Construindo o consultório do Alergista e Imunologista: o que é preciso? / Starting a practice in Allergy & Immunology: what do I need?

O que é preciso para abrir o consultório do especialista em Alergia e Imunologia? Esta é uma preocupação frequente dos jovens especialistas, que muitas vezes fica sem resposta. A Comissão de Estatuto, Regulamentos e Normas da Associação Brasileira de Alergia e Imunologia (CERN-ASBAI) propõe a publicação de uma série de artigos com o objetivo de orientar sobre os passos essenciais para o estabelecimento de boas práticas no atendimento clínico de pacientes alérgicos.

What do I need to start a practice in Allergy & Immunology? This has been a frequent concern for young specialists, one that often goes unanswered. The Statute, Regulations, and Standards Committee of the Brazilian Association of Allergy and Immunology (CERN-ASBAI) proposes the publication of a series of articles to provide guidance on the essential steps for establishing good practices in the clinical care of allergic patients.

Is allergen immunotherapy a model of personalized treatment in pediatric respiratory allergy?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To review recent evidence on allergen immunotherapy (AIT) as a model of personalized medicine in the treatment of children and adolescents with respiratory allergies. RECENT FINDINGS: Meta-analysis and systematic review studies continue to point out that AIT is an effective treatment for children with respiratory allergies. Molecular allergy allows the understanding of patient sensitization profiles that frequently change the prescription of AIT. There is still a lack of evidence showing that this personalized prescription of AIT is associated with better clinical outcomes. The nasal allergen challenge has extended the indications of AIT for a new group of subjects with local allergic rhinitis. Patient selection of allergens involved in the increasingly personalized composition of extracts to be used in AIT increasingly characterizes it as personalized medicine. SUMMARY: Despite the numerous studies carried out to identify the best biomarker to evaluate the response to AIT, there is still much disagreement, and clinical assessment (symptoms, quality of life, among others) continues to be the best way to evaluate the therapeutic success of AIT.

Behavioral disorders in children and adolescents with atopic dermatitis.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the prevalence and pattern of behavioral problems in children and adolescents with atopic dermatitis (AD) and to study their associations with clinical data and severity. METHODS: This was a single-center, cross-sectional study of patients (6-17 years) with AD. Assessment of competencies and syndrome scale scores of behavioral problems was performed by applying the Child Behavior Checklist 6-18 (CBCL 6-18) and AD severity using the Eczema Area Severity Index (EASI) score. RESULTS: Of the 100 patients with AD, 56% were male, with a mean age of 11±3 years, and 43% had moderate/severe AD. Borderline or abnormal values were found in 75% of the patients for total social competence, 57% for internalization, 27% for externalization, and 18% for aggressive behavior. A higher prevalence of aggressive behavior (27.9% vs. 10.5%; p = 0.02) and sleep disorders (32.6% vs. 15.8%; p = 0.04) was observed in patients with moderate/severe AD than in those with mild AD. Children with current or previous use of immunosuppressants/immunobiological tests had a lower frequency of normal social competence (53% vs. 83%, p = 0.012). Regarding the critical questions, 8% responded affirmatively to suicidal ideation. CONCLUSION: A high prevalence of behavioral problems was observed among children and adolescents with AD, with a predominance of internalizing profiles, mainly anxiety and depression. Children with moderate/severe AD have a higher prevalence of aggressive behaviors and sleep disorders. These findings highlight the importance of multidisciplinary teams, including mental health professionals, in caring for patients with AD.

Behavioral disorders in children and adolescents with atopic dermatitis

Abstract Objectives To assess the prevalence and pattern of behavioral problems in children and adolescents with atopic dermatitis (AD) and to study their associations with clinical data and severity. Methods This was a single-center, cross-sectional study of patients (6-17 years) with AD. Assessment of competencies and syndrome scale scores of behavioral problems was performed by applying the Child Behavior Checklist 6-18 (CBCL 6-18) and AD severity using the Eczema Area Severity Index (EASI) score. Results Of the 100 patients with AD, 56% were male, with a mean age of 11±3 years, and 43% had moderate/severe AD. Borderline or abnormal values were found in 75% of the patients for total social competence, 57% for internalization, 27% for externalization, and 18% for aggressive behavior. A higher prevalence of aggressive behavior (27.9% vs. 10.5%; p= 0.02) and sleep disorders (32.6% vs. 15.8%; p= 0.04) was observed in patients with moderate/severe AD than in those with mild AD. Children with current or previous use of immunosuppressants/immunobiological tests had a lower frequency of normal social competence (53% vs. 83%, p= 0.012). Regarding the critical questions, 8% responded affirmatively to suicidal ideation. Conclusion A high prevalence of behavioral problems was observed among children and adolescents with AD, with a predominance of internalizing profiles, mainly anxiety and depression. Children with moderate/severe AD have a higher prevalence of aggressive behaviors and sleep disorders. These findings highlight the importance of multidisciplinary teams, including mental health professionals, in caring for patients with AD.

