pubic angle (SPA), defined by fixed bony pelvic landmarks, and its relations with acetabular anteversion; and to determine whether anatomical parameters (PI and SPA) correlate with demographic characteristics. HYPOTHESIS: PI correlates with anatomical acetabular parameters. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a computed tomography (CT) study of the pelvises of 150 patients free of degenerative disease. Three parameters were measured: anatomic acetabular orientation in the Lewinnek reference plane, PI, and the SPA subtended by the line connecting the midpoint of the sacral endplate to the pubic symphysis and the anterior pelvic plane. Statistical tests were performed to look for correlations among these parameters. RESULTS: Intra-observer and inter-observer reproducibility was considered highly satisfactory (inter-class correlation coefficient, >86% and >82%, respectively). Mean PI was 58.6°±10.2° (range, 32.8°-97.6°), with no significant differences between genders or across age groups. Mean SPA was 34.7°±5.5° (range, 18.3°-49.8°). Mean anatomic acetabular anteversion (AAA) was greater in females (23.4°; range, 11.5°-34.5°) than in males (20°; range, 7.5°-34.5°) (P<0.001). PI did not correlate with any of the acetabular parameters (PI/AAA, r=0.8 and P=0.33; PI/acetabular inclination on the horizontal, r=-0.96 and P=0.24). SPA correlated significantly with both PI (r=0.33 and P<0.001) and AAA (r=0.33 and P<0.001). DISCUSSION: This CT study of normal pelvises showed that AAA was significantly greater in females and that SPA correlated significantly with both PI and acetabular anteversion. SPA could serve to define the "theoretical" AAA of each individual patient and could thus be incorporated into surgical planning protocols or intra-operative guidance methods for hip replacement surgery. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV, retrospective study with no control group.
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Acetábulo/anatomía & histología , Hueso Púbico/anatomía & histología , Sacro/anatomía & histología , Acetábulo/diagnóstico por imagen , Acetábulo/cirugía , Adolescente , Adulto , Anciano , Anciano de 80 o más Años , Puntos Anatómicos de Referencia , Artroplastia de Reemplazo de Cadera , Femenino , Humanos , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Variaciones Dependientes del Observador , Hueso Púbico/diagnóstico por imagen , Reproducibilidad de los Resultados , Estudios Retrospectivos , Sacro/diagnóstico por imagen , Factores Sexuales , Tomografía Computarizada por Rayos X , Adulto JovenRESUMEN
Lumbo-sacral (L5-S1) fusion is a widely performed procedure that has become the reference standard treatment for refractory low back pain. L5-S1 is a complex transition zone between the mobile lordotic distal lumbar spine and the fixed sacral region. The goal is to immobilise the lumbo-sacral junction in order to relieve pain originating from this site. Apart from achieving inter-vertebral fusion, the main challenge lies in the preoperative determination of the fixed L5-S1 position that will be optimal for the patient. Many lumbo-sacral fusion techniques are available. Stabilisation can be achieved using various methods. An anterior, posterior, or combined approach may be used. Recently developed minimally invasive techniques are gaining in popularity based on their good clinical outcomes and high fusion rates. The objective of this conference is to resolve the main issues faced by spinal surgeons in their everyday practice.
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Degeneración del Disco Intervertebral/cirugía , Dolor de la Región Lumbar/cirugía , Vértebras Lumbares/cirugía , Sacro/cirugía , Fusión Vertebral/métodos , Humanos , Procedimientos Quirúrgicos Mínimamente InvasivosRESUMEN
We report a case of allergic reaction after total cervical disc arthroplasty. A 52-year old woman was operated on for right C6 cervicobrachial neuralgia secondary to C5-C6 disc disease with foraminal stenosis. A cobalt-chromium-molybdenum total disc prosthesis had been implanted two years earlier. The patient was referred to our institution for recurrence of axial neck pain associated with abdominal patches of erythematous itching rash and swallowing disorder. Allergy tests confirmed type-4 allergic reaction to chromium. Symptoms decreased after removal of the prosthesis with secondary fusion. Delayed allergic reaction is uncommon in spine surgery, but should be considered in case of recurrence of initial symptomatology associated with non-spinal signs.
