A multiplex nested PCR for the detection and identification of Candida species in blood samples of critically ill paediatric patients.

BACKGROUND: Nosocomial candidaemia is associated with high mortality rates in critically ill paediatric patients; thus, the early detection and identification of the infectious agent is crucial for successful medical intervention. The PCR-based techniques have significantly increased the detection of Candida species in bloodstream infections. In this study, a multiplex nested PCR approach was developed for candidaemia detection in neonatal and paediatric intensive care patients. METHODS: DNA samples from the blood of 54 neonates and children hospitalised in intensive care units with suspected candidaemia were evaluated by multiplex nested PCR with specific primers designed to identify seven Candida species, and the results were compared with those obtained from blood cultures. RESULTS: The multiplex nested PCR had a detection limit of four Candida genomes/mL of blood for all Candida species. Blood cultures were positive in 14.8% of patients, whereas the multiplex nested PCR was positive in 24.0% of patients, including all culture-positive patients. The results obtained with the molecular technique were available within 24 hours, and the assay was able to identify Candida species with 100% of concordance with blood cultures. Additionally, the multiplex nested PCR detected dual candidaemia in three patients. CONCLUSIONS: Our proposed PCR method may represent an effective tool for the detection and identification of Candida species in the context of candidaemia diagnosis in children, showing highly sensitive detection and the ability to identify the major species involved in this infection.

Post-natal prognostic factors in CDH: experience of 11 years in a referral center in Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: To describe post-natal risk factors associated with death in Newborns (NB) with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) in a Brazilian reference center. METHODS: In this retrospective cohort study, post-natal clinical factors of all NB diagnosed with CDH were reviewed in an 11-year period (2007‒2018). The primary outcome was death. Secondary outcomes included clinical features, prognostic indexes, type of mechanical ventilation, complications during hospitalization and surgical repair. RESULTS: After applying the exclusion criteria, the authors analyzed 137 charts. Overall mortality was 59% (81/137), and the highest rates were observed for low-birth-weight NB (87%), syndromic phenotype (92%), and those with major malformations (100%). Prognostic indexes such as Apgar, SNAPPE-II and 24hOI (best oxygenation index in 24 hours) were all associated with poor evolution. In a multivariate analysis, only birth weight and 24hOI were statistically significant risk factors for mortality, with a reduction in mortality risk of 17.1% (OR = 0.829, 95% IC 0.72‒0.955, p = 0.009) for each additional 100g at birth and an increase by 26.5% (OR = 1.265, 95% IC 1.113‒1.436, p = 0.0003) for each unitary increase at the 24hOI. CONCLUSION: Prognostic indexes are an important tool for predicting outcomes and improving resource allocation. Post-natal risk factors may be more suitable for settings where antenatal diagnosis is not universal. Classical risk factors, such as prematurity, low birth weight, higher need for supportive care, and poorer prognostic indexes were associated with mortality in our CDH population.

Monocyte-to-HDL ratio and non-HDL cholesterol were predictors of septic shock in newborns.

BACKGROUND: The association between lipoprotein levels and late-onset neonatal sepsis has shown controversial results. The aims are to assess lipid profile, cytokines, and Monocyte-to-HDL (M/H) ratio as diagnostic and prognostic markers for late-onset neonatal sepsis. METHODS: This prospective study included 49 septic neonates and 17 controls. Cholesterol (CT), Triglyceride (TG), Very-Low-Density (VLDLc), Low-Density (LDLc), and High-Density Lipoproteins (HDLc) were measured at admission (D0) and on days 3, 7 and 10 to evaluate septic shock outcomes. Cytokines and monocytes were evaluated by flow cytometry. RESULTS: Septic newborns showed higher IL-6 and IL-8 at D0 and CT levels on D7 and on D10, which also presented higher TG, VLDLc and non-HDL cholesterol concentrations than controls. The septic shock group (n = 22) revealed a higher number of male subjects, CRP, IL-6, IL-8 and IL-10 levels, while lower TG, HDLc, monocyte numbers and M/H ratio at admission compared to the non-shock group (n = 27). M/H ratio and non-HDL cholesterol on D0 were risk factors for septic shock (OR = 0.70, 0.49‒0.99; OR = 0.96, 0.92‒0.99, respectively). Decreasing levels from D0 to D3 of CT (OR = 0.96, 0.93‒0.99), VLDLc (OR = 0.91, 0.85‒0.98), and non-HDL cholesterol (OR = 0.92, 0.87‒0.98) were also predictors of septic shock. CONCLUSIONS: Lower M/H ratios and non-HDL cholesterol at admission and decreasing levels of cholesterol, VLDLc and non-HDL cholesterol during a hospital stay are associated with the development of septic shock in newborns with late-onset neonatal sepsis.

