Area Deprivation and Disease Severity in Adult Patients With Discoid Lupus Erythematosus.

Importance: The association of area deprivation with outcomes in discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) remains poorly understood. Objective: To determine the association between US Census block measures of deprivation and disease severity in adult patients with DLE. Design, Setting, and Participants: This cross-sectional study included 154 patients with DLE seen between January 1, 2007, and January 1, 2024, at a single-center referral-based specialty rheumatologic-dermatology clinic in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Patients were aged 18 to 73 years and were enrolled in the University of Pennsylvania's Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus Database study. Data were analyzed between January 1, 2024, and May 8, 2024. Exposures: Residence in a highly disadvantaged area as geocoded by a state area deprivation index (ADI). Main Outcomes and Measures: The main outcome was DLE disease severity as codified by the validated Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus Disease Area and Severity Index (CLASI) damage and activity scores. Results: A total of 154 adult patients with DLE (128 women [83%] and 26 men [17%]; mean [SD] age, 43 [13] years; 6 [4%] Asian individuals, 98 [64%] Black individuals, 2 [1%] Hispanic individuals, 46 [30%] White individuals, and 2 individuals [1%] with other race or ethnicity; 78 [51%] with an ADI >5; 43 who currently smoked [28%];and 56 [36%] with concurrent systemic lupus erythematosus) were included in the analysis. By multivariable logistic regression, residence within communities with an ADI greater than 5 was associated with nearly 4-fold greater odds of moderate to severe damage (odds ratio [OR], 3.90; 95% CI, 1.27-12.69] and activity (OR, 3.31; 95% CI, 1.27-9.44). Concurrent cigarette smoking was similarly associated with greater odds of moderate to severe damage (OR, 3.15; 95% CI, 1.09-10.29). After controlling for ADI and other confounders, race was not significantly associated with DLE disease severity. Conclusions and Relevance: The results of this cross-sectional study suggest that geospatial disadvantage is associated with DLE disease severity independent of race. This invites a paradigm shift that considers the social context within which racial disparities are observed, highlighting the potential for geographically targeted interventions and policy changes to improve patient outcomes in DLE.

Two-Stage Syphilis Testing.

A 54-year-old woman presented with erythematous annular and indurated plaques on her face, trunk, and extremities and had false-positive syphilis test results during 2 pregnancies 25 and 22 years prior. What would you do next?

Evaluation of the Inhibitory Potential of Synthetic Peptides Homologous to CDR3 Regions of a Monoclonal Antibody against Bothropic Venom Serine Proteases.

Snakebite accidents, neglected tropical diseases per the WHO, pose a significant public health threat due to their severity and frequency. Envenomation by Bothrops genus snakes leads to severe manifestations due to proteolytic enzymes. While the antibothropic serum produced by the Butantan Institute saves lives, its efficacy is limited as it fails to neutralize certain serine proteases. Hence, developing new-generation antivenoms, like monoclonal antibodies, is crucial. This study aimed to explore the inhibitory potential of synthetic peptides homologous to the CDR3 regions of a monoclonal antibody targeting a snake venom thrombin-like enzyme (SVTLE) from B. atrox venom. Five synthetic peptides were studied, all stable against hydrolysis by venoms and serine proteases. Impressively, four peptides demonstrated uncompetitive SVTLE inhibition, with Ki values ranging from 10-6 to 10-7 M. These findings underscore the potential of short peptides homologous to CDR3 regions in blocking snake venom toxins, suggesting their promise as the basis for new-generation antivenoms. Thus, this study offers potential advancements in combatting snakebites, addressing a critical public health challenge in tropical and subtropical regions.

Construção de um guia para preenchimento dos indicadores do previne Brasil no prontuário eletrônico do cidadão / Developing a guide for filling out previne Brazil indicators on the electronic citizen health record / Elaboración de una guía para cumplimentar los indicadores de previne Brasil en la historia clínica electrónica del ciudadano

O programa Previne Brasil foi instituído pela Portaria nº 2.979, de 12 de novembro de 2019, como novo modelo de financiamento da Atenção Primária à Saúde (APS). Nesse contexto, nosso objetivo é relatar a experiência de elaboração de uma tecnologia educacional (TE) em formato de guia, para uso dos profissionais das Equipes de Saúde da Família (ESF), que visa o registro correto das informações dos indicadores do Previne Brasil no Prontuário Eletrônico do Cidadão (PEC). Trata-se de um relato de experiência de duas enfermeiras residentes do Programa de Saúde da Família Multiprofissional da Universidade do Estado do Pará, que aborda a elaboração e aplicação de um guia para auxiliar o preenchimento correto de informações referentes aos indicadores de desempenho do Previne Brasil no PEC. A construção do guia se deu a partir das normativas contidas nas notas técnicas do Ministérios da Saúde e dos conhecimentos práticos adquiridos no manuseio do PEC pelas autoras, em plataforma online gratuita de criação de projeto gráficos (Canva). Com um total de 20 páginas, o guia conta com uma apresentação em forma de fluxo simplificado com palavras-chave e imagens reais do PEC. O guia foi bem aceito pelos profissionais, uma vez que seu uso se mostrou prático, o que facilitou o registro das informações de forma mais clara e vantajosa, sendo uma excelente TE. Ademais, ressalta-se a importância de divulgar e compartilhar experiências exitosas que contribuam para melhorias no cenário da APS.