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Hipersensibilidad Tardía/etiología , Prótesis e Implantes/efectos adversos , Reeemplazo Total de Disco/instrumentación , Vértebras Cervicales/cirugía , Trastornos de Deglución/etiología , Eritema/etiología , Femenino , Humanos , Hipersensibilidad Tardía/diagnóstico , Disco Intervertebral/cirugía , Persona de Mediana Edad , Dolor de Cuello/etiologíaRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: In children with cerebral palsy (CP), overactivity of the peroneus longus (PL) muscle is a major contributor to pes planovalgus. This retrospective study assessed whether abobotulinumtoxinA injections into a PL showing premature activity on electromyography (EMG) clinically improved foot morphology in children with CP. METHODS: Study participants were <6 years old, had a diagnosis of CP, good functional abilities (Gross Motor Function Classification System level 1 or 2), equinovalgus (initial contact with the hallux or head of the first metatarsal) and overactive PL on EMG. The fore-, mid- and hindfoot were evaluated clinically and radiologically before and after injection of abobotulinumtoxinA (6-7 U/kg) into the PL. Radiological data were compared with reference values for children without pes planovalgus. RESULTS: In total, 16 children (8 males; 10 hemiplegia, 6 diplegia; mean age: 3.2±1.5 years) received treatment. Mean pre-and post-treatment angles in clinical assessment of dorsiflexion of the talocrural articulation did not differ with both knees flexed (24.4±7.5 vs. 22.2±8.0 degrees; P=0.19) or extended (17.2±8.0 vs. 16.6±6.8 degrees; P=0.36). Radiographic data pre-treatment versus reference data revealed forefoot pronation (metatarsal stacking angle 2.1±8.3 vs. 8.0±2.9 degrees; P=0.002), midfoot planus (lateral talo-first metatarsal 28.5±15.0 vs. 13.0±7.5 degrees; P<0.001; talocalcaneal angle 54.6±8.6 vs. 49.0±6.9 degrees; P=0.004) and significantly decreased calcaneus dorsiflexion, without hindfoot equinus (calcaneal pitch angle 7.9±6.0 vs. 17.0±6.0 degrees; P<0.001). After treatment, the metatarsal stacking angle did not differ from reference values (P=0.15). As compared with before treatment, treatment improved mean angles for metatarsal stacking (2.1±8.3 vs. 7.1±3.9 degrees, respectively, P=0.002), lateral talo-first metatarsal and talocalcaneal (both P<0.001), with no change in the hindfoot. CONCLUSION: PL may be an early target for abobotulinumtoxinA treatment in pes planovalgus associated with premature PL activity in children with CP.
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Toxinas Botulínicas Tipo A/administración & dosificación , Parálisis Cerebral/complicaciones , Deformidades Adquiridas del Pie/tratamiento farmacológico , Músculo Esquelético/efectos de los fármacos , Fármacos Neuromusculares/administración & dosificación , Preescolar , Electromiografía , Femenino , Deformidades Adquiridas del Pie/diagnóstico por imagen , Deformidades Adquiridas del Pie/etiología , Humanos , Lactante , Inyecciones Intramusculares , Pierna , Masculino , Músculo Esquelético/fisiopatología , Radiografía , Estudios RetrospectivosRESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: Recent epidemiological data for spinal trauma in France are sparse. However, increased knowledge of sagittal balance and the development of minimally invasive techniques have greatly improved surgical management. OBJECTIVES: To describe the epidemiology and management of traumatic vertebral fracture, and to analyze evolution and risk factors for poor functional outcome at 1 year's follow-up. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective multicenter French cohort study was performed over a 6-month period in 2011, including all cases of vertebral fracture surgery. Data were collected by online questionnaire over the Internet. Demographic characteristics, lesion type and surgical procedures were collected. Clinical, functional and radiological assessment was carried out at 1 year. RESULTS: Five hundred and eighteen patients, with a mean age of 47 years, were included. Sixty-seven percent of fractures involved the thoracic or lumbar segment. Thirty percent of patients had multiple fractures and 28% neurological impairment. A minimally invasive technique was performed in 20% of cases and neurological decompression in 25%. Dural tear was observed in 42 patients (8%). Seventy percent of patients were followed up at 1 year. Functionally, SF-36 scores decreased on all dimensions, significantly associated with age, persistent neurological deficit and previous spine imbalance. Thirty-eight percent of working patients had returned to work. Radiologically, sagittal balance was good in 74% of cases, with fracture consolidation in 70%. DISCUSSION: Despite progress in management, spinal trauma was still a source of significant morbidity in 2011, with pronounced decrease in quality of life. Conserved sagittal balance appeared to be associated with better functional outcome.