Post-natal prognostic factors in CDH: experience of 11 years in a referral center in Brazil

Abstract Objective To describe post-natal risk factors associated with death in Newborns (NB) with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) in a Brazilian reference center. Methods In this retrospective cohort study, post-natal clinical factors of all NB diagnosed with CDH were reviewed in an 11-year period (2007‒2018). The primary outcome was death. Secondary outcomes included clinical features, prognostic indexes, type of mechanical ventilation, complications during hospitalization and surgical repair. Results After applying the exclusion criteria, the authors analyzed 137 charts. Overall mortality was 59% (81/137), and the highest rates were observed for low-birth-weight NB (87%), syndromic phenotype (92%), and those with major malformations (100%). Prognostic indexes such as Apgar, SNAPPE-II and 24hOI (best oxygenation index in 24 hours) were all associated with poor evolution. In a multivariate analysis, only birth weight and 24hOI were statistically significant risk factors for mortality, with a reduction in mortality risk of 17.1% (OR = 0.829, 95% IC 0.72‒0.955, p = 0.009) for each additional 100g at birth and an increase by 26.5% (OR = 1.265, 95% IC 1.113‒1.436, p = 0.0003) for each unitary increase at the 24hOI. Conclusion Prognostic indexes are an important tool for predicting outcomes and improving resource allocation. Post-natal risk factors may be more suitable for settings where antenatal diagnosis is not universal. Classical risk factors, such as prematurity, low birth weight, higher need for supportive care, and poorer prognostic indexes were associated with mortality in our CDH population.

Neonatal sepsis and meningitis caused by Neisseria meningitidis: a case report.

OBJECTIVE: To report a full-term newborn infant that developed a sepsis associated to meningitis caused by Neisseria meningitidis serogroup C on the 14th day of life. CASE DESCRIPTION: The patient was a term female infant, born to a mother with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, with birth weight of 2,610 g, Apgar Score 1, 4 and 8, who needed mechanical ventilation for 24 hours. On the 7th day of life, the neonate was discharged from the hospital with good overall condition. On the 15th day of life, the newborn infant presented fever and respiratory failure. The cerebrospinal fluid showed 1042 cells/mm3, with neutrophilic predominance, protein of 435 mg/dL, and glucose < 10 mg/dL. The blood and the cerebrospinal fluid cultures were positive for Neisseria meningitidis serogroup C. The neonate was hospitalized, needing mechanical ventilation and vasoactive drugs, and received 21 days of crystalline penicillin. After hospital discharge, there were no signs of neurological sequels and the infant was able to be breastfed. The case report presents a unique situation: an uncommon etiology of neonatal meningitis and favorable evolution, despite neurological sequels reported in the literature. This report emphasizes the need to prevent the premature exposure of newborn infants to pathological agents, especially if they presented birth injuries and/or are preterm, due to their lack of immunological capacity.

ANALYSIS OF DEATH AND PALLIATIVE CARE IN A NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE UNIT. / ANÁLISE DOS ÓBITOS E CUIDADOS PALIATIVOS EM UMA UNIDADE DE TERAPIA INTENSIVA NEONATAL.

OBJECTIVE: To characterize cases of children admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of a tertiary university hospital who died in the period ranging from January 01, 2012 to July 31, 2014, and who required palliative care and/or were subjected to it. METHODS: A retrospective descriptive study was carried out by reviewing the medical records of these patients to collect data and to perform descriptive statistical analysis. RESULTS: During the study period, 49 children died after at least 48 hours from the time of admission. Of those, 18% children were extremely premature infants and 77% children had malformations. Although necessary for all of the patients in this study, palliative care was provided for only 20% of patients who died. Among the 12 babies who were not resuscitated, 33% of babies were not in palliative care. The Pain and Palliative Care Unit of the institution followed only four neonates in palliative care. These patients were using many invasive devices, had high therapeutic investment, and also altered pain scale scores. CONCLUSIONS: This study exhibited a large proportion of newborn infants with serious diseases and health conditions. In a few cases the patients received palliative care, but most of them were not even discussed under palliative point of view. We hope that this study will call attention to the need to propose protocols and implement training for the best treatment of these children.

OBJETIVO: Caracterizar as crianças admitidas na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Neonatal de um hospital universitário terciário que foram a óbito no período de 1.º/01/2012 a 31/07/2014 e que necessitavam de cuidados paliativos e/ou para as quais foram indicados tal tipo de cuidado. MÉTODOS: Realizou-se estudo descritivo retrospectivo. Foi feita revisão dos prontuários desses pacientes para coleta de dados e análise estatística descritiva. RESULTADOS: No período estudado 49 crianças morreram após, no mínimo, 48 horas de internação. Destas, 18% eram prematuros extremos e 77% apresentavam malformações maiores. Apesar de necessários a todos, cuidados paliativos foram realizados apenas em 20% dos casos de óbito. Dos 12 bebês que não foram reanimados, 33% não estavam em cuidados paliativos. A Unidade de Dor e Cuidados Paliativos da instituição acompanhou somente quatro crianças que ficaram em cuidados paliativos. Foram observados uso de muitos dispositivos invasivos e alto investimento terapêutico, além de escores de escala de dor alterados. CONCLUSÕES: Detectou-se neste estudo grande proporção de recém-nascidos com doenças e condições graves de saúde. Em alguns poucos casos foram estabelecidos cuidados paliativos, porém para a maior parte não foi nem discutido tal cuidado. Espera-se que este trabalho chame a atenção para a necessidade da proposição de protocolos nessa unidade e capacitação de equipes para o melhor tratamento dessas crianças.

