Histopathological parameters reported in microinvasive oral squamous cell carcinoma: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Microinvasive oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCCmi) is an incipient stage of oral cancer. Through this systematic review, we aim to assess patterns of histopathological outcomes reported in OSCCmi cases. MATERIAL AND METHODS: An online search in major databases was performed without period restriction, and 2,024 publications in English, Spanish and Portuguese were obtained. After screening and eligibility, 4 studies were selected. The risk of bias was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist. A descriptive synthesis was conducted. RESULTS: All 4 publications included were retrospective, reporting a total of 116 OSCCmi patients, with a male predominance (1.6:1) and a mean age of 55.9 years. The main parameters considered for microinvasion were tumor thickness (TT) (range 4-10mm) and depth of invasion (DOI) (range 0,02-5mm). Definition, cut-off values, and assessment of microscopic features were not standardized. Other relevant measures such as perineural or lymphovascular invasion and pattern of invasive front were barely described, and cytological/architectural characteristics were not discussed. CONCLUSIONS: TT and DOI are currently the primary histopathological criteria used to define OSCCmi. Nonetheless, the outcomes of this systematic review showed the absence of standardized quantitative parameters to render the diagnosis of microinvasive OSCC. Therefore, additional studies aiming to standardize histopathological features to diagnose OSCCmi are paramount.

Evening chronotype, disordered eating behavior, and poor dietary habits in bipolar disorder.

OBJECTIVE: Our aim was to evaluate the relationship between evening chronotype, a proxy marker of circadian system dysfunction, and disordered eating behavior and poor dietary habits in individuals with bipolar disorder (BD). METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, we evaluated 783 adults with BD. Chronotype was determined using item 5 from the reduced Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire. The Eating Disorder Diagnostic Scale (EDDS) and the Rapid Eating Assessment for Participants-Shortened Version (REAP-S) were used to assess disordered eating behavior and dietary habits respectively. General linear models and logistic regression models were utilized to evaluate differences between chronotype groups. RESULTS: Two hundred and eight (27%) BD participants self-identified as having evening chronotypes. Compared to non-evening types, evening types were younger (P < 0.01) and, after controlling for age, had higher mean EDDS composite z-scores (P < 0.01); higher rates of binge-eating (BE) behavior (P = 0.04), bulimia nervosa (P < 0.01), and nocturnal eating binges (P < 0.01); and a higher body mass index (P = 0.04). Compared to non-evening types, evening chronotypes had a lower REAP-S overall score (P < 0.01) and scored lower on the 'healthy foods' and 'avoidance of unhealthy food' factors. Evening types also skipped breakfast more often (P < 0.01), ate less fruit (P = 0.02) and vegetables (P = 0.04), and consumed more fried foods (P < 0.01), unhealthy snacks (P = 0.02), and soft drinks (P = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that the circadian system plays a role in the disordered eating and unhealthy dietary behaviors observed in BD patients. The circadian system may therefore represent a therapeutic target in BD-associated morbidity that warrants further investigation.

Offering HCV treatment to prisoners is an important opportunity: key principles based on policy and practice assessment in Europe.

BACKGROUND: Prisoners have a high prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection but may find it difficult to access healthcare services. This may be related to risk behaviour including history of injecting drugs and marginalisation related to problem drug use/ opioid use disorder (OUD). Direct-acting antiviral products with superior efficacy and safety compared to interferon-based regimens offer HCV cure. Many citizens in Europe have been treated, although few received therapy in prisons. METHODS: Analysis of prisoner HCV treatment need and policy determinants of clinical practice was completed for 5 EU countries. Evidence was collected from national statistical sources and peer-reviewed publications to describe prison populations and HCV prevalence, to map national prison/ HCV health policy or guidance. A consensus of important principles for prisoner HCV care was developed. RESULTS: Data from published sources describing prisoner HCV prevalence is limited. Prisoner population requiring HCV treatment is not known; estimated numbers based on analysis of evidence: England and Wales, 9000, France, 8000, Spain, 6000, Italy, 6000, Germany, 6000. Treatment access: national law defines right to equivalent care in all countries implying access to HCV therapy in prison similar to community; useful prisoner HCV guidance facilitating treatment decisions present in: 4 of 5 national/ regional HCV policy documents, 4 of 5 national prison healthcare policies. Four of five had practical prison HCV clinical guidelines. Despite existence of policy, implementation of guidance, and so HCV treatment, is suboptimal in many locations. CONCLUSIONS: Prison is an important location to detect, address and treat HCV infection in people who may be underserved for healthcare and find it difficult to navigate community treatment pathways. This is often related to problems with OUD and resulting social inequity. HCV management in prisons must be improved. Policy and clinical practice guidance must be set to promote treatment, and practical steps to make treatment easy should be followed including education to promote engagement, set-up of optimal screening and work up processes with modern tools to reduce time needed/ achieve efficiency; programs to make it easier to get specialists' input include remote working and nurse-led services.