The Previne Brasil Program was implemented by ordinance nº 2,979 on November 12, 2019, as a new financing model for Primary Health Care. In this scenario, this study reports the experience of developing an educational technology (ET), in the form of a guide, for use by Family Health Strategy (ESF) professionals to correctly record Previne Brasil performance indicators in the Electronic Citizen Health Record (PEC). This is an experience report by two nurses working on the Multiprofessional Family Health Program, University of Pará, regarding the development and application of a guide to assist in correctly filling out information related to Previne Brasil performance indicators in the Electronic Citizen Health Record. The guide was constructed using a free online graphic design platform (Canva) based on regulations contained in the Ministry of Health's technical notes and the practical knowledge acquired by the authors in handling PEC. Consisting of 20 pages, the guide presented a simplified flow format with keywords and real PEC images. The guide was well accepted by professionals, as its use proved to be practical, facilitating the recording of information in a clearer and advantageous manner, making it an excellent ET. Moreover, disseminating and sharing successful experiences is paramount to improve Primary Health Care.

El Programa Previne Brasil fue establecido bajo la Ordenanza N.º 2.979 del 12 de noviembre de 2019 como un nuevo modelo de financiamiento de la atención primaria de salud (APS). En este contexto, el objetivo de este estudio es informar sobre la experiencia de desarrollar una tecnología educativa (TE), en forma de guía, para ser utilizada por los profesionales de los equipos de Estrategia de Salud Familiar (ESF) con el fin de registrar correctamente la información de los indicadores de desempeño del Previne Brasil en la Historia Clínica Electrónica del Ciudadano (PEC). Este es un informe de experiencia realizado por dos enfermeras residentes del Programa de Salud Familiar Multiprofesional de la Universidad del Estado de Pará acerca del desarrollo y aplicación de una guía para ayudar en el llenado correcto de la información relacionada con los indicadores de desempeño del Previne Brasil en el PEC. La guía se construyó con base en las regulaciones de las notas técnicas del Ministerio de Salud y de los conocimientos prácticos adquiridos por las autoras en el manejo del PEC, en una plataforma en línea gratuita de creación de diseño gráfico (Canva). Consta de 20 páginas, la guía se presenta en un formato de flujo simplificado con palabras clave e imágenes reales del PEC. La guía fue bien recibida por los profesionales y su uso demostró ser práctico, facilitando el registro de la información de manera más clara y ventajosa, lo que la convierte en una excelente TE. Además, se destaca la importancia de difundir y compartir experiencias exitosas, lo que contribuye a mejorar el escenario de la APS.

An update on clinical trials for cutaneous lupus erythematosus.

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) comprises dermatologic manifestations that may occur independently or with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Despite advancements in refining CLE classification, establishing precise subtype criteria remains challenging due to overlapping presentations and difficulty in distinguishing morphology. Current treatments encompass preventive measures, topical therapies, and systemic approaches. Hydroxychloroquine and glucocorticoids are the sole US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medications for CLE, with numerous off-label treatments available. However, these treatments are often not covered by insurance, imposing a significant financial burden on patients. The exclusion of most CLE patients, particularly those without concurrent SLE, from trials designed for SLE has resulted in a lack of targeted treatments for CLE. To develop effective CLE treatments, validated outcome measures for tracking patient responsiveness are essential. The Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus Disease Area and Severity Index is widely utilized for its reliability, validity, and ability to differentiate between skin activity and damage. In contrast, the FDA mandates the use of the Investigator's Global Assessment, a five-point Likert scale related to lesion characteristics, for skin-related therapeutic trials. It requires the disease to resolve or almost completely resolve to demonstrate improvement, which can be difficult when there is residual erythema or incomplete clearance that is meaningfully improved from a patient perspective. Various classes of skin lupus medications target diverse pathways, allowing tailored treatment based on the patient's lupus inflammatory profile, resulting in improved outcomes. Promising targeted therapeutic drugs include anifrolumab (anti-type 1 interferon), deucravacitinib (allosteric tyrosine kinase 2 inhibitor), litifilimab (plasmacytoid dendritic cell-directed therapy), iberdomide (cereblon-targeting ligand), and belimumab (B-cell directed therapy). Despite the significant impact of CLE on quality of life, therapeutic options remain inadequate. While promising treatments for cutaneous lupus are emerging, it is crucial to underscore the urgency for skin-focused treatment outcomes and the implementation of validated measures to assess therapeutic effectiveness in clinical trials.