Avaliação do desenvolvimento motor e do efeito da intervenção fisioterapêutica em recém-nascidos cirúrgicos em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Neonatal / Evaluación del desarrollo motor y del efecto de la intervención de la fisioterapia en recién nacidos quirúrgicos en una Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Neonatal / Evaluation of motor development and effect of physical therapy intervention in surgical neonates in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

RESUMO O objetivo do estudo foi verificar a aplicabilidade do Test of Infant Motor Performance (TIMP) em recém-nascidos (RN) cirúrgicos como ferramenta para avaliação do desempenho motor; e avaliar o benefício da fisioterapia. RN cirúrgicos, divididos em grupo sem fisioterapia motora (n=38) e com fisioterapia motora (n=38), foram avaliados pelo TIMP e reavaliados duas semanas depois. O grupo com fisioterapia realizou exercícios para estimulação sensório-motora uma vez ao dia, enquanto o grupo sem fisioterapia recebeu os cuidados habituais da Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Neonatal (UTIN). O diagnóstico cirúrgico predominante nos dois grupos foi de gastrosquise, seguido de hérnia diafragmática congênita. Na avaliação, não houve diferença no desempenho motor entre os grupos, classificados como "abaixo da média" para a idade, com escore-z=−1,28 (p=0,992). Na reavaliação, o grupo com fisioterapia apresentou melhor pontuação (p<0,001) e maior diferença de escore (p<0,001), com uma porcentagem maior de RN classificados como "dentro da média" em comparação ao grupo sem fisioterapia (44% e 2,6%, respectivamente); além de maior porcentagem de ganho de peso (p=0,038). Na reavaliação, verificou-se piora do desempenho motor em 10,5% do grupo sem fisioterapia (p<0,001), enquanto a melhora do desempenho motor foi observada em 81,6% do grupo com fisioterapia e em apenas 13,2% do grupo sem fisioterapia (p<0,001). Concluiu-se que o TIMP foi aplicado de forma segura e eficaz e necessita ser realizado por profissionais experientes na abordagem dessa população. A fisioterapia motora melhorou significativamente o desempenho motor, e, se iniciada precocemente, pode ser capaz de adequar o desenvolvimento motor desses RN, antes mesmo da alta hospitalar.

RESUMEN El objetivo de este estudio fue verificar la aplicabilidad del Test of Infant Motor Performance (TIMP) en recién nacidos quirúrgicos (RN) como una herramienta de evaluación del desempeño motor, y analizar el beneficio de la fisioterapia. Los RN quirúrgicos, divididos en los grupos sin fisioterapia motora (n=38) y con fisioterapia (n=38), fueron evaluados por el TIMP y reevaluados dos semanas después. El grupo con fisioterapia realizó ejercicios de estimulación sensoriomotora una vez al día, mientras que el grupo sin fisioterapia recibió la atención habitual de la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Neonatal (UCIN). El diagnóstico quirúrgico predominante en ambos grupos fue el de la gastrosquisis, seguido de hernia diafragmática congénita. En la evaluación, no hubo diferencia en el desempeño motor entre los grupos, clasificados como "por debajo del promedio" para la edad, con puntaje -z=−1,28 (p=0,992). En la reevaluación, el grupo con fisioterapia tuvo mejor puntuación (p<0,001) y mayor diferencia de puntaje (p<0,001), con mayor porcentaje de RN clasificados como "dentro de la media" en comparación con el grupo sin fisioterapia (44% y 2,6%, respectivamente); además de un mayor porcentaje de ganancia de peso (p=0,038). En la reevaluación hubo un empeoramiento del desempeño motor en el 10,5% del grupo sin fisioterapia (p<0,001), mientras que se observó una mejora en el desempeño motor en el 81,6% del grupo con fisioterapia y solo en el 13,2% del grupo sin fisioterapia (p<0,001). Se concluyó que el TIMP se aplicó con seguridad y eficacia y que este debe ser realizado por profesionales con experiencia con esta población. La fisioterapia motora mejoró significativamente el rendimiento motor y, si se inicia precozmente, puede ser capaz de adaptar el desarrollo motor de estos RN, incluso antes del alta hospitalaria.

