Stress, anxiety, and depression trajectories during the "first wave" of the COVID-19 pandemic: what drives resilient, adaptive and maladaptive responses in the Portuguese population?

Introduction: The COVID-19 outbreak and the community mitigation strategies implemented to reduce new SARS-CoV-2 infections can be regarded as powerful stressors with negative consequences on people's mental health. Although it has been shown that negative emotional symptoms subside during lockdown, it is likely the existence of inter-individual differences in stress, anxiety and depression trajectories throughout lockdown. Objectives: We aimed to cluster participants' according to their trajectories of stress, anxiety and depression scores throughout lockdown, and identify the sociodemographic, clinical, and lifestyle factors that may distinguish the subjects included in the different clusters. Methods: From March 23, 2020, to May 31, 2020, participants completed weekly online questionnaires on sociodemographic information (age, sex, education level, and employment status), psychological functioning (DASS-21, NEO-FFI-20), and clinical data (psychiatric disorders, psychiatric medication, physical disorders). Data regarding smoking status, alcohol consumption, physical activity, and time spent daily looking for COVID-19-related information were also collected. Stress, anxiety and depression trajectories were determined using latent class mixed models. Results: A total of 2040 participants answered the survey at baseline and 603 participants answered all surveys. Three groups ("Resilient," "Recovered," and "Maladaptive") with distinct mental health trajectories were identified. Younger participants, women, participants with lower education level, not working, studying, diagnosed with a mental disorder, taking psychiatric medication, smokers, those who spent more time consuming COVID-19-related information and those with higher neuroticism tended to cluster in the "Maladaptive" group, placing them at higher risk of persistent negative emotional symptoms during compulsory confinement. Conclusion: Accordingly, a tailored approach to emotional suffering for vulnerable subjects during the COVID-19 and future pandemics must be devised.

GET-UP Trial 1-year results: long-term impact of an early mobilization protocol on functional performance after surgery for chronic subdural hematoma.

OBJECTIVE: Evidence on timing for mobilization after chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) surgery is heterogeneous, and practices differ considerably among neurosurgical centers. The Impact of an Early Out-of-Bed Paradigm in Postoperative Outcomes of Chronic Subdural Hematomas: GET-UP Randomized Prospective Trial (GET-UP Trial) is a randomized clinical trial comparing a postoperative early mobilization protocol to bed rest. Previously reported results at clinical discharge and 1 month after surgery indicated a decreased risk of medical complications in the early mobilization group. Herein, the authors report outcomes at the 1-year follow-up. METHODS: The GET-UP Trial is a prospective, randomized, unicentric, open-label study with an intention-to-treat primary analysis designed to evaluate the impact of an early mobilization protocol after burr hole craniostomy for cSDH on the occurrence of medical complications and functional outcomes. Between January 2019 and August 2021, a total of 208 patients were recruited and randomized to either an early mobilization group, in which patients began elevation of the head of the bed within the first 12 hours after surgery, or to a bed rest group, in which patients remained recumbent for 48 hours. Outcomes assessed at the 1-year follow-up included functional status as measured by the Glasgow Outcome Scale-Extended (GOSE) and repeat surgery for hematoma recurrence (surgical recurrence). RESULTS: A total of 203 patients completed 1 year of follow-up: 101 in the bed rest group and 102 in the early mobilization group. No significant baseline pre-randomization clinical differences were observed between the two management groups. At 1 year after surgery, a favorable functional outcome, defined as a GOSE score ≥ 5, was observed in 59 patients (58.4%) in the bed rest group and 78 (76.5%) in the early mobilization group (p = 0.006). Death occurred in 25 patients (24.8%) in the bed rest group and 16 (15.7%) in the early mobilization group (p = 0.108). Surgical recurrence was noted in 6 patients (5.9%) in the bed rest group and 7 (6.9%) in the early mobilization group (p = 0.788). Multivariate analysis showed an independent association between early mobilization and an increase in favorable functional outcomes (OR 2.006, 95% CI 1.076-3.739, p = 0.028). CONCLUSIONS: The GET-UP Trial is the first randomized clinical trial assessing the impact of mobilization strategies on medical complications after burr hole craniostomy for cSDH. Regarding functional results 1 year after surgery, early mobilization was associated with an improvement in functional outcomes without an increase in surgical recurrence. These findings support the preference for an early mobilization protocol in cSDH patients over mandatory bed rest strategies.

Impact of an early mobilization protocol on the reduction of medical complications after surgery for chronic subdural hematoma: the GET-UP Trial.

OBJECTIVE: Timing of mobilization after chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) surgery is highly heterogeneous among neurosurgical centers. Past studies have suggested that early mobilization may reduce medical complications without increasing recurrence, but evidence remains scarce. The purpose of this study was to compare an early mobilization protocol with a 48-hour bed rest practice, with a focus on the occurrence of medical complications. METHODS: The GET-UP Trial is a prospective, randomized, unicentric, open-label study with an intention-to-treat primary analysis designed to evaluate the impact of an early mobilization protocol after burr hole craniostomy for cSDH on the occurrence of medical complications and functional outcomes. A total of 208 patients were recruited and randomly assigned to either an early mobilization group where they began head-of-bed elevation within the first 12 hours after surgery and proceeded to sedestation, orthostatism, and/or walking as rapidly as tolerated, or to a bed rest group where they remained recumbent with a head-of-bed angle inferior to 30° for 48 hours after surgery. The primary outcome was the occurrence of a medical complication (defined as either an infection, seizure, or thrombotic event) after surgery and until clinical discharge. Secondary outcomes included length of stay measured from randomization to clinical discharge, surgical hematoma recurrence at clinical discharge and 1 month after surgery, and Glasgow Outcome Scale-Extended (GOSE) assessment at clinical discharge and 1 month after surgery. RESULTS: A total of 104 patients were randomly assigned to each group. No significant baseline clinical differences were observed before randomization. The primary outcome occurred in 36 (34.6%) patients included in the bed rest group and 20 (19.2%) in the early mobilization group (p = 0.012). At 1 month after surgery, a favorable functional outcome (defined as GOSE score ≥ 5) was observed in 75 (72.1%) patients in the bed rest group and 85 (81.7%) in the early mobilization group (p = 0.100). Surgical recurrence occurred in 5 (4.8%) patients in the bed rest group and 8 (7.7%) in the early mobilization group (p = 0.390). CONCLUSIONS: The GET-UP Trial is the first randomized clinical trial to assess the impact of mobilization strategies on medical complications after burr hole craniostomy for cSDH. Early mobilization was associated with a reduction in medical complications without a significant effect on surgical recurrence, compared with a 48-hour bed rest protocol.

