Assessment of Gonadotropin Concentrations Stimulated by Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Analog by Electrochemiluminescence in Girls with Precocious Puberty and Premature Thelarche.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to determine the cutoff values of gonadotropin response to gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs (GnRHas) corresponding to the activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis that could differentiate central precocious puberty (CPP) from premature thelarche (PT) and using the electrochemiluminescence assay method. METHODS: A total of 49 girls underwent the stimulation test with an intramuscular injection of 3.75 mg leuprolide acetate. Based on the clinical and laboratory characteristics, they were divided into two groups: CPP (n = 22) and PT (n = 27). Baseline estradiol, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) were collected before GnRHa administration and LH and FSH at 60 and 120 min, respectively, after GnRHa administration. RESULTS: The girls with CPP presented an increased height Z-score, advanced bone age, and higher baseline LH, FSH, estradiol, and LH/FSH ratio in relation to PT (p < 0.001). Stimulated LH differed significantly between the two groups, and the LH cutoff values were ≥4.29 IU/L (p < 0.001) and ≥3.95 IU/L at 60 and 120 min, respectively (p < 0.001). The LH peak was found at 60 min after stimulation. CONCLUSIONS: The GnRHa test is effective in distinguishing CPP from PT, and a single sampling, at 60 min, with LH concentrations above 4.29 may be the parameter of choice with the advantage of greater convenience and practicality.

Ultrasound measurement of thyroid volume in euthyroid children under 3 years of age / Mensuração ultrassonográfica do volume tireoidiano em crianças eutireóideas menores de três anos

Abstract Objective: To establish ultrasound reference values for thyroid volumes in children up to 3 years of age, given that ultrasound of the thyroid is an essential examination in the diagnosis of childhood thyroid disease. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective study conducted in an iodine-sufficient city in southeastern Brazil. A total of 100 healthy children underwent clinical evaluation, anthropometric examination, and cervical ultrasound in accordance with conventional protocols. We evaluated characteristics such as echotexture, thyroid lobe volume, and total thyroid volume. The children were divided into five groups, by age: < 2 months; 2-12 months; 12-18 months; 18-24 months; and 24-36 months. Results: The mean thyroid volume was lower in the < 2 month age group than in the other groups (0.4 mL vs. 0.18-0.70 mL; p < 0.001). For the subjects between 2 and 36 months of age, the mean volume was 1.0 mL (range, 0.30-2.0 mL). No other significant differences were observed between groups, thyroid lobes, or gender. However, body mass index correlated significantly with total thyroid volume (r = 0.347; p = 0.001). Conclusion: The mean thyroid dimensions were smallest in the < 2 month age group (0.35 ± 0.16 mL). For the subjects between 2 and 36 months of age, a reference value of 0.85 ± 0.42 mL can be used. Our data could guide the diagnostic investigation of thyroid disease, especially congenital hypothyroidism, in childhood.

Resumo Objetivo: Estabelecer valores de referência ultrassonográficos de volumes tireoidianos em crianças de até três anos de idade, por ser exame essencial no diagnóstico de doença tireoidiana infantil. Materiais e Métodos: Trata-se de estudo prospectivo conduzido em cidade do sudeste brasileiro suficiente em iodo. Participaram 100 crianças saudáveis, submetidas a exame clinicoantropométrico e ultrassonografia cervical seguindo protocolos convencionais. Características como ecotextura e volumes dos lobos e da tireoide total foram obtidos. Segundo a idade, as crianças foram distribuídas em cinco grupos: < 2 meses; 2-12 meses; 12-18 meses; 18-24 meses; e 24-36 meses. Resultados: No grupo < 2 meses os volumes tireoidianos foram menores (p < 0,001) do que nos demais (0,4 mL; 0,18-0,70 mL). Além dessa idade, o volume total médio foi 1,0 mL (0,30-2,0 mL) e não diferiu entre os grupos. Não foram observadas diferenças entre lobos ou relacionadas a gênero. Houve correlação (r = 0,347; p = 0,001) entre índice de massa corporal e volume total. Conclusão: As dimensões tireoidianas foram menores até dois meses (0,35 ± 0,16 mL), e a partir dessa idade os mesmos valores de referência podem ser usados até 36 meses (0,85 ± 0,42 mL). Tais dados podem orientar a investigação diagnóstica, especialmente no hipotireoidismo congênito.

Puberty in a sample of brazilian schoolboys: onset and anthropometric characteristics / Puberdade em uma amostra de meninos escolares brasileiros: início e características antropométricas

ABSTRACT Objective: To determine the age of puberty onset in boys and collect anthropometric data of participants at different puberty stages. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study that assessed 430 boys in a random sample representing 48,390 students from public and private schools from the city of Uberaba, Southeast Brazil. The inclusion criteria were males, aged between 5 and 18 years, and absence of previous diseases. Participants and their guardians filled a semistructured questionnaire with questions relevant to their and their parents' puberty. We set the significance at p<0.05 and calculated the 95% confidence intervals. Results: The mean age found in the puberty stage G2 was 11.2±1.8 (95% of participants in stage G2 were 9.2-13.4 years old). Pubarche data showed a mean of age of 11.0±1.6 years (95% of the participants experienced pubarche when they were 8.0-14.0 years old). When compared to the confidence intervals of two classical studies on the subject, our results showed a trend toward earlier pubarche. In addition, the mean age of this event in the children's parents was of 12.1±1.4 years, which was significantly higher than the age of the children's pubarche (p<0.001). Conclusions: These results indicate a secular decreasing trend in pubarche age and an earlier puberty onset. Considering these parameters, is important to design public policies aimed at preventing these early events.