The impact of hormones in autoimmune cutaneous diseases.

INTRODUCTION: Dermatomyositis, systemic and cutaneous lupus erythematosus have a significantly higher prevalence in women than men, emphasizing the relevance of exploring the relationship between sex hormones and autoimmune skin diseases. This review analyzes the interplay between sex hormones and these two skin diseases. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed an extensive literature search using the PubMed database from July to August 2023. Search terms included 'contraceptives', 'pregnancy', 'hormone replacement', 'tamoxifen', and 'aromatase inhibitors'. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: This comprehensive literature review shows that there remains considerable debate regarding the use of hormonal contraceptives and hormonal replacement therapy in individuals with autoimmune skin conditions. Nonetheless, it is well established that their use is contraindicated in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome or when antiphospholipid antibodies are positive. Individuals experiencing disease flares and uncontrolled symptoms should also avoid these interventions. Pregnancy planning should be timed to coincide with well-managed disease states to minimize obstetric and neonatal complications. Hormonal breast cancer treatment requires close skin monitoring. CONCLUSION: Pregnancy, menopause, contraceptive use, hormone replacement therapy, and breast cancer treatment drugs result in substantial shifts in hormone levels. Additionally, hormone levels are altered by aromatase inhibitors and anti-estrogen medications. These fluctuations can modulate mechanisms influencing autoimmune skin abnormalities.

Safety and efficacy of topical nitric oxide-releasing berdazimer gel for molluscum contagiosum clearance: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a contagious infection that, although benign, can become an aesthetic burden and lead to other opportunistic infections, secondary dermatitis, and self-isolation. Currently, several treatment options are available for MC, including the newly investigated nitric oxide-releasing berdazimer gel, leading this review to evaluate randomized controlled trials (RCT) comparing berdazimer gel with a vehicle for treating MC. The meta-analysis included three reports and four RCT involving 1854 patients, with 1106 (59.6%) randomized to receive berdazimer. Our findings suggest that berdazimer is effective in the management of MC lesions, but the increased clearance of lesions and reduction of scarring must be weighed against the potential for topical adverse effects, particularly when considering the use of this therapy in pediatric patients.

An unusual case of disseminated cryptococcosis in an immunocompetent host presenting with verrucous skin lesions.

Disseminated cryptococcosis, commonly linked to immunocompromised conditions like HIV infection, is exceedingly rare in immunocompetent individuals. This case report presents a rare case of disseminated cryptococcosis in an immunocompetent patient, who manifested with fever, weight loss, neurological manifestations, and distinct verrucous skin lesions. Mycological cultures and histopathological assessments were conducted, leading to the identification of Cryptococcus neoformans var. gattii within both lung and skin biopsies. This case highlights the significance of considering this yeast infection within immunocompetent individuals and the necessity for promptly initiating appropriate antifungal therapy to enhance patient outcomes.

Novel assessment of lip redness and microcirculation using optical coherence tomography after dermal filler injection.

OBJECTIVES: Lip filler injections are one of the most popular procedures in esthetic dermatology. In this study, we used three-dimensional colorimetric photography to assess lip color and optical coherence tomography-angiography (OCT-A), a noninvasive alternative to histopathology, to evaluate microcirculation after hyaluronic acid (HA) injection. The pain of the injection procedure was also assessed. METHODS: An average of 0.85cc of the total volume of HA with lidocaine was injected into the upper and lower lip of eighteen young (<30yo) and nine postmenopausal healthy women. OCT-A, two-dimensional, and three-dimensional images were acquired immediately before (visit 1) and 15 days after injection (visit 2). Custom-made software was used to analyze the imaging data to detect vessel morphology and redness changes. The Wong-Baker FACES pain rating scale (0-10) was used to score the subject procedural pain. RESULTS: For young and old subjects, three-dimensional lip volume was greater than the injected volume. OCT-A images of the lips showed higher vessel density and thickness, reaching statistical significance in the younger cohort. The overall trend of increased redness assessed by three-dimensional colorimetric imaging and increased vascularity evaluated by OCT-A imaging were similar. However, the correlation was not statistically significant for standard two-dimensional digital photography. The average pain score after the first needle insertion and overall procedure were 2.9 and 3.5, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest an increased microvasculature network observed in OCT-A images in young females. The increased blood vessel density and thickness observed by OCT-A after HA lip filler injection is associated with increased lip redness and volume as assessed by colorimetric three-dimensional photography; however, more research is needed to confirm these findings. This study presents OCT-A as a novel noninvasive tool to investigate changes in lip microvascularity after HA filler injection and indicates that HA filler procedures may affect lip vascularity.