ABSTRACT This study aimed to verify the applicability of the Test of Infant Motor Performance (TIMP) in surgical neonates as a tool for evaluating motor performance and to evaluate the benefit of physical therapy. Surgical neonates, divided into group without physical therapy (n=38) and group with motor physical therapy (n=38), were evaluated by TIMP and reasssment two weeks later. The physical therapy group performed standardized exercises for motor sensory stimulation once a day, whereas the other group received the usual care from the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. The predominant surgical diagnosis in both groups was gastroschisis, followed by congenital diaphragmatic hernia. In the initial evaluation, motor performance was equal between the groups, classified as "below average" for age, with z-score=−1.28 (p=0.992). In the reassessment, the physical therapy group presented better scores (p<0.001) and a higher difference in z-score (p<0.001), higher percentage of neonates classified as "within average" (44% in the physical therapy group and 2.6% in the no physical therapy group), as well as a higher weight gain percentage (p=0.038). We found a worsening of motor performance in 10.5% of the no physical therapy group (p<0.001) in the reassment. Motor performance improved in 81.6% of the physical therapy group and in only 13.2% of the no physical therapy group individuals (p<0.001). Conclusion: TIMP was safely and effectively applied to newborns; notably, the test must be performed by professionals experienced in care of neonates. Motor intervention was beneficial, significantly improving motor performance, and if applied early, it may adequate the motor development of these neonates, even before hospital discharge.

Monocyte-to-HDL ratio and non-HDL cholesterol were predictors of septic shock in newborns

Abstract Background The association between lipoprotein levels and late-onset neonatal sepsis has shown controversial results. The aims are to assess lipid profile, cytokines, and Monocyte-to-HDL (M/H) ratio as diagnostic and prognostic markers for late-onset neonatal sepsis. Methods This prospective study included 49 septic neonates and 17 controls. Cholesterol (CT), Triglyceride (TG), Very-Low-Density (VLDLc), Low-Density (LDLc), and High-Density Lipoproteins (HDLc) were measured at admission (D0) and on days 3, 7 and 10 to evaluate septic shock outcomes. Cytokines and monocytes were evaluated by flow cytometry. Results Septic newborns showed higher IL-6 and IL-8 at D0 and CT levels on D7 and on D10, which also presented higher TG, VLDLc and non-HDL cholesterol concentrations than controls. The septic shock group (n = 22) revealed a higher number of male subjects, CRP, IL-6, IL-8 and IL-10 levels, while lower TG, HDLc, monocyte numbers and M/H ratio at admission compared to the non-shock group (n = 27). M/H ratio and non-HDL cholesterol on D0 were risk factors for septic shock (OR = 0.70, 0.49‒0.99; OR = 0.96, 0.92‒0.99, respectively). Decreasing levels from D0 to D3 of CT (OR = 0.96, 0.93‒0.99), VLDLc (OR = 0.91, 0.85‒0.98), and non-HDL cholesterol (OR = 0.92, 0.87‒0.98) were also predictors of septic shock. Conclusions Lower M/H ratios and non-HDL cholesterol at admission and decreasing levels of cholesterol, VLDLc and non-HDL cholesterol during a hospital stay are associated with the development of septic shock in newborns with late-onset neonatal sepsis.

TLR expression, phagocytosis and oxidative burst in healthy and septic newborns in response to Gram-negative and Gram-positive rods.

The objective was to investigate whether phagocytes from healthy and septic newborns have a developmental deficiency in their capacity to recognize, phagocytize and generate hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in response to Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. TLR expression and phagocytic ability of neutrophils and monocytes from 44 healthy preterm and term neonates, from 13 newborns with late-onset sepsis and from 24 healthy adults were determined using flow cytometry, and H2O2 production was measured by dihydrorhodamine test. TLR-2 and TLR-4 expressions were similar among the groups. The phagocytic ability of monocytes and neutrophils exposed to E. coli and S. aureus in healthy and septic neonates was significantly reduced compared to that of adults. Monocytes from septic newborns exposed to E. coli had higher H2O2 production than those of the other groups. The oxidative burst of monocytes exposed to S. aureus was reduced in preterm newborns compared with term ones and those with sepsis, and no differences were found in the oxidative burst of neutrophils. Even with the ability to recognize bacteria, a decreased clearance of pathogens can cause an imbalance in the immune response, which could lead to a predisposition to sepsis. Once established, the increased production of cytokines and ROS in an attempt to control the infection as well as the lack of full phagocytic activity leads to persistence of the pathogen and a state of constant inflammation.

Thyroid abnormalities in term infants with fungal sepsis.

OBJECTIVE:: To describe thyroid alterations in term newborns (TNB) with fungal sepsis during NICU hospitalization. METHOD:: The study included six TNB that during the clinical and laboratory manifestations of sepsis with positive cultures for fungus showed changes in thyroid hormones, called low T3 syndrome and low T3-T4 syndrome. TNB that could present hormonal changes caused by disease as those born to mothers with thyroid disease, or who had perinatal asphyxia and major surgeries were excluded. RESULTS:: Of six TNB with fungal sepsis, five had positive culture for Candida albicans and one had positive culture for Candida tropicalis. Low T3 syndrome was observed in two TNB (50%), while T3-T4 syndrome was observed in other two (100%). The four children progressed to septic shock. CONCLUSION:: Fungal sepsis is becoming more common among newborns admitted to NICU. Thyroid insufficiency could be a marker of disease severity with possible need for hormone supplementation.