[Arterial sinus pericranii. First case report]. / Sinus pericranii arterial. Una entidad desconocida.

INTRODUCTION: Sinus pericranii (SP) is a rare vascular anomaly consisting in an abnormal intradiploic communication between intra and extra cranial venous systems. It usually presents as a congenital soft mass in the cranial midline with progressive growth, which enlarges significantly with Valsalva maneuver. A similar congenital vascular anomaly involving intra and extra cranial arterial systems has not been previously described in the medical literature. CLINICAL CASE: A 6-year-old boy with suspected midline capillary malformation of the frontal bone was referred to our Vascular Anomalies Unit for progressive increase in size. A conclusive ultrasound of high flow malformation was performed. Angio-TAC confirmed the arterial nature of the lesion and its communication with the middle meningeal artery. Embolization of the distal portion of the middle meningeal artery was performed prior to surgery. Previous to exeresis of the malformation, skin expanders were placed to cover the subsequent defect. The histopathological result was an arteriovenous malformation. Currently the patient is 10 years old and is asymptomatic, with no recurrence of the lesion. CONCLUSIONS: Since its first description, SP has been classified and described in the literature as a venous malformation. Although morphologically may resemble a SP, histologically and immunohistochemically it corresponds to an arteriovenous malformation with intracranial arterial connection. It is especially important to know how to diagnose this type of cranial malformations because their long-term evolution will depend on correct management and initial follow-up.

INTRODUCCION: El sinus pericranii (SP) es una malformación vascular rara en la que existe una conexión intradiploica entre el sistema venoso intra y extracraneal. Se presenta como una masa blanda en línea media del cráneo con crecimiento progresivo, que aumenta de tamaño con maniobras de Valsalva. Una conexión similar entre los sistemas arteriales intra y extracraneales no ha sido descrita previamente. CASO CLINICO: Niño de 6 años con sospecha de malformación capilar en línea media del hueso frontal fue derivado a nuestra Unidad de Anomalías Vasculares por aumento progresivo de tamaño. Se realizó una ecografía concluyente de malformación de alto flujo. La angio-TAC confirmó la naturaleza arterial de la lesión y su comunicación con la arteria meníngea media. Se realizó una embolización de la porción distal de la arteria meníngea media previa a la cirugía. Previo a la exeresis de la malformación se procedió a colocar expansores cutáneos para poder cubrir el defecto posterior. El resultado histopatológico fue de una malformación arteriovenosa. Actualmente el paciente tiene 10 años y se encuentra asintomático, sin recidiva de la lesión. CONCLUSION: Desde su primera descripción, el SP se ha clasificado y descrito en la literatura como una malformación venosa. Aunque morfológicamente aparentase de un SP, histológica e inmunohistoquimicamente corresponde una malformación arteriovenosa con conexión arterial intracraneal. Es de especial importancia saber diagnosticar este tipo de malformaciones craneales porque su evolución a largo plazo dependerá de un correcto manejo y seguimiento inicial.

Oral management of children with Henoch-Schönlein Purpura and associated Glomerulonephritis: a scoping review.

AIM: To perform a scoping review of the existing literature in order to gather the most relevant information in the paediatric dentistry field related to the oral management of children affected by Henoch-Schönlein Purpura and associated Glomerulonephritis (HSPG). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Using scoping review methodology for the screening and selection of valid articles, the steps of this review were the following: first, to pose a research question; second, to identify relevant studies; third, to select and retrieve the studies; fourth, to chart the critical data, and finally, to collate, summarise, and report the results from the included articles. Relevant articles published over a 25-year period, up to July 31, 2017, were identified and retrieved from four Internet databases: PubMed; EMBASE/Ovid; Ebsco/Dentistry & Oral Science Source, and the Cochrane Collaboration Library. RESULTS: By title and abstract screening and after removing duplicates, four articles were finally included in the scoping review. According to the extracted data, the following are the most important clinical issues to be considered: (1) the disease can appear as a consequence of a dental treatment, such as those indicated for oral infectious processes; (2) children with HSPG are highly susceptible to dental caries and apical periodontitis, and (3) in affected children, oral infectious foci must be exhaustively eradicated in order to avoid the dissemination of the infection. CONCLUSIONS: Paediatric Dentists should be aware of HSPG, because the disease can be triggered or worsen subsequent to dental treatment. Adequate treatment of oral active infectious processes, together with an exhaustive oral preventive programme and long-term patient screening, are the best management approaches for children with HSPG.