Rapid maxillary expansion and nasal patency in mouth breathing children with maxillary atresia due to or not due to allergic rhinitis.

AIM: To evaluate the effects of rapid maxillary expansion (RME) on nasal patency in mouth breathing (MB) children with maxillary atresia due to or not due to allergic rhinitis (AR) associated with asthma. METHODS: Fifty-three MB children/adolescents (aged 7-14 years) with mixed or permanent dentition and maxillary atresia participated, with or without unilateral or bilateral crossbite. They formed the groups: RAD (AR + asthma; clinical treatment, RME); RAC (AR + asthma; clinical treatment, no RME); and D (mouth breathers; RME only). RAD and RAC patients received topical nasal corticosteroid and/or systemic H1 antihistamine (continuous use) and environmental exposure control. All were evaluated before RME (T1) and 6 months after (T2) with the CARATkids score, acoustic rhinometry, and nasal cavity computed tomography (CT). Patients RAD and D underwent RME (Hyrax® orthopedic appliance). RESULTS: A significant reduction in the CARATkids score occurred in the RAD (-4.06; p < 0.05), similarly when patient and parent/guardian scores were evaluated (-3.28 and -3.16, respectively). Acoustic rhinometry (V5) showed increased nasal volume in all groups, significantly higher in RAD patients than in RAC and D (0.99 × 0.71 × 0.69 cm3, respectively). CT of the nasal cavity documented increased volume in all three groups, with no significant differences between them. CONCLUSION: In MB patients with AR, asthma, and maxillary atresia, RME increased nasal cavity volume and improved respiratory symptoms. However, it should not be used as the only treatment for managing patients with respiratory allergies.

Impulse oscillometry in children and adolescents with persistent asthma and its correlation with spirometry.

INTRODUCTION: Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases of childhood. Spirometry is the traditional test for assessing lung function, while impulse oscillometrics is an alternative resource that measures the impedance of the respiratory system. OBJECTIVE: : To evaluate the pulmonary function of children and adolescents with asthma by impulse oscillometry and correlate the findings with those obtained by spirometry. METHODS: A cross-sectional study in which the pulmonary function of asthmatic children and adolescents aged between 6 and 18 years was evaluated, categorized by the level of disease control according to the Asthma Control Test (ACT) or Children Asthma Control Test (C-ACT) into controlled (ACT/C-ACT>19; n = 70) and uncontrolled (ACT/C-ACT ≤ 19; n = 60). RESULTS: A total of 130 asthmatic children and adolescents were evaluated (51% were males). There were no significant differences in the parameter values of both tests when patients were divided by the level of asthma control. Altered impulse oscillometry and spirometry were performed in 20 and 25% of the cases, respectively. Changes in impulse oscillometry were more frequent in patients with controlled asthma. R5 (%), X5 (%), and Fres showed moderate correlation with the main spirometric parameters, being stronger between X5 (%) and FEV1/FVC (%) (r: -0,58; P < 0,05) in patients with controlled asthma. Bronchodilator response was observed in a similar number of patients in both exams, but with reasonable agreement. CONCLUSIONS: Impulse oscillometry values showed a weak or moderate correlation with spirometry values.

Combinação fluticasona e azelastina intranasal no tratamento de adolescentes com rinite alérgica de difícil controle / Combination of intranasal fluticasone and azelastine for difficult-to-control allergic rhinitis in adolescents

Introdução: A rinite alérgica (RA) tem prevalência elevada e é responsável por impacto significativo da qualidade de vida destes pacientes, refletindo-se negativamente no desempenho escolar, na vida social ou no trabalho. A associação de propionato de fluticasona e cloridrato de azelastina (PF-AZE) tem sido recomendada no tratamento de pacientes com rinite alérgica de difícil controle. Objetivo: Avaliar a resposta ao tratamento com PF+AZE administrado a crianças e adolescentes com RA persistente moderada-grave (RAPMG) de difícil controle. Métodos: Ensaio clínico aberto não controlado prospectivo com intervenção terapêutica em que participaram adolescentes (n = 65) com RAPMG de difícil controle acompanhados em ambulatório especializado. Resultados: Houve melhora estatisticamente significante de todas as variáveis estudadas, o que mostrou melhor controle da rinite com a combinação PF+AZE. Utilizando-se a diferença mínima clinicamente importante como parâmetro de avaliação, 83% dos pacientes tiveram melhora da doença. Não houve relato de evento adverso grave, gosto amargo foi relatado por 38,5% dos pacientes e dois interromperam o esquema por evento adverso. Conclusão: A combinação PF+AZE foi bem tolerada, segura e eficaz no tratamento de pacientes com RAPMG. Eventos adversos locais foram os mais comumente relatados.

