The influence of the initial clinical presentation of upper tract urothelial carcinoma on histopathological tumor features.

PURPOSE: To investigate the influence of the initial clinical presentation (symptomatic vs. asymptomatic) on histopathological tumor features in patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC). METHODS: We conducted a single-center, cross-sectional, and retrospective study that enrolled 72 adults with primary UTUC who underwent radical nephroureterectomy at our institution over a period of 4 years (April 2019-April 2023). RESULTS: Symptomatic patients exhibited significantly higher frequencies of high-grade UTUC (73.6% vs. 36.8%, p = 0.006), ≥ T2 stage UTUC (60.4% vs. 26.3%, p = 0.007), and larger tumor sizes (median 5 vs. 4 cm, p = 0.015) compared to asymptomatic patients. Multiple regression analyses demonstrated significant associations between symptomatic presentation and the presence of high-grade UTUC (OR 6.35, 95% CI 1.81-22.27, p = 0.004), ≥ T2 stage UTUC (OR 5.98, 95% CI 1.62-22.08, p = 0.007), and larger tumor size (B 3.14, 95% CI 0.62-5.66, p = 0.015). A subset of patients with hematuria was separately analyzed to assess the influence of hematuria severity (gross vs. microscopic) on UTUC characteristics. Patients with gross hematuria exhibited significantly higher frequencies of high-grade UTUC (72.9% vs. 33.3%, p = 0.048) and ≥ T2 stage UTUC (58.3% vs. 22.2%, p = 0.001). Multiple regression analyses showed significant associations between gross hematuria and the presence of high-grade UTUC (OR 6.34, 95% CI 1.15-34.95, p = 0.034) and ≥ T2 stage UTUC (OR 6.54, 95% CI 1.11-38.93, p = 0.039). CONCLUSION: Initial symptomatic presentation was independently associated with adverse histopathological UTUC characteristics, potentially attributed to earlier detection of UTUC in asymptomatic patients, before the onset of symptoms.

Incidental central pulmonary emboli in outpatients with deep vein thrombosis.

BACKGROUND: While it has been demonstrated that large asymptomatic pulmonary embolism (PE) can occur, many studies have assessed inpatients or patients with known risk factors for venous thromboembolism (such as malignancy). There are few data regarding incidental PE in outpatients with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or assessing whether these emboli occur centrally or peripherally in the pulmonary arteries. AIMS: To determine the rates of incidental central and peripheral PE in outpatients with proximal and distal DVT. METHODS: This was a retrospective cross-sectional study of 120 patients attending our community imaging clinic between January 2015 and March 2020, with ultrasound-confirmed lower limb DVT, and subsequent computed tomography pulmonary angiogram (CTPA) within 24 h. Exclusion criteria were symptoms indicative of PE. Imaging reports were retrospectively reviewed to record the proximity of DVT and the location of any PE as either central (pulmonary trunk or main pulmonary arteries) or peripheral (lobar, segmental or subsegmental pulmonary arteries). RESULTS: Incidental PE occurred in 71 patients (59.2%), with a rate of 77.5% in proximal and 50.0% in distal DVT. Sixteen patients had central PE (13.3% of all patients with DVT; 22.5% of all patients with PE). Two patients (both with proximal DVT) had PE in the pulmonary trunk. CONCLUSIONS: Incidental PE occur frequently in outpatients with lower limb DVT, including the possibility of asymptomatic central emboli. Further studies with larger patient cohorts would be useful to assess the utility of baseline chest imaging in outpatients with DVT.

[Comparative study of ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis of asymptomatic anterosuperior acetabular labrum tears].

OBJECTIVE: To explore the diagnostic value of ultrasound for asymptomatic anterosuperior acetabular labral tears (ALT). METHODS: From August 2018 to February 2020, a total of 64 asymptomatic volunteers (101 hips) were recruited to complete 3.0T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound examination. Among these asymptomatic volunteers, 31 were male and 33 were female, with the median age 35 (32, 39) years. Using 3.0T MRI findings as golden standard, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy of ultrasound were calculated. RESULTS: The results showed the presence of unilateral or bilateral ALT in 33 (51.56%) asymptomatic vo-lunteers with a total of 47 hips (46.53%). Of the 37 asymptomatic volunteers with bilateral hip MRI examination, 14 had bilateral ALT and 8 had unilateral ALT. Of the 27 asymptomatic volunteers who underwent unilateral hip MRI, 11 had ALT. Of the 33 asymptomatic volunteers with labral tears, 11 were male and 22 were female, with 30 right hips and 17 left hips. The median age was 36 (33, 40) years in the ALT group and 34 (32, 38) years in the non-ALT group. There was no significant difference in age between the two groups (P > 0.05). In the asymptomatic population, the abnormal anterosuperior acetabular labrum manifestations on ultrasound were intra-labrum cleft in 26 cases, labral heterogeneous echogenicity in 25 cases, paralabral cysts in 2 cases, and labral focal hyperechoic area in 12 cases. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy for ALT diagnosed by ultrasound were 73.53%, 67.16%, 53.19%, 83.33% and 69.31%, respectively. The cross- sectional area (CSA) of the anterosuperior acetabular labrum was 0.20 (0.15, 0.24) cm2 in this study. The labral median CSA of the ALT group and non-ALT group were 0.22 (0.17, 0.28) cm2 and 0.17 (0.14, 0.21) cm2, respectively, with a statistically significant difference (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The ALT are common findings in asymptomatic volunteers on MRI. Intra-labrum cleft and labral heterogeneous echogenicity are common ultrasonographic signs in asymptomatic volunteers with ALT. The labra were more swollen in the asymptomatic volunteers with ALT compared to those without ALT.