Acidentes com exposição a material biológico com profissionais do serviço de atendimento móvel de urgência / Biological material exposition accident with ambulant urgent care service professionals / Accidentes con exposición a material biológico con profesionales del servicio de atendimiento móvil de emergencia

Objetivo: Caracterizar os acidentes com materiais biológicos e analisar a percepção dos profissionais do Serviço de Atendimento Móvel de Urgência sobre a ocorrência e conduta pós-acidentes. Métodos: Estudo qualitativo, com abordagem descritiva-exploratória, realizado com 39 profissionais do serviço. As entrevistas foram realizadas em 2020, utilizando um roteiro de entrevista semiestruturado e analisadas de acordo com a análise de conteúdo de Bardin. Este estudo foi aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética e Pesquisa da Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, através do número de CAAE: 29980820.7.0000.5526. Resultados: Após análise, os dados quantitativos demonstraram que os acidentes foram mais frequentes nos profissionais de higienização e nos técnicos em enfermagem, acontecendo por via percutânea e cutânea mucosa, principalmente nas mãos e olhos durante limpeza da ambulância e punção venosa. Quanto aos dados qualitativos emergiram três categorias: sentimentos vivenciados pelos profissionais em relação ao risco aos quais estão expostos, identificação dos riscos de acidente com material biológico e conduta no atendimento pós-exposição e rede de atenção à saúde. Conclusão: Conclui-se que preocupação, medo e angústia foram os sentimentos mais evidenciados pelos profissionais e que estes apresentaram conhecimento básico sobre as condutas frente aos acidentes, apesar de desconhecerem o fluxo de atendimento do serviço. (AU)

Objective: To characterize accidents with biological materials and analyze the perception of Mobile Emergency Care Service professionals about the occurrence and post-accident conduct. Methods: Qualitative study, with a descriptive-exploratory approach, conducted with 39 professionals from the occupation. The interviews were conducted in 2020, using a semi-structured interview script and analyzed according to Bardin's content analysis. This study was approved by the Ethics and Research Committee of the State University of Santa Cruz, through the CAAE number: 29980820.7.0000.5526. Results: After analysis, the quantitative data showed that accidents were more frequent in hygiene professionals and nursing technicians, happening by percutaneous and cutaneous mucous route, mainly in the hands and eyes, during ambulance cleaning and venipuncture. Regarding qualitative data, three categories emerged: feelings experienced by professionals regarding the risk to which they are exposed, accidents risk identification with biological material and conduct in postexposure care and health care network. Conclusion: It is perceived that concern, fear, and anguish were the feelings most evidenced by the professionals, and that they have basic knowledge about how to handle accidents, despite not knowing the structure of the work system. (AU)

Objetivo: caracterizar los accidentes con materiales biológicos y analizar la percepción de los profesionales de servicio de atendimiento móvil de emergencia sobre la ocurrencia y conducta pos-incidentes. Métodos: Estudio cualitativo, con abordaje descriptiva-exploratoria, realzado con 39 profesionales del servicio. Las entrevistas fueron realizadas en 2020, utilizando un guion de entrevista semi-estructurado y analizadas de acuerdo con el analice del contenido de Bardin. Este estudio fue aprobado por el Comité de Ética y Pesquisa de la Universidad Estadual de Santa Cruz, a través del número de CAAE: 29980820.7.0000.5526. Resultados: Tras el análisis, los datos cuantitativos mostraron que los accidentes fueron más frecuentes entre los profesionales de la higiene y los técnicos de enfermería, ocurriendo por vía percutánea y mucosa, especialmente en manos y ojos, durante la limpieza de ambulancias y venopunción. Cuanto a los datos cualitativos surgieron tres categorías: sentimientos vividos por los profesionales en relación al riesgo al que están expuestos, identificación de los riesgos de accidentes con material biológico y conducta en la atención pos-exposición y red de atención a la salud. Conclusión: Se concluye que la preocupación, miedo y angustia fueron los sentimientos más evidenciados por los profesionales y que estos presentaron conocimientos básico sobre las conductas frente a los accidentes, a pesar de desconocieren el flujo de atención del servicio. (AU)

Resistência microbiana a medicamentos em uma Instituição de Longa Permanência para Idosos / Resistencia microbiana a medicamentos en una institución de larga estadía para adultos mayores / Microbial drug resistance in a Nursing Home

Resumo Objetivo Caracterizar os microrganismos e sua suscetibilidade antimicrobiana em uroculturas de idosos residentes de uma instituição de longa permanência. Métodos Estudo observacional transversal com 116 indivíduos de uma Instituição de Longa Permanência para Idosos de um município do sul da Bahia. O estudo foi aprovado por Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa e utilizou-se Termo de Consentimento Livre e Esclarecido. Foram realizadas coleta e análise laboratorial de urina tipo I e urocultura. Realizaram-se testes de sensibilidade a antimicrobianos conforme os critérios do European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing. Para o diagnóstico de infecção do trato urinário, foram utilizados os critérios de McGeer. A análise de dados se deu por estatística descritiva, com frequências absolutas e relativas. Resultados A prevalência de infecção do trato urinário foi de 33,62%, com predominância no sexo feminino e idade acima de 80 anos. Os uropatógenos foram: 69,2% Escherichia coli, 20,6% Klebsiella pneumoniae e 5,1% Providencia stuartii e Acinetobacter baumannii. As cepas de E. coli apresentaram suscetibilidade para a maior parte dos antimicrobianos; já nas de K. pneumoniae, a suscetibilidade foi variável. P. stuartii e A. baumannii não apresentaram resistência a carbapenêmicos e aos betalactâmicos aztreonam e piperacilina associados a tazobactam. Conclusão As cepas mais prevalentes e o perfil de suscetibilidade seguiram padrão próximo ao hospitalar, o que implica a necessidade de a instituição promover melhores estratégias de controle de infecção e envolver a equipe de enfermagem no gerenciamento dos casos e na qualificação da prescrição antimicrobiana, para reduzir a resistência bacteriana e efeitos adversos nos idosos.