RESUMO Objetivo: Determinar a idade em que a puberdade começa em meninos e coletar dados antropométricos de participantes em diferentes fases da puberdade. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo transversal no qual foram avaliados 430 meninos, uma amostra aleatória representativa da população total de 48.390 estudantes de escolas públicas e particulares de Uberaba, Minas Gerais. Os critérios de inclusão foram: ser do sexo masculino, ter idade de 5 a 18 anos e ausência de doenças prévias. Os participantes e seus responsáveis preencheram um questionário semiestruturado com perguntas pertinentes à sua puberdade e à de seus pais. Os dados foram considerados significantes para p<0,05, e os intervalos de confiança calculados foram de 95%. Resultados: A média de idade encontrada no estágio G2 foi de 11,2±1,8 anos, sendo que 95% dos participantes em G2 tinham entre 9,2 a 13,4 anos. Quanto à pubarca, a média de idade foi de 11,0±1,6 anos, e 95% dos participantes apresentaram pubarca entre 8,0 e 14,0 anos. Quando tais resultados foram comparados aos intervalos de confiança de dois estudos clássicos sobre o tema, houve tendência à pubarca mais precoce. Além disso, a média de idade da pubarca nos pais das crianças foi de 12,1±1,4 anos, significantemente maior em relação à dos filhos (p<0,001). Conclusões: Os resultados indicam uma tendência secular em direção à diminuição da idade da pubarca e um possível início mais precoce da puberdade. É muito importante considerar esses parâmetros para estabelecer políticas públicas destinadas a prevenir esses eventos iniciais.

Analysis of serum inflammatory mediators in type 2 diabetic patients and their influence on renal function.

AIM: To evaluate the serum concentrations of inflammatory mediators in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with or without renal alteration (RA) function. METHODS: Serum samples from 76 patients with T2DM and 24 healthy individuals were selected. Patients with T2DM were divided into two groups according to eGFR (> or < 60mL/min/1.73m2). Cytokines, chemokines and adipokines levels were evaluated using the Multiplex immunoassay and ELISA. RESULTS: TNFR1 and leptin were higher in the T2DM group with RA than in the T2DM group without RA and control group. All patients with T2DM showed increased resistin, IL-8, and MIP-1α compared to the control group. Adiponectin were higher and IL-4 decreased in the T2DM group with RA compared to the control group. eGFR positively correlated with IL-4 and negatively with TNFR1, TNFR2, and leptin in patients with T2DM. In the T2DM group with RA, eGFR was negatively correlated with TNFR1 and resistin. TNFR1 was positively correlated with resistin and leptin, as well as resistin with IL-8 and leptin. CONCLUSION: Increased levels of TNFR1, adipokines, chemokines and decrease of IL-4 play important role in the inflammatory process developed in T2DM and decreased renal function. We also suggest that TNFR1 is a strong predictor of renal dysfunction in patients with T2DM.

Effect of Spiritist "Passe" on Preoperative Anxiety of Surgical Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial, Double-Blind.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the preoperative anxiety of hospitalized patients exposed to Spiritist "passe," laying on of hand with the intention of healing (Sham) and without laying on of hand. Other variables as depression, pain, physiological parameters, muscle tension, and well-being were assessed. Patients in the Spiritist "passe" intervention group showed greater reductions in anxiety (p < 0.05) and muscle tension (p < 0.01) and increases in well-being (p < 0.01). More marked reductions in preoperative anxiety and muscle tension and improvement in well-being were observed in patients exposed to Spiritist "passe" compared to Sham or standard medical care.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT03356691.

A recurrent mutation in tshb gene underlying central congenital hypothyroidism undetectable in neonatal screening / Uma mutação recorrente no gene tshb resultando em hipotireoidismo congênito central não detectável na triagem neonatal

ABSTRACT Objective: To describe the case of a patient with central congenital hypothyroidism (CCH) due to a recurrent mutation in the TSHB gene, as well as to conduct a genetic study of his family. Case description: It is presented a case report of a 5-month-old boy with a delayed diagnosis of isolated CCH in whom the molecular analysis was performed 12 years later and detected a recurrent mutation (c.373delT) in TSHB gene. The parents and sister were carriers of the mutant allele. Comments: The c.373delT mutation has previously been reported in patients from Brazil, Germany, Belgium, United States, Switzerland, Argentina, France, Portugal, United Kingdom and Ireland. In summary, our case and other ones reported in the literature support the theory that this mutation may be a common cause of isolated TSH deficiency. Isolated TSH deficiency is not detected by routine TSH-based neonatal screening, representing a clinical challenge. Therefore, when possible, molecular genetic study is indicated. Identification of affected and carriers allows the diagnosis, treatment and adequate genetic counseling.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever o caso de um paciente com hipotireoidismo congênito central (HCC) por conta de uma mutação recorrente no gene TSHB, bem como realizar um estudo genético de sua família. Descrição do caso: Relato de caso de um menino de 5 meses de idade com diagnóstico tardio de HCC isolado, em quem a análise molecular foi realizada 12 anos depois e detectou uma mutação recorrente (c.373delT) no gene TSHB. Os pais e a irmã eram portadores do alelo mutante. Comentários: A mutação c.373delT já foi relatada em pacientes do Brasil, da Alemanha, da Bélgica, dos Estados Uinidos, da Suíça, da Argentina, da França, de Portugal, do Reino Unido e da Irlanda. Em resumo, nosso caso e outros relatados na literatura reforçam a teoria de que essa mutação pode ser uma causa comum de deficiência isolada de TSH. A deficiência isolada de TSH não é detectada na triagem neonatal com base na dosagem de TSH, representando um desafio clínico. Portanto, quando possível, o estudo genético molecular é indicado. A identificação dos afetados e dos portadores permite o diagnóstico, o tratamento e o aconselhamento genético adequado.

