Cost-effectiveness analysis of the diagnosis of temporal arteritis.

Temporal arteritis (TA) is the most common form of systemic vasculitis. Its diagnosis is based on criteria proposed by the American College of Rheumatology (1990), and its treatment is high-dose corticosteroids. Our objective is to assess the cost of diagnosing TA, and secondarily, cost-effective analysis of different diagnostic strategies (clinical, biopsy, doppler ultrasound) and therapeutic strategies (corticosteroid suspension). MATERIAL AND METHOD: Observational, retrospective study has been carried out on patients with AT (2012-2021). Demographic data, comorbidities, signs and symptoms suggestive of AT were collected. AT was diagnosed with a score ≥ 3 according to American College of Rheumatoloy criteria (ACR-SCORE). The costs of diagnosis and treatment modification were analysed. RESULTS: Seventy-five patients have been included, median age 77 (46-87) years. Headache, temporal pain and jaw claudication were significant for the diagnosis of TA. Patients with a halo on Doppler ultrasound and a positive biopsy have significantly elevated ESR and CRP compared to patients who do not. The cost of the AT diagnosis was 414.7 euros/patient. If we use ACR-SCORE ≥ 3-echodoppler it is 167.2 є/patient (savings 59.6%) and ACR-SCORE ≥ 3-biopsy 339.75 є/patient (savings 18%). If the corticosteroid was removed and a biopsy was performed, 21.6 є/patient (94.7% savings), if the corticosteroid was removed and Doppler ultrasound was performed, 10.6 є/patient (97.4% savings). CONCLUSIONS: Headache, temporary pain and jaw claudication are predictors of AT. Elevated ESR and CRP are predictors of positive biopsy and presence of halo on ultrasound. The uses of ACR-SCORE ≥ 3 with Doppler ultrasound or biopsy, and with corticosteroid suspension, are cost-effective.

Asociación entre sistemas venosos insuficientes y manifestaciones clínicas en enfermedad venosa crónica de miembros inferiores / Association between insufficient venous systems and clinical manifestations in chronic venous disease of the lower limbs

RESUMEN Introducción: La clasificación clínica, etiológica, anatómica y fisiopatológica (CEAP) estandariza las manifestaciones de la enfermedad venosa de miembros inferiores. Objetivo: Investigar la asociación entre los sistemas venosos insuficientes y la clasificación clínica del CEAP. Método: Se realizó una investigación tipo cuantitativa, transversal, con diseño analítico, correlacional. El muestreo es no probabilístico por conveniencia. El tamaño de muestra fue136 miembros inferiores de 71 pacientes. Se utilizó las pruebas estadísticas de Chi-cuadrado, Monte Carlo y Odd ratio (OR) con intervalos de confianza del 95 %, mediante regresión logística bivariada (p<0,05). Resultados: El 71,8 % fue femenino con edad media de 66,1. El sistema venoso insuficiente más frecuente fue el superficial: 61,7 %. El 100% de las venas safenas mayores (VSM) dilatadas tenían insuficiencia. La clase clínica CEAP más frecuente fue la C2: 44,9 %; el 35,1 % de C1 (telangiectasia) tenían un sistema venoso insuficiente; el 50 % de C2, insuficiencia de la VSM (p=0,227). Hubo una asociación entre la insuficiencia de los sistemas venosos superficial y profundo y la clasificación clínica del CEAP (p=<0,001). El sistema venoso profundo estuvo asociado a la enfermedad venosa crónica de miembros inferiores grave OR (6,04) con IC95 % (1,02-35,73) y p=0,047. Conclusiones: Se evidenció una asociación entre la insuficiencia de los sistemas venosos superficial y profundo con la clasificación clínica del CEAP. Un tercio de los miembros inferiores con C1 (telangiectasias) tenían un sistema venoso insuficiente.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The clinical, etiological, anatomical and pathophysiological classification (CEAP) standardizes the manifestations of lower limb venous disease. Objetive: To investigate the association between insufficient venous systems and the clinical classification of CEAP. Method: A quantitative, cross-sectional, analytical, correlational design was carried out. Non-probability sampling for convenience. Sample size was 136 lower limbs from 71 patients. Chi-square, Monte Carlo and Odd ratio (OR) statistical tests were used with 95% confidence intervals through bivariate logistic regression (p<0.05). Results: 71.8% were female, average age of 66.1. The most frequent insufficient venous system was the superficial one (61.7%). 100% of the dilated great saphenous veins (GSV) had insufficiency. The most frequent CEAP clinical class was C2: 44.9%); 35.1% of C1 (telangiectasia) had an insufficient venous system and 50% of C2 had GSV insufficiency (p=0.227). There was an association between insufficiency of the superficial and deep venous systems and the CEAP clinical classification (p=<0.001). The deep venous system was associated with severe chronic venous disease of the lower limbs OR (6.04) with 95% CI (1.02-35.73) and p=0.047. Conclusions: An association was evident between the insufficiency of the superficial and deep venous systems with the clinical classification of CEAP. One third of lower limbs with C1 (telangiectasias) had an insufficient venous system.