Incidence of respiratory viruses in preterm infants submitted to mechanical ventilation.

The objectives of this study were to determine the incidence of infection by respiratory viruses in preterm infants submitted to mechanical ventilation, and to evaluate the clinical, laboratory and radiological patterns of viral infections among hospitalized infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) with any kind of acute respiratory failure. Seventy-eight preterm infants were studied from November 2000 to September 2002. The newborns were classified into two groups: with viral infection (Group I) and without viral infection (Group II). Respiratory viruses were diagnosed in 23 preterm infants (29.5%); the most frequent was respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) (14.1%), followed by influenza A virus (10.2%). Rhinorrhea, wheezing, vomiting and diarrhea, pneumonia, atelectasis, and interstitial infiltrate were significantly more frequent in newborns with nosocomial viral infection. There was a correlation between nosocomial viral infection and low values of C-reactive protein. Two patients with mixed infection from Group I died during the hospital stay. In conclusion, RSV was the most frequent virus in these patients. It was observed that, although the majority of viral lower respiratory tract infections had a favorable course, some patients presented a serious and prolonged clinical manifestation, especially when there was concomitant bacterial or fungal infection.

Nonthyroidal illnesses syndrome in full-term newborns with sepsis.

OBJECTIVE: To assess hormonal changes in nonthyroidal illness syndrome (NTIS) in full-term newborns (NT) with sepsis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We included 28 NT with sepsis divided into 2 groups according to the time of normalization of serum and clinical indicators of infection: group A(A), 16 NT with improvement in up to 8 days; and group B(B), 12 NT improvement after 8 days. Among the 28 NT, 15 NT progressed to septic shock, with 5 NT group A and 10 NT in group B. NT were excluded when they showed severe sepsis and asphyxia, and congenital malformations, as well as those whose mothers had thyroid disease and IUGR. RESULTS: 17 NT (60.7%) presented NTIS. Low T3 was observed in NTIS in 10 NT (58.8%), and low T4 and T3 in 5 NT (29.5%), all of them with septic shock. Two NT showed mixed changes (11.7%). After sepsis was cured, there was no hormonal change, except in 3 NT. Administration of dopamine, furosemide, and corticosteroids did not affect the results. CONCLUSIONS: This study indicates that nonthyroidal illness syndrome may be transiently present during sepsis in full-term newborns, especially in cases of prolonged sepsis. Low T3 can occur without changes in reverse T3 (different from adults), and low T4 and T3 occur mainly in patients with septic shock.

[Prevalence of immunohematologic tests at birth and the incidence of hemolytic disease in the newborn]. / Prevalência de marcadores imuno-hematológicos em recém-nascidos ao nascimento e em suas respectivas m es e incidência de doença hemolítica numa maternidade de São Paulo.

UNLABELLED: The administration of anti-D globulin to the mothers has decreased the incidence of Rh hemolytic disease but the improvement of technologic assays has made it possible to identify several hemolytics diseases of the newborn. BACKGROUND: To identify the prevalence of immunohematologic tests demonstrated by indirect (IC), direct (DC) and elution tests; to identify the incidence of hemolytic disease and its treatment (phototherapy and/or exchange transfusion) in neonates with hemolytic disease. This is a retrospective cohort-study performed from January 1st 1996 to July 1st 1998. METHODS: This is a descriptive study of the immunohematologic profile of 1698 mothers and their offsprings, as risk factors for developing hemolytic disease. The inclusion criteria were the positivity of the indirect (IC) and direct (DC) Coombs tests and elution tests. Based on the inclusion criteria three group of infants were analyzed: Group I was composed of 149 offsprings of Coombs-positive mothers (IC+) with antibodies associated with neonatal hemolytic disease. This group was further divided into two groups: Group I-A (IC+DC+) was composed of 83 Coombs-positive offsprings (DC+) of Coombs-positive mothers (IC+) and Group I-B (IC+DC-) was composed of 66 Coombs-negative offsprings (DC-) of Coombs-positive mothers (IC+); Group D was composed of 736 Coombs-positive offspring's of Coombs-negative mothers (IC-); and Group E was composed of 807 Coombs-negative and elution-positive offspring's of Coombs-negative mothers. RESULTS: This study shown that the overall prevalence of immunohematologic tests associated with hemolytic disease was 9.07% (3212/35429), 0.43% (154/35429) among offsprings of Coombs-positive mothers, 4.10% (1453/35429) among Coombs-positive infants, and 4.53% (1605/35429) among elution-positive infants. The overall incidence of hemolytic disease was 36.23% (613/1692), 33.56% (50/149) among offspring's of Coombs-positive mothers, 44.43% (327/736) among Coombs-positive infants, and 29.24% (236/807) among elution-positive infants. The overall incidence of phototherapy among infants with hemolytic disease was 36.23% (613/1692), 49.40% (41/83) in group I-A (IC+DC+), 13.64% (9/66) in group I-B(IC+DC-), 44.43% (327/736) in group D, and 29.24% (236/807) in group E. The overall incidence of exchange transfusion among infants with hemolytic disease was 0.88% (15/1692), 14.46% (12/83) in group I-A (IC+DC+), 0% (0/66) in group I-B (IC+DC-), 0.27% (2/736) in group D, and 0.12% (1/807) in group E. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study allowed us to conclude that the overall prevalence of immunohematologic tests associated with hemolytic disease was 9.07% (3212/35429) and the overall incidence of hemolytic disease was 36.23% (613/1692) in this study-group. The highest incidences of hemolytic disease and phototherapy were observed among Coombs-positive offsprings of Coombs-positive mothers.