Resumen Objetivo Caracterizar los microorganismos y su susceptibilidad antimicrobiana en urocultivos de adultos mayores residentes en una institución de larga estadía. Métodos Estudio observacional transversal con 116 individuos de una institución de larga estadía para adultos mayores de un municipio del sur del estado de Bahia. El estudio fue aprobado por el Comité de Ética de Investigación y se utilizó Consentimiento Informado. Se obtuvieron muestras de orina, con las cuales se realizó análisis de laboratorio tipo I y urocultivo. Se realizaron pruebas de sensibilidad a antimicrobianos según los criterios del European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing. Para el diagnóstico de infección del tracto urinario, se utilizaron los criterios de McGeer. El análisis de datos se obtuvo mediante estadística descriptiva, con frecuencias absolutas y relativas. Resultados La prevalencia de infección del tracto urinario fue del 33,62 %, con predominancia del sexo femenino y edad superior a 80 años. Los uropatógenos fueron: 69,2 % Escherichia coli, 20,6 % Klebsiella pneumoniae y 5,1 % Providencia stuartii y Acinetobacter baumannii. Las cepas de E. coli presentaron susceptibilidad en la mayor parte de los antimicrobianos, en las de K. pneumoniae, la susceptibilidad fue variable. P. stuartii y A. baumannii no presentaron resistencia a carbapenémicos ni a los betalactámicos aztreonam y piperacilina asociados a tazobactam. Conclusión Las cepas más prevalentes y el perfil de susceptibilidad presentaron un patrón parecido al hospitalario, lo que implica la necesidad de que la institución promueva mejores estrategias de control de infecciones e involucre al equipo de enfermería en la gestión de los casos y en la cualificación de la prescripción antimicrobiana para reducir la resistencia bacteriana y los efectos adversos en los adultos mayores.

Resumo Objetivo Caracterizar os microrganismos e sua suscetibilidade antimicrobiana em uroculturas de idosos residentes de uma instituição de longa permanência. Métodos Estudo observacional transversal com 116 indivíduos de uma Instituição de Longa Permanência para Idosos de um município do sul da Bahia. O estudo foi aprovado por Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa e utilizou-se Termo de Consentimento Livre e Esclarecido. Foram realizadas coleta e análise laboratorial de urina tipo I e urocultura. Realizaram-se testes de sensibilidade a antimicrobianos conforme os critérios do European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing. Para o diagnóstico de infecção do trato urinário, foram utilizados os critérios de McGeer. A análise de dados se deu por estatística descritiva, com frequências absolutas e relativas. Resultados A prevalência de infecção do trato urinário foi de 33,62%, com predominância no sexo feminino e idade acima de 80 anos. Os uropatógenos foram: 69,2% Escherichia coli, 20,6% Klebsiella pneumoniae e 5,1% Providencia stuartii e Acinetobacter baumannii. As cepas de E. coli apresentaram suscetibilidade para a maior parte dos antimicrobianos; já nas de K. pneumoniae, a suscetibilidade foi variável. P. stuartii e A. baumannii não apresentaram resistência a carbapenêmicos e aos betalactâmicos aztreonam e piperacilina associados a tazobactam. Conclusão As cepas mais prevalentes e o perfil de suscetibilidade seguiram padrão próximo ao hospitalar, o que implica a necessidade de a instituição promover melhores estratégias de controle de infecção e envolver a equipe de enfermagem no gerenciamento dos casos e na qualificação da prescrição antimicrobiana, para reduzir a resistência bacteriana e efeitos adversos nos idosos.

Knowledge of oral and oropharyngeal cancer by dental surgeons: an integrative review.

OBJECTIVES: to identify the evidence available in the literature on the knowledge of dentists regarding risk factors and early diagnosis of oral and oropharyngeal cancer. METHODS: it is an integrative review of the literature. Boolean descriptors and operators were searched in the PubMed and LILACS databases, using gray literature, in English, Spanish and Portuguese. RESULTS: of the 79 PubMed and 152 LILACS articles, 24 were selected. Of these, eight showed good knowledge of dentists, while most showed low or little knowledge of risk factors and early diagnosis in dentists. All studies, however, highlight the need for continuing education to improve and maintain knowledge about risk factors and early diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS: most dental surgeons have insufficient knowledge of oral/oropharyngeal cancer. Continued education is suggested, aiming at improving knowledge and early diagnosis.

Oral focal mucinosis: A multi-institutional study and literature review.

BACKGROUND: Oral focal mucinosis (OFM) is a rare benign condition of unknown etiology, considered the oral counterpart of cutaneous focal mucinosis. We report the clinicopathologic features of 21 cases of OFM in conjunction with a review of the literature. METHODS: Clinical data were collected from the records of five oral and maxillofacial pathology services. All cases were evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin staining, histochemistry, and immunohistochemistry (vimentin, S-100, α-SMA, CD34, and mast cell). RESULTS: The series comprised 14 females (66.7%) and seven males (33.3%), with a mean age of 48.2 ± 20.7 years (range: 8-77 years) and a 2:1 female-to-male ratio. Most of the lesions affected the gingiva (n = 6, 28.6%) and presented clinically as asymptomatic sessile or pedunculated nodules with fibrous or hyperplasic appearance. All cases were negative for S-100 protein, CD34, and α-SMA and positive for Alcian blue staining. Conservative surgical excision was the treatment in all cases, and there was only one recurrence. CONCLUSION: OFM is a rare benign disorder that is often clinically misdiagnosed as reactive lesions or benign proliferative processes. Dermatologists and pathologists should consider OFM in the differential diagnosis of soft tissue lesions in the oral cavity, mainly located in the gingiva.

