Construction and validation of a rat model of acute necrotizing pancreatitis-associated intestinal injury.

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an acute inflammatory reaction of the pancreatic tissue, which involves auto-digestion, edema, hemorrhage, and necrosis. AP can be categorized into mild, moderately severe, and severe AP, with severe pancreatitis also referred to as acute necrotizing pancreatitis (ANP). ANP is characterized by the accumulation of necrotic material in the peritoneal cavity. This can result in intestinal injury. However, the mechanism of ANP-associated intestinal injury remains unclear. We established an ANP-associated intestinal injury rat model (ANP-IR model) by injecting pancreatitis-associated ascites fluid (PAAF) and necrotic pancreatic tissue at various proportions into the triangular area formed by the left renal artery and ureter. The feasibility of the ANP-IR model was verified by comparing the similar changes in indicators of intestinal inflammation and barrier function between the two rat models. In addition, we detected changes in apoptosis levels and YAP protein expression in the ileal tissues of rats in each group and validated them in vitro in rat epithelial crypt cells (IEC-6) to further explore the potential injury mechanisms of ANP-associated intestinal injury. We also collected clinical data from patients with ANP to validate the effects of PAAF and pancreatic necrosis on intestinal injury. Our findings offer a theoretical basis for restricting the buildup of peritoneal necrosis in individuals with ANP, thus promoting the restoration of intestinal function and enhancing treatment efficacy. The use of the ANP-IR model in further studies can help us better understand the mechanism and treatment of ANP-associated intestinal injury.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We constructed a rat model of acute necrotizing pancreatitis-associated intestinal injury and verified its feasibility. In addition, we identified the mechanism by which necrotic pancreatic tissue and pancreatitis-associated ascites fluid (PAAF) cause intestinal injury through the HIPPO signaling pathway.

Incidence of bacteremia in cirrhotic patients undergoing upper endoscopic ultrasonography.

BACKGROUND: The incidence of bacteremia after endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) or EUS-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) is between 0% and 4%, but there are no data on this topic in cirrhotic patients. AIM: To prospectively assess the incidence of bacteremia in cirrhotic patients undergoing EUS and EUS-FNA. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We enrolled 41 cirrhotic patients. Of these, 16 (39%) also underwent EUS-FNA. Blood cultures were obtained before and at 5 and 30 min after the procedure. When EUS-FNA was used, an extra blood culture was obtained after the conclusion of radial EUS and before the introduction of the sectorial echoendoscope. All patients were clinically followed up for 7 days for signs of infection. RESULTS: Blood cultures were positive in 16 patients. In 10 patients, blood cultures grew coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, Corynebacterium species, Propionibacterium species or Acinetobacterium Lwoffii, which were considered contaminants (contamination rate 9.8%, 95% CI: 5.7-16%). The remaining 6 patients had true positive blood cultures and were considered to have had true bacteremia (15%, 95% CI: 4-26%). Blood cultures were positive after diagnostic EUS in five patients but were positive after EUS-FNA in only one patient. Thus, the frequency of bacteremia after EUS and EUS-FNA was 12% and 6%, respectively (95% CI: 2-22% and 0.2-30%, respectively). Only one of the patients who developed bacteremia after EUS had a self-limiting fever with no other signs of infection. CONCLUSION: Asymptomatic Gram-positive bacteremia developed in cirrhotic patients after EUS and EUS-FNA at a rate higher than in non-cirrhotic patients. However, this finding was not associated with any clinically significant infections.

Ultrasound criteria (EU-TIRADS) to identify thyroid nodule malignancy risk in adolescents. Correlation with cyto-histological findings. / Criterios ecográficos (EU-TIRADS) para identificar el riesgo de malignidad de los nódulos tiroideos en adolescentes. Correlación con los hallazgos cito-histológicos.

INTRODUCTION: Thyroid nodule (TN) harboring a thyroid carcinoma are more common in pediatric than adult patients. In pediatric population, the evaluation of a TN should require specific pediatric tools for its diagnostic and therapeutic management. High-resolution ultrasonography and cytological evaluation after fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) remain the cornerstones of evaluation of TN. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate in pediatric TN for the first time the usefulness and precision of the ultrasound criteria defined by the"Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (EU-TIRADS) 2017 in adults" to establish the ultrasound indication for the practice of FNAB and stratify the risk of malignancy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: 24 pediatric patients under age 18 years with thyroid nodules were attended in the last 15 years, 24 of them (31 nodules; age: 15.2 ± 2.2 years; 18 women) met the inclusion criteria: FNAB with Bethesda classification and ultrasound with EU-TIRADS score. EU-TIRADS score were evaluated retrospectively. Fourteen patients underwent surgery and the definitive histological diagnosis was obtained, this allowed the calculations of sensitivity, specificity and positive and negative predictive values of the EU-TIRADS and Bethesda classification. Data on the largest diameters of the nodules were collected. RESULTS: Of the overall 31 nodules, the distribution by EU-TIRADS (T) category was: T1 (3.2%), T2: 2 (6.4%), T3: 7 (22.6%), T4: 16 (51.6%) and T5: 5 (16.1%). All malignant nodules were included in EU-TIRADS category 4 or 5. By the other hand, 13 of the 25 benign nodules were also included in the EU-TIRADS 4 category, and one in the 5. The distribution by categories of Bethesda's classification (B): BI: 6 (19.4%), BII: 14 (45.2%), BIII: 5 (16.1%), BIV: 2 (6.5%), BV: 0 and BVI: 4 (12.9%). The pathological diagnosis of the 14 patients who underwent surgery was: 6 papillary carcinomas and 8 with benign lesions: 6 nodular hyperplasia and 2 follicular adenoma. The percentage of malignancy was 42%. The sensitivity of the EU-TIRADS classification to detect malignant nodules was 100%, the specificity was 25%, PPV 44% and NPV 100%. The sensitivity of the Bethesda classification to detect malignant nodules was 86%, the specificity was 75%, PPV 67% and NPV 90%. The analysis of the largest diameter of the nodules did not show statistically significant differences between benign and malignant lesions. CONCLUSIONS: EU-TIRADS for ultrasonographic criteria classification in combination with the clinical history is an adequate and reproducible method to estimate suspicion of malignancy of pediatric TN. It is also a reliable diagnostic tool to decide which nodules will be candidates for FNAB.