Oral mucositis in paediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients receiving methotrexate-based chemotherapy: case series.

AIM: Oral mucositis (OM) is a painful and inflammatory ulcerative lesion occurring as an adverse effect during chemotherapy in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). This condition may cause significant systemic anomalies such as malnutrition, opportunistic infections, and delay in the chemotherapy course. This report aims to describe a case series of 11 ALL patients treated with methotrexate as chemotherapy agent. CASE SERIES: Each patient was carefully followed-up and orally examined for 14 days after their chemotherapy session. OM occurred in all children. Then, the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer and the International Society of Oral Oncology (MASCC/ISOO) management protocol for OM was applied to them. The mean time of the lesion total resolution was 3.7 days. CONCLUSIONS: It is necessary to emphasise the importance of early detection of OM through a close clinical oral examination of children and adolescents with ALL undergoing methotrexate chemotherapy. Pain/infection control and the maintenance of good levels of oral hygiene are fundamental during the management of OM. Therefore, paediatric dentists need to be part of the oncology care team, and thus contributing and helping with ALL treatment.

[Slipping rib syndrome in paediatrics: report of 4 cases]. / Síndrome de la costilla deslizante. Serie de 4 casos clínicos.

AIM OF THE STUDY: The slipping rib syndrome (SRS) is an unknown pathology for the pediatric surgeon due to its low incidence in children. The weakness of the costal ligaments allowing an area of rib hypermobility has been postulated recently as the main etiology. It produces an intermittent pain in the lower thorax or upper abdomen that can affect to the daily activities and can be the origin of unspecific chronic pain. METHODS: A retrospective review of patients diagnosed with SRS between october 2012 and march 2017 was performed. Data of demographics, symptoms, imaging studies, surgical findings and long-term follow-up were collected. RESULTS: During this period, 4 patients were diagnosed with SRS. Median age at diagnosis was 13 years (12-15 years) with a mean duration of symptoms of 13 months (12-36 months). In 2 patients the SRS was associated with Costal Dysmorphia (CD). The initial diagnosis was clinical with posterior ultrasound confirmation. Resection of the affected cartilages was performed in 3 patients and after a follow-up of 6 months (3-30 months), they all are painless and refer a good cosmetic result. One patient refused the intervention. CONCLUSIONS: The SRS is an infrequent cause of thoracic pain with an etiology not well understood. The awareness of this disease and its typical presentation can avoid unnecessary studies. The resection of the affected cartilages is a safe and effective treatment.

INTRODUCCION: El síndrome de costilla deslizante (SCD) es una entidad poco frecuente en niños. Se cree que su causa es una debilidad en los ligamentos costales que permite una hipermovilidad de las costillas. Genera un dolor intermitente en la región baja del tórax o alta del abdomen que puede afectar a las actividades de la vida diaria o generar un dolor crónico. MATERIAL Y METODOS: Revisión retrospectiva de SCD entre octubre de 2012 y diciembre de 2017. Se recogió información acerca de los datos demográficos, síntomas, estudios de imagen, hallazgos intraoperatorios, material fotográfico y seguimiento a largo plazo. RESULTADOS: Durante este periodo, 4 pacientes fueron diagnosticados de SCD. La mediana de edad al diagnóstico fue de 13 años (12-15 años) con una duración previa de los síntomas de 13 meses (12-36 meses). En 2 pacientes se asoció una dismorfia costal (DC). El diagnóstico fue clínico con confirmación ecográfica. Se realizó resección de los cartílagos afectos en 3 pacientes con un seguimiento posterior de 6 meses (3-30 meses). Actualmente se encuentran sin dolor y con un resultado estético satisfactorio. Un paciente rechazó la intervención. CONCLUSIONES: El SCD aparece en pacientes preadolescentes que en algunos casos asocian DC. Una exploración física y ecografía enfocada son las claves para un diagnóstico certero. La resección de cartílagos es efectiva a largo plazo.

Epidemiological profile of smoking and nicotine addiction among asthmatic adolescents.