Quistes renales en aneurisma de la aorta abdominal diagnosticada por ecografía Doppler / Renal Cysts in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Diagnosed by Doppler Ultrasound

Introducción: La relación de la presencia de quistes renales y aneurisma de la aorta abdominal es una duda por aclarar, y no se cuenta con literatura al respecto. Objetivo: Estimar la relación entre la presencia de quistes renales y aneurisma de aorta abdominal en pacientes atendidos en el Instituto Nacional de Angiología y Cirugía Vascular. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo de corte longitudinal en el período de 2021-2022 en pacientes con diagnóstico clínico y ecográfico de aneurisma de la aorta abdominal. El universo lo conformaron pacientes que asistieron al Departamento de Ultrasonido Doppler con diagnóstico clínico de aneurisma de la aorta abdominal. La muestra estuvo constituida por 152 pacientes; se utilizaron la prueba de Chi cuadrado y el método de estimación del riesgo mediante el cálculo del odds ratio. Resultados: La edad promedio fue de 70,1 ± 5,6 años; el sexo masculino predominó con 27 casos con quiste de un total de 41; el dolor abdominal resultó la manifestación clínica más frecuente (99 casos); y el tabaquismo (97 pacientes) el factor de riesgo cardiovascular que más se presentó. En cuanto a las características ecográficas, predominaron: el aneurisma de la arteria infrarrenal (107 casos), el diámetro muy pequeño con 17 casos y odds ratio de 4,53 se considera de riesgo al igual que toma bilateral de las arterias iliacas con odds ratio de 7,56 (5 casos). Conclusiones: La presencia de aneurisma de la aorta abdominal es independiente de padecer o no quistes renales. Estas dos patologías solo se relacionaron en cuanto a la toma bilateral y diámetro muy pequeño del aneurisma(AU)

Introduction: The relation between the presence of renal cysts and abdominal aortic aneurysm is a question to be clarified, and there is no literature on the subject. Objective: To estimate the relation between the presence of renal cysts and abdominal aortic aneurysm in patients treated at the National Institute of Angiology and Vascular Surgery. Methods: A descriptive longitudinal study was conducted in the period 2021-2022 in patients with a clinical and ultrasound diagnosis of abdominal aortic aneurysm. The universe was made up of patients who attended the Doppler Ultrasound Department with a clinical diagnosis of abdominal aortic aneurysm. The sample consisted of 152 patients. The Chi-square test and the risk estimation method were used to calculate the odds ratio. Results: The mean age was 70.1 ± 5.6 years; males predominated, with 27 cases with cysts out of a total of 41; abdominal pain was the most frequent clinical manifestation (99 cases); and the cardiovascular risk factor that occurred the most was smoking (97 patients). The predominant ultrasound characteristics were: infrarenal artery aneurysm (107 cases) and very small diameter with 17 cases and odds ratio of 4.53; it was considered risky, as it was the bilateral intake of the iliac arteries, with an odds ratio of 7.56 (5 cases). Conclusions: The presence of abdominal aortic aneurysm is independent of whether or not renal cysts are present. These two pathologies were only related in terms of bilateral intake and very small diameter of the aneurysm(AU)

Hallazgos por ecografía Doppler arterial oftálmica en pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica avanzada / Ophthalmic Arterial Doppler Ultrasound Findings in Patients with Advanced Chronic Kidney Disease

Objetivo: Determinar los hallazgos por ecografía Doppler arterial oftálmica en pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica avanzada. Métodos: Se efectuó un estudio observacional descriptivo y transversal con 212 órbitas de 106 pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica avanzada (estadios 4 y 5 en tratamiento dialítico). Por interrogatorio y examen físico se identificaron los factores de riesgo aterosclerótico. Además, se realizó ultrasonido orbitario y Doppler carotídeo, y solo en caso de resultar normales, se procedió a evaluar mediante ecografía Doppler las arterias oftálmicas. Resultados: Predominaron los pacientes mayores de 50 años, el sexo masculino, el color mestizo de piel y los normopesos; mientras que la hipertensión arterial, el tabaquismo y la diabetes mellitus tipo 2 fueron los factores de riesgo aterosclerótico mayoritarios. En todos los enfermos renales crónicos se demostró un incremento de la velocidad del flujo y de la resistencia vascular a nivel de las arterias oftálmicas, en tanto los casos con hipertensión arterial y diabetes mellitus tipo 2, así como los hipertensos exclusivos, mostraron los valores hemodinámicos más elevados. Conclusiones: La evaluación de las arterias oftálmicas mediante ecografía Doppler permite hacer un estudio y seguimiento más integral de los pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica avanzada(AU)

Objective: To determine ophthalmic arterial Doppler ultrasound findings in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease. Methods: A descriptive and cross-sectional observational study was carried out with 212 orbits of 106 patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (stages 4 and 5 in dialysis treatment). Atherosclerotic risk factors were identified by interrogation and physical examination. In addition, orbital ultrasound and carotid Doppler were performed, and only if they were normal, the ophthalmic arteries were evaluated by Doppler ultrasound. Results: Patients older than 50 years, male sex, mestizo skin color and normal weight predominated, while arterial hypertension, smoking and type 2 diabetes mellitus were the main atherosclerotic risk factors. An increase in flow velocity and vascular resistance at the level of the ophthalmic arteries was demonstrated in all chronic renal patients, while cases with arterial hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus, as well as exclusive hypertensives, showed the highest hemodynamic values. Conclusions: The evaluation of the ophthalmic arteries by Doppler ultrasound allows a more comprehensive study and follow-up of patients with advanced chronic kidney disease(AU)

Assessment of cerebral blood flow velocities, brain midline shift and optic nerve sheath diameter by ultrasound in patients undergoing elective craniotomy: A prospective observational feasibility study.