Introduction: Allergic rhinitis has a high prevalence and is responsible for a significant impact on the quality of life of affected individuals, reflecting negatively on school performance, social life, and work. An association of fluticasone propionate and azelastine hydrochloride (PF+AZE) has been recommended for patients with difficult-to-control allergic rhinitis. Objective: To evaluate treatment response to PF+AZE in adolescents with difficult-to-control moderate/severe persistent allergic rhinitis (MSPAR). Methods: This was a prospective, open-label, uncontrolled clinical trial for a therapeutic intervention in adolescents with difficult-to-control MSPAR treated at a specialized outpatient clinic. Results: There was significant improvement in all studied variables, showing better MSPAR control with PF+AZE. Using the clinically important minimum difference as an evaluation parameter, 83% of the patients improved. There were no reports of serious adverse events; a bitter taste was reported by 38.5% of patients, and 2 discontinued use due to an adverse event. Conclusion: PF+AZE was a well-tolerated, safe, and effective treatment for MSPAR. The most commonly reported adverse events were local.

Local allergic rhinitis in children: A systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Local allergic rhinitis (LAR) is a well-defined and reported phenotype in adults, but data is scarce for children and adolescents, and it is probably an undiagnosed and highly underestimated condition in childhood. OBJECTIVES: The objectives of this systematic review were to identify original observational studies published on LAR in children and adolescents and to describe the prevalence and characteristics of this phenotype in the pediatric age group. METHODS: A systematic search was performed in PubMed and EMBASE databases. The search was limited to publications on humans, written in English, published between January 1, 2000 and September 20, 2021. Participants had to be under 18 years old and with a diagnosis of LAR confirmed by nasal allergen provocation test (NAPT). RESULTS: Ten articles were identified. Despite the wide variability of protocols, prevalence rates ranged from 3.7 to 83.3% among children previously diagnosed as having nonallergic rhinitis, being markedly lower in Eastern countries (3.7-16.6%) when compared to Western countries (22.3-83.3%). To date, no relevant clinical characteristics capable of differentiating LAR patients from other childhood rhinitis phenotypes have been identified. CONCLUSIONS: LAR is an allergic rhinitis phenotype also found in children. Population and regional differences and differences in NAPT protocols may explain the heterogeneity in LAR prevalence rates observed in different parts of the world. In addition to clarifying this large discrepancy, longitudinal studies are also needed to assess the clinical characteristics of the LAR phenotype in the pediatric age group, and its stability into adulthood must be confirmed.

Psychological stress in asthma: repercussions on epigenetics-genetics, immune responses, and pulmonary function in the pediatric population.

In the assessment of childhood asthma, identifying the risk factors associated with exacerbations and broadening this view to understand psychological stress and its repercussions on the inflammatory process of asthma allow a different perspective on this biopsychosocial disease. Psychological stress, as a risk factor for the onset and noncontrol of asthma, has been increasingly evaluated from the perspective of the repercussions on the body of the stimulus generated in the hypothalamic-pituitary axis and adrenal glands, with cortisol release and immune system action. These processes trigger changes in T helper 2 cells, which polarize allergic processes, and dysfunctions in immune tolerance mechanisms, with a decrease in regulatory T cells. Genetic and epigenetic changes in ß2-adrenergic and glucocorticoid receptors, with decreased response to these drugs, were also identified in studies, in addition to changes in respiratory function patterns, with worsening of obstruction and inflammation identified via decreased forced expiratory volume in one second and increased exhaled inflammatory gases in allergic asthma. Therefore, the present review sought to identify studies on the effect of personal and parental acute or chronic psychological stress, emphasizing the repercussions on genetics, epigenetics, and immune and pulmonary functional and inflammatory responses in the pediatric population.

Diretriz Latino-americana sobre o Diagnóstico e Tratamento da Alergia Ocular ­ Em nome da Sociedade Latinoamericana de Alergia, Asma e Imunologia (SLAAI) / Latin American Guideline on the Diagnosis and Treatment of Ocular Allergy ­ On behalf of the Latin American Society of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (SLAAI)

A alergia ocular, também conhecida como conjuntivite alérgica (CA), é uma reação de hipersensibilidade mediada por imunoglobulina E (IgE) do olho desencadeada por aeroalérgenos, principalmente ácaros da poeira doméstica e pólen de gramíneas. Os sintomas geralmente consistem em prurido ocular ou periocular, lacrimejamento e olhos vermelhos que podem estar presentes durante todo o ano ou sazonalmente. A alergia ocular tem frequência elevada, é subdiagnosticada e pode ser debilitante para o paciente. É potencialmente danosa para a visão, nos casos em que ocasiona cicatrização corneana grave, e na maioria dos pacientes associa-se a outros quadros alérgicos, principalmente rinite, asma e dermatite atópica. É classificada em conjuntivite alérgica perene, conjuntivite alérgica sazonal, ceratoconjuntivite atópica e ceratoconjuntivite vernal. O diagnóstico procura evidenciar o agente etiológico e a confirmação se dá pela realização do teste de provocação conjuntival. O tratamento baseia-se em evitar o contato com os desencadeantes, lubrificação, anti-histamínicos tópicos, estabilizadores de mastócitos, imunossupressores e imunoterapia específica com o objetivo de obter o controle e prevenir as complicações da doença.