OBJECTIVE: Despite the harmful effects of cigarette smoking, this habit in asthmatic adolescents continues to be a health problem worldwide. Our objectives were to determine the epidemiological profile of smoking and the degree of nicotine dependence among asthmatic adolescents. STUDY DESIGN: Through a cross-sectional investigation, 3383 adolescents (13-19 years of age) were studied. METHODS: Information was collected using a previously validated questionnaire. Two study groups of adolescent smokers were formed: one composed of asthmatic adolescents and the other of healthy youths. RESULTS: Asthmatic adolescents were found to be more likely to smoke (21.6% vs 11.8%) and to have some degree of nicotine dependence compared with healthy adolescents (51.6% vs 48.8%). The most important characteristic of smoking in asthmatic adolescents was found to be an onset before 11 years of age due to curiosity about cigarettes. Asthmatic youths continue smoking because this habit decreases their anxiety and stress. Adolescents know that smoking is addictive and often smoke on waking up in the morning or when they are sick. Yet, these adolescents do not consider smoking to be a problem. CONCLUSION: In this study, curiosity about cigarettes was the primary reason why asthmatic adolescents smoked for the first time and developed a greater dependence to nicotine compared with healthy adolescents. Moreover, the findings show that many of the factors that favour the development of smoking are preventable, given that they are present in the family and social environment.

The INTERPRET-DD study of diabetes and depression: a protocol.

AIM: People with diabetes are at an increased risk of developing depression and other psychological disorders. However, little is known about the prevalence, correlates or care pathways in countries other than the UK and the USA. A new study, the International Prevalence and Treatment of Diabetes and Depression Study (INTERPRET-DD) aims to address this dearth of knowledge and identify optimal pathways to care across the globe. METHOD: INTERPRET-DD is a 2-year longitudinal study, taking place in 16 countries' diabetes outpatients' facilities, investigating the recognition and management of depressive disorders in people with Type 2 diabetes. Clinical interviews are used to diagnose depression, with clinical and other data obtained from medical records and through patient interviews. Pathways to care and the impact of treatment for previously unrecognized (undocumented) depression on clinical outcomes and emotional well-being are being investigated. RESULTS: Initial evidence indicates that a range of pathways to care exist, with few of them based on available recommendations for treatment. Pilot data indicates that the instruments we are using to measure both the symptoms and clinical diagnosis of depression are acceptable in our study population and easy to use. CONCLUSIONS: Our study will increase the understanding of the impact of comorbid diabetes and depression and identify the most appropriate (country-specific) pathways via which patients receive their care. It addresses an important public health problem and leads to recommendations for best practice relevant to the different participating centres with regard to the identification and treatment of people with comorbid diabetes and depression.

HIV treatment and care among Italian inmates: a one-month point survey.

BACKGROUND: HIV infection, with an estimated prevalence be between 2 and 50 times those of the general adult population is a major health challenge for prison authorities worldwide. Since no nationwide surveillance system is present in Italy, data on HIV prevalence and treatment in prisons are limited to only a few and small observational studies. We aimed to estimate HIV prevalence and obtain an overview on diagnostic and therapeutic activities concerning HIV infection in the Italian penitentiary system. METHODS: We piloted a multi-centre cross-sectional study investigating the prevalence of HIV infection and assessing HIV-related medical activities in Italian correctional institutions. RESULTS: A total of 15,675 prisoners from 25 institutions, accounting for approximately one-fourth of the prison inmates in Italy, were included in the study, of whom, 97.7 % were males, 37.1 % foreigners and 27 % had a history of intravenous drug addiction. HIV-tests were available in 42.3 % of the total population, with a known HIV Infection proportion of 5.1 %. In the month prior to the study, 604 of the 1,764 subjects who entered prison were tested for HIV, with a HIV-positive prevalence of 3.3 %. Among the 338 HIV-positive prisoners, 81.4 % were under antiretroviral treatment and 73.5 % showed undetectable HIV-RNA. In 23/338 (6.8 %) a coinfection with HBV and in 189/338 (55.9 %) with HCV was also present. Among the 67 (19.8 %) inmates with HIV who did not receive HIV treatment, 13 (19.5 %) had T-CD4+ count <350 cells/mm(3) and 9 (69.2 %) of these had refused the treatment. The majority of the inmates with HIV-infection were on a PI-based (62.5 %) or on NNRTIs-based (24.4 %) regimen. Only a minority of patients received once daily regimens (17.2 %). CONCLUSIONS: Although clinical and therapeutic management of HIV infection remains difficult in Italian prisons, diagnostics, treatment and care were offered to the majority of HIV-infected inmates. Specific programs should be directed towards the prison population and strict cooperation between prison and health institutions is needed to increase HIV treatment.

Multifocal lymphangioendotheliomatosis with thrombocytopenia: phenotypic variability and response to rapamycin. / Linfagioendoteliomatosis multifocal con trombopenia: variabilidad fenotípica y respuesta a rapamicina.