BACKGROUND: Brain ultrasound allows measuring the cerebral flow velocity, brain midline shift and optic nerve sheath diameter. Literature is scarce in determining the feasibility to perioperatively perform these measurements altogether and the cerebrovascular behavior in patients scheduled for elective craniotomy. METHODS: We assessed bilateral cerebral flow velocities, composite index, brain midline shift and optic nerve sheath diameter by cerebral ultrasound in patients scheduled for elective craniotomy before anesthetic induction, at extubation, and at 6 and 24 h after. The aim was to assess the feasibility of brain ultrasound in patients for elective craniotomy and to describe the changes in cerebral flow velocities, brain midline shift and optic nerve sheath diameter from baseline values at different times in the postoperative period. RESULTS: Sixteen patients were included, of these two were excluded from analysis due to an inadequate sonographic window. There were no changes throughout the study regarding cerebral flow velocity, brain midline shift nor optic nerve sheath diameter assessments. All parameters were maintained in the physiological range without significant variations during the procedure. No perioperative complications were detected. CONCLUSIONS: The results of our study show the feasibility to perform a perioperative assessment of cerebral flow velocity, brain midline shift or optic nerve sheath diameter jointly and successfully to obtain additional information of baseline cerebral hemodynamics in patients scheduled for elective craniotomy and their postoperative changes during the first 24 h. Future studies with lager samples are needed to address the efficacy of cerebral ultrasound as a monitoring tool.

Manejo del Síndrome de Klippel-Trenaunay: reporte de caso / Management of Klippel-Trenaunay Syndrome: case report / Manejo da Síndrome de Klippel-Trenaunay: relato de caso

El Síndrome de Klippel-Trenaunay se constituye en una malformación vascular compleja con una incidencia de 2 a 3 casos por cada 100.000 nacidos vivos, clínicamente presenta una triada clásica: manchas cutáneas en vino de Oporto, venas varicosas de localización atípica e hipertrofia ósea y de tejidos blandos. Se presenta el caso de una paciente femenina de 33 años, sin antecedentes patológicos o quirúrgicos de importancia quien acude a consulta por aumento de volumen de la extremidad derecha, mancha violácea ipsilateral, además de dolor y parestesias. Al examen físico se evidencia aumento longitudinal de miembro inferior derecho, nevus hiperpigmentario en cara lateral de pierna derecha y muslo que se extiende al glúteo ipsilateral además de venas varicosas atípicas. Se practica ecografía Doppler venosa con transductor lineal que reporta incompetencia de vena Safena Mayor y perforantes suprageniculares. Se realizó manejo quirúrgico mediante safenectomía, corrección de deformidad y referencia a dermatología para terapia láser por el nevus hiperpigmentario. La paciente mostró evolución clínico - quirúrgica favorable con remisión de la sintomatología que motivó su consulta.

Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome is a complex vascular malformation with an incidence of 2 to 3 cases per 100,000 live births. Clinically, it presents a classic triad: port-wine stains, varicose veins of atypical location and bone and soft tissue hypertrophy. We present the case of a 33-year-old female patient, with no pathologic or surgical history of importance, who comes to the clinic for an increase in volume of the right extremity, ipsilateral violaceous spot, in addition to pain and paresthesia. Physical examination revealed longitudinal enlargement of the right lower limb, hyperpigmented nevus on the lateral aspect of the right leg and thigh extending to the ipsilateral buttock and atypical varicose veins. Venous Doppler ultrasound with linear transducer reported incompetence of the greater saphenous vein and supragenicular perforators. Surgical management was performed by saphenectomy, deformity correction and referral to dermatology for laser therapy for hyperpigmented nevus. The patient showed favorable clinical-surgical evolution with remission of the symptomatology that motivated her consultation.

A síndrome de Klippel-Trenaunay é uma malformação vascular complexa com uma incidência de 2 a 3 casos por 100.000 nascidos vivos. Clinicamente, apresenta uma tríade clássica: manchas vinho do porto, veias varicosas de localização atípica e hipertrofia óssea e de tecidos moles. Apresentamos o caso de uma paciente do sexo feminino, 33 anos, sem histórico patológico ou cirúrgico de importância, que consultou por aumento de volume do membro direito, mancha violácea ipsilateral, além de dor e parestesia. O exame físico revelou aumento longitudinal do membro inferior direito, nevo hiperpigmentado na face lateral da perna e coxa direitas, estendendo-se até a nádega ipsilateral e veias varicosas atípicas. Foi realizado ultrassom Doppler venoso com transdutor linear, que relatou incompetência da veia safena magna e das perfurantes suprageniculares. O tratamento cirúrgico foi realizado por meio de safenectomia, correção da deformidade e encaminhamento à dermatologia para terapia a laser para nevo hiperpigmentado. A paciente apresentou uma evolução clínico-cirúrgica favorável com remissão dos sintomas que a levaram à consulta.