Ocular allergy, also known as allergic conjunctivitis, is an immunoglobulin E-mediated hypersensitivity reaction of the eye triggered by airborne allergens, primarily house dust mites and grass pollen. Symptoms usually consist of ocular or periocular itching, watery eyes, and red eyes that may be present year-round or seasonally. Ocular allergy has a high frequency, is underdiagnosed, and can be debilitating for the patient. It is potentially harmful to vision in cases of severe corneal scarring, and in most patients, it is associated with other allergic conditions, especially rhinitis, asthma, and atopic dermatitis. It is classified as perennial allergic conjunctivitis, seasonal allergic conjunctivitis, atopic keratoconjunctivitis, and vernal keratoconjunctivitis. Diagnosis seeks to identify the etiologic agent, and confirmation is given by conjunctival provocation testing. Treatment is based on avoiding contact with triggers, lubrication, topical antihistamines, mast cell stabilizers, immunosuppressants, and specific immunotherapy with the aim of achieving control and preventing disease complications.

Associated factors with recurrent wheezing in infants: is there difference between the sexes?

Abstract Objective: Identify associated factors for recurrent wheezing (RW) in male and female infants. Methods: Cross-sectional multicentric study using the standardized questionnaire from the Estudio Internacional sobre Sibilancias en Lactantes (EISL). The questionnaire was applied to parents of 9345 infants aged 12-15 months at the time of immunization/routine visits. Results: One thousand two hundred and sixty-one (13.5%) males and nine hundred sixty-three (10.3%) females have had RW (≥3 episodes), respectively (p10 colds episodes (OR = 3.46; IC 95% 2.35-5.07), air pollution (OR = 1.33; IC 95% 1.12-1.59), molds at home (OR = 1.23; IC 95% 1.03-1.47), Afro-descendants (OR = 1.42; IC 95% 1.20-1.69), bronchopneumonia (OR = 1.41; IC; 1.11-1.78), severe episodes of wheezing in the first year (OR = 1.56; IC 95% 1.29-1.89), treatment with bronchodilators (OR = 1.60; IC 95% 1.22-2,1) and treatment with oral corticosteroids (OR = 1,23; IC 95% 0.99-1,52). Associated factors for RW for females were passive smoking (OR = 1.24; IC 95% 1.01-1,51), parents diagnosed with asthma (OR = 1.32; IC 95% 1,08-1,62), parents with allergic rhinitis (OR = 1.26; IC 95% 1.04-1.53), daycare attendance (OR = 1.48; IC 95% 1.17-1,88), colds in the first 6 months of life (OR = 2.19; IC 95% 1.69-2.82), personal diagnosis of asthma (OR = 1.84; IC 95% 1.39-2.44), emergency room visits (OR = 1.78; IC 95% 1.44-2.21), nighttime symptoms (OR = 2.89; IC 95% 2.34-3.53) and updated immunization (OR = 0.62; IC 95% 0.41-0.96). Conclusion: There are differences in associated factors for RW between genders. Identification of these differences could be useful to the approach and management of RW between boys and girls.

Guia Prático de Atualização no tratamento da exacerbação de asma na criança e no adolescente ­ Posicionamento conjunto da Associação Brasileira de Alergia e Imunologia e Sociedade Brasileira de Pediatria / Practical Update Guide on the treatment of asthma exacerbation in children and adolescents ­ Joint position of the Brazilian Association of Allergy and Immunology and the Brazilian Society of Pediatrics

Exacerbação aguda de asma é uma condição frequente na criança e no adolescente e uma das causas mais comuns de procura aos pronto atendimentos e de internações. Pode ocorrer em pacientes que ainda não foram diagnosticados como asmáticos, e mesmo naqueles cujo controle da doença não se encontre adequado. Reconhecer a exacerbação e iniciar seu tratamento desde o domicílio até o adequado manejo inicial em ambiente hospitalar é fundamental para evitar sua evolução para complicações que coloquem o paciente em risco de vida. O tratamento compreende o reconhecimento e tratamento da hipoxemia, da obstrução e do processo inflamatório, além de fornecer orientações na alta hospitalar e encaminhamentos para continuidade do tratamento.