Clinical and Laboratory Parameters of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Analog Treatment Effectiveness in Children with Precocious Puberty.

OBJECTIVE: There are no doubts about the clinical benefits of treatment with GnRH analogs for patients diagnosed with central precocious puberty (CPP). However, laboratory monitoring of CPP is still a matter of considerable controversy in the literature. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to evaluate the cut-off values of stimulated LH that determine gonadotrophic suppression. METHODS: Twenty-four girls, on treatment with leuprorelin acetate (LA) at 3.75 mg IM every 28 days, were studied. The clinical parameters used to indicate clinical effectiveness were regression or maintenance of sexual characteristics according to the Tanner stage, growth velocity reduction, reduction or maintenance of the difference between bone age and chronological age and maintenance or improvement of the final height prediction. For the laboratory effectiveness test, basal estradiol, LH, and FSH levels were collected before and 1 and 2 h after the administration of 3.75 mg LA. RESULTS: Eleven girls showed improvement in all clinical parameters, and their effectiveness tests were compared to those of the other patients to calculate the cut-off values, which were ≤3.64 IU/L (p=0.004*) for LH after 1 h and ≤6.10 IU/L (p<0.001*) for LH after 2 h. CONCLUSION: The LH response after the LA stimulation test, associated with clinical data and within a context of CPP, constitutes a reliable and feasible resource and can assist in monitoring the effectiveness of treatment.

A RECURRENT MUTATION IN TSHB GENE UNDERLYING CENTRAL CONGENITAL HYPOTHYROIDISM UNDETECTABLE IN NEONATAL SCREENING.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the case of a patient with central congenital hypothyroidism (CCH) due to a recurrent mutation in the TSHB gene, as well as to conduct a genetic study of his family. CASE DESCRIPTION: It is presented a case report of a 5-month-old boy with a delayed diagnosis of isolated CCH in whom the molecular analysis was performed 12 years later and detected a recurrent mutation (c.373delT) in TSHB gene. The parents and sister were carriers of the mutant allele. COMMENTS: The c.373delT mutation has previously been reported in patients from Brazil, Germany, Belgium, United States, Switzerland, Argentina, France, Portugal, United Kingdom and Ireland. In summary, our case and other ones reported in the literature support the theory that this mutation may be a common cause of isolated TSH deficiency. Isolated TSH deficiency is not detected by routine TSH-based neonatal screening, representing a clinical challenge. Therefore, when possible, molecular genetic study is indicated. Identification of affected and carriers allows the diagnosis, treatment and adequate genetic counseling.

Metabolic and hormonal assessment of adolescent and young adult women with prior premature adrenarche.

OBJECTIVE: Follow-up studies of girls with premature adrenarche have reported the development of polycystic ovary syndrome, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia and a propensity to cardiovascular disease. The aim of this study was to analyze the presence of these conditions in patients previously treated at the Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro. METHODS: A total of 130 medical records reported premature adrenarche. One hundred and twenty-two patients were invited to participate, of whom 54 accepted; 34 patients were selected, as they had reached their final height. Anthropometric, blood glucose, insulin, and lipid and hormonal profile (LH, FSH, estradiol, 17α-OH-progesterone, androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, testosterone) data were obtained, the HOMA-IR index was calculated, and pelvic ultrasonography was performed. To characterize polycystic ovary syndrome and metabolic syndrome, the Rotterdam and International Diabetes Federation criteria, respectively, were used. Data were analyzed according to measures of dispersion, frequency and correlations of interest. RESULTS: The age of the participants ranged from 15.2 to 28.2 years/months; 23.5% of the patients were overweight, 11.8% were obese, 29.4% had a large waist circumference, and 8.8% were hypertensive. None of the patients had altered glucose levels, and insulin levels and HOMA-IR were elevated in 29.4% and 38.2% of the participants, respectively; 14.7% of the patients exhibited acanthosis nigricans. The lipid profiles of the participants were variable, and one patient (2.9%) had metabolic syndrome. Polycystic ovary syndrome was found in 41.2% of patients. CONCLUSION: The percentage of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome who also had overweight, obesity and insulin resistance corroborates the literature data about the need for follow-up aiming at interventions, especially for conditions associated with cardiometabolic risk.