Effect of Resin Cement at Different Thicknesses on the Fatigue Shear Bond Strength to Leucite Ceramic.

OBJECTIVES: This in vitro study was performed to evaluate fatigue survival by shear test in the union of leucite-reinforced feldspathic ceramic using different cement thicknesses. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Leucite-reinforced glass ceramics blocks were sectioned in 2-mm thick slices where resin cylinders were cemented. The samples were distributed in two experimental groups (n = 20) according to the cement thickness (60 and 300 µm). The specimens of each group were submitted to the stepwise fatigue test in the mechanical cycling machine under shear stress state, with a frequency of 2 Hz, a step-size of 0.16 bar, starting with a load of 31 N (1.0 bar) and a lifetime of 20,000 cycles at each load step. RESULTS: The samples were analyzed in a stereomicroscope and scanning electron microscopy to determine the failure type. There is no significant difference between the mean values of shear bond strength according to both groups. Log-rank (p = 0.925) and Wilcoxon (p = 0.520) tests revealed a similar survival probability in both cement layer thicknesses according to the confidence interval (95%). The fracture analysis showed that the mixed failure was the most common failure type in the 300-µm thickness group (80%), while adhesive failure was predominant in the 60-µm thickness group (67%). The different cement thicknesses did not influence the leucite ceramic bonding in fatigue shear testing; however, the thicker cement layer increased the predominance of the ceramic material failure. CONCLUSION: The resin cement thicknesses bonded to leucite ceramic did not influence the long-term interfacial shear bond strength, although thicker cement layer increased the ceramic material cohesive failure. Regardless the cement layer thickness, the shear bond strength lifetime decreases under fatigue.

Diretrizes brasileiras do angioedema hereditário 2022 ­ Parte 1: definição, classificação e diagnóstico / 2022 Brazilian guidelines for hereditary angioedema ­ Part 1: definition, classification, and diagnosis

O angioedema hereditário é uma doença autossômica dominante caracterizada por crises recorrentes de edema que acometem o tecido subcutâneo e o submucoso, com envolvimento de diversos órgãos. Os principais locais afetados são face, membros superiores e inferiores, as alças intestinais e as vias respiratórias superiores. Em decorrência da falta de conhecimento dessa condição por profissionais de saúde, ocorre atraso importante no seu diagnóstico, comprometendo a qualidade de vida dos indivíduos afetados. Além disso, o retardo no diagnóstico pode resultar em aumento da mortalidade por asfixia devido ao edema de laringe. A natureza errática das crises com variação do quadro clínico e gravidade dos sintomas entre diferentes pacientes, e no mesmo paciente ao longo da vida, se constitui em desafio no cuidado dos doentes que têm angioedema hereditário. O principal tipo de angioedema hereditário é resultante de mais de 700 variantes patogênicas do gene SERPING1 com deficiência funcional ou quantitativa da proteína inibidor de C1, porém nos últimos anos outras mutações foram descritas em seis outros genes. Ocorreram avanços importantes na fisiopatologia da doença e novas drogas para o tratamento do angioedema hereditário foram desenvolvidas. Nesse contexto, o Grupo de Estudos Brasileiro em Angioedema Hereditário (GEBRAEH) em conjunto com a Associação Brasileira de Alergia e Imunologia (ASBAI) atualizou as diretrizes brasileiras do angioedema hereditário. O maior conhecimento dos diversos aspectos resultou na divisão das diretrizes em duas partes, sendo nessa primeira parte abordados a definição, a classificação e o diagnóstico.

Hereditary angioedema is an autosomal dominant disease characterized by recurrent attacks of edema that affect the subcutaneous tissue and the submucosa, involving several organs. The main affected sites are the face, upper and lower limbs, gastrointestinal tract, and upper airways. Because health professionals lack knowledge about this condition, there is a significant delay in diagnosis, compromising the quality of life of affected individuals. Furthermore, delayed diagnosis may result in increased mortality from asphyxia due to laryngeal edema. The erratic nature of the attacks with variations in clinical course and severity of symptoms among different patients and in one patient throughout life constitutes a challenge in the care of patients with hereditary angioedema. The main type of hereditary angioedema results from more than 700 pathogenic variants of the SERPING1 gene with functional or quantitative deficiency of the C1 inhibitor protein, but in recent years other mutations have been described in six other genes. Important advances have been made in the pathophysiology of the disease, and new drugs for the treatment of hereditary angioedema have been developed. In this context, the Brazilian Study Group on Hereditary Angioedema (GEBRAEH) in conjunction with the Brazilian Association of Allergy and Immunology (ASBAI) updated the Brazilian guidelines on hereditary angioedema. Greater knowledge of different aspects resulted in the division of the guidelines into two parts, with definition, classification, and diagnosis being addressed in this first part.