Ultrasound criteria (EU-TIRADS) to identify thyroid nodule malignancy risk in adolescents. Correlation with cyto-histological findings.

INTRODUCTION: Thyroid nodule (TN) harbouring a thyroid carcinoma are more common in paediatric than adult patients. In paediatric population, the evaluation of a TN should require specific paediatric tools for its diagnostic and therapeutic management. High-resolution ultrasonography and cytological evaluation after fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) remain the cornerstones of evaluation of TN. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate in paediatric TN for the first time the usefulness and precision of the ultrasound criteria defined by the "Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (EU-TIRADS) 2017 in adults" to establish the ultrasound indication for the practice of FNAB and stratify the risk of malignancy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: 24 paediatric patients under age 18 years with thyroid nodules were attended in the last 15 years, 24 of them (31 nodules; age: 15.2 ±â€¯2.2 years; 18 women) met the inclusion criteria: FNAB with Bethesda classification and ultrasound with EU-TIRADS score. EU-TIRADS score were evaluated retrospectively. Fourteen patients underwent surgery and the definitive histological diagnosis was obtained, this allowed the calculations of sensitivity, specificity and positive and negative predictive values of the EU-TIRADS and Bethesda classification. Data on the largest diameters of the nodules were collected. RESULTS: Of the overall 31 nodules, the distribution by EU-TIRADS (T) category was: T1 (3.2%), T2: 2 (6.4%), T3: 7 (22.6%), T4: 16 (51.6%) and T5: 5 (16.1%). All malignant nodules were included in EU-TIRADS category 4 or 5. By the other hand, 13 of the 25 benign nodules were also included in the EU-TIRADS 4 category, and one in the 5. The distribution by categories of Bethesda's classification (B): BI: 6 (19.4%), BII: 14 (45.2%), BIII: 5 (16.1%), BIV: 2 (6.5%), BV: 0 and BVI: 4 (12.9%). The pathological diagnosis of the 14 patients who underwent surgery was: 6 papillary carcinomas and 8 with benign lesions: 6 nodular hyperplasia and 2 follicular adenoma. The percentage of malignancy was 42%. The sensitivity of the EU-TIRADS classification to detect malignant nodules was 100%, the specificity was 25%, PPV 44% and NPV 100%. The sensitivity of the Bethesda classification to detect malignant nodules was 86%, the specificity was 75%, PPV 67% and NPV 90%. The analysis of the largest diameter of the nodules did not show statistically significant differences between benign and malignant lesions. CONCLUSIONS: EU-TIRADS for ultrasonographic criteria classification in combination with the clinical history is an adequate and reproducible method to estimate suspicion of malignancy of paediatric TN. It is also a reliable diagnostic tool to decide which nodules will be candidates for FNAB.

Micro-RNA Analysis in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Current Knowledge and Challenges.

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare, chronic disease of the pulmonary vasculature that is associated with poor outcomes. Its pathogenesis is multifactorial and includes micro-RNA (miRNA) deregulation. The understanding of the role of miRNAs in PAH is expanding quickly, and it is increasingly difficult to identify which miRNAs have the highest translational potential. This review summarizes the current knowledge of miRNA expression in PAH, discusses the challenges in miRNA analysis and interpretation, and highlights 4 promising miRNAs in this field (miR-29, miR-124, miR-140, and miR-204).

Complementary role of parathormone washout test to 99mTc-MIBI parathyroid scintigraphy and histopathologic analysis of cell types in parathyroid adenomas. / Gammagrafía paratiroidea con 99mTc-MIBI: valor complementario de la paratohormona en el aspirado y análisis histopatológico de los tipos de células en los adenomas paratiroideos.

OBJECTIVE: Parathyroid scintigraphy (PS) can be negative or equivocal (N/E) in a considerable number of cases with highly suspicious clinical findings and biochemical results for parathyroid adenoma (PA). The aims of this study were to investigate the complementary role of parathormone washout test (PWT) to PS in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) and evaluate histopathologic aspects of PAs in comparison with PS results. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirty-eight patients with PHPT referred for PS were included in the study. Seventeen patients had both scintigraphic and ultrasonographic findings concordant with PA (Group A). Twenty-one patients having N/E PS, but suspected lesions for PA on ultrasonography (US) formed Group B. PWT was performed for all patients and they underwent the surgical intervention. An adenoma was removed in all patients and the histopathologic cell characteristics were established. RESULTS: The tumor size on US was larger in those patients whose adenomas were seen on the PS (P<.001). The percentages of chief (or principal), oxyphilic and clear cells in PAs were not statistically different between the groups. Serum parathormone level and PWT were not statistically significant between Group A and Group B (P=.095 and P=.04, respectively). CONCLUSION: Although there is not a definitive threshold value, the sensitivity of PS increases with lesion size. While chief cell and oxyphilic cell content of PAs tend to deplete in N/E PS, clear cell rate increases substantially. Combining PS with both US and PWT increases the sensitivity of detection and localization of PAs.

Learning curve of thyroid fine-needle aspiration biopsy. / Curva de aprendizaje de la punción aspiración con aguja fina de tiroides.

BACKGROUND: Fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) is the reference procedure for thyroid nodule evaluation. Its main limitation are inadequate samples, which should be less than 20%. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the learning curve of the procedure by comparing the results of a non-experienced endocrinologist (endocrinologist 2) to those of an experienced one (endocrinologist 1). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Sixty FNABs were analyzed from February to June 2016. Each endocrinologist made 2punctures of every nodule in a random order. This order and the professional making every puncture were unknown to the pathologist who examined the samples. RESULTS: Endocrinologist 1 had a higher percentage of diagnoses than endocrinologist 2 (82% vs. 72%, P=.015). In the first 20 FNABs, the difference between both physicians was remarkable and statistically significant (80% vs. 50%, P=.047). In the following 20 FNABs, the difference narrowed and was not statistically significant (90% vs. 65%, P=.058). In the final 20 FNABs, the difference was minimal and not statistically significant (75% vs. 70%, P=.723). CONCLUSIONS: The learning curve of ultrasound-guided FNAB may be completed in a suitable environment by performing it at least 60 times. Although the guidelines recommend at least 3punctures per nodule, 2are enough to achieve an accurate percentage of diagnoses.