Clinical and laboratory parameters of gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog treatment effectiveness in children with precocious puberty

OBJECTIVE: There are no doubts about the clinical benefits of treatment with GnRH analogs for patients diagnosed with central precocious puberty (CPP). However, laboratory monitoring of CPP is still a matter of considerable controversy in the literature. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to evaluate the cut-off values of stimulated LH that determine gonadotrophic suppression. METHODS: Twenty-four girls, on treatment with leuprorelin acetate (LA) at 3.75 mg IM every 28 days, were studied. The clinical parameters used to indicate clinical effectiveness were regression or maintenance of sexual characteristics according to the Tanner stage, growth velocity reduction, reduction or maintenance of the difference between bone age and chronological age and maintenance or improvement of the final height prediction. For the laboratory effectiveness test, basal estradiol, LH, and FSH levels were collected before and 1 and 2 h after the administration of 3.75 mg LA. RESULTS: Eleven girls showed improvement in all clinical parameters, and their effectiveness tests were compared to those of the other patients to calculate the cut-off values, which were ≤3.64 IU/L (p=0.004*) for LH after 1 h and ≤6.10 IU/L (p<0.001*) for LH after 2 h. CONCLUSION: The LH response after the LA stimulation test, associated with clinical data and within a context of CPP, constitutes a reliable and feasible resource and can assist in monitoring the effectiveness of treatment.

Metabolic and hormonal assessment of adolescent and young adult women with prior premature adrenarche

OBJECTIVE: Follow-up studies of girls with premature adrenarche have reported the development of polycystic ovary syndrome, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia and a propensity to cardiovascular disease. The aim of this study was to analyze the presence of these conditions in patients previously treated at the Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro. METHODS: A total of 130 medical records reported premature adrenarche. One hundred and twenty-two patients were invited to participate, of whom 54 accepted; 34 patients were selected, as they had reached their final height. Anthropometric, blood glucose, insulin, and lipid and hormonal profile (LH, FSH, estradiol, 17α-OH-progesterone, androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, testosterone) data were obtained, the HOMA-IR index was calculated, and pelvic ultrasonography was performed. To characterize polycystic ovary syndrome and metabolic syndrome, the Rotterdam and International Diabetes Federation criteria, respectively, were used. Data were analyzed according to measures of dispersion, frequency and correlations of interest. RESULTS: The age of the participants ranged from 15.2 to 28.2 years/months; 23.5% of the patients were overweight, 11.8% were obese, 29.4% had a large waist circumference, and 8.8% were hypertensive. None of the patients had altered glucose levels, and insulin levels and HOMA-IR were elevated in 29.4% and 38.2% of the participants, respectively; 14.7% of the patients exhibited acanthosis nigricans. The lipid profiles of the participants were variable, and one patient (2.9%) had metabolic syndrome. Polycystic ovary syndrome was found in 41.2% of patients. CONCLUSION: The percentage of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome who also had overweight, obesity and insulin resistance corroborates the literature data about the need for follow-up aiming at interventions, especially for conditions associated with cardiometabolic risk.

Associação entre acantose nigricans e outros fatores de risco cardiometabólico em crianças e adolescentes com sobrepeso e obesidade / Association between acanthosis nigricans and other cardiometabolic risk factors in children and adolescents with overweight and obesity

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar em um grupo de crianças e adolescentes com obesidade e sobrepeso a presença ou não de acantose nigricans e sua associação com alterações metabólicas. Métodos: Estudo transversal envolvendo 161 indivíduos com excesso de peso, que foram divididos em dois grupos, segundo a presença ou não de acantose nigricans, e nos quais foram obtidas medidas antropométricas (índice de massa corporal, pregas cutâneas, circunferência abdominal), pressão arterial, análises laboratoriais (glicemia de jejum, insulina, perfil lipídico, triglicerídeos, ácido úrico, transaminases) e o índice homeostasis model assessment. Resultados: O grupo com acantose nigricans representou 51,5% da amostra. A média de idade foi semelhante entre os grupos. O grupo com acantose nigricans apresentou maiores índice de massa corporal, escore Z do índice de massa corporal, percentual de gordura corporal, circunferência abdominal (p<0,0001) e pressão arterial sistólica (p=0,006) e diastólica (p=0,002). Não houve diferença significativa na análise do perfil lipídico, exceto o colesterol de alta densidade, que foi menor (p=0,003) no grupo com acantose. Já o ácido úrico (p<0,0001), a glicemia de jejum (p=0,006), a insulina (p<0,0001), a transaminase glutâmica oxalacética (p<0,0001) e o índice homeostasis model assessment (p<0,0001) foram significativamente maiores no grupo com acantose nigricans. Conclusões: Acantose nigricans em crianças e adolescentes com sobrepeso e obesidade esteve associada à elevação dos índices de adiposidade corporal, pressão arterial, insulina e homeostasis model assessment, indicando-a como marcador clínico associado à síndrome metabólica.