INTRODUCTION: Multifocal lymphangioendotheliomatosis with thrombocytopenia (MLT) is characterized by multiple maculopapular lesions involving the stomach and the lungs, associated with thrombocytopenia as a result of platelet entrapment. Episodes of severe digestive bleeding, which are sometimes unmanageable, are one of its most frequent presentations and a cause of mortality. Our objective was to describe the various phenotypes, as well as our treatment experience. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective analysis of patients diagnosed with MLT in our vascular abnormality unit from 2007 to 2018 was carried out. Epidemiological, clinical, and evolution data were analyzed, and a long-term follow-up was performed. RESULTS: Five patients (3 boys and 2 girls) had congenital macules and erythematous papules of various sizes. They were later associated with episodes of severe hematemesis along with thrombocytopenia, which required blood product transfusion. The most frequently involved areas were the stomach and the colon. In two patients, multiple bilateral pulmonary nodules were noted. The anatomical pathology examination showed extended vessels with a prominent, hobnail endothelium, as well as intraluminal papillary projections in the dermis. Immunohistochemical analysis was CD-31 positive and CD-34 positive in a characteristic manner. Two patients were treated with mTOR inhibitors (rapamycin), with a progressive decrease in extracutaneous involvement and platelet recovery, but with a poor response in dermal lesions. Two patients were treated with vincristine, with a reduction of digestive bleeding episodes. No deaths were reported in our series. CONCLUSION: MLT is characterized by hematological and cutaneous involvement - sometimes minimal -, with potential lesions in other internal organs. Its heterogeneous presentation, which may start with severe digestive bleeding, makes this rare pathology difficult to diagnose. mTOR inhibitors have opened up new treatment possibilities.

INTRODUCCION: La linfangioendoteliomatosis multifocal con trombopenia (LMT) es una anomalía, caracterizada por múltiples lesiones maculo-papulosas con afectación visceral gástrica y pulmonar, asociado a trombopenia por atrapamiento plaquetar. Una de sus presentaciones más frecuentes es en forma de episodios de hemorragia digestiva severa, en ocasiones inmanejable, y que es la responsable de su mortalidad. Nuestro objetivo es describir los diferentes fenotipos, así como nuestra experiencia en su tratamiento. MATERIAL Y METODOS: Hemos realizado un análisis retrospectivo de los pacientes diagnósticos de LMT según las características histológicas típicas entre 2007 y 2018 en nuestra unidad de anomalías vasculares. Se analizaron datos epidemiológicos, clínicos y de evolución, así como seguimiento a largo plazo. RESULTADOS: Cinco pacientes (3 hombres y 2 mujeres) presentaron al nacimiento máculas y pápulas eritematosas de diferentes tamaños a los que más adelante se les asoció episodios de hematemesis graves junto a trombopenia, que llegaron a requerir transfusión de hemoderivados. Las regiones más afectadas fueron el estómago seguido del colon. En dos pacientes se detectaron múltiples nódulos pulmonares bilaterales. La anatomía patológica describió vasos alargados con endotelio prominente y en tachuela junto a proyecciones papilares intraluminales en dermis. La inmunohistoquímica fue positiva de forma característica para CD-31 y CD-34. Dos pacientes fueron tratados con inhibidores de mTOR (rapamicina) con disminución progresiva de la afectación extracutánea y recuperación plaquetar, pero con una pobre respuesta de las lesiones dérmicas. Dos pacientes fueron tratados con vincristina con reducción de los episodios de sangrado digestivo. No se registró ningún fallecimiento en nuestra serie. CONCLUSION: La LMT se caracteriza por una afectación cutánea, a veces mínima, y hematológica que puede asociar lesiones en otros órganos internos. La presentación heterogénea, pudiendo debutar con hemorragias digestivas severas, hacen de esta entidad una patología de difícil diagnóstico. Los inhibidores de mTOR han abierto una nueva vía que arroja cierta esperanza para el tratamiento de esta patología tan poco frecuente.

CT scan structured report for the study of abdominal wall defects: a fast, easy and practical tool at the service of both surgeons and radiologist.