Concordancia entre la tomografía axial computarizada de abdomen, la ultrasonografía endoscópica y la punción por aspiración con aguja fina en el diagnóstico de lesiones sólidas sugestivas de neoplasias malignas de páncreas / Diagnostic concordance of abdominal CT scans, Endoscopic Ultrasonography and Fine Needle Puncture Aspiration for solid pancreatic lesions suggestive of malignant neoplasms

Resumen Introducción y objetivo: la realización de pruebas para el diagnóstico de lesiones sólidas de páncreas conduce frecuentemente a resultados discordantes, lo que genera confusión y retraso en las decisiones terapéuticas. La concordancia entre los resultados de la tomografía axial computarizada de abdomen con contraste (TAC), la ultrasonografía endoscópica (USE) biliopancreática y la punción por aspiración con aguja fina guiada por ultrasonografía endoscópica (PAAF-USE) no ha sido evaluada en nuestro medio. Materiales y métodos: se evaluó una serie de pacientes adultos con masas sólidas del páncreas sospechosas de malignidad, atendidos en el Hospital Universitario San Ignacio (HUSI) de Bogotá (Colombia), en los cuales se realizaron, por lo menos, dos de las siguientes pruebas: TAC, USE o PAAF-USE. Se evaluó la concordancia de los resultados, definidos como compatibles con neoplasia, no compatibles con neoplasia o resultado no conclusivo. Resultados: se incluyeron 57 pacientes. Un alto porcentaje de estos, con USE compatible con neoplasia, tuvieron resultados discordantes con la TAC (33,3 %) y con la PAAF-USE (52,5 %). La concordancia entre imágenes y PAAF-USE fue mínima (kappa = 0,02; intervalo de confianza [IC] 95 %, 0,04-0,08). La probabilidad de detectar un compromiso vascular fue significativamente mayor en la USE (42,1 % frente a 23,8 %, p = 0,06) a diferencia del compromiso ganglionar, que fue detectado más frecuentemente por imágenes (TAC/resonancia magnética nuclear [RMN]) (23,8 % frente a 7,1 %, p = 0,01). Conclusiones: los resultados de este estudio sugieren un pobre acuerdo entre los diferentes métodos diagnósticos y advierten que es necesario implementar mejoras como la elastografía y medios de contraste, nuevas modalidades de aguja para la toma de muestras o la presencia de un citopatólogo in situ.

Abstract Introduction and objective: Diagnostic tests for solid pancreatic lesions frequently produce discordant results which lead to confusion and delays of therapeutic decisions. Concordance among abdominal computed tomography with contrast, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) pancreatobiliary and EUS guided fine needle aspiration had not previously been evaluated in Colombia. Materials and methods: We evaluated a series of adult patients with solid pancreatic masses suspected of malignancy treated at the San Ignacio University Hospital in Bogotá, Colombia. At least two of the following tests were performed: CT scans, EUS, and EUS guided fine needle aspiration. Results were defined as compatible with neoplasia, not compatible with neoplasia or inconclusive. Concordance of results was then evaluated. Results: Fifty-seven patients were included. A high percentage EUS results compatible with neoplasia were discordant with CT scan results and with EUS guided fine needle aspiration results (33.3% and 52.5%, respectively). Agreement between imaging and EUS guided fine needle aspiration results was minimal (Kappa 0.02; 95% CI:-0.04 to 0.08). The probability of detecting vascular compromises was significantly higher for EUS (42.1% vs. 23.8%, p: 0.06), but lymph node compromises were detected more frequently by imaging (CT or MRI) (23.8% vs. 7.1%, p: 0.01). Conclusions: The results of this study suggest poor agreement between these diagnostic methods implying a need for improvements such as elastography and contrast media, new needle modalities for sampling, and/or the an on-site cytopathologist.

Resultados citológicos por punción aspiración con aguja fina versus biopsia definitiva de nódulo sólido mamario imagenológicamente benigno / Cytological findings by fine needle aspiration versus definitive biopsy in apparently bening solid breast nodules

El nódulo mamario constituye uno de los principales motivos de consulta médica en la población femenina. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo transversal cuyo objetivo fue comparar los resultados citológicos por punción aspiración con aguja fina versus biopsia definitiva de nódulo sólido mamario imagenológicamente benigno en 31 pacientes que asistieron al Servicio de Cirugía Ambulatoria del Hospital Central Universitario Dr. Antonio María Pineda y a un centro privado. La mayor prevalencia de nódulos se observó en el grupo etario de 21 a 30 años (35,48%), siendo el 66,67% ecográficamente BIRADS 3; por hallazgos mamográficos sólo se reportó BIRADS 3 y BIRADS 4a en 11,11% de los casos, respectivamente. Los resultados citológicos de la PAAF demuestran que el fibroadenoma fue la más frecuente de las lesiones benignas (69,44%) mientras que los resultados histopatológicos evidencian un 88,88% de casos de fibroadenoma y 5,56% de casos de condición fibroquística y tumor phyllodes benigno, respectivamente. Hubo una concordancia de 100% entre los resultados citológicos obtenidos por PAAF y los resultados histológicos obtenidos por biopsia(AU)

Breast nodules are one of the most common causes of medical consultation in women. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in order to compare cytological findings by fine needle aspiration versus definitive biopsy in apparently benign solid breast nodules in 31 patients who attended the Servicio de Cirugía Ambulatoria of the Hospital Central Universitario Dr. Antonio Maria Pineda and a private clinic. The highest nodule prevalence was observed in the 21-30 years old group (35.48%) being sonographically BIRADS 3 in 66.67% of cases; by mammography, BIRADS 3 and BIRADS 4a was only present in 11.11% of cases, respectively. The most common lesion by fine needle aspiration was fibroadenoma (69.44%). The most common lesion by biopsy was fibroadenoma (88.88%) and fibrocystic condition and benign phyllodes tumor in 5.56% of cases, respectively. There was a 100% agreement between cytological findings obtained by fine needle aspiration and histological results obtained by biopsy(AU)