Acute exacerbation of asthma is a frequent condition in children and adolescents and one of the most common causes of seeking emergency care and hospitalization. It can occur in patients who have not yet been diagnosed with asthma, and even in those whose disease control is not adequate. Recognizing the exacerbation and starting its treatment from home until proper initial management in a hospital environment is essential to avoid its evolution to complications that put the patient at risk of life. Treatment comprises the recognition and treatment of hypoxemia, obstruction, and the inflammatory process, in addition to providing guidance at hospital discharge and referrals for continued treatment.

Anafilaxia no primeiro ano de vida: como diagnosticar / Anaphylaxis in the first year of life: how to diagnose

A anafilaxia é uma reação alérgica mais grave e potencialmente fatal. Apresenta-se quase sempre com manifestações cutâneas, acompanhadas por acometimento dos sistemas respiratório, gastrointestinal, nervoso e cardiovascular. Indivíduos de todas as faixas etárias podem manifestar anafilaxia, e seu diagnóstico no primeiro ano de vida é difícil por ser o lactente incapaz de expressar de modo claro as sensações vividas durante o episódio agudo. Nessa faixa etária os alimentos são os agentes desencadeantes mais envolvidos, embora medicamentos e veneno de himenópteros também o sejam. Em pacientes submetidos a várias cirurgias e procedimentos médicos a alergia ao látex pode ocorrer. A adrenalina intramuscular é a primeira linha de tratamento da anafilaxia na fase inicial, mas continua sendo subutilizada. Além disso, medidas de suporte, tais como decúbito supino, reposição de fluidos, vias aéreas pérvias e oxigenação, devem ser instituídas. Após a alta, o paciente deve ser encaminhado à avaliação e seguimento por especialista visando à identificação do agente desencadeante, assim como educar responsáveis/cuidadores destes pacientes sobre a prevenção de novos episódios. É importante que esse paciente tenha consigo algum tipo de identificação que o aponte como tendo tido episódio de anafilaxia, sobretudo se tiver sido recorrente. A oferta de um plano escrito de como proceder diante de um novo episódio é fundamental.

Anaphylaxis is a serious and potentially fatal allergic reaction. Most frequently, it features cutaneous manifestations accompanied by involvement of the respiratory, gastrointestinal, nervous, and/or cardiovascular systems. Individuals of all age groups may present with anaphylaxis, and its diagnosis in the first year of life is difficult because the infant is unable to clearly express the sensations experienced during the acute episode. In this age group, foods are the most common triggering agents, together with medications and Hymenoptera venom. In patients undergoing multiple surgeries and medical procedures, latex allergy may occur. Intramuscular epinephrine is the first line of treatment for early anaphylaxis, but it remains underutilized. In addition, supportive measures such as supine decubitus, fluid replacement, patent airways, and oxygenation should be instituted. After discharge, the patient should be referred for evaluation and follow-up by a specialist, with the purpose of identifying the triggering agent as well as educating the caregivers of these patients about the prevention of new episodes. This patient should always carry some type of identification that indicates that he/she has had any episode of anaphylaxis, especially if it has been recurrent. Providing a written plan of how to proceed in the face of a new episode is essential.

COVID-19 and Pediatric Asthma: Clinical and Management Challenges.

Asthma is the most frequent chronic condition in childhood and a current concern exists about asthma in the pediatric population and its risk for severe SARS-CoV-2 infection. Although all ages can be affected, SARS-CoV-2 infection has lower clinical impact on children and adolescents than on adults. Fever, cough and shortness of breath are the most common symptoms and signs in children; wheezing has not been frequently reported. Published studies suggest that children with asthma do not appear to be disproportionately more affected by COVID-19. This hypothesis raises two issues: is asthma (and/or atopy) an independent protective factor for COVID-19? If yes, why? Explanations for this could include the lower IFN-α production, protective role of eosinophils in the airway, and antiviral and immunomodulatory proprieties of inhaled steroids. Additionally, recent evidence supports that allergic sensitization is inversely related to ACE2 expression. Obesity is a known risk factor for COVID-19 in adults. However, in the childhood asthma-obesity phenotype, the classic atopic Th2 pattern seems to predominate, which could hypothetically be a protective factor for severe SARS-CoV-2 infection in children with both conditions. Finally, the return to school activities raises concerns, as asymptomatic children could act as vectors for the spread of the disease. Although this is still a controversial topic, the identification and management of asymptomatic children is an important approach during the SARS-CoV-2 epidemic. Focus on asthma control, risk stratification, and medication adherence will be essential to allow children with asthma to return safely to school.

Heart rate recovery in asthmastic children and adolescents after clinical field test.