Diretrizes brasileiras de angioedema hereditário 2022 ­ Parte 2: terapêutica / 2022 Brazilian guidelines for hereditary angioedema ­ Part 2: therapy

O tratamento do angioedema hereditário tem início com a educação dos pacientes e familiares sobre a doença, pois é fundamental o conhecimento da imprevisibilidade das crises, assim como os seus fatores desencadeantes. O tratamento medicamentoso se divide em terapia das crises e profilaxia das manifestações clínicas. As crises devem ser tratadas o mais precocemente possível com o uso do antagonista do receptor de bradicinina, o icatibanto ou o concentrado de C1-inibidor. É necessário estabeler um plano de ação em caso de crises para todos os pacientes. A profilaxia de longo prazo dos sintomas deve ser realizada preferencialmente com medicamentos de primeira linha, como concentrado do C1-inibidor ou o anticorpo monoclonal anti-calicreína, lanadelumabe. Como segunda linha de tratamento temos os andrógenos atenuados. Na profilaxia de curto prazo, antes de procedimentos que podem desencadear crises, o uso do concentrado de C1-inibidor é preconizado. Existem algumas restrições para uso desses tratamentos em crianças e gestantes que devem ser consideradas. Novos medicamentos baseados nos avanços do conhecimento da fisiopatologia do angioedema hereditário estão em desenvolvimento, devendo melhorar a qualidade de vida dos pacientes. O uso de ferramentas padronizadas para monitorização da qualidade de vida, do controle e da atividade da doença são fundamentais no acompanhamento destes pacientes. A criação de associações de pacientes e familiares de pacientes com angioedema hereditário tem desempenhado um papel muito importante no cuidado destes pacientes no nosso país.

The treatment of hereditary angioedema begins with the education of patients and their families about the disease, as it is essential to know the unpredictability of attacks as well as their triggering factors. Drug treatment is divided into attack therapy and prophylaxis of clinical manifestations. Attacks should be treated as early as possible with the bradykinin receptor antagonist icatibant or C1-inhibitor concentrate. An action plan needs to be established for all patients with attacks. Long-term prophylaxis of symptoms should preferably be performed with first-line drugs such as C1-inhibitor concentrate or the anti-kallikrein monoclonal antibody lanadelumab. Attenuated androgens are the second line of treatment. In short-term prophylaxis, before procedures that can trigger attacks, the use of C1-inhibitor concentrate is recommended. There are some restrictions for the use of these treatments in children and pregnant women that should be considered. New drugs based on advances in knowledge of the pathophysiology of hereditary angioedema are under development and are expected to improve patient quality of life. The use of standardized tools for monitoring quality of life and controlling disease activity is essential in the follow-up of these patients. The creation of associations of patients and families of patients with hereditary angioedema has played a very important role in the care of these patients in Brazil.

Clinical features of hereditary angioedema and warning signs (H4AE) for its identification.

OBJECTIVES: The study describes a case series of hereditary angioedema with C1 Inhibitor Deficiency (C1INH-HAE) in order to corroborate six clinical warning signs "HAAAAE (H4AE)" to enable early identification of this disease. METHODS: The authors analyzed the C1INH-HAE cohort to analyze the clinical aspects of the present study's patients and corroborate the six clinical warning signs of the Hereditary Angioedema Brazilian Guidelines. Data regarding demographics, the onset of disease, time to diagnosis, frequency of attacks per year, organs involved, triggers, crisis duration and their outcomes, and disease treatment were collected. Then the authors developed an acronym, H4AE, to help healthcare professionals remember the warning signs. RESULTS: The authors included 98 patients in the study, with a mean age of 38.1 years, 67.3% being female, and 75.3% with a family history of HAE. HAE diagnosis was delayed, on average, 13.7 years after its initial manifestation. Exploratory laparotomy was reported by 26.9%, and orotracheal intubation by 21.3% of the present study's patients; 61.3% and 30.3% of them were admitted at least once in the hospital and in the intensive care unit, respectively. The authors constructed an acronym "H4AE" with the six warning signs of HAE: Hereditary, recurrent Angioedema, Abdominal pain, Absence of urticaria, Absence of response to antihistamines, Estrogen association. CONCLUSION: C1INH-HAE is still underdiagnosed and associated with high morbidity. The study showed clinical features of this disease, corroborating the warning signs, which may be useful in raising awareness and improving the diagnosis of C1INH-HAE. The authors suggest the acronym "H4AE" to remind the warning signs.