Diagnóstico clínico, ultrasonográfico y citohistológico del carcinoma diferenciado del tiroides / Clinical, ultrasonographic and cytohistological diagnosis of differentiated thyroid carcinoma

Introducción: el carcinoma diferenciado del tiroides representa la neoplasia maligna más frecuente en Endocrinología. Su presentación clínica y su diagnóstico se han modificado gracias a la disponibilidad de herramientas diagnósticas, tales como, el ultrasonido tiroideo y la biopsia aspirativa con aguja fina. Objetivos: describir las características clínicas, ultrasonográficas y citohistológicas de los pacientes intervenidos quirúrgicamente por enfermedad tiroidea maligna, y evaluar en ellos la prevalencia de hipocalcemia crónica y el valor de la hormona estimulante del tiroides. Métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo retrospectivo, en el cual se revisaron los informes consecutivos de Anatomía Patológica de todos los pacientes intervenidos quirúrgicamente por enfermedad tiroidea nodular en el Hospital General Provincial Camilo Cienfuegos en el periodo comprendido de enero de 2012 a diciembre 2014. La muestra estuvo conformada por 118 historias clínicas de pacientes operados por enfermedad tiroidea nodular que reunieron los criterios siguientes: datos clínicos, resultados según los criterios de Bethesda de la punción aspirativa con aguja fina, del ultrasonido del tiroides y la biopsia. A estos pacientes se les citó para una evaluación clínica y se les determinó en ayunas, la hormona estimulante del tiroides y en 2 días diferentes, la calcemia. Los pacientes fueron clasificados en portadores de: enfermedad tiroidea maligna (n= 39) y enfermedad tiroidea benigna (n= 79). Resultados: clínicamente solo el 15,4 por ciento de los pacientes con enfermedad tiroidea maligna presentaron dolor o molestia espontánea y/o a la palpación de la glándula del tiroides. La enfermedad tiroidea maligna se diagnosticó en todas las categorías del citodiagnóstico: I: 1/1 (100 por ciento), II: 8/83 (9,6 pòr ciento), III: 4/6 (66,7 por ciento), IV: 2/2 (100 por ciento), V: 18/20 (90 por ciento), VI: 6/6 (100 por ciento). El carcinoma papilar representó la neoplasia más frecuentemente diagnosticada (37/39 pacientes), el 33,3 por ciento de estos enfermos mostraron cifras de hormona estimulante del tiroides por encima de 2,0 mU/L, y hubo un 46,15 por ciento de hipocalcemia crónica. Conclusiones: el carcinoma papilar fue la neoplasia más frecuentemente diagnosticada en los pacientes operados por enfermedad tiroidea maligna. La mayoría de estos pacientes tuvieron un comportamiento subclínico, un tercio de valores no óptimos de la hormona estimulante del tiroides y una prevalencia alta de hipocalcemia crónica(AU)

ntroduction: differentiated thyroid carcinoma represents the most frequent malignant neoplasia in Endocrinology. Its clinical presentation and diagnosis have been modified thanks to the availability of diagnostic tools, such as thyroid ultrasound and fine needle aspiration biopsy. Objectives: to describe the clinical, ultrasonographic and cytohistological characteristics of patients undergoing surgery for malignant thyroid disease, and to evaluate in them the prevalence of chronic hypocalcemia and the value of the thyroid´s stimulating hormone. Methods: a retrospective descriptive study was carried out, in which consecutive reports of Pathological Anatomy of all patients surgically treated for nodular thyroid disease at Camilo Cienfuegos Provincial General Hospital in the period from January 2012 to December 2014 were reviewed. The sample consisted of 118 medical records of patients operated on for nodular-thyroid disease that met the following criteria: clinical data, results according to the Bethesda criteria of fine needle aspiration, thyroid ultrasound and biopsy. These patients were called for a clinical evaluation and they were indicated to be fasting. The patients were classified into carriers of: ETM (n=. 39) and benign thyroid disease (n= 79). Results: in clinical terms, only 15.4 percent of the patients with malignant thyroid disease presented spontaneous pain or discomfort, and / or during palpation of the thyroid glands. Malignant thyroid disease was diagnosed in all categories of cytodiagnosis: I: 1/1 (100 percent), II: 8/83 (9.6 percent), III: 4/6 (66.7 percent), IV: 2/2 (100 percent), V: 18/20 (90 percent), VI: 6/6 (100 percent). Papillary carcinoma represented the most frequently diagnosed neoplasm (37/39 patients); 33.3 percent of these patients showed thyroid stimulating hormone levels above 2.0 mU / L, and there was 46.15 percent of chronic hypocalcemia. Conclusions: papillary carcinoma was the most frequently diagnosed neoplasm in patients operated of malignant thyroid disease. The majority of these patients had a subclinical behavior, a third of non-optimal values of the thyroid stimulating hormone and a high prevalence of chronic hypocalcemia(AU)

Outcomes of fusion for lateral atlantoaxial osteoarthritis: meta-analysis and review of literature.

OBJECTIVE: Atlantoaxial osteoarthritis (AAOA) is an underrecognized source of neck pain, limitation of range of motion, and cervicogenic headaches. When conservative treatments such as facet injections fail, fusion may be indicated. We reviewed published series describing posterior fusions for atlantoaxial osteoarthritis of the facet joints. METHODS: Online databases were searched for English-language articles describing the diagnosis and treatment of AAOA. Twenty-three studies reporting on 246 patients treated with posterior fusion for lateral AAOA fulfilled inclusion criteria. Standard statistical and formal meta-analytic techniques were used to assess outcomes. RESULTS: All studies provided class III evidence. The 30-day perioperative mortality was 1.2% and neurologic injury did not occur. Patients were followed for a mean of nearly 5 years. Fusion was successful in 98% of patients with a single operation and with 99.5% of patients after revision surgery. Intractable preoperative neck pain either resolved completely or improved in 97.7% of patients. Using meta-analytic techniques, the point estimate for improvement or resolution of pain was 92.6% (confidence interval = 86.8%-96.0%) and the rate of arthrodesis for AAOA was 92.2% (confidence interval = 85.6%-95.9%) and there were no differences among the various techniques used for fusion. Operative complications were few. CONCLUSIONS: Posterior C1-2 fusion is a safe and effective treatment option for patients with intractable neck pain secondary to lateral AAOA. Modern fusion options offer a high rate of arthrodesis and low risk of morbidity if conservative therapies fail to provide adequate pain relief.