Legalidade e ética entre obstetras do serviço de aborto legal em Alagoas no atendimento às vítimas de estupro / Legality and ethics among obstetricians of the legal abortion service in Alagoas during the care for rape victims

Objetivo: Determinar o perfil ético profissional dos obstetras do serviço de aborto legal no estado de Alagoas (Brasil) e delinear um protocolo e fluxograma para auxiliar no atendimento de mulheres estupradas. Métodos: Realizamos um estudo observacional-transversal, prospectivo e descritivo, incluindo todos os 26 obstetras do serviço de aborto legal. Na fase 1, investigaram-se o conhecimento legal e a posição ética, enquanto na fase 2 foram construídos um protocolo e um fluxograma para guiar o serviço nos casos de aborto legal. Resultados: Na fase 1, identificamos que a maioria dos obstetras não conhecia os aspectos legais sobre o aborto, não se sentiam confortáveis em estar no serviço e apontaram várias limitações no funcionamento dele. Na fase 2, foram desenvolvidos um protocolo e um fluxograma aplicados aos casos em que uma mulher estuprada deseja abortar por métodos legais. Conclusão: O perfil dos obstetras do serviço de aborto legal é insuficiente para lidar com a complexidade do aborto no estado. O protocolo e o fluxograma delineados tiveram o propósito de ajudar o serviço de aborto legal do estado a lidar com esse problema público/social.(AU)

Objective: To determine the professional ethical profile of obstetricians from the legal abortion service in Alagoas state (Brazil) and to design a protocol and flowchart to help the attendance of raped woman. Methods: We performed an observational- -sectional, prospective and descriptive study including all 26 obstetricians from the legal abortion service. Phase 1 investigated the legal knowledge and ethical position, while phase 2 was the construction of a protocol and flowchart to guide the service in cases of legal abortion. Results: In the phase 1 we identified that most obstetrician did not know the legal aspects about abortion; did not few comfortable to be in the service and they pointed out several limitations of how service works. Phase 2 of the study was the development of a protocol and flowchart applied to the cases which a raped woman wants to abort by legal methods. Conclusion: The profile of obstetrician from the legal abortion service is insufficient to deal with the complexity of abort in the state. The protocol designed have the purpose to help the state legal abortion service to deal with this public/social problem.(AU)

Childhood pemphigus vulgaris is a challenging diagnosis

Pemphigus Vulgaris (PV) is an uncommon autoimmune and blistering mucocutaneous disease. Childhood Pemphigus Vulgaris (CPV) is a pediatric variant of PV, which affects children below 12 years, being very rare among children under 10 years of age. CPV has similar clinical, histological, and immunological features as seen in PV in adults. The mucocutaneous clinical presentation is the most common in both age groups. Vesicles and erosions arising from the disease usually cause pain. A few CPV cases have been reported in the literature. This study reports a case of an 8-year-old male patient with oral lesions since the age of 3 years, and the diagnosis of pemphigus was achieved only 2 years after the appearance of the initial lesions. CPV remains a rare disease, making the diagnosis of this clinical case a challenge due to its age of onset and clinical features presented by the patient. Therefore, dentists and physicians should know how to differentiate CPV from other bullous autoimmune diseases more common in childhood.

Knowledge of oral and oropharyngeal cancer by dental surgeons: an integrative review / Conocimiento de los quirúrgicos dentistas sobre cáncer de boca y orofaríngeo: una revisión integrativa / Conhecimento dos cirurgiões-dentistas sobre câncer de boca e orofaringe: uma revisão integrativa

ABSTRACT Objectives: to identify the evidence available in the literature on the knowledge of dentists regarding risk factors and early diagnosis of oral and oropharyngeal cancer. Methods: it is an integrative review of the literature. Boolean descriptors and operators were searched in the PubMed and LILACS databases, using gray literature, in English, Spanish and Portuguese. Results: of the 79 PubMed and 152 LILACS articles, 24 were selected. Of these, eight showed good knowledge of dentists, while most showed low or little knowledge of risk factors and early diagnosis in dentists. All studies, however, highlight the need for continuing education to improve and maintain knowledge about risk factors and early diagnosis. Conclusions: most dental surgeons have insufficient knowledge of oral/oropharyngeal cancer. Continued education is suggested, aiming at improving knowledge and early diagnosis.

RESUMEN Objetivos: identificar evidencias disponibles en la literatura sobre el conocimiento de los quirúrgicos dentistas cuanto a los factores de riesgo y diagnóstico precoz del cáncer de boca/ orofaríngeo. Métodos: revisión integrativa de la literatura. Se realizaron búsquedas mediante los descriptores y operadores booleanos en base de datos PubMed y LILACS, con uso de literatura gris, en los idiomas inglés, español y portugués. Resultados: de los 79 artículos del PubMed y 152 del LILACS, 24 seleccionados. De estos, ocho mostraron bueno conocimiento de los dentistas, mientras la mayoría mostró bajo o poco conocimiento sobre factores de riesgo y diagnóstico precoz en dentistas. Todos los estudios, aunque, destacan la necesidad de educación continuada para mejorar y mantener el conocimiento sobre factores de riesgo y diagnóstico precoz. Conclusiones: gran parte de los quirúrgicos dentistas presenta un conocimiento insuficiente sobre cáncer de boca/orofaríngeo. Sugerida educación continuada, objetivando mejorar el conocimiento y el diagnóstico precoz.

RESUMO Objetivos: identificar as evidências disponíveis na literatura sobre o conhecimento dos cirurgiõesdentistas quanto aos fatores de risco e diagnóstico precoce do câncer de boca e orofaringe. Métodos: trata-se de uma revisão integrativa da literatura. Foram realizadas buscas mediante os descritores e operadores booleanos na base de dados PubMed e LILACS, com uso de literatura cinza, nos idiomas inglês, espanhol e portugês. Resultados: dos 79 artigos do PubMed e 152 do LILACS, 24 foram selecionados. Destes, oito mostraram bom conhecimento dos dentistas, enquanto a maioria mostrou baixo ou pouco conhecimento sobre fatores de risco e diagnóstico precoce em dentistas. Todos os estudos, no entanto, destacam a necessidade de educação continuada para melhorar e manter o conhecimento sobre fatores de risco e diagnóstico precoce. Conclusões: grande parte dos cirurgiões-dentistas apresenta um conhecimento insuficiente sobre câncer de boca/orofaringe. É sugerida a educação continuada, visando melhorar o conhecimento e o diagnóstico precoce.