Influência de um novo dispositivo acessório de fotopolimerização com fibra óptica e pino de fibra de vidro experimental nas propriedades mecânicas, físicoquímicas e adesão dos cimentos resinosos / Influence of a new light curing device with optical fiber and an experimental glass fiber post on the physicochemical, mechanical properties and adhesion of resin cement

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar in vitro a influência de um novo dispositivo fotopolimerização e pino de fibra de vidro nas propriedades mecânicas, físicoquímicas e adesão dos cimentos resinosos. Foram utilizados oitenta dentes bovinos, submetidos ao tratamento endodôntico, distribuídos em 5 grupos (n=16): CD (Pino fibra vidro e cimento dual); PF (Pino perfurado e cimento fotoativado); PD (Pino perfurado e cimento dual); POF (Pino perfurado iluminador de fibra óptica e cimento fotoativado); POD (Pino perfurado iluminador de fibra óptica e cimento dual). Os dentes foram preparados para colocação de um protótipo de pino em fibra de vidro que possui um canal interno de diâmetro regular e com conicidade progressiva. A perfuração permite a inserção da fibra óptica ao longo da extensão do pino a fim de possibilitar a ação da luz ao longo de todo o comprimento do conduto radicular. Após a cimentação, os espécimes foram seccionados perpendicularmente, e obtida 1 fatia de 2 mm de espessura do terço apical, médio e cervical. A avaliação mecânica foi realizada através do ensaio de push-out para determinação da resistência adesiva nos terços cervical, médio e apical seguido pela análise da fratura em estereomicroscópio. Os retentores intrarradiculares foram também submetidos ao teste de flexão de 3 pontos para análise do material preenchedor do pino de fibra (n=10). As análises físico - químicas foram realizadas através da determinação do grau de conversão dos cimentos (RAMAN) e análise em espectroscopia de energia dispersiva (EDS) dos monômeros presentes. A adesão foi analisada pela interface de cimentação pelo MEV e reconstrução 3D do novo sistema através do Micro-CT. Os dados obtidos foram analisados estatisticamente pelo ANOVA (um e dois fatores) e comparação múltipla de Tukey, (p<0,05). Os resultados de resistência adesiva evidenciaram que o terço apical obteve o maior valor de resistência adesiva em comparação ao terço médio (p<0,001), o grupo POD do terço apical foi estatisticamente significante em relação ao grupo CD do terço médio (p<0,001). Na analise individual de cada terço, não houve diferença entre os grupos experimentais e o controle (p>0,05). A falha adesiva entre cimento e dentina foi a mais predominante entre todos os grupos e terços. O pino de fibra de vidro (controle) obteve o maior valor de resistência à flexão (p<0,001), seguido do pino de fibra de vidro perfurado preenchido com cimento resinoso (p<0,001). Os maiores valores de GC foram alcançados pelo grupo POD com 82,3% (cervical) 69,9 % (médio) e 76,21% (apical) e o EDS comprovou a presença de componentes químicos adequados. A análise da adesão do novo pino de fibra de vidro comprova uma excelente adaptação no interior do canal radicular nas regiões cervical, médio e apical. Portanto o novo dispositivo com fibra óptica e pino de fibra de vidro experimental aumentaram as propriedades mecânicas, físico-químicas e adesão do cimento resinoso (AU)

The aim of this study was to evaluate in vitro the influence of a new light curing device with optical fiber and experimental glass fiber post on the physicochemical, mechanical, and adhesion properties of resin cements. Eighty bovine teeth were used, submitted to an endodontic treatment, distributed in 5 groups (n=16): CD (Glass fiber post and dual cement); PF (Perforated post and light-cured cement); PD (Perforated post and dual cement); POF (Fiber optic illuminating with a perforated post and lightcured cement); POD (Fiber optic illuminating with a perforated post and dual cement). The teeth were prepared for placement of a glass fiber post prototype, which has an internal canal of regular diameter and progressive taper. The internal perforation extension allows the insertion of the optical fiber along the entire length of the post in order to allow the action of light along the entire length of the root canal.The specimens were sectioned perpendicularly for the tests, and 1 slice approximately 2 mm thick was obtained from the apical, middle and cervical thirds. The mechanical evaluation was carried out through the push-out test to determine the adhesive bond strength, in the cervical, middle and apical thirds, followed by the fracture analysis under a stereomicroscope, the intraradicular post were also submitted to the 3-point bending test for material analys of the fiber post filler (n=10). The physicochemical analyzes were performed by determining the degree of conversion of the cements (RAMAN) of each sample and the analysis of energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) of the monomers present. Adhesion was analyzed by the cementation interface and 3D reconstruction of the new system through micro-CT, and finally, SEM analysis of the adhesive interface. The data obtained were analyzed for normality and statistically by ANOVA (one and two ways) and Tukey's multiple comparison (p<0.05). The adhesive bond strength results showed that the apical third had the highest value of adhesive strength compared to the middle third (p<0.001), and the POD group of the apical third was statistically significant in relation to the CD group of the middle third (p<0.001). In the individual analysis of each third, there was no difference between the experimental and control groups (p>0.05). Adhesive failure between cement and dentin was the most prevalent among all groups and thirds. The conventional post (control) had the highest flexural strength value (p<0.001), followed by the perforated fiberglass post filled with resin cement (p<0.001). The POD group achieved the highest GC values with 82.3% (cervical), 69.9% (medium), and 76.21% (apical) and EDS confirmed the presence of adequate chemical components. The analysis of the adhesion of the new fiberglass post proves an excellent adaptation inside the root canal in the cervical, middle and apical regions. Therefore, the new light curing device with optical fiber and experimental glass fiber post improved the resin cement's mechanical, phycochemical, and adhesion. (AU)

