Facial soft tissue changes and volumetric analysis of upper airways in patients undergoing surgically assisted rapid maxillary expansion using a transpalatal distractor

Abstract Objective To verify changes in facial soft tissue using the RadiANT-DICOM-viewer and Dolphin Imaging software, through linear measurements of tomographic points in a 3D reconstruction of the face and volumetric evaluation with three-dimensional measurements of the upper airways of patients with transverse maxillary discrepancy undergoing Surgically Assisted Rapid Maxillary Expansion (SARME). Methods Retrospective, transverse, and descriptive study, through the analysis of computed tomography scans of the face of patients with transverse maxillary discrepancy, treated from July 2019 to December 2022. The sample consisted of 15 patients of both sexes, aged 21-42 years old, who underwent surgically assisted rapid maxillary expansion using the transpalatal distractor. Analysis was performed through linear, angular, and three-dimensional measurements in millimeters, in the preoperative and late four-month postoperative period, in frontal 3D tomographic images of the face, in the region of the width of the nose and alar base and also angular measurement in the lateral tomography for the angle nasolabial and upper airways of rhinopharynx, oropharynx and hypopharynx. Results There was an increase in nasal width with an average of 1.3467 mm and an increase in the alar base with an average of 1.7333 mm. A significant difference was found in the pre- and postoperative assessments of the measurements of nasal width, alar base and nasolabial angle, as well as the upper airways in all their extension. The results favour a better understanding of the professional and the patient regarding the diagnosis and management of patients with transverse maxillary width discrepancies. Conclusion Although our study shows an increase in soft tissues after SARME, no aesthetic changes are observed clinically, and all patients report significant respiratory improvement. SARME may therefore contribute to the improvement of professionals working in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery and orthodontics. Level of evidence: Level 4.

Clinical and sociodemographic aspects of cases of severe acute respiratory syndrome in southern Brazil / Aspectos clínicos e sociodemográficos dos casos de Síndrome Respiratória Aguda Grave no sul do Brasil / Aspectos clínicos y sociodemográficos de casos de Síndrome Respiratorio Agudo Severo en el sur de Brasil

Background and objectives: to compare the clinical and sociodemographic aspects of individuals with SARS reported in the countryside of Rio Grande do Sul in 2020 and 2021. Methods: a cross-sectional study, from March 2020 to October 2021. Clinical and sociodemographic variables of individuals with SARS symptoms were analyzed, compared through descriptive, univariate analyses, according to the year of reporting. Results: a total of 4,710 cases of SARS were reported; 53.4% were SARS related to COVID-19 in 2020 and 87.5% in 2021 (p<0.001). Comparing 2020 and 2021, the sociodemographic profile changed in terms of age group, skin color and education (p<0.001). Regarding clinical aspects, there was a reduction in prevalence of pre-existing health conditions, except obesity, changes in reported signs and symptoms and reduction in hospital and Intensive Care Unit admissions. Conclusion: the changes in the profile may reflect the effect of the different variants and the start of immunization for SARS-CoV-2.(AU)

Justificativa e objetivos: comparar, entre os anos de 2020 e 2021, os aspectos clínicos e sociodemográficos dos indivíduos com Síndrome Respiratória Aguda Grave (SRAG) notificados em uma região de saúde do interior do Rio Grande do Sul. Métodos: estudo transversal descritivo, realizado de março de 2020 a outubro de 2021. Foram analisadas variáveis clínicas e sociodemográficas de indivíduos com sintomas de SRAG, comparadas através de análises descritivas, univariadas, conforme o ano de notificação. Resultados: foram notificados 4.710 casos com SRAG; 53,4% foram SRAG relacionados à COVID-19 em 2020 e, 87,5%, em 2021 (p<0,001). Comparando os anos 2020 e 2021, o perfil sociodemográfico modificou quanto faixa etária, cor da pele e escolaridade (p<0,001). Quanto aos aspectos clínicos, houve redução da prevalência de condições de saúde preexistente, exceto obesidade, alterações nos sinais e sintomas relatados e diminuição de internações hospitalares e na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva. Conclusão: as mudanças no perfil podem refletir o efeito das diferentes variantes e o início da imunização para SARS-CoV-2.(AU)