The Impact of the Initial Clinical Presentation of Bladder Cancer on Histopathological and Morphological Tumor Characteristics.

This study investigated the impact of the initial clinical presentation of bladder cancer on tumor characteristics. A cross-sectional, retrospective study was performed, and it involved 515 patients who underwent transurethral bladder cancer resection at the University Hospital Center Split between April 2019 and April 2023, excluding recurrent cases. The association between symptomatic versus asymptomatic presentation and bladder cancer characteristics was analyzed. A subgroup analysis compared tumor characteristics between patients with gross and microscopic hematuria. Multiple regression analyses revealed a significant association between symptomatic presentation and the detection of high-grade bladder cancer (OR 3.43, 95% CI 2.22-5.29, p < 0.001), concomitant CIS (OR 3.41, 95% CI 1.31-8.88, p = 0.012), T2 stage bladder cancer (OR 5.79, 95% CI 2.45-13.71, p < 0.001), a higher number of tumors (IRR 1.24, 95% CI 1.07-1.45, p = 0.005), and larger tumor size (B 1.68, 95% CI 1.19-2.18, p < 0.001). In the subgroup analysis, gross hematuria was associated with the detection of high-grade bladder cancer (OR 2.07, 95% CI 1.12-3.84, p = 0.020), T2 stage bladder cancer (OR 6.03, 95% CI 1.42-25.49, p = 0.015), and larger tumor size (B 1.8, 95% CI 0.99-2.6, p < 0.001). The identified associations between symptomatic presentation and unfavorable bladder cancer characteristics, likely attributed to early detection in asymptomatic cases, underscore the importance of additional research in the development of bladder cancer screening strategies.

Clinical characteristics of surgically managed patients with asymptomatic renal stones: Comparison of patients with symptomatic renal stones.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to compare the characteristics of asymptomatic and symptomatic nephrolithiasis in patients who underwent surgical treatment for kidney stones. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between 2015 and 2019, 245 patients who underwent percutaneous nephrolithotomy or retrograde intrarenal surgery for kidney stones were included. The patients were divided into asymptomatic (n=124) and symptomatic (n=121) groups. All patients underwent blood and urine tests, preoperative non-contrast computed tomography, and postoperative stone composition analysis. We retrospectively analyzed and compared the characteristics of the patients and stones, operation time, stone-free rate, and postoperative complications between the two groups. RESULTS: In the asymptomatic group, mean body mass index (BMI) was significantly higher (25.7±3.8 kg/m² vs. 24.3±2.8 kg/m², p=0.002) and urine pH was significantly lower (5.6±0.9 vs. 5.9±0.9, p=0.013). The ratio of calcium oxalate dihydrate stones was significantly higher in the symptomatic group (5.3% vs. 15.5%, p=0.023). No significant differences were observed in stone characteristics, postoperative outcomes, or complications. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis for predicting variables for asymptomatic renal stones, BMI (odds ratio [OR], 1.144; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.038-1.260; p=0.007), and urine pH (OR, 0.608; 95% CI, 0.407-0.910; p=0.016) were independent predictive variables for asymptomatic renal stones. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated that thorough medical check-ups are needed for the early detection of renal stones in individuals with a high BMI or low urine pH.

Enfermedades asintomáticas o diagnósticos incipientes / Asymptomatic diseases or early diagnoses

RESUMEN Introducción: Constituye hecho relevante en el ejercicio de la medicina, individual o poblacional, conocer precozmente la instauración de las enfermedades, y por ello se tratan de realizar los diagnósticos clínicos precozmente. Sin embargo, un grupo de enfermedades, infecciosas o no infecciosas, agudas o crónicas, se caracterizan por escasas manifestaciones clínicas, por lo que el conocimiento de su existencia es de vital importancia, por ejemplo, la hipertensión arterial o la diabetes mellitus, cuyas expresiones sintomáticas pueden aparecer tardíamente. En igual medida, la actual pandemia por SARS-CoV-2, ha proliferado rápidamente debido al gran número de personas infectadas que no expresan síntomas. Objetivo: Caracterizar aspectos clínicos relevantes sobre las enfermedades asintomáticas y la importancia de los diagnósticos clínicos o biotecnológicos incipientes, individuales y poblacionales. Métodos: Se realizaron búsquedas bibliográficas de los últimos cinco años en libros clásicos de Medicina Interna, se analizaron artículos publicados en revistas nacionales e internacionales, específicamente en revistas de alto impacto como Lancet y The New England Journal of Medicine. Se consideraron bases de datos de la Organización Mundial de la Salud, así como lo expuesto en Infomed; además se utilizó Google Académico, con los descriptores de interés al respecto. Conclusiones: Por el momento siempre serán parciales, pues se enfatiza en las recomendaciones de la Organización Mundial de la Salud sobre la actual pandemia, para la identificación y control del SARS-CoV-2; se acentúa en la importancia de los métodos clínicos y epidemiológicos, así como en el desarrollo de la biotecnología para el conocimiento de las enfermedades.