Clinical features of hereditary angioedema and warning signs (H4AE) for its identification

Abstract Objectives The study describes a case series of hereditary angioedema with C1 Inhibitor Deficiency (C1INH-HAE) in order to corroborate six clinical warning signs "HAAAAE (H4AE)" to enable early identification of this disease. Methods The authors analyzed the C1INH-HAE cohort to analyze the clinical aspects of the present study's patients and corroborate the six clinical warning signs of the Hereditary Angioedema Brazilian Guidelines. Data regarding demographics, the onset of disease, time to diagnosis, frequency of attacks per year, organs involved, triggers, crisis duration and their outcomes, and disease treatment were collected. Then the authors developed an acronym, H4AE, to help healthcare professionals remember the warning signs. Results The authors included 98 patients in the study, with a mean age of 38.1 years, 67.3% being female, and 75.3% with a family history of HAE. HAE diagnosis was delayed, on average, 13.7 years after its initial manifestation. Exploratory laparotomy was reported by 26.9%, and orotracheal intubation by 21.3% of the present study's patients; 61.3% and 30.3% of them were admitted at least once in the hospital and in the intensive care unit, respectively. The authors constructed an acronym "H4AE" with the six warning signs of HAE: Hereditary, recurrent Angioedema, Abdominal pain, Absence of urticaria, Absence of response to antihistamines, Estrogen association. Conclusion C1INH-HAE is still underdiagnosed and associated with high morbidity. The study showed clinical features of this disease, corroborating the warning signs, which may be useful in raising awareness and improving the diagnosis of C1INH-HAE. The authors suggest the acronym "H4AE" to remind the warning signs.

Efeitos adversos do uso de ciclosporina em pacientes com dermatite atópica grave / Adverse effects of using cyclosporine in patients with severe atopic dermatitis

Introdução: A dermatite atópica (DA) é uma doença inflamatória da pele, multifatorial, crônica e recorrente, caracterizada por lesões eczematosas e prurido intenso. Nos casos graves refratários aos tratamentos tópicos, tem se utilizado imunossupressão sistêmica para o controle da doença, sendo a ciclosporina considerada por muitos como terapia de escolha. Este estudo visa avaliar a incidência e gravidade dos eventos adversos relacionados ao uso de ciclosporina em pacientes com DA grave. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo observacional com análise de prontuários de pacientes com dermatite atópica grave em uso de ciclosporina atendidos em hospital terciário no período de 3 anos. Resultados: Avaliados 80 pacientes com dermatite atópica grave usando ciclosporina, com média de idade de 25,5 anos e 41 do sexo feminino (51,3%). Foram relatados eventos adversos em 25 pacientes. O tempo médio de uso de ciclosporina no grupo com eventos adversos foi de 29,3 meses. Os eventos de maior gravidade foram alteração da função renal e hipertensão, sendo mais observados nos casos de doença mais refratária, quando o uso de ciclosporina foi muito prolongado, superior a 60 meses. As reações evidenciadas foram: hipertensão arterial 40%, alteração renal 20%, náuseas/vômitos 16%, cefaleia 12%, herpes de repetição 12% e outros 4%. Os eventos adversos normalizaram após suspensão da ciclosporina. Conclusão: Pacientes com dermatite atópica grave que usaram ciclosporina por tempo prolongado tiveram maior frequência de eventos adversos potencialmente graves. Todos os efeitos adversos normalizaram após a suspensão de medicação.

Rationale: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is an inflammatory, multifactorial, chronic, recurrent skin disease characterized by eczematous lesions and intense itching. In severe cases refractory to topical treatments, systemic immunosuppression has been used to control the disease, and cyclosporine is largely considered firstline therapy. This study aims to assess the incidence and severity of adverse events related to the use of cyclosporine in patients with severe AD. Methods: This retrospective observational study analyzed medical records of patients with severe atopic dermatitis using cyclosporine treated at a tertiary hospital over a 3-year period. Results: Eighty patients with severe atopic dermatitis using cyclosporine were evaluated. Their mean age was 25.5 years, and 41 (51.3%) were female. Adverse events were reported in 25 patients. The mean duration of cyclosporine treatment in the group with adverse events was 29.3 months. The most serious events were changes in renal function and hypertension, which were most often observed in cases of more refractory disease, when the use of cyclosporine was very prolonged (over 60 months). The adverse reactions were hypertension (40%), renal changes (20%), nausea/vomiting (16%), headache (12%), recurrent herpes (12%) and others (4%). Adverse events were under control after cyclosporine was discontinued. Conclusion: Patients with severe atopic dermatitis who used cyclosporine for a long time had a higher frequency of potentially serious adverse events. All adverse effects were under control after discontinuation of medication.