Olfactory and taste disorders in COVID-19: a systematic review / Desordens olfativas e gustativas na COVID-19: uma revisão sistemática

Abstract Introduction: The SARS-CoV-2 virus causes COVID-19, and it is responsible for the largest pandemic since the 1918 H1N1 influenza outbreak. The classic symptoms of the disease have been well defined by the World Health Organization; however, olfactory/gustatory disorders have been reported in some studies, but there are still several missing points in the understanding and in the consensus about the clinical management of these cases. Objective: To identify evidence in the scientific literature about olfactory/gustatory disorders, their clinical presentation, prevalence and possible specific treatments associated with COVID-19. Methods: A systematic review of articles published up to April 25, 2020 was performed in Medline, Cochrane Clinical Trials, ScienceDirect, Lilacs, Scopus and Google Schoolar, OpenGrey.eu, DissOnline, The New York Academy of Medicine and Reasearch Gate. Inclusion criteria: (1) Studies on patients with COVID-19; (2) Records of COVID-19 signs/symptoms, and olfactory/gustatory functions. Exclusion criteria: (1) Studies on non-human coronavirus; (2) Review articles; (3) Experimental studies (in animals or in vitro); (4) Olfactory/gustatory disorders initiated prior to SARS-CoV-2 infection. The risk assessment of bias of the selected studies was performed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Results: Six articles from the 1788 records met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. A total of 1457 patients of different ethnicities were assessed; of them, 885 (60.7%) and 822 (56.4%) had smell and taste disorders, respectively, with women being most often affected. There were olfactory/gustatory disorders even without nasal obstruction/rhinorrhea and beginning even before the signs/symptoms of COVID-19; the recovery of smell/taste, when it occurs, usually happened in the first two weeks after COVID-19 resolution. There is evidence that olfactory/gustatory disorders are strong predictors of infection by SARS-CoV-2, and it is possible to recommend patient isolation, as early as of the medical consultation, preventing the spread of the virus. No scientific evidence has been identified for effective treatments for any of the disorders. Conclusion: Olfactory/gustatory disorders may occur at varying intensities and prior to the general symptoms of COVID-19 and should be considered as part of the clinical features of COVID-19, even in mild cases. There is still no scientific evidence of specific treatments for such disorders in COVID-19 disease.

Resumo Introdução: O vírus SARS-CoV-2 causa a COVID-19 e é responsável pela maior pandemia desde o surto de influenza H1N1 de 1918. Os sintomas clássicos da doença já foram bem definidos pela Organização Mundial da Saúde; entretanto, distúrbios olfativo-gustativos têm sido relatados em alguns estudos, mas ainda com várias lacunas no entendimento e no consenso sobre a condução clínica desses casos. Objetivo: Identificar evidências na literatura científica sobre os distúrbios olfativo-gustativos acerca da apresentação clínica, prevalência e possíveis tratamentos específicos associados à COVID-19. Método: Revisão sistemática de artigos publicados até 25 de abril de 2020 nas bases de dados: Medline, Cochrane Clinical Trials, ScienceDirect, Lilacs, Scopus e Google Schoolar, OpenGrey.eu, DissOnline, The New York Academy of Medicine e Research Gate. Foram critérios de inclusão: 1) Estudos com indivíduos com COVID-19; 2) Registro dos sinais/sintomas da COVID-19 e das funções olfativo-gustativa. Foram critérios de exclusão: 1) Estudos sobre coronavírus não humano; 2) Artigos de revisão; 3) Estudos experimentais (em animais ou in vitro); 4) Distúrbios olfativos-gustativos iniciados previamente à infecção pelo SARS-CoV-2. A avaliação de risco de viés dos estudos selecionados foi feita por meio da escala de Newcastle-Ottawa. Resultados: Seis artigos dos 1.788 registros foram selecionados. Um total de 1.457 pacientes de diversas etnias foi avaliado; desses, 885 (60,7%) apresentaram perda do olfato e 822 (56,4%) perda do paladar, sendo as mulheres as mais afetadas. Os distúrbios olfativo-gustativos estiveram presentes mesmo sem obstrução nasal/rinorreia e com início mesmo antes dos sinais/sintomas clínicos da COVID-19; a recuperação do olfato/paladar, quando ocorre, geralmente se dá nas duas primeiras semanas após a resolução da doença. Há evidências de que os distúrbios olfativo-gustativos sejam fortes preditores de infecção pelo SARS-CoV-2, podendo-se recomendar o isolamento do paciente, já a partir da consulta médica, para evitar a disseminação do vírus. Não foram identificadas evidências científicas para tratamentos eficazes para qualquer dos distúrbios. Conclusão: Podem ocorrer distúrbios olfativo-gustativos em intensidades variáveis e prévios aos sintomas gerais da COVID-19, devem ser considerados como parte dos sintomas da doença, mesmo em quadros leves. Não há ainda evidências científicas de tratamentos específicos para tais distúrbios na COVID-19.

Prevalence, antifungal susceptibility and virulence determinants of oral yeast species isolated from immunodeficient patients in Northeastern Brazil / Prevalência, suscetibilidade a antifúngicos e determinantes de virulência de leveduras orais isoladas de pacientes imunodeficientes do Nordeste do Brasil / Prevalencia, susceptibilidad antifúngica y determinantes de virulencia de levaduras orales aisladas de pacientes inmunodeficientes del Noreste de Brasil

Justificativa e Objetivos: A candidíase oral tem uma ocorrência comum em pacientes imunocomprometidos. No entanto, outras infecções emergentes tornaram-se cada vez mais habituais. O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a prevalência, os determinantes de virulência e a suscetibilidade a antifúngicos de leveduras que colonizam a mucosa de pacientes imunocomprometidos na região Nordeste do Brasil. Métodos: A amostra foi composta por 60 pacientes HIV positivos atendidos no Serviço de Atendimento Especializado/Hospital Dia do Hospital Universitário Prof. Alberto Antunes, vinculado à Universidade Federal de Alagoas. As amostras foram coletadas em regiões subgengivais e semeadas em CHROMagar para confirmação presuntiva de Candida spp., seguido por PCR e sequenciamento. Além disso, testamos os determinantes de virulência fosfolipase e protease e avaliamos in vitro a concentração inibitória mínima dos antifúngicos anfotericina B e fluconazol. Este projeto foi aprovado pelo Comitê de ética em pesquisa do Centro de Estudos Superiores de Maceió. Resultados: Aproximadamente 63% dos pacientes foram colonizados por leveduras. A espécie C. albicans foi predominante, enquanto as espécies de Candida não-albicans representaram 49% dos isolados, sendo C. dubliniensis e C. parapsilosis as mais comuns. Entretanto, C. intermedia, Bullera penniseticola e Naganishia liquefaciens também foram encontrados. Os determinantes da virulência protease e/ou fosfolipase também foram produzidos por Candida spp. e alguns isolados oportunistas incomuns como Kodamaea ohmeri, N. liquefaciens e Saitozyma podzolica. Além disso, a maioria dos isolados de Candida spp. e algumas espécies oportunistas incomuns apresentaram altos valores de concentração inibitória mínima. Conclusão: Os resultados obtidos indicam que C. albicans continua a ser a espécie predominante na cavidade oral de pacientes imunodeficientes e, juntamente com outras espécies incomuns, pode apresentar alta resistência aos antifúngicos testados.(AU)