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the presence or absence of acanthosis nigricans and its association with metabolic alterations in a group of obese and overweight children and adolescents. Methods: A cross sectional study of 161 overweight children and adolescents, who were divided into two groups, according to presence or absence of acanthosis nigricans. Anthropometric measurements (body mass index, skinfolds, abdominal circumference), blood pressure, laboratory tests (fasting glycemia, insulin, lipid profile, triglycerides, uric acid, transaminases) and homeostasis model assessment index. Results: The acanthosis nigricans group represented 51.5% of the sample. The mean age was similar between groups. The group with acanthosis nigricans presented higher body mass index, Z score of body mass index, body fat percentage, abdominal circumference (p<0.0001), systolic (p=0.006) and diastolic blood pressure (p=0.002). There was no significant difference in the analysis of lipid profile, except for the high-density cholesterol, which was lower (p=0.003) in the group with acanthosis. On the other hand, uric acid (p<0.0001), fasting glycemia (p=0.006), insulin (p<0.0001), glutamic oxalacetic transaminase (p<0.0001), and homeostasis model assessment index (p<0.0001) were significantly higher in the group with acanthosis nigricans. Conclusions: Acanthosis nigricans in overweight and obese children and adolescents is associated with elevation of body fat, blood pressure, insulin and homeostasis model assessment index, indicating that it is a clinical marker associated with the metabolic syndrome.

Interferência nutricional no tratamento de pacientes com diabetes mellitus tipo 1 / Interferencia nutricional en el tratamiento de pacientes con diabetes mellitus tipo 1 / Nutritional interference in the treatment of patients with diabetes mellitus type 1

RESUMO O tratamento do Diabetes Mellitus tipo 1 (DM1) constitui-se na adesão ao tratamento insulínico, na alimentação e na atividade física, visando ao controle glicêmico. O objetivo deste estudo foi observar os efeitos da interferência nutricional no tratamento de pacientes com DM1. Trata-se de estudo quantitativo, prospectivo e longitudinal desenvolvido no Ambulatório de Diabetes da UFTM. A coleta de dados foi realizada entre março de 2013 e setembro de 2014. Foram avaliados 41 crianças e adolescentes entre 6 e 17 anos, quanto à antropometria, controle glicêmico e lipídico em 4 momentos: M1 no início do seguimento; M2 após orientação nutricional convencional; M3 após aprendizagem da contagem de carboidratos (CCHO) e M4 em contagem plena. A análise estatística foi descritiva e inferencial. A antropometria comprovou que a CCHO não resultou em ganho de peso e foi efetiva no sexo masculino, demonstrada pela redução nas concentrações de frutosamina (p=0,050) e HbA1C (p=0,041) no M4 comparado ao M1. Considerando a frutosamina, o grupo com CCHO se diferenciou do grupo sem CCHO M4 (p=0,035). A terapêutica insulínica associada à CCHO demonstrou ser um recurso importante a ser integrado no tratamento do DM1, visando atingir alvos efetivos na redução das complicações.

RESUMEN El tratamiento de la Diabetes Mellitus tipo 1 (DM1) se constituye en la adhesión al tratamiento medicamentoso, en la alimentación y en la actividad física, centrando en el control glucémico. El objetivo de este estudio fue observar los efectos de la interferencia nutricional en el tratamiento de pacientes con DM1. Se trata de estudio cuantitativo, prospectivo y longitudinal desarrollado en el Ambulatorio de Diabetes de la UFTM (Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro). La recolección de datos fue realizada entre marzo de 2013 y septiembre de 2014. Fueron evaluados 41 niños y adolescentes entre 6 y 17 años, en cuanto a la antropometría, control glucémico y lipídico en 4 momentos: M1 en el inicio del seguimiento; M2 tras orientación nutricional convencional; M3 tras aprendizaje del conteo de carbohidratos (CCHO) y M4 en conteo pleno. El análisis estadístico fue descriptivo e inferencial. La antropometría comprobó que el CCHO no resultó en ganancia de peso y fue efectivo en el sexo masculino, demostrado por la reducción en las concentraciones de fructosamina (p=0,050) y HbA1C (p=0,041) en el M4 comparado al M1. Considerando la fructosamina, el grupo con CCHO se diferenció del grupo sin CCHO M4 (p=0,035). La terapéutica insulínica asociada al CCHO demostró ser un recurso importante a ser integrado en el tratamiento del DM1, a fin de alcanzar blancos efectivos en la reducción de las complicaciones.

ABSTRACT The treatment of Diabetes Mellitus Type 1 (DM1) involves adherence to insulin treatment, diet and physical activity, aiming at glycemic control. The objective of this study was to observe the effects of nutritional interference in the treatment of patients with DM1. It is a quantitative, prospective and longitudinal study developed at the UFTM Diabetes Outpatient Clinic. Data collection was performed between March 2013 and September 2014. Thirty-one children and adolescents between 6 and 17 years old were evaluated for anthropometry, glycemic and lipid control in four stages: M1 at the beginning of follow-up; M2 after conventional nutritional counseling; M3 after learning the carbohydrate count (CCHO) and M4 in full count. Statistical analysis was descriptive and inferential. The anthropometry showed that CCHO did not result in weight gain and was effective in males, demonstrated by the reduction in the concentrations of fructosamine (p=0.050) and HbA1C (p=0.041) in M4 compared to M1. Considering the fructosamine, the CCHO group differed from the non-CCHO M4 group (p=0.035). CCHO-associated insulin therapy has been shown to be an important resource to be integrated into the treatment of DM1 to achieve effective targets in reducing complications.