Post-extubation atelectasis in newborns with surgical diseases: a report of two cases involving the use of a high-flow nasal cannula.

Atelectasis is a pulmonary disorder that lengthens the hospitalization time of newborns in intensive care units, resulting in increased morbidity among these infants. High-flow nasal cannulae have been used in newborns to prevent atelectasis and/or expand pulmonary regions affected by atelectasis; however, to date, no evidence-based data regarding this approach have been reported. In this paper, we report on the cases of two male newborn patients. The first and second patients described in this report were hospitalized for a neurosurgical procedure and the treatment of abdominal disease, respectively, and were subjected to invasive mechanical ventilation for 4 and 36 days, respectively. After extubation, these patients continued receiving oxygen therapy but experienced clinical and radiological worsening typical of atelectasis. In both cases, by 24 hours after the implantation of an high-flow nasal cannulae to provide noninvasive support, radiological examinations revealed the complete resolution of atelectasis. In these cases, the use of an high-flow nasal cannulae was effective in reversing atelectasis. Thus, this approach may be utilized as a supplemental noninvasive ventilatory therapy to avoid unnecessary intubation.

Recém-nascidos com sepse por Estafilococos aureus e coagulasa-negativo tratados com Vancomicina, após aumento do nível sérico no vale / Newborns with staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative sepsis treated with vancomycin after an increase in serum levels around the valley

INTRODUCTION: Vancomycin is a glycopeptide antibiotic considered the gold standard in the treatment of staphylococcal infections that are oxacillin-resistant. OBJECTIVE: To analyse the concentration of serum level in the voucher (one hour before the next administration of the drug dose) of vancomycin in newborns with Staphylococcus aureus infection or oxacillin-resistant coagulase-negative. METHODS: This is an experimental study with data collection between the years 2001 and 2016. We selected 30 patients who had staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative sepsis and used vancomycin as a treatment. We collected and recorded their serum levels. RESULTS: Of the 30 patients included in the present study, 80% were preterm. Among all the newborns, mean serum concentrations in the vancomycin valley were 40% adequate, 13.34% lower than expected, and 46.67% higher than the reference values. In seven patients (23.34%), the first serum level in the Vancomycin valley collected was adequate, but in nine (30%) and 14 (46.67%) patients, the serum concentration in the valley was respectively below and above the correct values. After dose shifting of those who did not achieve adequate levels, only three of the 14 patients in whom the first dose was not adequate had a mean serum total level within the expected range; the remaining 11 stayed at high levels, which raised great concern due to the fact that if the infection is not being treated, the elevated serum level leads to nephrotoxic and ototoxic problems. The monitoring of serum levels in the vancomycin valley is of great importance as it minimises nephrotoxic effects, thus increasing the efficacy of the drug. The dosage adjustment of vancomycin in severely ill patients admitted to an intensive care unit is important and requires more studies related to this area, as the work of a multidisciplinary body makes the treatment better and more specific. CONCLUSION: The concentrations of serum levels in the Vancomycin valley (10-15 μg/mL) in patients hospitalised in a neonatal intensive care unit of a reference hospital in Latin America were thought to be bactericidal; however, this is not the values observed in our study.