Background and Objectives: Oral candidiasis has a common occurrence in immunocompromised patients. However, other emergent infections have become increasingly common. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence, virulence determinants and the antifungal susceptibility of yeast colonizing the mucosa of immunocompromised patients in Northeastern Brazil. Methods: Samples from sixty HIV-positive patients seen at the Specialized Service / Hospital Dia - Hospital Universitário Prof. Alberto Antunes from the Federal University of Alagoas were collected from subgingival sites and seeded on CHROMagar for presumptive confirmation of Candida spp. followed by PCR and sequencing. In addition, we tested virulence determinants, phospholipase and protease and evaluated in vitro the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration of antifungals amphotericin B and fluconazole. This project was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Center for Higher Studies in Maceió. Results: Approximately 63% of the patients were colonized by yeasts, with C. albicans as the predominant species, while non-Candida albicans species accounted for 49% of the isolates, with C. dubliniensis and C. parapsilosis being the commonest, but C. intermedia, Bullera penniseticola and Naganishia liquefaciens were also found. The virulence determinants protease and/or phospholipase were also produced by Candida spp. and some uncommon opportunistic isolates such as Kodamaea ohmeri, N. liquefaciens and Saitozyma podzolica. Furthermore, most of Candida spp. strains and some uncommon opportunistic species showed high values of minimal inhibitory concentration. Conclusion: Results obtained indicate that C. albicans continues to be the predominant species in oral cavity of immunodeficient patients and along with other unusual species may present high resistance to the antifungals tested.(AU)

Justificación y Objetivos: La candidiasis oral acomete con frecuencia a pacientes inmunocomprometidos. Sin embargo, otras infecciones emergentes se han vuelto cada vez más comunes. El objetivo de este estudio fue investigar la prevalencia, la producción de determinantes de virulencia y la susceptibilidad a antifúngicos de levaduras que colonizan la mucosa de pacientes inmunocomprometidos en la región Nordeste de Brasil. Métodos: Se colectaron muestras de sesenta pacientes VIH positivos atendidos en el Servicio de Atención Especializado/Hospital Día del Hospital Universitario Prof. Alberto Antunes, vinculado a la Universidad Federal de Alagoas. Se colectaron las muestras en las regiones subgingivales y las sembraron en CHROMagar para la presunta confirmación de Candida spp. seguido de PCR y secuenciación. Además, analizamos los determinantes de virulencia fosfolipasa y proteasa y evaluamos in vitro la concentración mínima inhibitoria de los antifúngicos anfotericina B y fluconazol. Este proyecto fue aprobado por el Comité de Ética en Investigación del Centro de Estudios Superiores de Maceió. Resultados: Aproximadamente el 63% de los pacientes fueron colonizados por levaduras, y la C. albicans fue la especie predominante, mientras que las especies de Candida no-albicans representaron el 49% de los aislamientos, de las cuales la C. dubliniensis y la C. parapsilosis fueron las más comunes. Sin embargo, también se encontraron C. intermedia, Bullera penniseticola y Naganishia liquefaciens. Los determinantes de virulencia de proteasa y/o fosfolipasa también fueron producidos por Candida spp. y algunos aislados oportunistas inusuales como Kodamaea ohmeri, N. liquefaciens y Saitozyma podzolica. Además, la mayoría de los asilados de Candida spp. y algunas especies oportunistas inusuales mostraron valores altos de concentración mínima inhibitoria. Conclusión: Los resultados obtenidos indican que C. albicans continúa siendo la especie predominante en la cavidad oral de pacientes inmunodeprimidos y, junto con otras especies poco comunes, puede presentar una alta resistencia a los antifúngicos evaluados.(AU)

The use of multiple triangulations as a validation strategy in a qualitative study. / O uso de triangulação múltipla como estratégia de validação em um estudo qualitativo.

This paper aims to present the use of triangulation in qualitative research as a strategy to achieve the proposed objectives, to ensure credibility, reliability, and greater scientific accuracy in its achievement. In this sense, triangulation - since it is not restricted to the use of only one method, theory, data source or researcher in the process of analyzing an event - allows the apprehension of a given reality from several angles, enabling information confrontation, in order to minimize bias resulting from a single analytical perspective. Thus, aiming at evidencing the possibilities of using such a methodological design, we used as an example a qualitative study about experiences of caregivers for patients with head and neck neoplasms, developed through multiple triangulation, namely: methodological (intra-method), data, researcher and environmental triangulation. When demonstrating a structured study in the form of triangulation, one aims to guide researchers interested in conducting qualitative studies with greater depth and methodological rigor in qualitative research.

Este artigo objetiva apresentar o uso da triangulação na pesquisa qualitativa como estratégia para atingir os objetivos propostos, garantir credibilidade, confiabilidade e maior rigor científico em sua realização. Nesse sentido, a triangulação ­ por não se restringir à utilização de apenas um método, teoria, fonte de dados ou investigador no processo de análise de um mesmo fenômeno ­ possibilita a apreensão de uma dada realidade sob diversos ângulos, possibilitando o confrontamento de informações, de maneira a minimizar vieses resultantes de uma única perspectiva de análise. Com o intuito de evidenciar as possibilidades do uso de tal desenho metodológico, utilizou-se como exemplo um estudo qualitativo sobre vivências de cuidadores de pacientes com neoplasia de cabeça e pescoço, desenvolvido por meio de triangulação múltipla, a saber: triangulação metodológica (intramétodo), de dados, de investigador e ambiental. Ao se demonstrar um estudo estruturado, em forma de triangulação, tem-se como finalidade orientar pesquisadores interessados em realizar estudos qualitativos com um maior aprofundamento e rigor metodológico em pesquisa qualitativa.