Primary amenorrhea associated with hyperprolactinemia in polyglandular autoimmune syndrome type II: A case report / Amenorreia primária associada com hiperprolactinemia em síndrome poliglandular autoimune tipo 2: relato de caso

Abstract Polyglandular autoimmune syndrome type II (PGA-II) is a rare immunoendocrinopathy syndrome characterized by the occurrence of autoimmune Addison disease along with diabetes mellitus type 1 and/or autoimmune thyroid disease. Here, we report the case of a 23-year-old female with PGA-II who was followed up at the dermatology and endocrinology clinics of the Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, located in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. First, the patient presented diffuse skin hyperpigmentation, vitiligo; and in sequence, due to vomiting, appetite and weight loss, hypoglycemia, amenorrhea, and galactorrhea, the patient was then diagnosed with PGA-II. The patient also presented intense hyperprolactinemia due to primary hypothyroidism. The late diagnosis of PGA-II is frequent because the disorder is uncommon and has non-specific clinical manifestations. This report emphasizes the significance of a timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with these diseases, especially Addison disease. The present study reports a rare case of a patient with PGA-II with primary amenorrhea associated with hyperprolactinemia.

Resumo A síndrome poliglandular autoimune tipo 2 (SPGA-2) é uma síndrome de imunoendocrinopatia rara caracterizada por doença de Addison autoimune associada à diabetes mellitus tipo 1 e/ou doenças tireoidianas autoimunes. Relatamos aqui o caso de uma paciente de 23 anos de idade com SPGA-2 que foi acompanhada nos ambulatórios de dermatologia e endocrinologia da Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, localizada no estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Primeiramente, a paciente apresentou hiperpigmentação cutânea difusa e vitiligo; posteriormente, por apresentar vômitos, hiporexia, perda ponderal, hipoglicemia, amenorreia e galactorreia, foi diagnosticada com SPGA-2. A paciente apresentou também intensa hiperprolactinemia secundária apenas ao hipotireoidismo primário. É comum o diagnóstico tardio da SPGA-2, pois a doença é rara e apresenta manifestações clínicas inespecíficas. Este relato de caso enfatiza a importância do diagnóstico e tratamento precoces como objetivo de reduzir a morbimortalidade associada a essas doenças, especialmente à doença de Addison. O presente estudo descreve um caso raro de uma paciente com SPGA-2 com amenorreia primária associada a hiperprolactinemia.

Percepção de Acadêmicos de Medicina e de Outras Áreas da Saúde e Humanas (Ligadas à Saúde) sobre as Relações entre Espiritualidade, Religiosidade e Saúde / The Perception of Medical Students as well as Students from Other Health-Related Areas Regarding the Relations between Spirituality, Religiosity and Health

RESUMO Introdução: Alguns autores encontraram relação estreita e positiva da religiosidade e espiritualidade com comportamentos saudáveis, resultando em saúde adequada. Além disso, dados da literatura sugerem que, de modo geral, as pessoas se apoiam em suas crenças para enfrentar momentos de dificuldades pessoais e coletivas. Os profissionais cujas práticas estão ligadas ao cuidado em saúde necessitam se capacitar para atender e respeitar as manifestações e necessidades dos pacientes no que se refere a religiosidade e espiritualidade. Objetivos: Investigar o que pensam os acadêmicos ingressantes no curso de Medicina e de outras áreas da saúde e humanas acerca do tema; identificar o papel e a importância da religiosidade e espiritualidade em suas vidas e futuras práticas profissionais. Metodologia: Trata-se de estudo quantitativo-qualitativo, descritivo, transversal, de amostra intencional. Entre fevereiro e abril de 2014, foi aplicado aos acadêmicos do primeiro período de Medicina, Biomedicina, Enfermagem, Fisioterapia, Terapia Ocupacional, Educação Física, Nutrição, Psicologia e Serviço Social um questionário que avaliou variáveis sociodemográficas e conceitos que envolvem religiosidade e espiritualidade e saúde. A análise dos dados empregou Qui-Quadrado clássico, feita pelo SPSS versão 2.0, e P < 0,05 foi considerado significante. Resultados: Foram selecionados 270 alunos, de 18 a 43 anos; entretanto, 183 preencheram o questionário, sendo a maioria do sexo feminino, de família convencional, cristã/católica, que herdou a religião dos pais; 78,6% (144/183) referiram afiliação religiosa, 43,5% (87/183) a exercem de forma organizacional. A maioria dos indivíduos considerou que a religiosidade e espiritualidade confere sentido a suas vidas, fortalece em momentos difíceis, traz benefícios à saúde, e considera importante a abordagem de temas relacionados em sua formação acadêmica, enquanto 31,4% (57/183) referiram que houve influência da religiosidade e espiritualidade na escolha profissional. Conclusão: Os alunos das áreas estudadas que ingressaram na Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro manifestaram características positivas relacionadas ao tema religiosidade e espiritualidade, e têm expectativa de uma abordagem mais integral e espiritual do homem na grade curricular.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Some authors have found close and positive relationship between religiosity and spirituality and healthy behaviors that result in good health. Furthermore, data drawn from the literature suggest that, in general, people rely on their beliefs to face moments of personal and collective difficulties. Professionals whose practices are linked to health care, need to be trained to meet and observe the needs of patients, in terms of religiosity and spirituality. Objective: To investigate what medical students as well as students in the health area think about this topic, in addition to identifying the role and importance they attribute to religiosity and spirituality in their lives and future professional practices. Methodology: This was a quantitative and qualitative, descriptive, cross intentional sample study. We applied a questionnaire to first-year students of medicine, biomedicine, nursing, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, physical education, nutrition, psychology and social service, which assessed socio-demographic variables and concepts involving religiosity and spirituality and health. For the data analysis, we used the Chi-Square test developed in SPSS version 2.0, and P<0.05 was considered significant. Results: We selected 270 students, aged between 18 and 43, however, only 183 completed the questionnaire. The majority of the respondents were female, who come from conventional Catholic and Christian families, and inherited their religion from their parents; 78.6% (144/183) report religious affiliation, 43.5% (87/183) practice it in a disciplined way. Most the individuals considered that R/S gives meaning to their lives, strengthens them in times of trouble and brings benefits to their health. They also consider religiosity and spirituality and issues related issues as very important to their academic background, whereas 31.4% (57/183) quoted that religiosity and spirituality have influenced their professional choice. Conclusion: Those who have become students at the Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro have a positive attitude towards religiosity and spirituality and expect a more comprhensive and spiritual approach towards their curriculum.