Calreticulin overexpression correlates with integrin-α5 and transforming growth factor-ß1 expression in the atria of patients with rheumatic valvular disease and atrial fibrillation.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to determine whether altered calreticulin expression and distribution contribute to the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation (AF) associated with valvular heart disease (VHD). BACKGROUND: AF affects electrophysiological and structural changes that exacerbate AF. Atrial remodeling reportedly underlies AF generation, but the precise mechanism of atrial remodeling in AF remains unclear. METHODS: Right and left atrial specimens were obtained from 68 patients undergoing valve replacement surgery. The patients were divided into sinus rhythm (SR; n=25), paroxysmal AF (PaAF; n=11), and persistent AF (PeAF; AF lasting >6 months; n=32) groups. Calreticulin, integrin-α5, and transforming growth factor-ß1 (TGF-ß1) mRNA and protein expression were measured. We also performed immunoprecipitation for calreticulin with either calcineurin B or integrin-α5. RESULTS: Calreticulin, integrin-α5, and TGF-ß1 mRNA and protein expression were increased in the AF groups, especially in the left atrium in patients with mitral valve disease. Calreticulin interacted with both calcineurin B and integrin-α5. Integrin-α5 expression correlated with TGF-ß1 expression, while calreticulin expression correlated with integrin-α5 and TGF-ß1 expression. Despite similar cardiac function classifications, calreticulin expression was greater in the PeAF group than in the SR group. CONCLUSIONS: Calreticulin, integrin-α5, and TGF-ß1 expression was increased in atrial tissue in patients with AF and was related to AF type, suggesting that calreticulin is involved in the pathogenesis of AF in VHD patients.

Distribuição das lesões de tireoide na classificação de Bethesda para punções aspirativas / Distribuition of thyroid lesions in the classification of Bethesda for aspiration punctures

OBJETIVO: Classificar os resultados de punções aspirativas prévias de tireoide de acordo com o sistema de Bethesda e verificar sua distribuição frente à nova classificação. MATERIAL E MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo retrospectivo usando laudos citopatológicos de pacientes portadores de nódulos tireoidianos, cujas PAAF foram analisadas no Centro de Patologia de Curitiba ­ Hospital Nossa Senhora das Graças, Curitiba - PR, no período de janeiro 2009 a dezembro de 2010. A amostra analisada constitui-se de 1833 laudos. RESULTADOS: Foram recatalogados 1833 laudos citopatológicos de PAAF de 1476 pacientes, sendo 572 (31%) laudos do ano de 2009 e 1262 (69%) do ano de 2010. Baseado nos 1833 resultados de PAAF analisados, encontrou-se 14,73% de nódulos tireoidianos classificados como insatisfatório, 70,64% como benignos, 7,04% como atipias de significado indeterminado ou lesões foliculares de significado indeterminado, 2,13% como neoplasia folicular ou suspeito de neoplasia folicular, 1,2% suspeito para malignidade e 4,26% malignos. CONCLUSÃO: A reclassificação dos laudos citopatológicos de PAAF de tireoide para a nomenclatura de Bethesda esteve dentro de índices recomendados, auxiliando no monitoramento de boas práticas e controle de qualidade na emissão dos resultados de PAAF de tireoide

AIM: To classify the results of thyroid punctures previous aspiration according to the Bethesda system and verify their distribution across the new classification. MATERIALS AND METHODS : We conducted a retrospective study using cytological reports of patients with thyroid nodules whose FNA were analyzed in Curitiba Pathology Center - Hospital Nossa Senhora das Graças , Curitiba - PR, from January 2009 to December 2010. The sample consisted of 1833 reports . RESULTS: 1833 reports recataloged FNA of cytopathology of 1476 patients, 572 (31%) reports of 2009 and 1262 (69%) in the year 2010. Based on 1833 results of FNA analyzed, we found 14,73%% of thyroid nodules classified as Unsatisfactory, 70,64% as benign, 7,04% as atypia of undetermined significance or follicular lesions of undetermined significance, and 2,13% follicular neoplasm or suspicious for follicular neoplasm, suspicious for malignancy 1,2% and 4,26% malignant. CONCLUSION: The reclassification of cytopathology reports from thyroid FNA for the nomenclature of Bethesda was within recommended levels, assisting in the monitoring of good practices and quality control in issuing the results of thyroid FNA

Correlação entre as classificações de TIRADS e Bethesda em punções aspirativas por agulha fina de tireóide / Correlation between TIRADS and Bethesda classification in fine needle aspiration biopsy of the thyroid

Verificar se a nova classificação TIRADS possui correlação com o sistema Bethesda. METODOLOGIA: As informações foram coletadas a partir de prontuário eletrônico do Serviço de Patologia (Centro de Patologia de Curitiba) no Hospital Nossa Senhora das Graças a partir dos laudos citopatológicos com resultados catalogados pelo Sistema Bethesda e que conste a informação da classificação do nódulo tireoidiano pelo TIRADS, compreendidos entre 22 de junho de 2013 e 22 de setembro 2013. RESULTADOS: Na classificação de TIRADS houve prevalência de TIRADS 2 (benignidade) com 82 casos (72,5%). Já no sistema Bethesda houve prevalência da categoria II (benignidade) com 89 casos (78,8%). Ao se estabelecer a correlação entre a classificação radiológica e citológica, observou-se que a grande maioria foi catalogada como benigna à ecografia, sendo que houve correspondência do ponto de vista citológico. Naqueles com diagnóstico TIRADS 4, 10 (37%) foram benignos, enquanto 17 (63%) não benignos. Já TIRADS 5, tivemos apenas um caso, e este foi classificado como não benigno pelo laudo citológico. CONCLUSÃO: Houve correlação significativa entre o sistema Bethesda e a classificação TIRADS