Caracterización clínica, hemodinámica y ecográfica de pacientes diabéticos con enfermedad arterial crónica en miembros inferiores / Clinical, hemodynamic and echographic characterization of diabetic patients with arterial chronic disease in lower limbs

Introducción: La diabetes mellitus es la enfermedad crónica considerada como una de las mayores emergencias sanitarias del siglo XXI en el mundo, que puede desencadenar algunas complicaciones y problemas graves para la salud. Objetivo: Caracterizar a pacientes diabéticos con enfermedad arterial crónica en miembros inferiores según variables clínicas, hemodinámicas y ecográficas. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo y transversal de los 178 pacientes diabéticos con diagnóstico clínico de enfermedad arterial crónica en miembros inferiores, quienes fueron atendidos en el Servicio de Imagenología del Hospital General Docente Dr. Juan Bruno Zayas Alfonso de Santiago de Cuba desde enero de 2017 hasta diciembre de 2019, a los cuales se les realizó examen hemodinámico mediante el índice tobillo-brazo y ecografía Doppler arterial. Resultados: En la investigación primaron los adultos mayores (41,6 %) del sexo femenino (54,0 %), la claudicación intermitente como principal síntoma (57,3 %), el sector femoropoplíteo (34,8 %) según la topografía exacta de las lesiones, así como la estenosis significativa (53,9 %) y la enfermedad arterial periférica moderada (58,3 %). Conclusiones: La mayoría de los pacientes presentó una estenosis significativa detectada por ecografía Doppler, en correspondencia con el diagnóstico de enfermedad arterial periférica moderada por el índice tobillo-brazo. La ecografía Doppler también aportó la topografía exacta de las lesiones.

Introduction: The diabetes mellitus is the chronic disease considered as one of the highest sanitary emergencies in the XXI century in the world that can trigger some complications and serious health problems. Objective: To characterize diabetic patients with arterial chronic disease in lower limbs according to clinical, hemodynamic and ultrasound variables. Methods: An observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study of the 178 diabetic patients with clinical diagnosis of arterial chronic disease in lower limbs was carried out, who were assisted in the Imaging Service of Dr. Juan Bruno Zayas Alfonso General Hospital in Santiago de Cuba from January, 2017 to December, 2019, to whom hemodynamic exam by means of the ankle-brachial index and arterial Doppler ultrasound was carried out. Results: In the investigation there was a prevalence of the elderly (41.6 %) from the female sex (54.0 %), the intermittent abandonment as main symptom (57.3 %), the femoropopliteal sector (34.8 %) according to the exact topography of the lesions, as well as the significant stenosis (53.9 %) and the moderate peripheral arterial disease (58.3 %). Conclusions: Most of the patients presented a significant stenosis according to Doppler ultrasound, in correspondence with the diagnosis of moderated peripheral arterial disease by the ankle-brachial index. The Doppler ultrasound also contributed the exact topography of the lesions.

Hallazgos de retinopatía diabética por ecografía Doppler arterial oftálmico en pacientes con diabetes mellitus tipo 2 / Findings of Diabetic Retinopathy by Ophthalmic Arterial Doppler Ultrasound in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Objetivo: Determinar los hallazgos de retinopatía diabética por ecografía doppler arterial oftálmico en pacientes con diabetes mellitus tipo 2. Métodos: Se efectuó un estudio observacional descriptivo y transversal en 200 órbitas de 100 pacientes diabéticos, a los que se les realizó fondo de ojo para diagnóstico y gradación de la retinopatía diabética. Por interrogatorio y examen físico se determinó el tiempo de diagnóstico de la diabetes y la presencia o ausencia de obesidad. Además, se les hizo ultrasonido orbitario y Doppler carotídeo, y solo en caso de resultar normales, se procedió a evaluar mediante ecografía doppler a las arterias oftálmicas. Resultados: Predominaron los diabéticos entre 40 y 60 años, el sexo masculino, los casos sin retinopatía diabética, y el grupo de más de 10 años de diagnóstico de la diabetes. Se demostró una disminución de la velocidad del flujo y un incremento de la resistencia vascular a nivel de las arterias oftálmicas, en tanto se evidenció asociación significativa de estos parámetros hemodinámicos con el envejecimiento, la presencia o ausencia de obesidad, el tiempo de diagnóstico de la diabetes y la severidad de la retinopatía diabética. Sin embargo, no se encontró asociación significativa con el sexo. Conclusiones: La valoración mediante ecografía doppler de las arterias oftálmicas, haría más completo el estudio y seguimiento de los pacientes con diabetes mellitus tipo 2(AU)