ABSTRACT Introduction: early detection of the onset of diseases constitutes a relevant fact in the practice of individual or population medicine that is why early clinical diagnoses are tried to be made. However, a group of infectious or non-infectious, acute or chronic clinical diseases are characterized by few clinical manifestations, for which knowledge of their existence is of vital importance, for example, arterial hypertension or diabetes mellitus, whose symptomatic expressions may appear late. To the same extent, the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has proliferated rapidly due to the large number of infected people who do not express symptoms. Objective: to characterize relevant clinical aspects of asymptomatic diseases and the importance of incipient, individual and population clinical or biotechnological diagnoses. Methods: bibliographic searches of the last five years were carried out in classic books on Internal Medicine, articles published in national and international journals were analyzed, specifically in high-impact journals such as the Lancet and The New England Journal of Medicine. Databases of the World Health Organization were considered, as well as what was exposed in Infomed; in addition, Google Scholar was used, with the descriptors of interest in this regard. Conclusions: conclusions will always be partial for the moment, since the recommendations of the World Health Organization for the identification and control of SARS-CoV-2 are emphasized; the importance of clinical and epidemiological methods is highlighted, as well as the development of biotechnology for the knowledge of diseases.

Caracterización de la enfermedad renal crónica subclínica en Chile

Contexto al realizar cribado en la población de riesgo se encontró que la enfermedad renal crónica subclínica (ERCs) está escasamente caracterizada en Chile y su conocimiento contribuiría al mejor manejo y tratamiento precoz, atenuando sus consecuencias. Objetivo describir las características epidemiológicas y clínicas de la población con ERCs en Chile. Metodología estudio descriptivo transversal en una población de 1032 sujetos provenientes de tres regiones de Chile: Coquimbo (n = 902), Metropolitana (n = 70) y De Los Ríos (n = 60), provenientes de programas cardiovasculares, otros programas de APS y familiares directos de pacientes en diálisis. A los pacientes se les aplicó: un consentimiento informado, una encuesta, un examen físico (presión arterial, peso y talla) y se realizaron exámenes de laboratorio (creatininemia y albuminuria/creatininuria). Se definió ERC por guía KDOQI-2012 y velocidad de filtración glomerular según MDRD. La albuminuria se midió mediante relación albuminuria/creatininuria de primera micción (mg/g). VFG < 60 ml/min o albuminuria ≥ 30 mg/g, definieron ERCs. Se determinaron frecuencias y comparaciones (chi-cuadrado, t student y Anova), con un nivel de significancia de p < 0,05. Resultados presentaron ERCs 205 sujetos (19,9 %), siendo significativamente más frecuente en ≥ 65 años (35,7 %), quienes alcanzaron estudios básicos (26,6 %), labores de servicio doméstico (44 %), pensionados (40 %), quienes tenían familiares en diálisis (24,6 %) y diabéticos insulino-requirentes (70,6 %). En el grupo ≥ 65 años hubo una significativa menor frecuencia de ERCs en aquellos que realizaban actividad física, comparado con los sedentarios (48,8 %). A mayor intensidad de HTA y presión de pulso (PP) se observó una mayor frecuencia de ERCs. Conclusiones estos datos aportan información epidemiológica útil para la programación de mejores estrategias de detección de ERCs en Chile.

Introduction subclinical chronic kidney disease (CKDs), performing screening in at-risk populations, is poorly characterized in Chile. Its knowledge would contribute to better management and early treatment, mitigating its consequences. Objective to describe the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of the population with CKDs in Chile. Methodology cross-sectional descriptive study in a population of 1,032 subjects from three regions of Chile; Coquimbo (n=902), Metropolitana (n=70) and De Los Ríos (n=60), from cardiovascular programs, other Primary Care programs and direct relatives of dialysis patients. Informed consent, survey, physical examination (blood pressure, weight and height) and laboratory tests (creatinine and albumin/creatinine urinary ratio) were performed. CKD was defined by KDOQI-2012 guideline and Glomerular Filtration Rate according to MDRD formula. Albuminuria by relation albumin/creatinine of first urination (mg/g). eVFG <60 ml/min and/or Albuminuria ≥ 30 mg/g, defined CKDs. Frequencies and comparisons were determined (chi-square, t student and ANOVA), with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results 205 subjects (19.9%) presented CKDs, being significantly more frequent in ≥65 years (35.7%), who achieved elementary school studies (26.6%), domestic service workers (44%), retired workers (40%), having a family member on dialysis (24.6%) and insulin-requesting diabetics (70.6%). In the ≥65 year-old group, there was a significantly lower frequency of CKDs in those who performed physical activity, compared to sedentary (48.8%). The higher the intensity of hypertension and pulse pressure (PP), the higher the frequency of CKDs. Conclusions These data provide useful epidemiological information for the programming of better detection strategies for CKDs in Chile.