PURPOSE: The advantages offered by structured reporting have already been highlighted in the literature. However, there is still no evidence on the validity of this reporting method for the study of abdominal wall defects. This study aims to show the experience of the Trentino Hernia Team (THT) multidisciplinary group in the development and use of a structured CT scan report for the study of abdominal wall defects. METHODS: A regional multidisciplinary team (THT group) used a Delphi method to identify and select the most important CT scan parameters needed to describe and stage abdominal wall defects for correct preoperative planning. Based on the selected parameters, a CT scan structured report was worked out and collectively accepted. The first 20 structured reports obtained were individually tested for compilation speed and homogeneity of the data reported by five distinct radiologists. The reports were then evaluated by five different surgeons to test the simplicity of interpretation. RESULTS: We produced a model of a structured report for the study of the abdominal wall defects and tested it in our hospital network on the first 20 reports. The average completion time was 18 min (range 12-25). There was no heterogeneity among the reported data. The reports were analysed by five distinct surgeons to evaluate completeness and simplicity of interpretation. Each surgeon used a Likert scale from 0 to 5 to evaluate each report, producing average scores of 4.8 and 4.1 for completeness and comprehensibility respectively, with a mean combined total score of 8.9 out of 10. CONCLUSIONS: Our structured report represents a fundamental tool capable of providing the surgeon with all the measurements of the parameters necessary for correct preoperative planning. At the same time, it is of crucial help for the radiologists representing an easy and fast way to report all the needed parameters using the same standards.

Thoracic outlet syndrome in adolescents: a case series. / Síndrome del opérculo torácico en adolescentes: serie de casos.

OBJECTIVE: Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) is caused by a compression of the brachial plexus and the subclavian vessels in their passage to the upper limb. It mostly occurs in women aged 20-50, so it is infrequent in children. We present our results in the diagnosis and management of pediatric TOS. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective study of patients diagnosed with TOS between December 2017 and June 2018. Clinical, radiological, surgical, and evolution variables were assessed. RESULTS: Five TOS were diagnosed in 4 patients - one TOS was bilateral. Mean age at diagnosis was 12.5 years (7-15), and there was a delay in diagnosis of 153 days (10-36). TOS was either venous (3) or neurogenic (2). Patients presented with pain (5/5), edema (4/5), hypoesthesia (3/5), decreased strength (3/5), and cervical pain (2/5). One patient presented with sport-related pain. Neurophysiological study was normal in three cases. Two patients presented bone anomalies at CT-scan. Three surgeries were performed in two patients using the supraclavicular approach with resection of the anomalous first rib and scalenectomy. One patient refused surgery, and another patient remained expectant without reappearance of symptoms. Postoperative follow-up was 9 months (6-12), with progressive improvement of symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: TOS may occur in adolescents in the form of upper limb pain and edema. Imaging tests are recommended to detect abnormal anatomical structures. The supraclavicular approach represents a safe and effective technique in decompressing the thoracic outlet.

OBJETIVO: El síndrome del opérculo torácico (SOT) está causado por una compresión del plexo braquial y vasos subclavios en su paso hacia la extremidad superior. Patología típica de mujeres entre 20 y 50 años, que es infrecuente diagnosticar en niños. Presentamos nuestros resultados en el diagnóstico y tratamiento del SOT pediátrico. MATERIAL Y METODOS: Estudio retrospectivo de pacientes diagnosticados de SOT entre diciembre 2017 y junio 2018. Se analizaron variables clínicas, radiológicas, quirúrgicas y de evolución. RESULTADOS: Cinco SOT fueron diagnosticados en cuatro pacientes, uno de ellos bilateral. La edad media al diagnóstico fue de 12,5 años (7-15) y hubo una demora en el diagnóstico de 153 días (10-360). SOT venoso (3) y neurológico (2). Presentaron dolor (5/5), edema (4/5), hipoestesia (3/5), disminución de fuerza (3/5) y dolor cervical (2/5). Una paciente presentaba dolor asociado al deporte. El estudio neurofisiológico fue normal en tres casos. Dos pacientes presentaron anomalías óseas por TAC. Se realizaron tres intervenciones quirúrgicas en dos pacientes por abordaje supraclavicular realizando resección de la primera costilla anómala y escalenectomía. Una paciente rechazo la intervención y en otra se mantuvo en una actitud expectante sin reaparición de los síntomas. Seguimiento posoperatorio de 9 meses (6-12) con mejoría progresivas de los síntomas. CONCLUSION: El SOT puede darse en adolescentes siendo el dolor y edema de la extremidad superior lo más específico. Se recomienda la realización de pruebas de imagen para detectar estructuras anatómicas anómalas. El abordaje supraclavicular se presenta como una técnica segura y eficaz en la descompresión del desfiladero torácico.

Allergic rhinitis, feeding and oral habits, toothbrushing and socioeconomic status. Effects on development of dental caries in primary dentition.