OBJECT: The purpose of this study is to verify that the new classification TIRADS has correlation with the Bethesda system. METHODS: Data were collected from electronic medical records of the Pathology Service (Curitiba Pathology Centre) at the Hospital Nossa Senhora das Graças from the cytopathology reports with results classified by the Bethesda System and the record information from the classification of thyroid nodules by TIRADS, ranging from June 22, 2013 and September 22, 2013. RESULTS In classification TIRADS prevalence was TIRADS 2 (benign) with 82 cases (72.5%). Bethesda already in the system was prevalent category II (benign) with 89 cases (78.8%). To establish the correlation between cytological and radiological classification, it was observed that the vast majority was cataloged as benign at ultrasound, and there was correspondence from a cytological viewpoint. Those with diagnosis TIRADS 4, 10 (37%) were benign, while 17 (63%) did not benign. Already TIRADS 5, we had only one case, and this was not classified as benign by cytological report. CONCLUSION: Significant correlation has been observed between Bethesda system and TIRADS classification

Utilización de la PAAF guiada por ecografía en el Hospital Carlos Andrade Marín / Echography-guided use of Puncture Breast Echography in the Carlos Andrade Marin Hospital

Introducción: El objetivo del presente estudio es describir la frecuencia con la que realizamos este examen y el tipo de tejidos obtenidos con el procedimiento. Materiales y Métodos: La muestra obtenida fue de 300 pacientes a quienes se les realizó una PAAF desde septiembre 2014 a diciembre del mismo año. Los resultados se presentan en tablas de frecuencia clasificadas por órgano puncionado y resultado citológico. Resultados: En los cuatro meses, el órgano más puncionado fue la glándula tiroides (73%); el segundo lugar, la mama (19.3%); siguen, los ganglios cervicales (5%); ganglios axilares (1.3%); y, finalmente, las glándulas salivales (1.3%). Discusión: La PAFF guiada por ultrasonografía es uno de los procedimientos diagnósticos más utilizados en todo el mundo, cuando se trata de lesiones accesibles e identificables por ecografía. De allí la alta frecuencia de su uso en nuestro medio y particularmente en el HCAM, cuyos resultados son similares a los reportes de estándares internacionales.

Introduction: The objective of this study was describing the frequency this procedure is performed and detailing the kind of tissue samples obtained. Methods: Descritptive study that included 300 patients who underwent Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) guided by ultrasound to obtain samples from different organs for cytology at Carlos Andrade Marin hospital. Results: During a four-month period 192(73%) subjects underwent FNA of the thyroid gland; 57(19.3%) of the breast; 14(5%) from cervical lymph nodes; 4(1.3%) from axillary lymph nodes AND 2 (1.3%) samples were taken from salivary glands. Discusion: FNA guided by ultrasound is a frequent procedure worldwide performed when accessible lesions are identified by ultrasound. That explains the frequency of its use anda particularly at Carlos Andrade Marin Hospital. Our reports are simResumen

Distribuição das lesões de tireóide na classificação de Bethesda para punções aspirativas / Distribuition of thyroid lesions in the classification of bethesda for aspiration punctures

OBJETIVO: Classificar os resultados de punções aspirativas prévias de tireóide de acordo com o sistema de Bethesda e verificar sua distribuição frente à nova classificação. MATERIAL E MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo retrospectivo usando laudos citopatológicos de pacientes portadores de nódulos tireoidianos, cujas PAAF foram analisadas no Centro de Patologia de Curitiba ­ Hospital Nossa Senhora das Graças, Curitiba - PR, no período de janeiro 2009 a dezembro de 2010. A amostra analisada constitui-se de 1833 laudos. RESULTADOS: Foram recatalogados 1833 laudos citopatológicos de PAAF de 1476 pacientes, sendo 572 (31%) laudos do ano de 2009 e 1262 (69%) do ano de 2010. Baseado nos 1833 resultados de PAAF analisados, encontrou-se 14,73% de nódulos tireoidianos classificados como Insatisfatório, 70,64% como benignos, 7,04% como atipias de significado indeterminado ou lesões foliculares de significado indeterminado, 2,13% como neoplasia folicular ou suspeito de neoplasia folicular, 1,2% suspeito para malignidade e 4,26% malignos. CONCLUSÃO: A reclassificação dos laudos citopatológicos de PAAF de tireóide para a nomenclatura de Bethesda esteve dentro de índices recomendados, auxiliando no monitoramento de boas práticas e controle de qualidade na emissão dos resultados de PAAF de tireóide

AIM: To classify the results of thyroid punctures previous aspiration according to the Bethesda system and verify their distribution across the new classification. MATERIALS AND METHODS : We conducted a retrospective study using cytological reports of patients with thyroid nodules whose FNA were analyzed in Curitiba Pathology Center - Hospital Nossa Senhora das Graças , Curitiba - PR, from January 2009 to December 2010. The sample consisted of 1833 reports . RESULTS: 1833 reports recataloged FNA of cytopathology of 1476 patients, 572 (31%) reports of 2009 and 1262 (69%) in the year 2010. Based on 1833 results of FNA analyzed, we found 14,73%% of thyroid nodules classified as Unsatisfactory, 70,64% as benign, 7,04% as atypia of undetermined significance or follicular lesions of undetermined significance, and 2,13% follicular neoplasm or suspicious for follicular neoplasm, suspicious for malignancy 1,2% and 4,26% malignant. CONCLUSION: The reclassification of cytopathology reports from thyroid FNA for the nomenclature of Bethesda was within recommended levels, assisting in the monitoring of good practices and quality control in issuing the results of thyroid FNA

Correlação entre as classificações de TIRADS e Bethesda em punções aspirativas por agulha fina de tireóide / Correlation between TIRADS and Bethesda classification in fine needle aspiration biopsy of the thyroid