Asymptomatic gangrenous cholecystitis diagnosed using contrast-enhanced ultrasonography in a patient with pancreatic cancer.

A 72-year-old female without abdominal symptoms visited our hospital for routine follow-up while undergoing pancreatic cancer treatment (using TS-1). Her vital signs were normal, and her abdomen was soft and non-tender. Blood test revealed elevated C-reactive protein levels with normal white blood cell count. Computed tomography was performed for follow-up of pancreatic cancer. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed partial discontinuity and irregular thickness of the gallbladder wall; however, a definitive diagnosis was not obtained due to unclear imaging. Contrast-enhanced transabdominal ultrasonography revealed intraluminal membranes in the gallbladder and a perfusion defect at the bottom, indicating gangrenous cholecystitis. Surgical resection was performed, and pathological examination showed severe necrosis of the gallbladder wall, consistent with the findings of contrast-enhanced transabdominal ultrasonography.

Incidentally Detected Asymptomatic Cardiac Myxoma in a Patient With COVID-19.

Primary cardiac tumors, such as myxomas, are rare. About 75% of myxomas occur in the left atrium of the heart. Myxomas can have a broad clinical spectrum. The clinical presentation varies from asymptomatic to sudden cardiac death. Sometimes, a diagnosis is difficult. Cardiac myxoma can cause hemodynamic disturbances in the setting of pneumonia and hypercoagulable state in patients with Coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19) and make treatment decisions difficult. We present a case of unusually huge left atrial mass discovered incidentally in a patient with COVID-19. Upon workup, an echocardiogram revealed an incidental 7 × 5 cm left atrial myxoma. Preoperatively, the patient was monitored closely in the ICU. After stabilization in the ICU, the patient was taken to surgery and the tumor was successfully removed. Pathohistological results after surgical removal of the tumor confirmed the diagnosis of cardiac myxoma. We consider our case extremely rare due to the asymptomatic course despite the large size of the tumor.

Seroprevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG in asymptomatic and pauci-symptomatic people over a 5 month survey in Argentina / Seroprevalencia de anticuerpos IgG contra el SARS-CoV-2 en personas asintomáticas y paucisintomáticas en un estudio de 5 meses en Argentina / Soroprevalência de IgG contra SARS-CoV-2 em indivíduos assintomáticos e paucissintomáticos em um inquérito de 5 meses na Argentina

ABSTRACT Objective. To evaluate the seroprevalence of COVID-19 infection in pauci-symptomatic and asymptomatic people, the associated epidemiological factors, and IgG antibody kinetic over a 5-month period to get a better knowledge of the disease transmissibility and the rate of susceptible persons that might be infected. Methods. Seroprevalence was evaluated by a cross-sectional study based on the general population of Santa Fe, Argentina (non-probabilistic sample) carried out between July and November 2020. A subgroup of 20 seropositive individuals was followed-up to analyze IgG persistence. For the IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies detection, the COVID-AR IgG® ELISA kit was used. Results. 3 000 individuals were included conforming asymptomatic and pauci-symptomatic groups (n=1 500 each). From the total sample, only 8.83% (n=265) presented reactivity for IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2. A significant association was observed between positive anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG and a history of contact with a confirmed case; the transmission rate within households was approximately 30%. In the pauci-symptomatic group, among the seropositive ones, anosmia and fever presented an OR of 16.8 (95% CI 9.5-29.8) and 2.7 (95% CI 1.6-4.6), respectively (p <0.001). In asymptomatic patients, IgG levels were lower compared to pauci-symptomatic patients, tending to decline after 4 months since the symptoms onset. Conclusion. We observed a low seroprevalence, suggestive of a large population susceptible to the infection. Anosmia and fever were independent significant predictors for seropositivity. Asymptomatic patients showed lower levels of antibodies during the 5-month follow-up. IgG antibodies tended to decrease over the end of this period regardless of symptoms.

RESUMEN Objetivo. Evaluar la seroprevalencia de la infección por el virus causante de la COVID-19 en personas paucisintomáticas y asintomáticas, los factores epidemiológicos asociados y la cinética de los anticuerpos IgG durante un período de cinco meses para conocer mejor la transmisibilidad de la enfermedad y la tasa de personas susceptibles a estar infectadas. Métodos. Se evaluó la seroprevalencia mediante un estudio transversal basado en la población general de Santa Fe, Argentina (muestra no probabilística) llevado a cabo entre julio y noviembre del 2020. Se realizó un seguimiento de un subgrupo de 20 personas seropositivas para analizar la persistencia de los anticuerpos IgG. Para la detección de los anticuerpos IgG contra SARS-COV-2, se empleó el kit ELISA COVID-AR IgG®. Resultados. Hubo 3 000 participantes divididos en un grupo asintomático y un grupo paucisintomático (n=1 500 cada grupo). De la muestra total, solo 8,83% (n=265) presentó una reactividad de IgG contra el SARS-CoV-2. Se observó una asociación significativa entre anticuerpos IgG positivos contra el SARS-CoV-2 y antecedente de contacto con un caso confirmado. La tasa de transmisión en el hogar fue de 30% aproximadamente. En el grupo paucisintomático, entre las personas seropositivas, la anosmia y la fiebre presentaron un OR de 16,8 (IC 95% 9,5-29,8) y 2,7 (IC 95% 1,6-4,6), respectivamente (p <0,001). En los pacientes asintomáticos, los niveles de IgG fueron inferiores en comparación con los pacientes paucisintomáticos, con tendencia a la baja pasados cuatro meses desde la aparición de los síntomas. Conclusiones. Se observó una seroprevalencia baja, indicadora de una gran población susceptible a la infección. La anosmia y la fiebre fueron factores predictivos independientes de relevancia para la seropositividad. Los pacientes asintomáticos mostraron niveles inferiores de anticuerpos durante el seguimiento de cinco meses. Los anticuerpos IgG tendieron a disminuir hacia el final del período con independencia de los síntomas.