Justificación y objetivos: comparar los aspectos clínicos y sociodemográficos de individuos con SARS notificados en el interior de Rio Grande do Sul en los años 2020 y 2021. Métodos: estudio descriptivo transversal, realizado de marzo de 2020 a octubre de 2021. Se analizaron variables clínicas y sociodemográficas de individuos con síntomas de SARS, comparadas mediante análisis descriptivos univariados, según el año de notificación. Resultados: se notificaron 4.710 casos de SARS; el 53,4% fueron SARS relacionados con COVID-19 en 2020 y el 87,5% en 2021 (p<0,001). Comparando los años 2020 y 2021, el perfil sociodemográfico cambió en cuanto a grupo de edad, color de piel y escolaridad (p<0,001). En cuanto a los aspectos clínicos, hubo reducción en la prevalencia de condiciones de salud preexistentes, excepto obesidad, cambios en los signos y síntomas reportados y reducción en los ingresos hospitalarios y en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos. Conclusión: los cambios en el perfil pueden reflejar el efecto de las diferentes variantes y el inicio de la inmunización para el SARS-CoV-2.(AU)

Lesão Miocárdica e Prognóstico em Pacientes Hospitalizados com COVID-19 no Brasil: Resultados do Registro Nacional de COVID-19 / Myocardial Injury and Prognosis in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients in Brazil: Results From The Brazilian COVID-19 Registry

Resumo Fundamento As complicações cardiovasculares da COVID-19 são aspectos importantes da patogênese e do prognóstico da doença. Evidências do papel prognóstico da troponina e da lesão miocárdica em pacientes hospitalizados com COVID-19 na América Latina são ainda escassos. Objetivos Avaliar a lesão miocárdica como preditor independente de mortalidade hospitalar e suporte ventilatório mecânico em pacientes hospitalizados, do registro brasileiro de COVID-19. Métodos Este estudo coorte é um subestudo do registro brasileiro de COVID-19, conduzido em 31 hospitais brasileiros de 17 cidades, de março a setembro de 2020. Os desfechos primários incluíram mortalidade hospitalar e suporte ventilatório mecânico invasivo. Os modelos para os desfechos primários foram estimados por regressão de Poisson com variância robusta, com significância estatística de p<0,05. Resultados Dos 2925 pacientes [idade mediana de 60 anos (48-71), 57,1%], 27,3% apresentaram lesão miocárdica. A proporção de pacientes com comorbidades foi maior nos pacientes com lesão miocárdica [mediana 2 (1-2) vs. 1 (0-20)]. Os pacientes com lesão miocárdica apresentaram maiores valores medianos de peptídeo natriurético cerebral, lactato desidrogenase, creatina fosfoquinase, N-terminal do pró-peptídeo natriurético tipo B e proteína C reativa em comparação a pacientes sem lesão miocárdica. Como fatores independentes, proteína C reativa e contagem de plaquetas foram relacionados com o risco de morte, e neutrófilos e contagem de plaquetas foram relacionados ao risco de suporte ventilatório mecânico invasivo. Os pacientes com níveis elevados de troponina apresentaram um maior risco de morte (RR 2,03, IC95% 1,60-2,58) e suporte ventilatório mecânico (RR 1,87;IC95% 1,57-2,23), em comparação àqueles com níveis de troponina normais. Conclusão Lesão cardíaca foi um preditor independente de mortalidade hospitalar e necessidade de suporte ventilatório mecânico em pacientes hospitalizados com COVID-19.