Timing of thyroid ultrasonography in the etiological investigation of congenital hypothyroidism

ABSTRACT Objectives To describe the findings of thyroid ultrasonography (T-US), its contribution to diagnose congenital hypothyroidism (CH) and the best time to perform it. Subjects and methods Forty-four patients with CH were invited to undergo T-US and 41 accepted. Age ranged from 2 months to 45 years; 23 patients were females. All were treated with L-thyroxine; 16 had previously undergone scintigraphy and 30 had previous T-US, which were compared to current ones. Results At the current T-US, the thyroid gland was not visualized in its normal topography in 10 patients (24.5%); 31 T-US showed topic thyroid, 17 with normal or increased volume due to probable dyshormonogenesis, 13 cases of hypoplasia and one case of left-lobe hemiagenesis. One patient had decreased volume due to central hypothyroidism. Scintigraphy scans performed 3-4 years earlier showed 100% agreement with current results. Comparisons with previous T-US showed concordant results regarding thyroid location, but a decrease in current volume was observed in eight due to the use of L-thyroxine, calling the diagnosis of hypoplasia into question. Conclusions The role of T-US goes beyond complementing scintigraphy results. It allows inferring the etiology of CH, but it must be performed in the first months of life. An accurate diagnosis of CH will be attained with molecular study and the T-US can guide this early assessment, without therapy withdrawal.

Evaluation of clinical and laboratory markers of cardiometabolic risk in overweight and obese children and adolescents

OBJECTIVE: This study analyzed the frequency of cardiometabolic risk markers and metabolic syndrome occurrence in overweight and obese children and adolescents. METHODS: The participants included 161 overweight (n=65) and obese (n=96) individuals aged between 5 and 19 years. Clinical markers were assessed (body mass index, body fat percentage, waist circumference, acanthosis, systolic and diastolic blood pressures, laboratory parameters [glucose, insulin, cholesterol (total and fractions) and triglyceride levels and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) index] and leptin and adiponectin levels). The frequency of changes, odds ratios and correlations among markers were determined. Metabolic syndrome was assessed according to International Diabetes Federation criteria. RESULTS: A high frequency of acanthosis (51.6%); increased waist circumference (45.4%), systolic blood pressure / diastolic blood pressure (8.1% / 9.3%), glucose (10%), insulin (36.9%) and HOMA-IR (44.3%) values; and reduced high-density lipoprotein levels (47.2%) were observed. Leptin levels were increased in 95% of obese and in 66% of overweight subjects. Adiponectin was decreased in 29.5% of obese and in 34% of overweight subjects. An odd ratio analysis revealed a greater probability of increased waist circumference (9.0), systolic blood pressure (4.1), triglyceride (2.3) and insulin (2.9) levels and HOMA-IR (3.0) in the obese group than in the overweight group. The clinical and laboratory parameters and leptin levels exhibited significant correlations, whereas adiponectin was negatively correlated with systolic blood pressure. The occurrence rate of metabolic syndrome was 13.6%. CONCLUSIONS: The high frequency of changes in clinical, laboratory and adipokine markers indicates the need for early interventions aimed at preventing cardiometabolic complications in adulthood.

Estabilidade de uma bebida funcional de frutas tropicais e yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) durante o armazenamento sob refrigeração / Stability of a functional beverage composed by tropical fruits and yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) under refrigerated storage