RESUMO Objetivo. Avaliar a soroprevalência de anticorpos contra a COVID-19 em indivíduos paucissintomáticos e assintomáticos, os fatores epidemiológicos associados e a cinética dos anticorpos da classe IgG em um período de 5 meses, visando aprimorar o conhecimento sobre a transmissibilidade da doença e a taxa de suscetíveis à infecção. Métodos. Inquérito transversal de soroprevalência realizado na população geral (amostra não probabilística) de Santa Fé, na Argentina, entre julho e novembro de 2020. Um subgrupo de 20 indivíduos soropositivos foi acompanhado para analisar a persistência de anticorpos IgG. O kit de ensaio imunoenzimático (ELISA) COVID-AR IgG® foi usado para a detecção de anticorpos IgG contra SARS-CoV-2. Resultados. A amostra compreendeu 3 000 indivíduos, divididos entre assintomáticos e paucissintomáticos (n = 1.500 por grupo). Deste total, somente 8,83% (n = 265) apresentaram reatividade, com a detecção de anticorpos IgG contra SARS-CoV-2. Observou-se uma associação significativa entre a presença de anticorpos IgG contra SARS-CoV-2 e histórico de contato com caso confirmado. A taxa de transmissão intradomiciliar foi de aproximadamente 30%. No grupo paucissintomático, entre os soropositivos, o odds ratio (OR) para anosmia foi de 16,8 (IC 95% 9,5-29,8), e para febre, 2,7 (IC 95% 1,6-4,6) (p <0,001). Os indivíduos assintomáticos apresentaram níveis de IgG mais baixos que os paucissintomáticos, com uma tendência de declínio após 4 meses do início dos sintomas. Conclusões. Observou-se uma soroprevalência baixa de anticorpos contra a COVID-19 na população estudada, o que indica um grande número de pessoas suscetíveis à infecção. Anosmia e febre foram preditores importantes independentes de soropositividade. Os assintomáticos apresentaram níveis mais baixos de anticorpos aos 5 meses de acompanhamento. Houve uma tendência de redução dos anticorpos IgG ao final deste período, independentemente da presença de sintomas.

A case of aortic dissection with highly suggestive features of COVID-19.

INTRODUCTION: Aortic dissection is a cardiovascular emergency with an overall in-hospital mortality rate of 27.4%, and with every hour without intervention, the mortality rate increases by 1%-2% in the first 48 hours. Thoracic aortic dissection typically presents with tearing chest, back, or abdominal pain. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a viral disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2 (SARS-Cov2), which has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) and usually manifests with respiratory symptoms, including cough, shortness of breath, flu-like symptoms, and fever. This case report highlights an important impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the identification and management of aortic dissection in the emergency department. CASE REPORT: A 35-year-old Bahraini male, a suspected case of Marfan syndrome, presented with complaints of shortness of breath and worsening productive cough after returning from the United States (U.S). He denied any chest, back, or abdominal pain, dizziness, weakness in any limb, gait disturbance, headache, or change in vision. He was considered high risk for COVID-19 because of the recent travel and respiratory symptoms and was diagnosed incidentally with ascending aortic dissection along with a right lung consolidation. His SARS-Cov2 PCR came negative thrice during hospital stay, and he underwent elective cardiothoracic surgery. CONCLUSION: The COVID-19 pandemic has been a major stressor for the healthcare system worldwide, inflicting serious threats. Aortic dissection is one of the major life-threatening diseases that needs to be identified early on in the emergency department; however, in this case delayed diagnosis raised significant concerns due to underlying evolving triaging system for COVID-19 and atypical and overlapping clinical presentation. Further research is needed to look for COVID-19-associated factors, affecting the standard of care in the emergency department. Improving handover can directly impact patient care; therefore, it should be optimized.

Association between asymptomatic intracranial arterial stenosis and insulin resistance or diabetes mellitus: a cross-sectional study in rural Shandong, China.