BACKGROUND: Inflammation caused by chronic lung disease in childhood may lead to delayed heart rate recovery (HRR) however, there is lack of evidence on HRR in this population. The aim was to assess HRR after functional capacity testing in asthmatic children and adolescents and to compare with severity and disease control. METHOD: This was a study secondary to a randomized control trial. The modified shuttle test (MST) was performed to assess functional capacity and HRR. This is an externally cadenced test in which the distance walked is the outcome. HRR was assessed after MST and was defined as HR at exercise peak minus HR in the second minute after the end of exercise. Asthma control was assessed by the Asthma Control Test (ACT). Data normality was tested by Shapiro Wilk and the comparison between groups was made by Student's t test or Mann Whitney test for numerical variables, and by Chi-square test for categorical variables. Statistical significance was considered when p < 0.05. SPSS version 20 was used in the analyzes. RESULTS: The sample included 77 patients diagnosed with asthma (asthma group - AG) who were regularly treated for asthma. Control group (CG) consisted of 44 volunteers considered healthy, matched in age and gender to AG. The median age of CG was 12 (10-14) years and in AG 11 (9-13 years) being classified as mild to moderate asthmatic, and 57% of the sample had controlled asthma by ACT. Distance walked in the CG was 952 ± 286 m and AG 799 ± 313 m, p = 0.001. HRR was more efficient in CG (79 ± 15 bpm) compared to AG (69 ± 12 bpm), p = 0.001. The mild (69 ± 12 beats) and severe (72 ± 15 beats) AG presented worse HRR compared to control group (79 ± 15 bpm), p < 0.05. CONCLUSIONS: Asthmatic children and adolescents have delayed HRR after modified Shuttle test compared to their peers, suggesting that asthma leads to autonomic nervous system imbalance. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Registered in Clinical Trials under number NCT02383069 and approved by the Universidade Nove de Julho - UNINOVE Research Ethics Committee, protocol number 738192/2014.

Associated factors with recurrent wheezing in infants: is there difference between the sexes?

OBJECTIVE: Identify associated factors for recurrent wheezing (RW) in male and female infants. METHODS: Cross-sectional multicentric study using the standardized questionnaire from the Estudio Internacional sobre Sibilancias en Lactantes (EISL). The questionnaire was applied to parents of 9345 infants aged 12-15 months at the time of immunization/routine visits. RESULTS: One thousand two hundred and sixty-one (13.5%) males and nine hundred sixty-three (10.3%) females have had RW (≥3 episodes), respectively (p10 colds episodes (OR = 3.46; IC 95% 2.35-5.07), air pollution (OR = 1.33; IC 95% 1.12-1.59), molds at home (OR = 1.23; IC 95% 1.03-1.47), Afro-descendants (OR = 1.42; IC 95% 1.20-1.69), bronchopneumonia (OR = 1.41; IC; 1.11-1.78), severe episodes of wheezing in the first year (OR = 1.56; IC 95% 1.29-1.89), treatment with bronchodilators (OR = 1.60; IC 95% 1.22-2,1) and treatment with oral corticosteroids (OR = 1,23; IC 95% 0.99-1,52). Associated factors for RW for females were passive smoking (OR = 1.24; IC 95% 1.01-1,51), parents diagnosed with asthma (OR = 1.32; IC 95% 1,08-1,62), parents with allergic rhinitis (OR = 1.26; IC 95% 1.04-1.53), daycare attendance (OR = 1.48; IC 95% 1.17-1,88), colds in the first 6 months of life (OR = 2.19; IC 95% 1.69-2.82), personal diagnosis of asthma (OR = 1.84; IC 95% 1.39-2.44), emergency room visits (OR = 1.78; IC 95% 1.44-2.21), nighttime symptoms (OR = 2.89; IC 95% 2.34-3.53) and updated immunization (OR = 0.62; IC 95% 0.41-0.96). CONCLUSION: There are differences in associated factors for RW between genders. Identification of these differences could be useful to the approach and management of RW between boys and girls.

Pulmonary Function in Long-Term Survivors of Childhood and Adolescence Osteosarcoma: Case Report / Função Pulmonar em Sobreviventes de Osteossarcoma da Infância e Adolescência: Relato de Caso / Función Pulmonar en Sobrevivientes de Osteosarcoma en la Infancia y la Adolescencia: Relato de Caso