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Calidad de Vida , Fracturas de la Columna Vertebral/epidemiología , Fracturas de la Columna Vertebral/cirugía , Factores de Edad , Descompresión Quirúrgica , Evaluación de la Discapacidad , Femenino , Estudios de Seguimiento , Francia/epidemiología , Humanos , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Procedimientos Ortopédicos/estadística & datos numéricos , Estudios Prospectivos , Radiografía , Reinserción al Trabajo/estadística & datos numéricos , Fracturas de la Columna Vertebral/diagnóstico por imagenRESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: Interbody fusion is the gold standard treatment for the management of numerous diseases of the spine. Minimally invasive techniques may be more beneficial than conventional techniques. The main goal of this study was to report the one-year postoperative results of a series of posterior lumbar interbody fusions by a minimally invasive technique in relation to improvement in functional outcome, interbody fusion and morbidity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between January 2012 and May 2013, 182 patients treated by minimally invasive posterior transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) were included in this prospective multicenter study. Clinical assessment was based on a comparison of the preoperative and one-year postoperative Oswestry (ODI), SF-12 and Quebec Scores and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Surgical and postoperative follow-up data were evaluated. Radiological assessment was based preoperative and one-year postoperative full spine teleradiographs. Interbody fusion at one-year was systematically evaluated by CT scan. RESULTS: One hundred and eighty-two patients were included, mean age 58.9 years old. Surgery lasted a mean 101 minutes, mean preoperative bleeding was 143 mL, and mean radiation exposure was 247.4 cGy/cm(2). The rate of postoperative complications was 7.7%. The ODI, the Quebec Score, the SF-12 and the VAS were all significantly improved at one-year (P<0.0001). The rate of fusion was 72.6% at the final follow-up. There was no significant difference in functional outcome between patients with and without fusion. DISCUSSION: The one-year postoperative radiological results and functional outcome of minimally invasive posterior lumbar fusion are satisfactory. The benefits of this minimally invasive approach are mainly found in the first 6 postoperative months. Successful radiological interbody fusion was not correlated to functional outcome at the final follow-up.
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Degeneración del Disco Intervertebral/cirugía , Vértebras Lumbares/cirugía , Procedimientos Quirúrgicos Mínimamente Invasivos/métodos , Complicaciones Posoperatorias/epidemiología , Fusión Vertebral/métodos , Adulto , Femenino , Francia/epidemiología , Humanos , Degeneración del Disco Intervertebral/diagnóstico por imagen , Vértebras Lumbares/diagnóstico por imagen , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Morbilidad/tendencias , Estudios Prospectivos , Tomografía Computarizada por Rayos X , Resultado del Tratamiento , Adulto JovenRESUMEN
In the search for new agents with estrogenic activity mediated by estrogen receptors (ER), six 6,12-dihydro-1-benzopyrano[3,4-b][1,4]benzothiazin-6-ones 3a-f were synthesized. These compounds were readily prepared by the addition of 2-aminothiophenol 2 to substituted 4-hydroxycoumarin derivatives 1a-e. The estrogenic effect has been evaluated on the proliferation of MCF-7 breast adenocarcinoma cells and the specificity of described compounds was evaluated by the inhibition of their effect by ICI 182,780, an antiestrogenic compound. Among the compounds tested, 6,12-dihydro-3-methoxy-1-benzopyrano[3,4-b][1,4]benzothiazin-6-one 3e and 6,12-dihydro-3-hydroxy-1-benzopyrano[3,4-b][1,4]benzothiazin-6-one 3f exhibited an ER-dependent proliferation and a high binding affinity to ER, but a moderate capacity to activate the transcription of a reporter gene. Their pharmacological profiles are defined by their binding properties and their mechanism of action by computational modelling studies.