The aim was to determine the effect of feeding and oral habits, toothbrushing, socioeconomic status and allergic rhinitis on the development of dental caries in primary dentition. In a cross-sectional study, data were obtained by means of a structured questionnaire on 1,160 children, 4-5 years old (mean = 4.5 +/- 0.5) and born in 1999, 2000 or 2001. The children also had a physical examination by an allergist and dentists. Dental caries was diagnosed according to WHO criteria. Caries experience was measured as number of deft and defs. Logistic regression analysis assessed the association between dental caries and independent variables. The dental caries prevalence was 17.9%, 28.8% of the children had allergic rhinitis symptoms, digit sucking was reported by 9.8% and pacifier use by 13.6% of the children. The mean number of deft of the sample was 1.02 (SD = 2.37) and that of defs was 1.33 (SD = 3.54). Analysis showed that breast-feeding for >12 months (p < 0.01), toothbrushing frequency (p < 0.01), sugar consumption (p < 0.01) and pacifier use (p < 0.01) each had a significant association with dental caries occurrence in primary dentition. Children with pacifier use and allergic rhinitis had more than double the risk of dental caries development. Allergic rhinitis alone has no effect on dental caries. Healthcare professionals attempting to limit dental caries should consider the effect of prolonged breast-feeding, sugary product consumption between meals and nonnutritive habits on dental caries.

Interstitial Lung Disease After Kidney Transplantation and the Role of Everolimus.

BACKGROUND: Kidney transplant recipients are at higher risk of developing pulmonary complications related to immunosuppression, and inhibitor of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTORi) has been reported as a potential cause. METHODS: Five hundred kidney-transplanted patients were retrospectively analyzed for pulmonary complications on the basis of clinical and instrumental data (chest radiography, high-resolution computed tomography, broncho-alveolar lavage, oximetry). RESULTS: We found 26 interstitial lung diseases (ILD) (16%): 12 cases (46.2%) were from infections (42.8% by Pneumocystis jirovecii) and 14 cases of ILD (53.8%) resulted as drug-induced ILD (DI-ILD). According to anti-rejection protocols, DI-ILD occurred in 8 patients (57%) while on triple regimen including steroids, everolimus (EVL), and cyclosporine (CyA) and in 6 patients on double regimen with steroids and mTORi: EVL or sirolimus (43%). In ILD+ patients, everolimus trough-concentration (EVL(TLC)) and cyclosporine (2nd-hour concentration: CyA(C2)) levels were higher than in patients in the same regimen but with ILD- (EVL(TLC) [ng/mL] 9.84 versus 6.85; CyA(C2) [ng/mL] 303.97 versus 298.56). The formula that used the combined blood levels of both drugs (EVL(TLC) + CyA(C2)/100) resulted in a significant difference between groups of patients (12.88 ± 1.61 versus 9.83 ± 1.91). Applying receiver operator characteristic curve (ROC) analysis to detect risk of developing ILD when on combined protocol with EVL and CyA, we obtained an area under the curve of 0.8622 (P = .0081) and 0.9082 (P = .0028), respectively, when using EVL(TLC) or the combination formula with both drugs. CONCLUSIONS: In renal transplant patients, we obtained a relationship of ILD to specific drug concentration. On the basis of ROC analysis, patients on EVL and CyA combined protocol are at risk of ILD when EVL(TLC) is >9.03 ng/mL or >11.41 when a formula with summation of EVL(TLC) and CyA(C2) is used.

Kidney Transplantation in HIV-Infected Recipients: Therapeutic Strategy and Outcomes in Monocentric Experience.

BACKGROUND: In Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patients undergoing kidney transplantation, outcomes and immunosuppression (IS) protocol are not yet established due to infectious and neoplastic risks as well as to pharmacokinetic interactions with antiretroviral therapy (TARV). METHODS: We report a retrospective, 1-center study on 18 HIV+ patients undergoing, between October 2007 and September 2015, kidney transplantation (13 cases) or combined kidney-liver transplant (5 cases). Inclusion criteria for transplant were based on the Italian National Transplant Center protocol. IS regimen was based on quick tapering of steroids and the use of mTOR inhibitors (mTORi) with low dose of calcineurin inhibitors (CNI). In the early post-transplant period, TARV was based on enfuvirtide, raltegravir, plus 1 or more nucleoside analogues. RESULTS: In a mean follow-up of 3.1 years, patient survival rate at 1 and 3 years was, respectively, 86.6% and 84.6%, whereas graft survival was 81.2% and 78.6%. Cumulative rejection rate was 20.0% and 26.6% (1- and 3-year results). Median eGFR (MDRD) was 58.8 mL/min and 51.9 mL/min at 1 and 3 years. We had 9 cases of clinically relevant infections (2 Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia, 1 pulmonary aspergillosis, 2 severe sepsis, and 4 HCV reactivation) as well as 1 case (5.5%) of HIV reactivation. CONCLUSIONS: IS therapy based on mTORi and low CNI dose ensures good graft survival, low rate of acute rejection, limited drug toxicity, and control of HIV disease. TARV has no significant interaction with IS therapy.