Purpose: To determine the findings of diabetic retinopathy by ophthalmic arterial Doppler ultrasound in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Methods: A descriptive and cross-sectional observational study was carried out in 200 orbits of 100 diabetic patients, who underwent fundus examination for diagnosis and grading of diabetic retinopathy. The time of diagnosis of diabetes and the presence or absence of obesity were determined by interrogation and physical examination. In addition, orbital ultrasound and carotid Doppler were performed, and only if they were normal, the ophthalmic arteries were evaluated by Doppler ultrasound. Results: Diabetic patients between 40 and 60 years of age, from the male gender, cases without diabetic retinopathy, and the group with more than 10 years of diagnosed diabetes predominated. A decrease in flow velocity and an increase in vascular resistance at the level of the ophthalmic arteries were demonstrated, while a significant association of these hemodynamic parameters with aging, presence or absence of obesity, time of diagnosis of diabetes and severity of diabetic retinopathy was evidenced. However, no significant association was found as to gender. Conclusions: Doppler ultrasound assessment of the ophthalmic arteries would make the study and follow-up of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus more complete(AU)

A cost-effectiveness analysis of the introduction of a specialised consultation with duplex ultrasound assessment prior to vascular access surgery for haemodialysis.

INTRODUCTION: Duplex ultrasound (DUS) is increasingly used before vascular access (VA) surgery for haemodialysis. However, the cost-effectiveness of this approach is unknown. Our objective was to assess whether the introduction of a specialised consultation with DUS assessment modifies the cost and the time delay to achieve a first VA valid for haemodialysis. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Prospective cohort of patients undergoing a first VA (June 2014-July 2017) after a specialised consultation with DUS (ECO group). They were compared with a historical cohort (January 2012-May 2014) where VA was indicated exclusively by clinical evaluation (CLN group). We analysed the cost related to visits, DUS assessments, interventions, hospital admissions and graft materials to achieve a first VA valid for haemodialysis at least during 1 month. RESULTS: 86 patients in the CLN group were compared with 92 in the ECO group. Patients in the ECO group were younger (68.4 vs. 64.0 years; P=.038) but no other differences were seen among groups. The average cost to achieve a first AV valid for haemodialysis was significantly lower in the ECO group (2707 vs. 3347€; P=.024). There was a higher cost associated with DUS assessments in the ECO group yet the CLN group had a higher cost related to follow-up visits, successive surgical interventions, prosthetic material, days of hospital admission and catheters. The mean time needed to achieve a first AV valid for haemodialysis was also shorter in the ECO group (49.9 vs. 82.9 days, P=.002). CONCLUSION: The introduction of a specialised vascular access consultation with DUS prior to VA surgery has reduced the cost necessary to achieve a first VA valid for haemodialysis. From the patient's point of view this has meant less interventions and hospital admissions and a shortening of the time delay.

Hallazgos de la ecografía Doppler arterial oftálmica en pacientes con hipertensión arterial primaria / Ophthalmic Arterial Doppler Ultrasound Findings in Patients with Primary Arterial Hypertension

Objetivo: Determinar los hallazgos por ecografía Doppler arterial oftálmica en pacientes con hipertensión arterial primaria. Métodos: Se efectuó un estudio observacional descriptivo y transversal con 202 órbitas de 101 pacientes hipertensos, a los que se les realizó fondo de ojo para diagnóstico y gradación de la retinopatía hipertensiva. Por interrogatorio y examen físico se identificaron como factores de riesgo aterosclerótico el consumo excesivo de alcohol y la obesidad. Además, se les hizo ultrasonido orbitario y Doppler carotídeo, y solo en caso de resultar normales, se procedió a evaluar mediante ecografía Doppler las arterias oftálmicas. Resultados: Predominaron los hipertensos entre 40 y 60 años de edad, el sexo masculino, el color mestizo de piel, los casos sin retinopatía hipertensiva, y el grupo entre 10 y 20 años de diagnosticada la hipertensión. Se demostró un incremento de la velocidad del flujo y de la resistencia vascular a nivel de las arterias oftálmicas. En tanto, se evidenció asociación significativa de estos parámetros hemodinámicos con el envejecimiento y el tiempo de diagnóstico de la hipertensión. Sin embargo, no se comprobó asociación significativa con el sexo, el color de la piel, y la presencia o ausencia de obesidad, consumo excesivo de alcohol, y retinopatía hipertensiva independientemente de su gravedad. Conclusiones: La evaluación de las arterias oftálmicas mediante ecografía Doppler permite hacer un estudio y seguimiento más integral de los pacientes con hipertensión arterial primaria(AU)

Objective: To determine ophthalmic arterial Doppler ultrasound findings in patients with primary arterial hypertension. Methods: A descriptive and cross-sectional observational study was carried out with 202 orbits of 101 hypertensive patients, who underwent fundus examination for diagnosis and grading of hypertensive retinopathy. By interrogation and physical examination, excessive alcohol consumption and obesity were identified as atherosclerotic risk factors. In addition, orbital ultrasound and carotid Doppler were performed, and only if they were normal, the ophthalmic arteries were evaluated using Doppler ultrasound. Results: Hypertensive patients between 40 and 60 years of age, male, mixed skin color, cases without hypertensive retinopathy, and the group between 10 and 20 years after hypertension diagnosis predominated. An increase in flow velocity and vascular resistance at the level of the ophthalmic arteries was demonstrated. Meanwhile, a significant association of these hemodynamic parameters with aging and time of diagnosis of hypertension was evidenced. However, no significant association was found with gender, skin color, and the presence or absence of obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, and hypertensive retinopathy regardless of its severity. Conclusions: Evaluation of the ophthalmic arteries using Doppler ultrasound allows a more comprehensive study and follow-up of patients with primary arterial hypertension(AU)