Introduction: Chemotherapy used in osteosarcoma have the potential to cause lung damage. The objectives were to analyze lung volumes and capacities, and respiratory muscle strength of patients treated with chemotherapy and surgery for osteosarcoma. The study was designed as a prospective case-series of patients, through the analysis of spirometry,impulse, oscillometry, and manovacuometry tests. Case report: In twenty-one patients, the median age at diagnosis was 15 years, and at inclusion, 30 years. The median disease-free survival time was 10 years. Eight different chemotherapeutic agents were used: cisplatin, doxorubicin, methotrexate, carboplatin, ifophosphamide, epidoxorubicin, cyclophosphamide and etoposide. There were test abnormalities in 14 patients (66.6%), with mild obstructive disorders on spirometry in three patients (14.3%), and obstructive patterns on oscillometry in seven patients (33.3%). On spirometry, the mean ± standard deviation (SD) values of forced vital capacity (FVC) were 91.9%±12.2; for forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) were 87.4%±12.2 and FEV1/FVC ratios, 95.4%±7.9. On oscillometry, mean ± SD values for resistance at 5 Hz were 126.2%±36.2; for resistance at 20 Hz, 128.4%±32.4; reactance at 5 Hz, -0.75±0.68 kPa/L/s; for resonant frequency, 15.6±4.2 Hz. Nine patients (42.8%) had reduced maximum pressures on the manovacuometry: Maximum Expiratory Pressure (MEP) were reduced in eight patients, and inspiratory (MIP) in three. The mean ± SD MIP was 89.4±29.5; MEP, 88±37.7. Conclusion: Mild abnormalities in pulmonary function tests in this series of patients were observed years after treatment for osteosarcoma

Introdução: A quimioterapia usada no osteossarcoma tem potencial para causar danos aos pulmões. Os objetivos deste trabalho foram analisar os volumes e capacidades pulmonares e a força respiratória de pacientes tratados com quimioterapia e cirurgia para osteossarcoma, em uma série prospectiva de casos, em um hospital pediátrico oncológico, por meio da análise de espirometria, oscilometria de impulso e manovacuometria. Relato de caso: Em 21 pacientes, a mediana de idade ao diagnóstico foi de 15 anos e na inclusão de 30 anos. O tempo médio de sobrevida livre de doença foi de dez anos. Houve alterações nos exames em 14 pacientes (66,6%), com distúrbios obstrutivos leves na espirometria em três pacientes (14,3%) e padrões obstrutivos na oscilometria em sete pacientes (33,3%). Na espirometria, os valores de média ± desvio padrão (DP) da capacidade vital forçada (CVF) foram 91,9%±12,2; para o volume expiratório forçado no primeiro segundo (VEF1) foram 87,4%±12,2 e as relações VEF1/CVF, 95,4%±7,9. Na oscilometria, os valores médios ± DP para resistência em 5 Hz foram 126,2%±36,2; para resistência a 20 Hz, 128,4% ± 32,4; reatância a 5 Hz, -0,75 ± 0,68 kPa/L/s; para frequência de ressonância, 15,6±4,2 Hz. Na manovacuometria, nove pacientes (42,8%) apresentaram redução nas pressões: as pressões expiratórias máximas (PEmáx) foram reduzidas em oito pacientes e as inspiratórias (PImáx) em três. A média ± DP da PImáx foi 89,4±29,5; PEmáx, 88±37,7. Conclusão: Observaram-se alterações leves nos testes de função pulmonar anos após o tratamento do osteossarcoma

Introducción: La quimioterapia utilizada en osteosarcoma puede causar daño a los pulmones. Los objetivos de este trabajo fueron analizar los volúmenes y capacidades pulmonares y la fuerza respiratoria en pacientes tratados para osteosarcoma, en una serie prospectiva de casos, en un hospital de oncología pediátrica, mediante el análisis de espirometría, oscilometría de impulsos y manuvacuometría. Relato de caso: En 21 pacientes, la mediana de edad al diagnóstico fue de 15 años y en la inclusión de 30 años. La supervivência media libre de enfermedad fue de diez años. Hubo alteraciones en los exámenes en 14 pacientes (66,6%), con alteraciones obstructivas leves en la espirometría en tres (14,3%), y obstrucción en la oscilometría en siete (33,3%). En espirometría, las medias ± desviación estándar (DE) de la capacidad vital forzada (CVF) fueron 91,9%±12,2; para el volumen espiratorio forzado en el primer segundo (VEF1) fue 87,4%±12,2 y el cociente VEF1/CVF fue 95,4%±7,9. En oscilometría, los valores medios ± DE para la resistencia a 5 Hz fueron 126,2%±36,2; para resistencia a 20 Hz, 128,4%±32,4; reactancia a 5 Hz, -0,75±0,68 kPa/L/s; para la frecuencia de resonancia, 15,6±4,2 Hz. En manuvacuometría, nueve pacientes (42,8%) mostraron una reducción de las presiones: las presiones espiratorias máximas (PEmáx) se redujeron en ocho pacientes y las presiones inspiratorias (PImáx) en tres. La media ± DE del PImáx fue 89,4 ± 29,5; PEmáx, 88±37,7. Conclusión: Se observaron ligeros cambios en las pruebas de función pulmonar años después del tratamiento del osteosarcoma

Clinical manifestations of children and adolescents with covid-19: report of the first 115 cases from sabará hospital infantil / Manifestações clínicas de crianças e adolescentes com covid-19: relato dos primeiros 115 casos do sabará hospital infantil