Lamotrigine potentiates the antiseizure activity of some anticonvulsants in DBA/2 mice.

Lamotrigine [0.5-10 mg/kg, intraperitoneally (i.p.)] was able to antagonize the audiogenic seizures in DBA/2 mice in a dose-dependent manner. Lamotrigine at doses of 0.5 and 1.25 mg/kg i.p., which per se did not significantly affect the occurrence of audiogenic seizures in DBA/2 mice, markedly potentiated the anticonvulsant activity of carbamazepine, diazepam, phenytoin, phenobarbital and valproate against sound induced seizures in DBA/2 mice. The degree of potentiation by lamotrigine was greatest for diazepam and valproate, lower for phenobarbital, and least for phenytoin and carbamazepine. The increase in anticonvulsant activity was associated with a comparable increase in motor impairment. However, the therapeutic index of combined treatment of diazepam + lamotrigine or valproate + lamotrigine was more favourable than the diazepam + saline or valproate + saline treatment. Since lamotrigine did not significantly influence the plasma levels of the anticonvulsant drugs studied we might suggest that pharmacokinetic interactions, in terms of total plasma levels, are not probable. However, the possibility that lamotrigine alters protein binding and increases the relative free vs protein bound ratio may not be excluded. Lamotrigine did not significantly affect the hypothermic effects of the anticonvulsant compounds studied. Lamotrigine showed an additive effect when administered in combination with some classical anticonvulsants, most notably valproate and diazepam.

Effects of chronic Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol treatment on hippocampal extracellular acetylcholine concentration and alternation performance in the T-maze.

Delta(9)-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta(9)-THC), the psychoactive ingredient of cannabis sativa, reduces both extracellular hippocampal acetylcholine concentration and correct alternation tasks in the T-maze. The principal aim of this study was to determine whether a chronic Delta(9)-THC treatment would induce tolerance both to the reduction of extracellular hippocampal acetylcholine concentration and memory deficit produced by the drug. Our results show that a chronic Delta(9)-THC treatment (5mg/kg, i.p., twice daily for two weeks) did not produce tolerance to the inhibitory effects induced by the drug. Moreover, no strict temporal correlation between the two Delta(9)-THC effects was observed: the inhibition in extracellular acetylcholine concentration appeared only 80 min after treatment, while the reduction of correct alternation tasks in the T-maze began after 20 min. The cognitive and cholinergic effects induced by a chronic Delta(9)-THC treatment were completely blocked by the CB(1) cannabinoid receptor antagonist SR 141716A, indicating an involvement of CB(1) cannabinoid receptors in the persistent negative effects induced by the drug. These findings confirm the proposition that CB(1) cannabinoid receptors mediate the negative effects induced by Delta(9)-THC both on hippocampal extracellular acetylcholine concentration and correct alternation tasks in the T-maze, and they indicate that these effects may be differentiated. However, the major outcome of this work is the demonstration that no tolerance to the two inhibitory effects develops after a chronic Delta(9)-THC treatment.

D(2) dopamine receptors enable delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol induced memory impairment and reduction of hippocampal extracellular acetylcholine concentration.

1. The systemic administration of Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (2.5 - 7.5 mg kg(-1)) reduced hippocampal extracellular acetylcholine concentration and impaired working memory in rats. 2. Both effects were antagonized not only by the CB(1) cannabinoid receptor antagonist SR141716A (0.5 mg kg(-1), i.p.) but also unexpectedly by the D(2) dopamine receptor antagonist S(-)-sulpiride (5, 10 and 25 mg kg(-1), i.p.). Conversely, Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol-induced memory impairment and inhibition of hippocampal extracellular acetylcholine concentration were potentiated by the subcutaneous administration of the D(2) dopamine receptor agonist (-)-quinpirole (25 and 500 microg kg(-1)). The inhibition of hippocampal extracellular acetylcholine concentration and working memory produced by the combination of (-)-quinpirole and Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol was suppressed by either SR141716A or S(-)-sulpiride. 3. Our findings suggest that impairment of working memory and inhibition of hippocampal extracellular acetylcholine concentration are mediated by the concomitant activation of D(2) dopamine and CB(1) cannabinoid receptors, and that D(2) dopamine receptor antagonists may be useful in the treatment of the cognitive deficits induced by marijuana.