O uso de triangulação múltipla como estratégia de validação em um estudo qualitativo / The use of multiple triangulations as a validation strategy in a qualitative study

Resumo Este artigo objetiva apresentar o uso da triangulação na pesquisa qualitativa como estratégia para atingir os objetivos propostos, garantir credibilidade, confiabilidade e maior rigor científico em sua realização. Nesse sentido, a triangulação - por não se restringir à utilização de apenas um método, teoria, fonte de dados ou investigador no processo de análise de um mesmo fenômeno - possibilita a apreensão de uma dada realidade sob diversos ângulos, possibilitando o confrontamento de informações, de maneira a minimizar vieses resultantes de uma única perspectiva de análise. Com o intuito de evidenciar as possibilidades do uso de tal desenho metodológico, utilizou-se como exemplo um estudo qualitativo sobre vivências de cuidadores de pacientes com neoplasia de cabeça e pescoço, desenvolvido por meio de triangulação múltipla, a saber: triangulação metodológica (intramétodo), de dados, de investigador e ambiental. Ao se demonstrar um estudo estruturado, em forma de triangulação, tem-se como finalidade orientar pesquisadores interessados em realizar estudos qualitativos com um maior aprofundamento e rigor metodológico em pesquisa qualitativa.

Abstract This paper aims to present the use of triangulation in qualitative research as a strategy to achieve the proposed objectives, to ensure credibility, reliability, and greater scientific accuracy in its achievement. In this sense, triangulation - since it is not restricted to the use of only one method, theory, data source or researcher in the process of analyzing an event - allows the apprehension of a given reality from several angles, enabling information confrontation, in order to minimize bias resulting from a single analytical perspective. Thus, aiming at evidencing the possibilities of using such a methodological design, we used as an example a qualitative study about experiences of caregivers for patients with head and neck neoplasms, developed through multiple triangulation, namely: methodological (intra-method), data, researcher and environmental triangulation. When demonstrating a structured study in the form of triangulation, one aims to guide researchers interested in conducting qualitative studies with greater depth and methodological rigor in qualitative research.

Oral melanomas in HIV-positive patients: Report of two cases and review of the literature.

Oral melanoma in HIV-positive patients is exceedingly rare, with only two cases reported in the literature published in English. Herein, we report two additional cases of oral melanomas which occurred as oral masses in the upper gingiva and hard palate in 35- and 27-year-old HIV-positive women. Significant thrombocytopenia, anemia, reduced CD4 cells, and high HIV load occurred in both patients. Microscopically, the lesions showed a variable proliferation of fusiform and epithelioid-pigmented cells, with cellular pleomorphism and high mitotic index. The diagnosis of melanoma was supported by positive immunoreactivity for S-100, MelanA, and HMB-45. Both cases had an unfavorable outcome, and the patients died a few months after the initial diagnosis. Because of its rarity, oral melanoma occurring in HIV-positive patients can pose problems in diagnosis and should be clinically distinguished from Kaposi's sarcoma, which is more common in the context of the immunodeficiency syndrome.

Smoking-Alcohol-Sex Exposure and Knowledge About Oral and Oropharyngeal Cancer Among Brazilian Adolescents: An Exploratory-Observational Approach

Abstract Objective: To investigate the involvement of young Brazilian students about five behaviors: tobacco use, alcohol consumption, sexual intercourse, knowledge about HPV, and knowledge about oral and oropharyngeal cancer. Material and Methods: Through a cross-section design, we explored some factors that might be associated with boys and girls. Statistical Regression methods were applied to identify differences, considering the estimation of the Odds Ratio. Results: Half of the sample had already consumed alcohol and at least 1 in 10 individuals had already tried smoking. One-third of adolescents have had sexual intercourse. Three factors related to boys were associated in the multiple regression analysis: have heard about HPV, have not heard about oral cancer, and think that HPV can cause oropharyngeal cancer. In conclusion, it seems that boys and girls were equally exposed to smoking-alcohol-sex; however, some differences were verified concerning the knowledge about HPV and oral / oropharyngeal cancer. Conclusion: Keep monitoring adolescents should be a priority to our study area, considering that those youngers had already being exposed to the risk factors for cancer.

Impacts of health of users with HIV/AIDS in a specialized service / Impactos de la salud bucal de usuarios con VIH/SIDA en un servicio especializado / Impactos da saúde bucal de usuários com HIV/Aids em um serviço especializado

ABSTRACT Objective: to understand the perception of users of a Specialized Care Service (SAE- Serviço de Assistência Especializada) in HIV/AIDS about their oral health. Method: qualitative research that used the techniques of participant observation and focal group. For the analysis of the material produced, categories of analysis, construction of dialogical map and identification of linguistic repertoires were used. Results: impacts arising from oral health problems such as: inability to eat properly, feeling ashamed due to tooth loss, inability to perform physical exercises and, as the main barrier to access to dental treatment, fear of exposure to practices of discrimination and prejudice. Final considerations: we need the implementation of policies of Permanent Education to all professionals involved in the care for this population, to ensure users' rights, ensure qualified care, and create security and trust relationships with individuals living with HIV/AIDS, in access to services.

RESUMEN Objetivo: comprender la percepción de los usuarios de un Servicio de Asistencia Especializada en VIH/SIDA sobre su salud bucal. Método: investigación cualitativa, con uso de las técnicas de observación participante y grupo focal. Para el análisis del material producido, se utilizaron categorías de análisis, construcción de mapa dialógico e identificación de repertorios lingüísticos. Resultados: se identificaron impactos provenientes de los problemas de salud bucal como: no puede alimentarse adecuadamente, sentimiento de vergüenza debido a la pérdida dental, incapacidad de realizar ejercicios físicos y, como principal barrera de acceso al tratamiento odontológico, el temor de exposición a prácticas de discriminación y prejuicio. Consideraciones finales: se necesita de la implementación de políticas de Educación Permanente a todos los profesionales involucrados en el cuidado a esta población, para atender a los derechos de los usuarios, garantizar atención calificada y crear relaciones de seguridad y confianza con los individuos viviendo con VIH/SIDA, en el acceso a los derechos mantenimiento.

RESUMO Objetivo: compreender a percepção de usuários de um Serviço de Assistência Especializada em HIV/Aids sobre sua saúde bucal. Método: pesquisa qualitativa, com uso das técnicas de observação participante e grupo focal. Para análise do material produzido, utilizaram-se categorias de análise, construção de mapa dialógico e identificação de repertórios linguísticos. Resultados: identificaram-se impactos advindos dos problemas de saúde bucal como: não conseguir alimentar-se adequadamente, sentimento de vergonha devido à perda dentária, incapacidade de realizar exercícios físicos e, como principal barreira de acesso ao tratamento odontológico, o receio de exposição a práticas de discriminação e preconceito. Considerações finais: necessita-se da implementação de políticas de Educação Permanente a todos os profissionais envolvidos no cuidado a esta população, para atender aos direitos dos usuários, garantir atendimento qualificado e criar relações de segurança e confiança com os indivíduos vivendo com HIV/Aids, no acesso aos serviços.