INTRODUÇÃO: A vancomicina é um antibiótico glicopeptídico considerado padrão-ouro no tratamento de infecções por estafilococos resistentes à oxacilina. OBJETIVO: Analisar a concentração do nível sérico no vale (uma hora antes da próxima administração da dose do medicamento) de vancomicina em recém-nascidos com infecção por Staphylococcus aureus ou coagulase- negativa resistente à Oxacilina. MÉTODO: Trata-se de estudo experimental e com coleta de dados entre os anos de 2001 e 2016. Foram selecionados randomicamente 30 pacientes que tinham como diagnóstico sepse por Staphylococcus aureus e coagulase-negativa e fizeram uso da vancomicina como forma de tratamento e tiveram seus níveis séricos coletados e registrados nos prontuários. RESULTADOS: Dos 30 pacientes incluídos no presente estudo, 80% eram pré-termos. Dentre todos os recém-nascidos as médias das concentrações séricas no vale da vancomicina foram de 40% adequadas, 13,34% abaixo do esperado e 46,67% acima dos valores de referência. Em 7 µpacientes (23,34%) o primeiro nível sérico no vale da vancomicina coletado foram adequados, porém em 9 (30%) e 14 (46,67%) a concentração sérica no vale foi, respectivamente, abaixo e acima dos valores corretos. Após a mudança de dose daqueles que não obtiveram níveis adequados, apenas 3 dos 14 pacientes em que a primeira dose não fora adequada tiveram uma média de nível sérico total dentro do esperado, enquanto os 11 restantes permaneceram com níveis elevados, os quais causam grandes preocupações devido ao fato de além de não estar sendo tratada a infecção, o nível sérico elevado acarreta em problemas nefrotóxicos e ototóxicos. O monitoramento dos níveis séricos no vale da vancomicina é de grande importância, pois minimiza os efeitos nefrotóxicos, assim aumentando a eficácia do medicamento. O ajuste posológico da vancomicina em pacientes em estado grave internados em uma Unidade de Terapia Intensiva é importante e necessita de mais estudos referentes à essa área, assim como o trabalho de um corpo multidisciplinar torna o tratamento melhor e mais específico. CONCLUSÃO: As concentrações dos níveis séricos no vale de vancomicina em pacientes internados em Unidade de cuidados intensivos neonatais de Hospital de Referencia da América Latina entre 10 e 15 µg/mL para serem bactericidas no entanto não é o que observamos nesta pesquisa.

Análise dos óbitos e cuidados paliativos em uma unidade de terapia intensiva neonatal / Analysis of death and palliative care in a neonatal intensive care unit

RESUMO Objetivo: Caracterizar as crianças admitidas na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Neonatal de um hospital universitário terciário que foram a óbito no período de 1.º/01/2012 a 31/07/2014 e que necessitavam de cuidados paliativos e/ou para as quais foram indicados tal tipo de cuidado. Métodos: Realizou-se estudo descritivo retrospectivo. Foi feita revisão dos prontuários desses pacientes para coleta de dados e análise estatística descritiva. Resultados: No período estudado 49 crianças morreram após, no mínimo, 48 horas de internação. Destas, 18% eram prematuros extremos e 77% apresentavam malformações maiores. Apesar de necessários a todos, cuidados paliativos foram realizados apenas em 20% dos casos de óbito. Dos 12 bebês que não foram reanimados, 33% não estavam em cuidados paliativos. A Unidade de Dor e Cuidados Paliativos da instituição acompanhou somente quatro crianças que ficaram em cuidados paliativos. Foram observados uso de muitos dispositivos invasivos e alto investimento terapêutico, além de escores de escala de dor alterados. Conclusões: Detectou-se neste estudo grande proporção de recém-nascidos com doenças e condições graves de saúde. Em alguns poucos casos foram estabelecidos cuidados paliativos, porém para a maior parte não foi nem discutido tal cuidado. Espera-se que este trabalho chame a atenção para a necessidade da proposição de protocolos nessa unidade e capacitação de equipes para o melhor tratamento dessas crianças.

ABSTRACT Objective: To characterize cases of children admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of a tertiary university hospital who died in the period ranging from January 01, 2012 to July 31, 2014, and who required palliative care and/or were subjected to it. Methods: A retrospective descriptive study was carried out by reviewing the medical records of these patients to collect data and to perform descriptive statistical analysis. Results: During the study period, 49 children died after at least 48 hours from the time of admission. Of those, 18% children were extremely premature infants and 77% children had malformations. Although necessary for all of the patients in this study, palliative care was provided for only 20% of patients who died. Among the 12 babies who were not resuscitated, 33% of babies were not in palliative care. The Pain and Palliative Care Unit of the institution followed only four neonates in palliative care. These patients were using many invasive devices, had high therapeutic investment, and also altered pain scale scores. Conclusions: This study exhibited a large proportion of newborn infants with serious diseases and health conditions. In a few cases the patients received palliative care, but most of them were not even discussed under palliative point of view. We hope that this study will call attention to the need to propose protocols and implement training for the best treatment of these children.

Thyroid abnormalities in term infants with fungal sepsis / Alterações tireoidianas no recém-nascido de termo com sepse fúngica

Summary Objective: To describe thyroid alterations in term newborns (TNB) with fungal sepsis during NICU hospitalization. Method: The study included six TNB that during the clinical and laboratory manifestations of sepsis with positive cultures for fungus showed changes in thyroid hormones, called low T3 syndrome and low T3-T4 syndrome. TNB that could present hormonal changes caused by disease as those born to mothers with thyroid disease, or who had perinatal asphyxia and major surgeries were excluded. Results: Of six TNB with fungal sepsis, five had positive culture for Candida albicans and one had positive culture for Candida tropicalis. Low T3 syndrome was observed in two TNB (50%), while T3-T4 syndrome was observed in other two (100%). The four children progressed to septic shock. Conclusion: Fungal sepsis is becoming more common among newborns admitted to NICU. Thyroid insufficiency could be a marker of disease severity with possible need for hormone supplementation.