Ecografía Doppler transcraneal para estimar la presión intracraneal y presión de perfusión cerebral en pacientes pediátricos neurocríticos

RESUMEN La ecografía Doppler transcraneal es un método no invasivo que permite una adecuada monitorización de los diferentes parámetros que ayudan a definir conductas para los médicos intensivistas, sin embargo, su utilización no está generalizada entre las comunidades médicas que atienden niños con afecciones neurocríticas. Es propósito de los autores, actualizar el tema en estudio y presentar su experiencia en población pediátrica. Las indicaciones de este método provienen de investigaciones en pacientes adultos, se necesitan estudios multicéntricos en diferentes contextos clínicos para poder establecer esta técnica como un método de diagnóstico confiable en pacientes pediátricos. Concluimos que utilizar el Doppler transcraneal como prueba auxiliar en la estimación de la presión intracraneal y presión de perfusión cerebral, proporciona adoptar recursos terapéuticos frente al paciente lo más acertados posibles y brinda la posibilidad de hacer un seguimiento y evaluación de los tratamientos a pie de cama de forma mínimamente invasiva.

ABSTRACT Transcranial Doppler ultrasound is a non-invasive method that allows adequate monitoring of the different parameters that help define behaviors for intensivist physicians ; however, its use is not widespread among the medical communities that care for children with neurocritical conditions. It is the purpose of the authors to update the topic under study and present their experience with pediatric populations. The indications for this method come from research in adult patients . Multicenter studies in different clinical contexts are needed to establish this technique as a reliable diagnostic method in pediatric patients. We conclude that using transcranial Doppler as an auxiliary test in the estimation of intracranial pressure and cerebral perfusion pressure, provides the implementation of therapeutic resources in front of the patient as accurate as possible and offers the possibility of monitoring and evaluating bedside treatments in a minimally invasive way.

Breast adenomyoepithelioma from a radiologic perspective.

Adenomyoepithelioma of the breast (AB) is an uncommon tumor that is characterized by the biphasic proliferation of epithelial and myoepithelial cells. The radiologic findings for AB have been scantly reported. This paper aims to analyze the characteristic findings for AB on ultrasonography (US) and mammography. This retrospective descriptive study used the Breast Imaging-Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) to analyze the US and mammography findings for histologically confirmed AB in patients attended at our institution between 2007 and 2019. We identified a total of 13 AB in 13 women. All patients underwent US. On US, 12 lesions were seen as oval nodules, and the remaining lesion was irregular-shaped; 8 lesions had circumscribed margins, 3 had angled margins, and 2 had microlobulated margins. Regarding the echo pattern, 8 lesions were hypoechoic and 5 were complex (solid-cystic). On color Doppler, 11 lesions were vascularized nodules and 2 were avascular nodules. In conclusion, we present the imaging characteristics for a series of cases of AB. It is unlikely that this lesion can be suspected solely on the basis of the imaging findings; nevertheless, it is important for radiologists to be familiar with AB to carry out a good radiopathologic correlation.

Vascular compression syndromes: the value of Doppler ultrasonography.

Vascular compression syndromes arise when a vessel in a tight anatomic space is entrapped by another structure, resulting in diverse symptoms for which different imaging tests are used to diagnose. Radiologists need to be familiar with vascular compression syndromes and to be able to identify their most representative findings. This paper aims to review the principal symptoms of vascular compression, describing and illustrating the key findings on Doppler ultrasonography that enable accurate diagnosis and guide further workup, avoiding unnecessary invasive tests and pointing to the appropriate treatment.

Carotid artery screening in high risk asymptomatic individuals: outcomes of 3000 carotid screening.

OBJECTIVES: The primary aims of the study to evaluate the efficacy of carotid screening tests to identify asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis among high-risk patients and early prevention of stroke. BACKGROUND: The estimated prevalence of asymptomatic severe carotid stenosis (≥70%) in the general adult population ranges up to 3.1%. However, the prevalence is higher in comorbid individuals. This makes it important to perform screening testing for early diagnosis and treatment in predetermined high-risk patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In this prospective study, 3000 selected patients screened during March 2017 and September 2018 at the most populated family health center. Participants selected among registered individuals who have at least one of the risk factors such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus, obesity, and smoking. All the participants were asymptomatic and above the age of 55. Bilateral carotid artery screening performed by Duplex Ultrasonography (DUSG) at the first call and one year later. Patients with severe carotid and/or coronary artery stenosis treated by surgical revascularization or stent implantation in the light of the latest guidelines. CONCLUSION: Carotid screening among high-risk asymptomatic individuals is of great importance to identify severe carotid artery as well as coronary artery stenosis. Patient education during screening may play a crucial role in preventing the disease.