INTRODUCTION: Recent studies have shown that insulin resistance (IR) is correlated to atherosclerosis development. However, few studies have investigated the association between IR and asymptomatic intracranial arterial stenosis (aICAS). RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study enrolled 2007 rural residents in China who were aged ≥40 years without a clinical history of stroke and transient ischaemic attack. We used transcranial Doppler ultrasonography in combination with magnetic resonance angiography to diagnose aICAS (stenosis ≥50%). IR was defined as a homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance ≥3.0 based on the 75th percentile for all the participants. Multivariate logistic regression models were employed to assess the relationship of diabetic parameters with aICAS in all participants, as well as with aICAS in non-diabetic participants, and further stratified by sex. RESULTS: After adjusting for age, gender, smoking habit, drinking habit, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, raised blood pressure, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and waist circumference, diabetes mellitus (DM) (OR=2.09, 95% CI 1.31 to 3.32), fasting plasma glucose (FPG) (OR=1.34, 95% CI 1.14 to 1.57), and IR (OR=1.75, 95% CI 1.11 to 2.75) were associated with aICAS in the total study population; however, these relationships remained significant only in men after the analyses were stratified by sex (DM: OR=3.40, 95% CI 1.62 to 7.13; FPG: OR=1.64, 95% CI 1.26 to 2.13; IR: OR=3.04, 95% CI 1.44 to 6.42). When further excluding the diabetic participants from the total study population, positive associations between IR and aICAS were similarly observed only in men (OR=4.65, 95% CI 1.69 to 12.82). CONCLUSIONS: IR might predict the prevalence of aICAS independently of major cardiovascular risk factors and metabolic syndrome components among men living in rural China.

Características clinicoepidemiológicas de pacientes con evolución asintomática de la COVID-19 en la provincia de Santiago de Cuba / Clinical and epidemiological characteristics of patients with asymptomatic clinical course of COVID-19 in Santiago de Cuba province

Introducción: La COVID-19 es una enfermedad infecciosa causada por el virus SARS-CoV-2, la cual se presenta de forma asintomática en hasta 80 % de los casos a nivel mundial. Objetivo: Caracterizar a los pacientes con evolución asintomática de la COVID-19. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo y transversal en la provincia de Santiago de Cuba, con recolección retrospectiva de la información, de marzo a mayo del 2020, de 13 pacientes con la enfermedad que no manifestaron cuadro sintomático de esta al establecer el diagnóstico. Resultados: De los pacientes que dieron positivo por coronavirus en la provincia, 26,0 % estaban asintomáticos; en estos últimos predominaron los grupos etarios de 20-39 años (38,4 %) y de 60 y más años (30,7 %), así como el sexo femenino (84,6 %). Igualmente, 30,7 % padecía enfermedades crónicas no trasmisibles y 38,5 % resultó ser fuente de contagio a otras personas. Conclusiones: La frecuencia de pacientes asintomáticos en Santiago de Cuba fue diferente de la notificada en el resto del país y en otras naciones, lo cual pudo estar condicionado por la no aparición de episodios o brotes y la baja incidencia registrada; no obstante, en el análisis de las variables no existieron discrepancias con los informes sobre pacientes con esta forma clínica de la enfermedad.

Introduction: The COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is presented in an asymptomatic way in up to 80 % of the cases at world level. Objective: To characterize the patients with asymptomatic clinical course of the COVID-19. Methods: An observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out in Santiago de Cuba province, with retrospective gathering of the information, from March to May, 2020, belonging to 13 patients with diagnosis of the disease and no symptomatic manifestation of it. Results: Of the patients with positive results for coronavirus in the province, 26,0 % were asymptomatic; there was a predominance of the 20-39 years-old (38,4 %), and the 60 and more years (30,7 %) in these age groups, as well as of the female sex (84,6 %). Equally, 30,7 % suffered from non-communicable chronic diseases and 38,5 % turned out to be infection source to other people. Conclusions: The frequency of asymptomatic patients in Santiago de Cuba was different from that notified in the rest of the country and in other nations, which could be conditioned by the absence of episodes or outbreaks and the low registered incidence; nevertheless, in the analysis of the variables there were no discrepancies with the reports on patients with this clinical form of the disease.

[Relative factors and follow up research of asymptomatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head].

Objective: To evaluate the progress and influence factors of asymptomatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head(ONFH). Methods: MRI was performed on the contralateral hips of 174 patients with unilateral symptomatic ONFH who admitted at Department of Orthopaedics, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University from January 2012 to December 2018. Eighty-three of 174 patients with unilateral ONFH were found suffering from contralateral ONFH(47.7%), of which 77 patients were followed up.There were 28 males and 49 females with age of 48.6 years (range: 21-73 years). The pathogenesis, ARCO classfication, areas and position of osteonecrosis were collected.Independent sample t test, χ(2) test, Fisher exact test, multivariate Logistic regression were used to analyze the potential influence factors. Results: Patients were followed up for 36.7 months. During the following up period, ARCO classification of 28 patients (36.4%) progressed.The progress of asymptomatic ONFH was not related to the gender, age and original ARCO classification, but related to the pathogenesis, position and area of osteonecrosis (all P<0.05). Conclusion: The progress of asymptomatic osteonecrosis is related to the pathogenesis, position and area of osteonecrosis,but most of asymptomatic ONFH will not progress.