Hemorragia digestiva alta como complicação de esofagite eosinofílica / Upper gastrointestinal bleeding as a complication of eosinophilic esophagitis

A hemorragia digestiva alta (HDA) é uma condição médica comum, que permanece com uma taxa de mortalidade aproximadamente de 10%. Doenças alérgicas habitualmente não configuram risco para HDA. Entretanto, o aumento recente de doenças alérgicas que afetam cronicamente o trato digestório poderia mudar esse cenário. Este artigo relata um caso de HDA após hematêmese provocada por impactação alimentar. Realizada endoscopia digestiva alta (EDA) e diagnosticada esofagite eosinofílica (EoE), que após tratamento adequado, apresentou melhora dos sintomas. A EoE é uma doença inflamatória crônica esofágica emergente, com aumento do número de casos diagnosticados ao redor do mundo. Atualmente, considera-se a causa mais prevalente de disfagia e impactação alimentar em crianças e adultos jovens. Os sintomas de EoE não são específicos para cada faixa etária, e podem variar desde sintomas mais leves, como sintomas de doença do refluxo gastroesofágico, até disfagia e impactação alimentar. Existe atraso no diagnóstico e tratamento, propiciando um aumento de complicações, cujo risco mais temido seria rotura do esôfago. Revisando a literatura até o presente relato, constatamos que a EoE nunca foi descrita como uma causa de HDA. Além da apresentação incomum da HDA levando ao diagnóstico de EoE, esse caso ressalta a importância do atendimento multidisciplinar e cooperação entre especialidades. Portanto, há necessidade de diagnóstico mais precoce e preciso, buscando ampliar o conhecimento para não negligenciar características específicas da disfagia, e evitar complicações com o tratamento adequado.

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) is a common medical condition whose mortality rate remains at about 10%. Allergic diseases are no usual risk for UGIB. However, the recent increase in allergic diseases that chronically affect the gastrointestinal tract could change this scenario. This article reports a case of UGIB after hematemesis caused by food impaction. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy was performed and eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) was diagnosed. EoE is an emerging chronic esophageal inflammatory disease with an increasing number of diagnosed cases around the world. Currently, it is considered the most prevalent cause of dysphagia and food impaction in children and young adults. EoE symptoms are not specific to each age group and may range from mild symptoms such as those of gastroesophageal reflux disease to dysphagia and food impaction. There is a delay in diagnosis and treatment that leads to increased complications, including esophageal rupture, the most feared risk. Our literature review showed that EoE had never been described as a cause of UGIB. In addition to the unusual presentation of UGIB leading to the diagnosis of EoE, this case highlights the importance of multidisciplinary care and cooperation between specialties. Therefore, there is a need for earlier and more accurate diagnosis, which would lead to expanded knowledge that could be used to not disregard specific characteristics of dysphagia and avoid complications with appropriate treatment.

Dermatofibrossarcoma protuberans de apresentação clínica atípica: relato de um caso / Atypical presentation of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans: Case report

Introdução: O dermatofibrossarcoma protuberans (DFSP) é um sarcoma localmente agressivo que apresenta recidiva local em até 60% dos casos e raras metástases pulmonares. Métodos: Paciente masculino, de 41 anos, apresenta tumoração amolecida à palpação, localizada no hálux direito há dois anos. Histopatologia com células fusiformes em arranjo estoriforme. A imuno-histoquímica foi focalmente positiva para o CD34. Discussão: Algumas variantes clínicas são descritas. As principais são: lesões nodulares confluentes formando uma placa, muitas vezes com aspecto clínico semelhante ao de queloide; lesão tumoral; placa atrófica. Conclusão: Casos de DFSP simulando cisto subcutâneo foram encontrados na literatura, porém trata-se de uma apresentação clínica inusitada de DFSP.

Introduction: Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a local aggressive sarcoma that presents 60% of recurrences. Rarely it presents lung metastasis too. Methods: 41 years old man presented a soft tumor in his right hallux for two years. Histopathology has shown spindle-shaped cells arranged in a storiform manner, and immunohistochemistry was CD34 positive. Discussion: The literature describes some clinical types of DFSP. The most common are: confluent nodules forming a plaque, sometimes similar to keloids, tumoral lesions, and atrophic plaques. Conclusion: DFSP cases simulating a subcutaneous cyst have been described in the literature; nevertheless, it is an unusual presentation of this tumor.