OBJETIVOS: Los objetivos principales del estudio fueron evaluar la eficacia de las pruebas de detección de carótidas para identificar la estenosis asintomática de la arteria carótida en pacientes de alto riesgo y la prevención temprana del accidente cerebrovascular. ANTECEDENTES: La prevalencia estimada de estenosis carotídea grave asintomática (≥70%) en la población adulta general varía hasta el 3,1%. Sin embargo, la prevalencia es mayor en individuos comórbidos. Esto hace que sea importante realizar pruebas de detección para el diagnóstico y el tratamiento tempranos en pacientes predeterminados de alto riesgo. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: En este estudio prospectivo, 3000 pacientes seleccionados fueron evaluados durante marzo de 2017 y septiembre de 2018 en el centro de salud familiar más poblado. Participantes seleccionados entre individuos registrados que tienen al menos uno de los factores de riesgo como hipertensión, hiperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus, obesidad y tabaquismo. Todos los participantes estaban asintomáticos y tenían más de 55 años. Cribado bilateral de la arteria carótida realizado por ecografía dúplex (DUSG) en la primera llamada y un año después. Pacientes con estenosis severa de carótidas y/o arterias coronarias tratados mediante revascularización quirúrgica o implantación de stents a la luz de las últimas guías. CONCLUSIÓN: El cribado carotídeo en individuos asintomáticos de alto riesgo es de gran importancia para identificar la estenosis grave de la arteria carótida y la arteria coronaria. La educación del paciente durante el cribado puede desempeñar un papel fundamental en la prevención de la enfermedad.

[Effect of tadalafil 5mg daily treatment on penile haemodynamics in patients with erectile dysfunction]. / Efecto del tadalafilo 5mg/día en la hemodinámica peniana en pacientes con disfunción eréctil.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE-5) are the first-line treatment. ED diagnostic and evaluation methods are clinical: erection self-perception and evaluation questionnaires. It is necessary to identify predictive markers to choose the best drug and the best dose for each individual patient. This study seeks to evaluate the effect of tadalafil 5mg daily treatment on penile haemodynamics (penis in flaccidity, using doppler ultrasound, without using alprostadil) and to study if these changes are clinically associated. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 40 patients who started treatment with tadalafil 5mg daily were consecutively selected in a prospective study. Each patient underwent a penile doppler ultrasound and completed questionnaires (IIEF-6, EHS, SEP-2, SEP-3) at three different times: before starting the treatment, at 3 months and at 6 months (within the last 30 days without treatment). RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Tadalafil 5mg daily treatment for 3 months did not result in significant modifications to VPS and AS. There was clinical improvement according to the questionnaires after three months of treatment, which was not maintained at 6 months. Neither a clinical-radiological correlation nor a haemodynamic value predicting response to treatment could be established.

Enfermedad de Mondor del pene en un paciente joven / Mondor disease of the penis in a young patient

Se presenta el caso clínico de un paciente de 21 años de edad, con antecedente de herniorrafia inguinal derecha, quien asistió a consulta de control y refirió presentar una induración y dolor en la región dorsal del pene con 4 días de evolución, que había comenzado después de una relación sexual en la cual consumió marihuana. En el examen físico se encontró la vena dorsal del pene engrosada, dura y dolorosa a la palpación. Se le diagnosticó una enfermedad de Mondor del pene. La ecografía Doppler confirmó la tromboflebitis de esta vena. El paciente recibió tratamiento médico y evolucionó satisfactoriamente.

The case report of a 21 years patient with history of right inguinal herniorrhaphy is presented, who attended control visit and he made reference to an induration and pain in the dorsal region of the penis with 4 days of evolution that had begun after a sexual relationship in which he consumed marihuana. In the physical exam the penis dorsal vein was found thicken, hard and painful to the palpation. He was diagnosed a Mondor disease of the penis. The Doppler scanning confirmed the thrombophlebitis of this vein. The patient received medical treatment and had a favorable clinical course.

Breast adenomyoepithelioma from a radiologic perspective. / Adenomioepitelioma de la mama desde una perspectiva radiológica.

Adenomyoepithelioma of the breast (AB) is an uncommon tumor that is characterized by the biphasic proliferation of epithelial and myoepithelial cells. The radiologic findings for AB have been scantly reported. This paper aims to analyze the characteristic findings for AB on ultrasonography (US) and mammography. This retrospective descriptive study used the Breast Imaging-Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) to analyze the US and mammography findings for histologically confirmed AB in patients attended at our institution between 2007 and 2019. We identified a total of 13 AB in 13 women. All patients underwent US. On US, 12 lesions were seen as oval nodules, and the remaining lesion was irregular-shaped; 8 lesions had circumscribed margins, 3 had angled margins, and 2 had microlobulated margins. Regarding the echo pattern, 8 lesions were hypoechoic and 5 were complex (solid-cystic). On color Doppler, 11 lesions were vascularized nodules and 2 were avascular nodules. In conclusion, we present the imaging characteristics for a series of cases of AB. It is unlikely that this lesion can be suspected solely on the basis of the imaging findings; nevertheless, it is important for radiologists to be familiar with AB to carry out a good radiopathologic correlation.

Utility of Doppler ultrasound for the study of ocular vascular disease.