Abstract Background Cardiovascular complications of COVID-19 are important aspects of the disease's pathogenesis and prognosis. Evidence on the prognostic role of troponin and myocardial injury in Latin American hospitalized COVID-19 patients is still scarce. Objectives To evaluate myocardial injury as independent predictor of in-hospital mortality and invasive mechanical ventilation support in hospitalized patients, from the Brazilian COVID-19 Registry. Methods This cohort study is a substudy of the Brazilian COVID-19 Registry, conducted in 31 Brazilian hospitals of 17 cities, March-September 2020. Primary outcomes included in-hospital mortality and invasive mechanical ventilation support. Models for the primary outcomes were estimated by Poisson regression with robust variance, with statistical significance of p<0.05. Results Of 2,925 patients (median age of 60 years [48-71], 57.1% men), 27.3% presented myocardial injury. The proportion of patients with comorbidities was higher among patients with cardiac injury (median 2 [1-2] vs. 1 [0-2]). Patients with myocardial injury had higher median levels of brain natriuretic peptide, lactate dehydrogenase, creatine phosphokinase, N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide, and C-reactive protein than patients without myocardial injury. As independent predictors, C-reactive protein and platelet counts were related to the risk of death, and neutrophils and platelet counts were related to the risk of invasive mechanical ventilation support. Patients with high troponin levels presented a higher risk of death (RR 2.03, 95% CI 1.60-2.58) and invasive mechanical ventilation support (RR 1.87, 95% CI 1.57-2.23), when compared to those with normal troponin levels. Conclusion Cardiac injury was an independent predictor of in-hospital mortality and the need for invasive mechanical ventilation support in hospitalized COVID-19 patients.

COVID-19 outcomes in people living with HIV: Peering through the waves

Abstract Objective To evaluate clinical characteristics and outcomes of COVID-19 patients infected with HIV, and to compare with a paired sample without HIV infection. Methods This is a substudy of a Brazilian multicentric cohort that comprised two periods (2020 and 2021). Data was obtained through the retrospective review of medical records. Primary outcomes were admission to the intensive care unit, invasive mechanical ventilation, and death. Patients with HIV and controls were matched for age, sex, number of comorbidities, and hospital of origin using the technique of propensity score matching (up to 4:1). They were compared using the Chi-Square or Fisher's Exact tests for categorical variables and the Wilcoxon for numerical variables. Results Throughout the study, 17,101 COVID-19 patients were hospitalized, and 130 (0.76%) of those were infected with HIV. The median age was 54 (IQR: 43.0;64.0) years in 2020 and 53 (IQR: 46.0;63.5) years in 2021, with a predominance of females in both periods. People Living with HIV (PLHIV) and their controls showed similar prevalence for admission to the ICU and invasive mechanical ventilation requirement in the two periods, with no significant differences. In 2020, in-hospital mortality was higher in the PLHIV compared to the controls (27.9% vs. 17.7%; p = 0.049), but there was no difference in mortality between groups in 2021 (25.0% vs. 25.1%; p > 0.999). Conclusions Our results reiterate that PLHIV were at higher risk of COVID-19 mortality in the early stages of the pandemic, however, this finding did not sustain in 2021, when the mortality rate is similar to the control group.

COVID-19 and isolation: Risks and implications in the scenario of new variants

Abstract With the emergence of new variants of SARS-CoV-2, questions about transmissibility, vaccine efficacy, and impact on mortality are important to support decision-making in public health measures. Modifications related to transmissibility combined with the fact that much of the population has already been partially exposed to infection and/or vaccination, have stimulated recommendations to reduce the isolation period for COVID-19. However, these new guidelines have raised questions about their effectiveness in reducing contamination and minimizing impact in work environments. Therefore, a collaborative task force was developed to review the subject in a non-systematic manner, answering questions about SARS-CoV-2 variants, COVID-19 vaccines, isolation/quarantine periods, testing to end the isolation period, and the use of masks as mitigation procedures. Overall, COVID-19 vaccines are effective in preventing severe illness and death but are less effective in preventing infection in the case of the Omicron variant. Any strategy that is adopted to reduce the isolation period should take into consideration the epidemiological situation of the geographical region, individual clinical characteristics, and mask for source control. The use of tests for isolation withdrawal should be evaluated with caution, due to results depending on various conditions and may not be reliable.

Brazilian medical education and the incorporation of technologies before and during the COVID-19 pandemic / La educación médica brasileña y la incorporación de tecnología antes y durante la pandemia de COVID-19