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Benzopiranos/farmacología , Neoplasias de la Mama/patología , Congéneres del Estradiol/síntesis química , Congéneres del Estradiol/farmacología , Tiazinas/farmacología , Benzopiranos/síntesis química , División Celular/efectos de los fármacos , Relación Dosis-Respuesta a Droga , Femenino , Humanos , Modelos Moleculares , Unión Proteica , Receptores de Estrógenos/metabolismo , Tiazinas/síntesis química , Activación Transcripcional/efectos de los fármacos , Células Tumorales Cultivadas/efectos de los fármacosRESUMEN
We report a histological study of a microsurgical tubo-tubal anastomosis undertaken to restore patency after ligation. It confirms the good level of tissue tolerance of the suture material employed. It emphasizes the difficulty of anastomosis in the ampulloisthmial region because of the discrepancy in size of the parts that have to be brought together. From this we can emphasize the need for carrying out sterilizations only on a limited lenght of the isthmus.
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Trompas Uterinas/citología , Esterilización Tubaria , Adulto , Trompas Uterinas/cirugía , Femenino , Humanos , Histerosalpingografía , Microcirugia , EmbarazoRESUMEN
We report six case histories of malignant tumours following abortion of moles. In three cases their surgical removal allowed us to control them by histology: two of these were destruens chorio-adenomata, one case only was a choriocarcinoma. In the three other cases the cure was obtained by the sole use of anti-mitotic drugs. This treatment was undertaken on bioclinical evidence of malignancy which is certainly not foolproof, but which is practical in use, when one appreciates how difficult it is to diagnose some of these post-mole tumours histologically. There is a place for the surgical treatment of these cases in spite of the usefulness of Methotrexate. This place varies according to the age of the patients and the resistance of the tumours to treatment with anti-mitotic drugs.
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Mola Hidatiforme/complicaciones , Metotrexato/uso terapéutico , Neoplasias Trofoblásticas/terapia , Neoplasias Uterinas/cirugía , Aborto Espontáneo , Adulto , Femenino , Humanos , Embarazo , Neoplasias Trofoblásticas/etiología , Neoplasias Trofoblásticas/cirugía , Neoplasias Uterinas/tratamiento farmacológicoRESUMEN
46 epithelial tumours of the ovary were seen over a period of 5 years. These tumours could be subdivided into 15 borderline tumours and 31 invasive cancers. An epidemiological study did not make it possible to find special factors in relationship to these two types. Studying the circumstances under which diagnoses were made demonstrated the value of considering: pain, ultrasound pictures and cytology from the Pouch of Douglas. It is essential to carry out laparotomy in every case of an organic tumour of the ovary. It is only by histological examination that it is possible to tell whether a tumour is borderline of invasive. A protocol for carrying out treatment is suggested. The results confirm the excellent prognosis for borderline tumours and the seriousness of other epithelial cancers of the ovary.