Resumo Objetivo: descrever as alterações tireoidianas em recém-nascidos de termo (RNT) que apresentaram sepse fúngica durante internação na UTI neonatal. Método: foram incluídos seis RNT que, durante as manifestações clínicas e laboratoriais de sepse, com culturas positivas para fungo, apresentaram alterações dos hormônios tireoidianos, denominadas síndrome do T3 baixo e síndrome do T3 e T4 baixo. Foram excluídos RNT que apresentaram alteração hormonal por doença, como RNT filhos de mães com doença tireoidiana, asfixia perinatal e cirurgias de grande porte. Resultados: dos seis RNT com sepse fúngica, cinco apresentavam cultura positiva para Candida albicans e um para C. tropicalis. A síndrome do T3 baixo foi observada em duas crianças (50%) e a do T3 e T4 baixo em dois RN (100%). As quatro crianças evoluíram com choque séptico. Conclusão: a sepse fúngica é cada vez mais frequente nos recém-nascidos internados em UTI neonatal. A insuficiência tireoidiana pode vir a ser marcadora de gravidade da doença, e a suplementação hormonal pode ser necessária.

Caracterização da evolução clínica dos recém-nascidos com gastrosquise em uma unidade de terapia intensiva neonatal de referência da américa latina / Characteristics of the clinical development of a newborn with gastroschisis in an intensive care unit in latin america

INTRODUCTION: Congenital malformations are major diseases observed at birth. They are the second most common cause of death in the neonatal population, the first one being prematurity. OBJECTIVE: To characterise the clinical outcome of newborns with gastroschisis (GS) in a neonatal intensive care unit. METHODS: A retrospective observational clinical study in 50 infants with GS using the association of intestinal abnormalities, impossibility of primary closure of the abdominal defect and reoperation necessity as classification criteria for the disease. The significance level was p < 0.05. RESULTS: The hospitalisation to primary surgery occurred with a median age of 2 hours. Fourteen percent of children were subjected to a primary silo interposition and 24% had associated intestinal malformation. Nineteen newborns (NB) required more than one surgery. The median length of stay was 33 days, higher in patients with complex GS (56 days). All NB recovered from urine output 48 hours after surgery and 40% had hyponatraemia and oligoanuria in this period. There was no difference between the natraemia and fasting time (p = 0.79). Weight gain was similar in both groups with total parenteral nutrition and became significantly higher in patients with simple GS after enteral feeding (p = 0.0046). These NB evolved 2.4 times less cholestasis. Late-onset sepsis occurred in 58% of patients and was related to the infection of the central venous catheter in 37.9% of cases. Mortality was higher in infants infected with complex GS and the overall mortality rate was 14%. CONCLUSION: Clinical characterisation of newborns with gastroschisis depends on the complexity and the knowledge and conduct of morbidities to reduce mortality.

INTRODUÇÃO: As malformações congênitas fazem parte das principais doenças observadas ao nascimento. Entre as causas de óbito no período neonatal as malformações foram a segunda causa, sendo ainda a primeira, a prematuridade. OBJETIVOS: Caracterizar a evolução clínica dos recém-nascidos (RN) com gastrosquise (GTQ) em uma unidade de terapia intensiva neonatal e descrever as morbidades renal, nutricional e infecciosa relacionados ao manejo clínico pós-natal na unidade de terapia intensiva neonatal MÉTODO: Foi realizado estudo observacional retrospectivo em 50 RN com GTQ, utilizando a associação de anormalidades intestinais, impossibilidade de fechamento primário do defeito abdominal e necesidade de reoperação como critérios de classificação para a doença. O nível de significância foi p < 0,05. RESULTADOS: A admissão hospitalar para cirurgia primária ocorreu com mediana de idade de 2 horas. O total de 14% das crianças foram submetidas a uma interposição de silo primária e 24% apresentaram malformação intestinal associada. Dezenove RN necessitaram mais de uma intervenção cirúrgica. A mediana do tempo de estadia foi de 33 dias, sendo maior nos pacientes com GTQ complexa (56 dias). Todos os RN recuperaram o débito urinário a partir de 48 horas do pós-operatório e 40% apresentaram hiponatremia e oligoanúria nesse período. Não houve diferença entre a natremia e o tempo de jejum (p = 0,79). O ganho ponderal foi similar em ambos os grupos com nutrição parenteral total e tornou-se significativamente maior nos pacientes com GTQ simples após a alimentação enteral (p = 0,0046). Esses RN evoluíram 2,4 vezes com menos colestase. Sepse tardia ocorreu em 58% dos pacientes e foi relacionada à infecção do CVC em 37,9% dos casos. A mortalidade foi maior nos RN infectados com GTQ complexa e a taxa global de mortalidade foi de 14%. CONCLUSÃO: A caracterização clínica dos RN com GTG depende da complexidade e do conhecimento e condução das morbidades para diminuir a mortalidade.