Durante la pandemia de COVID-19, se intensificó el uso de tecnologías de la información y la comunicación (TIC). Este estudio tuvo como objetivo investigar la incorporación de las TIC en el proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje por parte de docentes, estudiantes de grado y posgrado de Medicina de instituciones públicas y privadas brasileñas, antes y durante la pandemia de COVID-19. Se adoptó una encuesta transversal para esta investigación, con recolección de datos, realizada de mayo a septiembre de 2020. Los datos fueron analizados mediante estadística descriptiva y análisis temático. Participaron 242 personas: 153 estudiantes de pregrado, 19 estudiantes de posgrado y 70 profesores. Los participantes consideraron que el apoyo brindado por sus instituciones educativas en 2020 para el uso de las TIC fue bueno (44,2 por ciento, 107/242) o excelente (22,3 por ciento, 54/242). Las tecnologías más utilizadas en 2020 fueron los entornos de aprendizaje virtual (79,8 por ciento, 193/242) y las videoconferencias (77,7 por ciento, 188/242). La mayoría de los encuestados prefiere la modalidad presencial (50,4 por ciento, 122/242), seguida de los que prefieren el uso ocasional de las TIC (22,3 por ciento, 54/242). Los participantes registraron 171 percepciones relacionadas con el uso de las TIC como recurso pedagógico y su importancia durante la pandemia. Los participantes reconocieron el uso complementario de las TIC en sus actividades académicas y consideraron que el apoyo institucional fue adecuado. No se informaron dificultades financieras, pero los participantes mencionaron la falta de formación y el uso limitado de las TIC en actividades prácticas(AU)

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) was intensified. This study aimed to investigate the incorporation of ICT in the teaching-learning process by teachers, undergraduate and graduate Medicine students from Brazilian public and private institutions, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Cross-sectional survey was used to perform this research, with data collection carried out from May to September 2020. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. There were 242 participants: 153 undergraduate students, 19 graduate students, and 70 faculty members. The participants considered that the support provided by their educational institutions in 2020 for the use of ICT was good (44.2percent, 107/242) or excellent (22.3percent, 54/242). The technologies most often used in 2020 were virtual learning environments (79.8percent, 193/242) and videoconferences (77.7percent, 188/242). The majority of respondents prefer the classroom-based' modality (50.4percent, 122/242), followed by those who prefer the occasional use of ICT (22.3percent, 54/242). The participants registered 171 perceptions related to the use of ICT as a pedagogical resource and its importance during the pandemic. The respondents recognized the complementary use of ICT in their academic activities and considered that the institutional support was adequate. No financial difficulties were reported, but participants mentioned lack of training and limited use of ICT in practical activities. To overcome such gaps, the use of ICT should take into account preferences and specificities of medical education, for which institutions have to prepare themselves pedagogically(AU)

Campos impregnados com iodo em cirurgia da coluna: impacto na infecção de sítio cirúrgico / Iodine-impregnated incision drapes in spine surgery: impact on surgical site infection / Paños quirúrgicos impregnados com yodo em cirugía de coluna: impacto en la infección del sitio quirúrgico

Objetivo: Avaliar o impacto de campos adesivos impregnados com iodo (CAII) na prevenção de infecção de sítio cirúrgico (ISC) de coluna vertebral. Método: Coorte retrospectiva que comparou desfecho de ISC em pacientes que utilizaram CAII com os que não usaram, de 2015 a 2019. Resultados: A frequência geral de ISC foi de 16,7%, com a taxa de ISC para os que utilizaram CAII de 40% e, entre os que não usaram, de 60%; p = 0,728; intervalo de confiança de 95% (IC95%) 0,19­3,11. A normotermia foi o único fator protetor independente para ISC (p = 0,043). O tratamento de complicações infecciosas acarretou o incremento de custo hospitalar de 83,6% a cada dia de atendimento. Os pacientes que utilizaram CAII tiveram 10 (± 4,9) dias a menos de permanência hospitalar. Conclusões: Os resultados sugerem que o uso de CAII não foi associado a menor risco de ISC. Esses dados podem ser úteis para o planejamento cirúrgico e a segurança do paciente.

Objective: To evaluate the impact of iodine-impregnated incision drapes (IIIDs) to prevent surgical site infection (SSI) in the spine. Method: Retrospective cohort study comparing SSI outcome in patients in which IIIDs were and were not used, from 2015 to 2019. Results: The overall frequency of SSI was 16.7%, with SSI rate among patients using and not using IIIDs of 40% and 60%, respectively; p = 0.728; 95% confidence interval (95%CI) 0.19­3.11. Normothermia was the only independent protective factor for SSI (p = 0.043). The treatment of infectious complications resulted in hospital costs increase of 83.6% each day of care. Patients who were treated with IIIDs stayed 10 days less (± 4.9) in hospital. Conclusions: The results suggest that the use of IIIDs was not associated with a lower risk of SSI. These data can be useful for surgical planning and patient safety.