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Neoplasias Ováricas/epidemiología , Adolescente , Adulto , Anciano , Femenino , Francia , Humanos , Persona de Mediana Edad , Invasividad Neoplásica , Estadificación de Neoplasias , Neoplasias Ováricas/patología , Neoplasias Ováricas/cirugía , PronósticoRESUMEN
Breast tissue samples were taken during surgery in premenopausal women with various benign breast diseases. Surgery was scheduled between day 11 to 13 of their menstrual cycle, before presumed ovulation and endogenous production of progesterone. Each patient was treated 11 to 13 days before surgery by daily percutaneous topical application on breast of either a placebo gel, a gel containing progesterone or a gel containing estradiol. Treatments were assigned at random and the study conducted double-blind. The mean estradiol concentration in breast tissue was significantly higher (3,409 pg/g) in the estrogen-treated group than in the placebo (365 pg/g) and the progesterone (523 pg/g) treated groups. The mean progesterone concentration in breast tissue was significantly higher (69.1 ng/g) in the progesterone treated group than in the placebo (1.95 ng/g) and the estradiol (3 ng/g) treated groups. Mitotic activity was calculated by counting with light microscopy mitoses in epithelial cells of normal lobular area. Mean mitotic activity was significantly lower in progesterone treated group (0.04/1,000 cells) than in placebo (0.10/1,000 cells) or in estradiol (0.22/1,000 cells) treated groups. High concentration of progesterone sustained in human breast tissue in vivo during 11 to 13 days does not increase, but actually decreases mitotic activity in normal lobular epithelial cells.
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Mama/citología , Mitosis/efectos de los fármacos , Progesterona/farmacología , Administración Cutánea , Mama/análisis , Mama/efectos de los fármacos , Método Doble Ciego , Estradiol/administración & dosificación , Estradiol/análisis , Estradiol/sangre , Estradiol/farmacología , Femenino , Humanos , Ciclo Menstrual , Proyectos Piloto , Placebos , Progesterona/administración & dosificación , Progesterona/análisis , Progesterona/sangre , Distribución AleatoriaRESUMEN
Molecular modeling used to compare 64 immunostimulant compounds with pyrrolie quinolein or purine nuclei has pointed out that a common spatial structure is found in most of the active compounds. An additional study of immunostimulants (levamisole, muramyldipeptide) or immunosuppressive molecules (rapamycin) was performed. A common pharmacophore was found on every studied compound. It was composed of three neighboring electroattractive atoms and a further fourth atom. The favorable conformation of rapamycin for immunosuppressive action, which is not the more stable conformation, could explain the loss of its activity, or those of related macrolides, when some minor chemical modifications are tested. These findings validate the proposed concept and provide a view of the mechanism of action of most of the immunomodulator compounds for preparing novel compounds
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Adyuvantes Inmunológicos/farmacología , Humanos , Inmunosupresores/farmacología , Modelos Moleculares , Relación Estructura-ActividadRESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: Care of polytrauma patients is complex and requires that a particular treatment sequence be followed during what is typically a short period of time. Early, temporary stabilization of injuries (damage control orthopedics [DCO]) is a validated strategy for the care of polytrauma patients. Application of this concept to spinal fractures has also led to good outcomes for patients. The recent development of percutaneous thoracolumbar fixation could improve the initial care of these vulnerable patients even more. The purpose of this study was to evaluate preliminary results in a series of polytrauma patients presenting with thoracolumbar fractures without neurological deficits who were treated according to DCO principles using early percutaneous fixation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All severe polytrauma patients admitted with a thoracic and/or lumbar spine fracture without neurological deficit were included in this prospective study. The care was standardized according to the degree of urgency of the initial injuries, with percutaneous spinal fixation being performed as early as feasible. The outcomes were evaluated using clinical parameters (duration of stay in intensive care unit, surgical data, blood loss) and radiographic parameters measured during a systematic postoperative CT scan (traumatic deformity, placement of pedicle screws, fusion rate). If needed, an anterior intervertebral graft was performed during a secondary procedure. RESULTS: In all, 10 patients (average age of 40 years) were included, corresponding to 18 vertebral fractures. During the initial assessment, at least one peripheral bone fracture was found in 90% of cases and at least one organ was injured in all patients (thoracic in 80% of cases, cerebral in 50%, facial area in 40% and abdominal-pelvis in 30%). The average time elapsed between admission and spine surgery was 4 days (80% of cases before day 7). There were no cases of deep infection in any of the patients. An additional anterior procedure was needed in three patients within 1 month of the initial surgery. DISCUSSION: The strategy for treating thoracolumbar fractures in polytrauma patients is still not widely accepted. The presence of associated lesions could make it difficult to perform conventional spine surgery early on. Development of percutaneous techniques that reduce perioperative morbidity seems to be an alternative approach well-suited to DCO, as long as there are no neurological deficits. However, a secondary evaluation of the anterior spine is essential to determining if an anterior graft remains needed. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.