O desenvolvimento de bebidas com perfil funcional deve considerar também a conservação dos compostos ou propriedades funcionais durante o período de armazenamento. Assim, o objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar a estabilidade de uma bebida funcional de frutas tropicais e yacon durante o armazenamento em refrigeração (5°C). A bebida, composta por 50% de extrato de yacon e 50% de blend de frutas tropicais (camu-camu, acerola, caju, cajá, açaí e abacaxi) foi pasteurizada (90 segundos/85°C) e armazenada sob refrigeração (5°C). No tempo inicial, e a cada 45 dias do período de estocagem, foram determinados os compostos bioativos (ácido ascórbico e polifenóis extraíveis totais), atividade antioxidante total, sólidos solúveis totais, acidez total titulável, pH, cor (L*, a* e b*), açúcares totais, sacarose, glicose e frutose, sendo que a análises físicas e químicas foram limitadas pela diminuição da atividade antioxidante total e de seus componentes bioativos. A bebida manteve relativa qualidade física e química durante o período de armazenamento, sendo que em 225 dias de estocagem, os teores de polifenóis extraíveis totais e atividade antioxidante total apresentaram uma queda mais acentuada, e desta forma, estes parâmetros foram avaliados somente até este período. Porém, o principal limitante para o armazenamento da bebida foi devido a aceitabilidade sensorial e segurança microbiológica, que embora de acordo com a legislação vigente, limitou o período de armazenamento para 90 dias(AU)

The development of beverages with functional properties must consider the preservation of the bioactive or functional properties during storage. For this reason, the aim of this study was to evaluate the stability of a functional beverage of tropical fruits and yacon, stored under refrigeration. The beverage, composed by 50% of yacon and 50% of a blended tropical fruits (camu-camu, acerola, cashew-apple, yellow mombin, acai and pineapple), was pasteurized (90 seconds/ 85°C) and stored under refrigeration (5°C). After processing and on 45 day intervals until the end of storage, were assayed the bioactive compounds (ascorbic acid and total extractable polyphenols), antioxidant activity, total soluble solids, titratable total acidity, pH, color (L*, a* and b*), total sugar content, sucrose, glucose and fructose, and nd the physical and chemical analyzes were limited by decreased total antioxidant activity and their bioactive components. The beverage showed relative physical and chemical quality during storage period , and in the 225 days of storage, the total extractable polyphenols and total antioxidant activity showed a significantly decline , and thus , these parameters were evaluated only until this period. However, the main limitation for the beverage storage was due to sensory acceptability and microbiological safety, which although in accordance with Brazilian legislation, limited storage period for 90 days(AU)

Clonidine-stimulated growth hormone concentrations (cut-off values) measured by immunochemiluminescent assay (ICMA) in children and adolescents with short stature

OBJECTIVES: To establish cut-off values for growth hormone concentrations using clonidine as a secretagogue and an immunochemiluminescent assay as the method of measurement and to analyze the response time as well as the influence of gender, nutritional status and pubertal stage. METHODS: A total of 225 tests were performed in 3 patient groups, categorized as group 1 (normal), group 2 (idiopathic short stature) and group 3 (growth hormone deficiency). Among the 199 disease-free individuals, 138 were prepubertal, and 61 were pubertal. Clonidine (0.1 mg/m2) was orally administered, and the growth hormone level was measured by immunochemiluminescent assay. The growth hormone peak and the difference between the growth hormone peak and the baseline level were then analyzed. Statistical analyses were performed using Student’s t-test or the Mann-Whitney test and Kruskal-Wallis test followed by Dunn’s post hoc test. Cut-off values were determined using a receiver operating characteristic curve. RESULTS: Group 1 and group 2 had no difference in growth hormone peak, gender, body mass index standard deviation score, or pubertal stage. Group 3 exhibited a significantly lower growth hormone peak than the other groups did. The receiver operating characteristic curve demonstrated that growth hormone concentrations ≥ 3.0 ng/mL defined responsiveness to clonidine. In total, 3.02% of individuals in group 1 and group 2 were considered false positive, i.e., these children lacked growth hormone deficiency and had a peak below 3.0 ng/mL. CONCLUSION: Clonidine-stimulated growth hormone concentrations ≥3 ng/mL, as measured by immunochemiluminescent assay, suggest responsiveness to the stimulus regardless of gender, body mass index standard deviation score or pubertal stage.

Evaluation of central precocious puberty treatment with GnRH analogue at the Triangulo Mineiro Federal University (UFTM)

Objective To report our experience of treating central precocious puberty (CPP) with a GnRH analogue with respect to the final heights (FH) attained in patients who completed treatment. Subjects and methods Among 105 records of children diagnosed with precocious puberty, 62 cases (54 girls and 8 boys), who were treated with leuprolide acetate/3.75 mg/monthly, were selected, and divided into 4 groups: group 1 (G1), 25 girls who attained FH; group 2 (G2), 18 girls who completed treatment but did not reach FH; group 3 (G3), 11 girls still under treatment; and group 4 (G4), 8 boys, 5 of which attained FH. Treatment was concluded at a bone age of 12 years, and follow-up continued until FH was achieved. Results In both G1 and G2 groups, height standard deviation score (SDS), weight-SDS and percentile of body mass index (PBMI) did not show intra/intergroup differences at the beginning and at interruption of treatment, but when added, G1+G2, height-SDS and weight-SDS differed significantly (p = 0.002 and 0.0001, respectively). In G1, 19 of 25 cases attained TH, and average height gain was 16.7 cm (7.7- 27.1); there was significant difference between FH and prediction of FH at the start (PFH at start) (p = 0.0001), as well as between PFH at interruption vs TH and vs FH (p = 0.007) with FH higher than TH (p = 0.004). Significant correlation was identified between FH and height gain after treatment. Conclusion As shown by some studies, GnRH analogue treatment was effective in children with CPP reaching FH near the genetic target.