Valor pronóstico del strain longitudinal, medido por velocity vector imaging, en la estenosis aórtica grave asintomática con fracción de eyección conservada / Prognostic Value of Longitudinal Strain Measured by Velocity Vector Imaging, in Asymptomatic Severe Aortic Stenosis with Preserved Ejection

RESUMEN Introducción: Se han descripto alteraciones en el strain longitudinal sistólico (SLS) en pacientes con fracción de eyección (FE) conservada. El valor pronóstico del SLS en la estenosis aórtica (EAo) grave asintomática está en discusión. Objetivos: Evaluar si la medición de SLS mediante velocity vector imaging (VVI) predice la progresión y la indicación de reemplazo valvular aórtico (RVA) en pacientes asintomáticos con EAo grave y FE conservada, inicialmente asintomáticos. Materiales y métodos: Se seleccionaron pacientes con EAo grave y FE conservada que fueron considerados asintomáticos sin indicación inicial de RVA. A todos los pacientes se les realizó un ecocardiograma que evaluó el SLS de cada segmento en dos y tres y cuatro cámaras y el SLS global por el método VVI. Además, se realizó la medición del NT-proBNP. Se consideró como punto final el requerimiento de RVA. Resultados: Se evaluaron 57 pacientes con una edad de 69 ± 8 años, 49% mujeres. Luego de dos años de seguimiento 13 pacientes (22,8%) requirieron RVA. El grupo que requirió RVA presentó menor SLS global (-15,5 ± 3,4 versus -18,9 ± 3,1, p = 0,03) y SLS en dos cámaras (-12,8 ± 5,5 versus -16,3 ± 5,6, p = 0,04). En el análisis univariado, el SLS global, en NT-proBNP y la relación E/e´ fueron predictores del punto final, mientras que, en el multivariado, solo el SLS global se comportó como predictor independiente de requerimiento de RVA (HR: 1,28 (IC 95% 1,04-1,58), p = 0,01). Conclusiones: El SLS global medido por VVI fue predictor independiente de requerimiento de RVA.

ABSTRACT Background: Longitudinal systolic strain (LSS) abnormalitiess have been described in patients with preserved ejection fraction (EF). The prognostic value of LSS in asymptomatic severe aortic stenosis (AoS) is under discussion. Objetive: The aim of this study was to assess whether LSS assessment using velocity vector imaging (VVI) predicts the progression and indication of aortic valve replacement (AVR) in asymptomatic patients with severe AoS and preserved EF. Methods: The study included patients with severe AoS and preserved EF who were considered asymptomatic and without initial indication for AVR. They underwent two, three and four-chamber echocardiography that evaluated LSS of each segment and global longitudinal strain (GLS) by VVI, as well as NT-proBNP assessment. The primary endpoint was need for AVR. Results: A total of 57 patients with mean age 69±8 years, 49% women, were included in the study. After two years of follow-up, 13 patients (22.8%) required AVR. This group had lower GLS (-15.5±3.4 vs.-18.9±3.1, p=0.03) and two-chamber LSS (-12.8±5.5 vs.-16.3±5.6, p=0.04). In univariate analysis, GLS, NT-proBNP and the E/e' ratio were predictors of the endpoint, while in the multivariate analysis, only GLS was an independent predictor of need for AVR (HR: 1.28 (95% CI 1.04-1.58), p=0.01). Conclusions: Global longitudinal strain measured by VVI was an independent predictor of need for AVR.

Whole-body computed tomography: a new point of view in a hospital check-up unit? Our experience in 6516 patients.

BACKGROUND: There is a growing awareness that prevention and early diagnosis may reduce the high mortality associated with cancer, cardiovascular and other diseases. The role of whole-body computed tomography (WB-CT) in self-referred and asymptomatic patients has been debated. AIM: To determine frequency and spectrum of WB-CT findings in average-risk subjects derived from a Medical-Check-Up-Unit, to evaluate recommendations reported and distribution according to sex and age-groups. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 6516 subjects who underwent WB-CT (June 2004/February 2015). All were > 40 years and referred by Medical-Check-Up-Unit of our hospital. The main findings were categorized and classified as normal or not. Its distribution according to sex and age-groups was evaluated using Chi-square test and linear-by-linear association test, respectively. Number of recommendations, type and interval of follow-up were recorded. Descriptive statistics were used. RESULTS: WB-CT performed in 6516 patients (69% men, 31% women, mean age = 58.4 years) revealed chest (81.4%), abdominal (93.06%) and spine (65.39%) abnormalities. Only 1.60% had completely normal exploration. Abnormal WB-CT in men was significantly higher than women (98.64% vs. 97.87%; p = 0.021), with significant increase as age was higher (40-49 years: 95.65%; 50-59 years: 98.33%; 60-69 years: 99.47%; > 69 years: 99.89%) (p < 0.001). Although most findings were benign, we detected 1.47% primary tumors (96, mainly 35 kidneys and 15 lungs). 17.39% of patients received at least one recommendation predominantly in chest (78.19%) and follow-up imaging (69.89%). CONCLUSION: The most common WB-CT findings in asymptomatic subjects are benign. However, this examination allows identifying an important number of relevant and precocious findings that significantly increase with age, involving changes in lifestyle and precocious treatment.

Report of a Hydatid Cyst Case with Biceps Brachii Involvement.

Muscular hydatid cyst is a rare condition mainly secondary to the cysts from other organs. We hereby present an uncommon case of primary hydatid cyst found in the right biceps brachii muscle of a 36-year-old male. Magnetic resonance revealed no Echinococcus involvement in any other part of his body. Chest X-ray was normal, and no trace of cyst was found in the lung. In areas where echinococcosis is endemic, any tumor or mass in any part of the patient's body should be evaluated and examined for Echinococcus infestation. This paper is the second case report article on echinococcal biceps brachii infestation existing to this date.