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Fijación Interna de Fracturas , Vértebras Lumbares/cirugía , Traumatismo Múltiple/epidemiología , Fracturas de la Columna Vertebral/cirugía , Vértebras Torácicas/cirugía , Adolescente , Adulto , Anciano , Femenino , Curación de Fractura , Humanos , Puntaje de Gravedad del Traumatismo , Vértebras Lumbares/lesiones , Vértebras Lumbares/patología , Imagen por Resonancia Magnética , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Tornillos Pediculares , Estudios Prospectivos , Fracturas de la Columna Vertebral/patología , Vértebras Torácicas/lesiones , Vértebras Torácicas/patología , Tiempo de Tratamiento , Tomografía Computarizada por Rayos X , Adulto JovenAsunto(s)
Infertilidad Femenina/diagnóstico , Ovario/patología , Ovulación , Adulto , Biopsia , Cuerpo Lúteo/patología , Femenino , Hormonas Esteroides Gonadales/análisis , Humanos , Infertilidad Femenina/complicaciones , Infertilidad Femenina/terapia , Laparoscopía , Enfermedades del Ovario/diagnóstico , Enfermedades del Ovario/patología , Folículo Ovárico/patología , Ovario/irrigación sanguínea , Pronóstico , Esclerosis/diagnóstico , Estadística como Asunto , Enfermedades Vasculares/diagnósticoRESUMEN
Twenty cases of borderline ovarian tumors were seen in the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics at the St. Antoine Hospital over 5 years. The epidemiological study of these 20 tumors, relative to 47 invasive ovarian carcinomas seen over the same period, shows that hypofertility is more prevalent and that patients are younger. Diagnosis rests mainly on the histological examination of the operative specimen. The overall prognosis is good but recurrences, which may be delayed, are possible. These patients, who are often young, may be managed conservatively, at the cost of prolonged follow-up, including cytologic and coelioscopic examinations.
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Carcinoma/patología , Neoplasias Ováricas/patología , Adulto , Anciano , Carcinoma/epidemiología , Carcinoma/terapia , Diagnóstico Diferencial , Femenino , Humanos , Persona de Mediana Edad , Recurrencia Local de Neoplasia/terapia , Estadificación de Neoplasias , Neoplasias Ováricas/epidemiología , Neoplasias Ováricas/terapia , PronósticoRESUMEN
Though immunoelectrodes can allow direct detection of very low protein amounts (about 0.1 pmol) in vitro and in vivo, they are not yet widely used because they need quality improvement. Based on a few works devoted to the basic electrochemical phenomenon occurring when antibodies are linked onto a solid support and during antigen/antibody complex formation, we have coated two different supports with antibodies: the classical glassy carbon fiber or an epoxy plate covered with an amorphous semimetallic (nickel/phosphorus) thin film obtained by means of an electrochemical deposit. The antibody/antigen complex formation induces direct and/or indirect ionic movements and a current flow through the conductive support toward a very low-noise and high-sensitivity preamplifier stage in an I/V configuration. The proposed electrochemical treatment (hydrophilization), applied to both carbon and Ni/P electrodes, improves antibody binding and reliability of the response to antigens. The Ni/P probes present several advantages when compared to carbon fiber: better conductivity, possibility of surface quality control, and semimetallic nature, making them unbreakable. Several applications were proposed: somatostatin-14 detection with both carbon fiber and Ni/P plate electrodes, and histamine detection in simple and complex fluid media. Dose-response curves and analysis of the results lead us to conclude that the obtained currents are directly related to the quantity of antigen.