Verificar se a nova classificação TIRADS possui correlação com o sistema Bethesda. METODOLOGIA: As informações foram coletadas a partir de prontuário eletrônico do Serviço de Patologia (Centro de Patologia de Curitiba) no Hospital Nossa Senhora das Graças a partir dos laudos citopatológicos com resultados catalogados pelo Sistema Bethesda e que conste a informação da classificação do nódulo tireoidiano pelo TIRADS, compreendidos entre 22 de junho de 2013 e 22 de setembro 2013. RESULTADOS: Na classificação de TIRADS houve prevalência de TIRADS 2 (benignidade) com 82 casos (72,5%). Já no sistema Bethesda houve prevalência da categoria II (benignidade) com 89 casos (78,8%). Ao se estabelecer a correlação entre a classificação radiológica e citológica, observou-se que a grande maioria foi catalogada como benigna à ecografia, sendo que houve correspondência do ponto de vista citológico. Naqueles com diagnóstico TIRADS 4, 10 (37%) foram benignos, enquanto 17 (63%) não benignos. Já TIRADS 5, tivemos apenas um caso, e este foi classificado como não benigno pelo laudo citológico. CONCLUSÃO: Houve correlação significativa entre o sistema Bethesda e a classificação TIRADS

OBJECT: The purpose of this study is to verify that the new classification TIRADS has correlation with the Bethesda system. METHODS: Data were collected from electronic medical records of the Pathology Service (Curitiba Pathology Centre) at the Hospital Nossa Senhora das Graças from the cytopathology reports with results classified by the Bethesda System and the record information from the classification of thyroid nodules by TIRADS, ranging from June 22, 2013 and September 22, 2013. RESULTS In classification TIRADS prevalence was TIRADS 2 (benign) with 82 cases (72.5%). Bethesda already in the system was prevalent category II (benign) with 89 cases (78.8%). To establish the correlation between cytological and radiological classification, it was observed that the vast majority was cataloged as benign at ultrasound, and there was correspondence from a cytological viewpoint. Those with diagnosis TIRADS 4, 10 (37%) were benign, while 17 (63%) did not benign. Already TIRADS 5, we had only one case, and this was not classified as benign by cytological report. CONCLUSION: Significant correlation has been observed between Bethesda system and TIRADS classification

Alternativa diagnóstica en los cánceres laríngeos. Punción aspiración con aguja fina transcartilaginosa laríngea. Análisis costo-beneficio / Diagnostic alternative in laryngeal cancers.Transcartilaginous fine needle aspirationbiopsy. Cost-benefitanalysis / Alternativa diagnóstica nos cânceres laríngeos. Punção aspiração com agulha fina transcartilaginosa laríngea. Análise de custo-benefício

El cáncer de laringe es la segunda neoplasia maligna de cabeza y cuello en adultos. Hemos decidido la búsqueda de un método diagnóstico eficaz y eficiente de las tumoraciones laríngeas sospechosas de malignidad. Se realiza la punción aspiración con aguja fina transcartilaginosa laríngea (PAAF TCL) en las lesiones laríngeas de estadios TNM altos (III y IV) como método diagnóstico alternativo a la tradicional biopsia por microcirugía laríngea. Se logra así la optimización de recursos institucionales y el beneficio de los pacientes en función del tratamiento de los mismos.

Laryngeal cancer is the second leading cause ofhead and neck malignant neoplasms in adults. Wedecided to search for effective diagnostic method oflaryngeal tumors suspicious of malignancy. Transcartilaginous Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy (TF-NAB) is performed in laryngeal lesions of high levelTNM stage (III and IV) as an alternative to traditionalbiopsy by laryngeal microsurgery. It achievesthe optimization of institutional resources and thebenefit of patients according to their treatment.

O câncer de laringe é segunda neoplasia maligna de cabeça e pescoço em adultos. Decidimos buscar um método diagnóstico eficaz e eficiente das tumorações laríngeas com suspeitas de malignidade.Realiza-se a Punção Aspiração com Agulha Fina Transcartilaginosa Laríngea (PAAF TCL) nas lesões laríngeas de estádios TNM altos (III e IV) como método diagnóstico alternativo à tradicional biopsia por microcirurgia laríngea. Obtém-se assim a otimização de recursos institucionais e o benefício dos pacientes em função do seu tratamento.

Análisis de características clínicas y ecográficas de nódulos tiroideos con citología Bethesda III y su evolución / Analysis of Clinical and Ultrasound Features of Thyroid Nodules With Bethesda III Cytology and their Evolution

Introducción: Desde la implementación de la clasificación citológica de los nódulos tiroideos por el sistema Bethesda en 6 categorías, el grupo Bethesda III (BIII) es el que genera más controversias en cuanto a la conducta de seguimiento. Según la literatura corresponden a esta categoría entre el 4 y 20 % de los nódulos punzados y conllevan un riesgo de malignidad del 5-15 %. Objetivo: Determinar características clínicas y ecográficas de los nódulos tiroideos clasificados como BIII en nuestra población y analizar su evolución en el tiempo. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio descriptivo de todos los pacientes enviados a PAAF bajo guía ecográfica que resultaron BIII, entre febrero 2011 y diciembre 2013. Se describieron las características clínicas y ecográficas de dichos nódulos y su evolución. La mediana de seguimiento fue 24 meses (rango: 2 a 35 meses). Resultados: Fueron punzados 945 nódulos de 784 pacientes. Se clasificaron como BIII 85 nódulos (8,99 %) de 72 pacientes (69 mujeres y 3 varones), con una media de edad de 71,1 ±7,1 años. La mediana del diáme­tro mayor de los nódulos fue 18 mm (9 a 54 mm). El 76,1 % de los nódulos fueron sólidos, el 22,5 % mixtos y en 1 caso espongiforme. Según el patrón ecográfico: 36,7 % eran hipoecoicos, 54,4 % isoecoicos y 8,9 % hiperecoicos. El 8,33 % presentó microcalcificaciones y el 9,9 % márgenes irregulares. El 39,43 % presentó vascularización periférica, 4,23 % central y 56,34 % mixta. Evolución: De los 72 pacientes, 9 (12,1 %) se perdieron en el seguimiento, a 56 (77,8 %) se los siguió clínica y ecográficamente, y en 7 pacientes (9,7 %) se tomó conducta quirúrgica basándose en criterios clínicos y ecográficos sospechosos de malignidad, o por antecedentes familiares positivos, resultando 3 con carcinoma papilar (CP), y 4 con patología benigna. Durante el seguimiento, Fueron repunzados 40 nódulos de 35 pacientes (48,6 %) que resultaron: 2 BI, 23 BII, 14 BIII y 1 BV. De los 14 nódulos con segunda punción BIII, se operaron 7, 1 CP y 6 patología benigna. El nódulo BV resultó un CP a su cirugía. En total, fueron operados 16 pacientes con BIII (22,2 %) (7 de inicio y 8 luego de la segunda PAAF y 1 en el seguimiento clínico ecográfico), de los cuales 5 (31,25 %) resultaron CP y 11 (68,75 %) patología tiroidea benigna. Conclusión: Si bien para los nódulos tiroideos con categoría BIII se recomienda generalmente una repunción, en nuestra experiencia el hallazgo de características clínicas y ecográficas sospechosas de malignidad y/o antecedentes familiares de cáncer de tiroides permitiría en algunos pacientes optar por la cirugía tiroidea desde el inicio. Rev Argent Endocrinol Metab 52:14-21, 2015 Los autores declaran no poseer conflictos de interés.