Counseling practices in Sexually Transmitted Infections/AIDS: the female health professionals' perspective / Prácticas de aconsejamiento en Infecciones Sexualmente Transmisibles/SIDA: la perspectiva de las profesionales de la salud / Práticas de aconselhamento em infecções sexualmente transmissíveis/aids: perspectiva das profissionais de saúde

ABSTRACT Objective: to analyze the health professionals' perception about counseling in a Centro de Testagem e Aconselhamento em Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis (Center for Testing and Counseling in Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and AIDS) in Maceió, Alagoas. Method: it is a qualitative research, with theoretical framework of the Discursive Practices and Production of Senses in the daily life carried out with the participation of 6 counselors. For research material production, the 'Conversation Round' technique and the semi-structured script were used. For material treatment the Discourse Analysis method was used, resulting in the production of analysis categories and Dialogic Maps. Results: in the current policies and actions of STI/AIDS, there is centralization in the procedures of anti-HIV testing and displacement of the professional counselor, undoing the testing and counseling. Final considerations: the study indicates the need to overcome the instrumental and prescriptive models of counseling to produce a dialogical process of care and co-responsibility.

RESUMEN Objetivo: analizar la percepción de las profesionales de la salud sobre sus prácticas de asesoramiento en un Centro de Pruebas y Aconsejamiento en infecciones sexualmente transmisibles (Centro de Testagem e Aconselhamento em infecções sexualmente transmissíveis - IST) y el SIDA en la ciudad de Maceió, estado de Alagoas. Método: se trata de una investigación cualitativa, con referencial teórico de las Prácticas Discursivas y la Producción de Sentidos en el Cotidiano, realizada con la participación de 6 consejeras. Para la producción del material de la investigación, se utilizó la técnica de la Rueda de Conversación y el plan semiestructurado. Para el tratamiento del material se utilizó el método de Análisis del Discurso, resultando en la producción de categorías de análisis y Mapas Dialógicos. Resultados: se identificó que, en las actuales políticas y acciones de las IST y el SIDA, existe una centralización en los procedimientos de prueba anti-VIH y el desplazamiento del profesional aconsejador, deshaciendo el test de la díada y el aconsejamiento. Consideraciones finales: el estudio indica la necesidad de superar los modelos instrumentales y prescriptivos de aconsejamiento, a fin de producir un proceso dialógico de cuidado y corresponsabilización.

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar a percepção de profissionais de saúde sobre práticas de aconselhamento em um Centro de Testagem e Aconselhamento em Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis (IST) e Aids em Maceió, Alagoas. Método: trata-se de pesquisa qualitativa, com referencial teórico das Práticas Discursivas e Produção de Sentidos no Cotidiano, realizada com a participação de 6 aconselhadoras. Para a produção do material da pesquisa, utilizou-se a técnica da Roda de Conversa e o roteiro semiestruturado. Para o tratamento do material foi utilizado o método de Análise do Discurso, resultando na produção de categorias de análise e Mapas Dialógicos. Resultados: identificou-se que, nas atuais políticas e ações de IST/Aids, existe uma centralização nos procedimentos de testagem anti-HIV e deslocamento do profissional aconselhador, desfazendo a díade testagem e o aconselhamento. Considerações finais: o estudo indica a necessidade de superar os modelos instrumentais e prescritivos de aconselhamento para se produzir um processo dialógico de cuidado e corresponsabilização.

Apple Pomace Extract as a Sustainable Food Ingredient.

Apple pomace is a by-product of apple processing industries with low value and thus frequent disposal, although with valuable compounds. Acidified hot water extraction has been suggested as a clean, feasible, and easy approach for the recovery of polyphenols. This type of extraction allowed us to obtain 296 g of extract per kg of dry apple pomace, including 3.3 g of polyphenols and 281 g of carbohydrates. Ultrafiltration and solid-phase extraction using C18 cartridges of the hot water extract suggested that, in addition to the apple native polyphenols detected by ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatography coupled to a diode-array detector and mass spectrometry UHPLC-DAD-ESI-MSn, polyphenols could also be present as complexes with carbohydrates. For the water-soluble polyphenols, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects were observed by inhibiting chemically generated hydroxyl radicals (OH•) and nitrogen monoxide radicals (NO•) produced in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages. The water-soluble polyphenols, when incorporated into yogurt formulations, were not affected by fermentation and improved the antioxidant properties of the final product. This in vitro research paves the way for agro-food industries to achieve more diversified and sustainable solutions towards their main by-products.

Expression of mitochondrial dynamics markers during melanoma progression: Comparative study of head and neck cutaneous and mucosal melanomas.

BACKGROUND: Head and neck mucosal melanomas (MMs) are rare tumors with adverse outcomes and poorer prognoses than their more common cutaneous counterparts (cutaneous melanomas-CMs). Few studies have compared the expression of mitochondrial dynamic markers in these tumors. This study aimed to assess the correlations of mitochondrial markers with melanoma progression and their potential as predictors of lymph node involvement and distant metastasis. METHODS: Immunohistochemistry against anti-mitochondrial (AMT), dynamin-related protein 1 (DRP1), mitochondrial fission protein 1 (FIS1), mitofusin-1 (MFN1), and mitofusin-2 (MFN2) antibodies was performed in 112 cases of head and neck CM and MM. A Cox regression multivariate model was used to assess the correlation of AMT, FIS1, and MFN2 expressions considering the risk for nodal and distant metastasis. RESULTS: All markers studied presented higher staining in tumor cells than normal adjacent tissues. Higher mitochondrial content was observed in MM than in CM, and it was significantly associated with nodal metastasis in oral melanomas. Both FIS1 and DRP1 expressions were related to advanced Clark's levels in CM, and they were overexpressed in oral melanomas. Moreover, increased immunoexpression of MFN2 was significantly associated with a higher risk of metastasis in CM, and it was also overexpressed in sinonasal melanomas. CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that mitochondrial fission and fusion processes can play an important role during multiple stages of tumorigenesis and the development of nodal and distant metastasis in cutaneous and mucosal melanomas.