ABSTRACT Objective: To describe the clinical manifestations and severity of children and adolescents affected by COVID-19 treated at Sabará Hospital Infantil. Methods: This is a cross-sectional, retrospective, and observational study. All cases of COVID-19 confirmed by RT-qPCR of patients seen at the hospital (emergency room, first-aid room, and ICU) were analyzed. The severity of the cases was classified according to the Chinese Consensus. Results: Among the 115 children included, a predominance of boys (57%) was verified, and the median age was two years. A total of 22 children were hospitalized, 12 in the ICU. Of the total, 26% had comorbidities with a predominance of asthma (13%). Fever, cough, and nasal discharge were the most frequent symptoms. Respiratory symptoms were reported by 58% of children and gastrointestinal symptoms, by 34%. Three children were asymptomatic, 81 (70%) had upper airway symptoms, 15 (13%) had mild pneumonia, and 16 (14%) had severe pneumonia. Hospitalized children were younger than non-hospitalized children (7 months vs. 36 months). In hospitalized patients, a higher frequency of irritability, dyspnea, drowsiness, respiratory distress, low oxygen saturation, and hepatomegaly was observed. Chest radiography was performed in 69 children with 45% of abnormal exams. No child required mechanical ventilation and there were no deaths. Conclusions: Most of children and adolescents affected by COVID-19 had mild upper airway symptoms. Clinical manifestations of COVID-19 were more severe among younger children who exhibited gastrointestinal and respiratory symptoms more frequently.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever as manifestações clínicas e a gravidade de crianças e adolescentes acometidos pela COVID-19 atendidos no Sabará Hospital Infantil. Métodos: Trata-se de estudo transversal, retrospectivo e observacional. Foram analisados os atendimentos (pronto-socorro, enfermaria e Unidade de Terapia Intensiva - UTI) que apresentavam diagnóstico de COVID-19 confirmado por RT-qPCR. A gravidade dos casos foi classificada de acordo com o Consenso Chinês. Resultados: Entre as 115 crianças incluídas, houve predominância do sexo masculino (57%) e a mediana de idade foi de 2 anos. Vinte e duas crianças foram hospitalizadas, sendo 12 em UTI. Do total, 26% apresentava comorbidades com predomínio de asma (13%). Febre, tosse e coriza foram os sintomas mais frequentes. Sintomas respiratórios foram relatados por 58% das crianças e gastrintestinais por 34%. Três crianças apresentavam-se assintomáticas, 81 (70%) com sintomas de vias aéreas superiores, 15 (13%) com quadro de pneumonia leve e 16 (14%) com pneumonia grave. As crianças hospitalizadas eram mais jovens do que as não hospitalizadas (7 meses vs. 36 meses). Nas hospitalizadas, observamos maior frequência de irritabilidade, dispneia, sonolência, desconforto respiratório, baixa saturação de oxigênio e hepatomegalia. Radiografia de tórax foi realizada por 69 crianças com 45% de exames alterados. Nenhuma criança necessitou de ventilação mecânica e não houve óbitos. Conclusões: Observamos que crianças e adolescentes acometidos pela Covid-19 apresentaram, em sua maioria, quadros leves e limitados a sintomas de via aérea superior. A gravidade do quadro clínico da Covid-19 foi maior entre as crianças de menor idade que tinham com maior frequência sintomas gastrintestinais e pulmonares.

CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS OF CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS WITH COVID-19: REPORT OF THE FIRST 115 CASES FROM SABARÁ HOSPITAL INFANTIL.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical manifestations and severity of children and adolescents affected by COVID-19 treated at Sabará Hospital Infantil. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional, retrospective, and observational study. All cases of COVID-19 confirmed by RT-qPCR of patients seen at the hospital (emergency room, first-aid room, and ICU) were analyzed. The severity of the cases was classified according to the Chinese Consensus. RESULTS: Among the 115 children included, a predominance of boys (57%) was verified, and the median age was two years. A total of 22 children were hospitalized, 12 in the ICU. Of the total, 26% had comorbidities with a predominance of asthma (13%). Fever, cough, and nasal discharge were the most frequent symptoms. Respiratory symptoms were reported by 58% of children and gastrointestinal symptoms, by 34%. Three children were asymptomatic, 81 (70%) had upper airway symptoms, 15 (13%) had mild pneumonia, and 16 (14%) had severe pneumonia. Hospitalized children were younger than non-hospitalized children (7 months vs. 36 months). In hospitalized patients, a higher frequency of irritability, dyspnea, drowsiness, respiratory distress, low oxygen saturation, and hepatomegaly was observed. Chest radiography was performed in 69 children with 45% of abnormal exams. No child required mechanical ventilation and there were no deaths. CONCLUSIONS: Most of children and adolescents affected by COVID-19 had mild upper airway symptoms. Clinical manifestations of COVID-19 were more severe among younger children who exhibited gastrointestinal and respiratory symptoms more frequently.