Background: Since the implementation of the Bethesda System for cytology classification of thyroid nodules into 6 categories, the Bethesda III group (B III) has been the most controversial as regards follow-up management. Reported data shows that about 4 to 20 % of all biopsied nodules belong to this category, with the risk of malignancy being 5 to 15 %. Objective: To determine clinical and sonographic features of thyroid nodules classified as BIII in our population and analyze their evolution over time. Methods: We determined the clinical and ultrasonographic (US) features of all patients who had undergone fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) in 2011-2013 at our Institution for Retirees and Pensioners. Descriptive study of all patients with nodules classified as BIII with a median follow-up time of 24 months (2 to 35 months). Results: Out of 945 nodules from 784 patients biopsied (age, mean ± SD:71.1±7.1 years), 85 (8.99 %) were classified as BIII. Six patients had received neck radiation, and 5 reported family history of thyroid cancer. The median (range) largest diameter of nodules was 18 mm (9-54 mm). Fifty-four nodules (76.1 %) were solid, 16 (22.5 %) mixed, and 1 spongiform. Based on echogenicity, 36.7 % were hypoechoic, 54.4 % isoechoic and 8.9 % hyperechoic. Twenty-two nodules (25.88 %) were taller than wider, 8.33 % had microcalcifications and 9.9 % had irregular margins. At Doppler evaluation, 39.43 % of nodules had peripheral vascularity, 4.23 % showed central vascularity and 56.34 % had mixed vascularity. In 7 out of 72 patients with BIII classification, surgery was indicated at the start based on suspicious clinical and US findings for malignancy, or family history of thyroid cancer. Out of these 7 patients, 3 were found to have papillary carcinoma (PTC), 1 follicular adenoma (FA), 1 colloid goiter (CG), 1 adenomatous nodule (AN) and 1 chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis (CLT). As regards the follow-up and evolution of the rest of the group, 9 were lost, 21 remained in observation and 35 (48.6 %) with 40 nodules underwent a second FNAB, with the following results: 2 BI, 23 BII, 14 BIII and 1 BV. Out of 14 nodules confirmed as BIII on repeat FNAB, 7 were operated on, resulting in: 2 CLT, 3 CG, 1 FA and 1 PTC. The BV nodule proved to be PTC. A total of 16 patients with BIII nodules underwent surgery (7 initially, 8 after a second FNAB, and 1 during clinical and US follow-up) and 5 (31.25 %) were PTC while 11 (68.75 %) were benign. Conclusion: Even though BIII thyroid nodules generally require a second FNAB, in our experience clinical and US findings suspicious for malignancy, or family history of thyroid cancer could allow some patients to be offered surgery at initial presentation. Rev Argent Endocrinol Metab 52:14-21, 2015 No financial conflicts of interest exist.

Eficácia da punção aspirativa por agulha fina percutânea guiada por ultrassonografia no diagnóstico de lesões pancreáticas / Efficacy of percutaneous fine needle aspiration guided By in the diagnosis of pancreatic lesions

Correlacionar os achados citológicos obtidos por punção aspirativa por agulha fina ecoguiada com o seguimento clínico ou resultado histopatológico dos pacientes. Estudo transversal observacional com análise de 32 prontuários de pacientes com lesões pancreáticas submetidos à PAAF, sendo consideradas as variáveis: idade; sexo; topografia da lesão; diagnóstico citopatológico; resultado do exame histopatológico e de congelação por punção. Foi calculada a sensibilidade do método em diagnosticar malignidade e a sensibilidade, especificidade, VPP, VPN e acurácia para o diagnóstico de adenocarcinoma. A média de idade dos pacientes foi 64,9 anos com predomínio do sexo feminino; a cabeça do pâncreas foi a topografia mais acometida pelas lesões (64%); o diagnóstico mais freqüente foi de adenocarcinoma (78%). O método apresentou sensibilidade de 93% para malignidade e 92% para adenocarcinoma. A PAAF, na presente casuística, se mostrou rápida, segura e eficaz, tendo alta correlação com o exame histopatológico ou evolução clínica.

To correlate the cytological findings obtained by ultrasonically guided by fine needle aspiration and with clinical follow-up of patients. An observational cross-sectional study was done, on which 32 records of patients with pancreatic lesions underwent FNA were analyzed, considering the following variables: age, sex, topography of the lesion, diagnosis, descriptive diagnosis, result of histopathological and freezing by puncture. Were calculated the sensitivity of the method in diagnosing malignancy and the sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV and accuracy for diagnosing adenocarcinoma. The average age of patients was 64,9 years with a predominated of female, the head of the pancreas was most affected by the topography of lesions (64%), the most common diagnosis was adenocarcinoma (78%). The method had sensitivity for malignancy of 93% and 92% for adenocarcinoma. FNA, in this series, proved to be fast, safe and effective having high correlation with histopathology and clinical outcome in this study.