Ocular vascular problems represent an emerging pathology within the activity of the internist. Ocular ultrasound is a widely used technique to evaluate a variety of eye conditions. Specifically, Doppler ultrasound of the ophthalmic vessels has become a very useful tool in diagnosing various eye diseases. Doppler ultrasound allows for examining blood flow in the eye even in the presence of eye opacities that impede viewing the posterior segment of the eye. In this review, we describe the principles and techniques of an ocular vascular Doppler ultrasound examination in clinical practice and provide a general approach to the ultrasound characteristics of the most important vascular eye disorders for internists. These include central retinal artery and vein occlusions, chronic retinal ischemic syndrome, anterior optic ischemic neuropathy, and diabetic retinopathy.

A cost-effectiveness analysis of the introduction of a specialised consultation with duplex ultrasound assessment prior to vascular access surgery for haemodialysis. / Impacto de la introducción de una consulta específica con valoración eco-doppler en el costo asociado a la obtención de un primer acceso vascular para hemodiálisis.

INTRODUCTION: Duplex ultrasound (DUS) is increasingly used before vascular access (VA) surgery for haemodialysis. However, the cost-effectiveness of this approach is unknown. Our objective was to assess whether the introduction of a specialised consultation with DUS assessment modifies the cost and the time delay to achieve a first VA valid for haemodialysis. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Prospective cohort of patients undergoing a first VA (June 2014-July 2017) after a specialised consultation with DUS (ECO group). They were compared with a historical cohort (January 2012-May 2014) where VA was indicated exclusively by clinical evaluation (CLN group). We analysed the cost related to visits, DUS assessments, interventions, hospital admissions and graft materials to achieve a first VA valid for haemodialysis at least during 1 month. RESULTS: Eighty-six patients in the CLN group were compared with 92 in the ECO group. Patients in the ECO group were younger (68.4 vs. 64.0 years; P=.038) but no other differences were seen among groups. The average cost to achieve a first AV valid for haemodialysis was significantly lower in the ECO group (2707 vs. 3347€; P=.024). There was a higher cost associated with DUS assessments in the ECO group yet the CLN group had a higher cost related to follow-up visits, successive surgical interventions, prosthetic material, days of hospital admission and catheters. The mean time needed to achieve a first AV valid for haemodialysis was also shorter in the ECO group (49.9 vs. 82.9 days, P=.002). CONCLUSION: The introduction of a specialised vascular access consultation with DUS prior to VA surgery has reduced the cost necessary to achieve a first VA valid for haemodialysis. From the patient's point of view this has meant less interventions and hospital admissions and a shortening of the time delay.

Validation of a preeclampsia early screening test in a Mexican population.

BACKGROUND: No preeclampsia screening test has been validated in our country. OBJECTIVE: To assess the fit and performance of the FMF 4.0 Bayesian algorithm in a Mexican population. METHOD: Cohort study in singleton pregnancies, according to the competing risks model for preeclampsia. A priori risk was calculated based on medical history. Mean blood pressure (MBP), uterine artery mean pulsatility index (UtAmPI) and pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) were measured at 11-14 weeks of gestation using standardized methodology. The value of each marker was transformed into multiples of the median (MoM) by the originala algorithm and by population-correctionb. Multivariate normal distribution and Bayes theorem were applied to obtain post-test probabilities. RESULTS: There was 5.0% (40/807) of preeclampsia. Distributions in women without preeclampsia were MBP = 0.927a vs. 0.991b, UtAmPI = 0.895a vs. 1.030b and PAPP-A = 0.815a vs. 0.963b (p < 0.001). The AUC was 0.821a vs. 0.823b. For a detection rate of 69 %, cutoff points were 1 in 240a and 1 in 120b, with false positive rates of 31 %a and 29 %b. CONCLUSIONS: The model has to be adjusted to the target population.

ANTECEDENTES: Ninguna prueba de tamiz de preeclampsia ha sido validada en nuestro país. OBJETIVO: Evaluar el ajuste y rendimiento del algoritmo bayesiano FMF 4.0 en una población mexicana. MÉTODO: Estudio de cohorte en embarazos de feto único, según el modelo de riesgos en competencia para preeclampsia. El riesgo a priori se calculó por historia clínica. La presión arterial media (PAM), el índice de pulsatilidad medio de la arteria uterina (IPmAUt) y la proteína plasmática A asociada al embarazo (PAPP-A) se midieron a las 11-14 semanas de gestación con metodología estandarizada. El valor de cada marcador se transformó en múltiplos de la mediana (MoM) por el algoritmo originala y el corregidob a la población. Se aplicaron la distribución normal multivariante y el teorema de Bayes para las probabilidades posprueba. RESULTADOS: Hubo un 5.0% (40/807) de preeclampsia. Las distribuciones sin preeclampsia fueron PAM 0.927a vs. 0.991b, UtAmPI 0.895a vs. 1.030b y PAPP-A 0.815a vs. 0.963b (p < 0.001). El área bajo la curva fue 0.821a vs. 0.823b. Para una detección del 69%, los puntos de corte fueron 1 en 240a y 1 en 120b, a falsos positivos del 31%a y 29%b. CONCLUSIONES: El modelo debe ajustarse a la población diana.