De novo gastroesophageal reflux disease after sleeve gastrectomy: role of preoperative silent reflux.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has become the most frequently performed bariatric procedure to date. However, LSG is known to worsen pre-operative and result in de novo gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Pre-operative evaluation reveals a high percentage of silent GERD of so far unknown influence on post-operative GERD. METHODS: Prospective data of patients undergoing primary LSG between 01/2012 and 12/2015 were evaluated. Pre-operative GERD-specific evaluation consisted of validated questionnaires, upper endoscopy, 24 h-pH-manometry, and esophagograms. Patients were followed-up with questionnaires every 6 months, upper endoscopies after 1 year and 24 h-pH-metry after 2 years. Silent GERD was defined as esophagitis grade > B and/or abnormal esophageal acid exposure in absence of symptoms. LSG was performed over a 32F bougie, hiatal hernias > 1 cm were addressed with posterior hiatoplasty. Excluded were patients with hiatal hernias > 4 cm, patients with incorrect anatomy (stenosis, fundus too large) and conversion to RYGB for early leaks. RESULTS: 222 patients were included. Mean follow-up was 32 ± 16 months, mean preoperative body mass index 49.6 ± 7.2 kg/m2. 116 patients (52%) presented with post-operative GERD-symptoms, of which 85 (73%) had de novo symptoms. Of those, 48 (of 85, 56%) had no preoperative GERD and 37 (of 85, 44%) silent GERD. 57 patients (26%) had neither pre- nor post-operative GERD, 7 (3%) had silent pre-operative and no postop GERD, and in 19 patients (9%) GERD was cured with LSG. 31 patients (14%) stayed symptomatic. Of 56 patients (25%) with pre-operative silent GERD, 37 (of 54, 66%) became symptomatic. CONCLUSION: LSG leads to a considerable rate of post-operative GERD. De novo-GERD consist of around half of pre-operative silent GERD and completely de novo-GERD. Most patients with pre-operative silent GERD became symptomatic.

Enfermedad coronaria asintomática en pacientes con diabetes mellitus tipo 2 / Asymptomatic coronary disease in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus / Doença coronária assintomática em pacientes com diabetes mellitus tipo 2

Introducción: la enfermedad coronaria es una de las principales causas de morbimortalidad a nivel mundial; se sabe que la diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DM2) es un factor de riesgo importante para esta patología y que puede producir una forma asintomática o con manifestaciones atípicas. Objetivos: exponer los principales datos epidemiológicos, pronósticos y determinantes de la enfermedad coronaria asintomática en DM2 y discutir las formas de tamización y su utilidad en diabéticos asintomáticos. Materiales y métodos: se realizó una búsqueda en PubMed, LILACS y SciELO usando las palabras clave "Diabetes Mellitus, type 2", "Coronary disease", "Coronary Artery Disease", "Coronary Vessels", "Atherosclerosis", "Arteriosclerosis", "Asymptomatic Diseases", "Asymptomatic", "Silent" y "Myocardcial infarction", ajustando la búsqueda según las necesidades de cada base de datos. Se incluyeron artículos que cumplieran los criterios de inclusión y no los de exclusión, a consideración de los autores, así como algunas referencias adicionales. Resultados: se revisó el título y resumen de 504 artículos encontrados en las bases de datos, tras lo cual se escogieron 81 para su lectura total. De ellos, 56 fueron incluidos, así como 48 publicaciones adicionales conocidas por los autores o referenciados en las artículos leídos, lo que dio un total de 104 artículos incluidos en la revisión final. Conclusiones: los pacientes con DM2 presentan altas prevalencias de enfermedad coronaria asintomática que aumentan en presencia de otros factores de riesgo cardiovascular o de mayor duración o progresión de la DM2. Si bien existen varios métodos anatómicos o funcionales para su detección, la tamización de esta población no ha mostrado beneficio alguno, por lo que no puede recomendarse de rutina en asintomáticos

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. It is well known that type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) is an important risk factor for CAD, and that it can produce an asymptomatic form of the disease or one with atypical manifestations. The association between DM2 and coronary atherogenesis is such that CAD has been reported in up to 91% of asymptomatic diabetic patients, a higher prevalence than that of non-diabetic controls. In this narrative review we summarize the main epidemiologic, prognostic and determinant factors of asymptomatic CAD in DM2. We also discuss the screening methods available and the usefulness of routine screening for asymptomatic diabetics.

A doença coronária é uma das principais causas mundiais de morbi-mortalidade e a diabetes mellitus tipo 2 é um fator de risco importante, pode desenvolver-se de forma assintomática ou apresentando manifestações pouco comuns. Até 91% dos pacientes diabéticos apresentam doença coronária, um dado bem maior do que no caso dos pacientes no diabéticos. No presente artigo apresentam-se OS principados dados epidemiológicos, diagnósticos, pronósticos e determinantes da doença coronária em pacientes com diabetes tipo 2. Do mesmo jeito discute-se métodos diagnósticas