Objetivo: Evaluar el impacto de las paños quirúrgicos adhesivos impregnados de yodo (IIIDS) en la prevención de la infección del sitio quirúrgico (ISQ) de la columna. Método: Cohorte retrospectiva que comparó el resultado de ISQ en pacientes que usaron IIIDS con los que no lo hicieron, de 2015 a 2019. Resultados: La frecuencia general de ISQ fue del 16.7%, con una tasa de ISQ para los que usaron IIIDS del 40% y, entre los que no lo usaron, 60%; p = 0,728; Intervalo de confianza del 95% (IC 95%) 0,19­3,11. La normotermia fue el único factor protector independiente para la ISQ (p = 0,043). El tratamiento de las complicaciones infecciosas supuso un aumento de los costes hospitalarios del 83,6% por día de atención. Los pacientes que utilizaron IIIDS tuvieron 10 (± 4,9) días menos de estancia hospitalaria. Conclusiones: Los resultados sugieren que el uso de IIIDS no se asoció con un menor riesgo de ISQ. Estos datos pueden ser útiles para la planificación quirúrgica y la seguridad del paciente.

Prevalence of symptoms of COVID-19 in the state of Rio Grande do Sul: results of a population-based study with 18,000 participants / Prevalência de sintomas característicos de covid-19 no Rio Grande do Sul: resultados de um estudo de base populacional com 18 mil participantes

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To evaluate the prevalence of reports of symptoms of COVID-19 among individuals with and without antibodies and identify those with greater capability to predict the presence of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2. METHODS The study uses data collected in phases 5 to 8 of Epicovid-19-RS. The presence of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 was evaluated by a rapid test. The occurrence of cough, fever, palpitations, sore throat, difficulty breathing, changes in taste and smell, vomiting, diarrhea, body pain, shaking, and headache since March 2020 was also evaluated. Then, the capability to predict the evaluated symptoms concerning the presence of antibodies was calculated. RESULTS A total of 18,000 individuals were interviewed and 181 had antibodies against COVID-19 in phases 5 to 8. The proportion of asymptomatic individuals was 19.9% among participants with antibodies and 49.7% among those without antibodies. All symptoms were reported more frequently by individuals with antibodies. The division of the prevalence of symptoms among individuals with antibodies by the prevalence among individuals without antibodies showed the following prevalence ratios: for changes in smell or taste (9.1), fever (4.2), tremors (3.9), breathing difficulty (3.2) and cough (2.8 times). Anosmia and fever were the symptoms with a greater capability to predict the presence of antibodies. CONCLUSION The prevalence of symptoms was higher among individuals with antibodies against SARS-CoV-2. The proportion of asymptomatic individuals was low. Altered smell or taste and fever were the symptoms that most predict the presence of antibodies. These results can help to identify probable cases, contributing to the clinical diagnosis and screening of patients for testing and isolation guidance in positive cases, especially in scenarios of the scarcity of diagnostic COVID-19 tests.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Avaliar prevalência de relato de sintomas característicos de covid-19 entre indivíduos com e sem anticorpos e identificar aqueles com maior capacidade de predição da presença de anticorpos contra o SARS-CoV-2. MÉTODOS O presente estudo usa dados coletados nas fases de 5 a 8 do Epicovid-19-RS. A presença de anticorpos contra o SARS-CoV-2 foi avaliada por um teste rápido. Avaliou-se também a ocorrência dos sintomas tosse, febre, palpitações, dor de garganta, dificuldade para respirar, alterações no paladar e olfato, vômito, diarreia, dor no corpo, tremedeira e dor de cabeça, desde março de 2020. Então, calculou-se a capacidade de predição dos sintomas avaliados em relação a presença de anticorpos. RESULTADOS Nas fases de 5 a 8, 18 mil indivíduos foram entrevistados e 181 apresentaram anticorpos contra covid-19. A proporção de indivíduos assintomáticos foi de 19,9% entre participantes com anticorpos e 49,7% entre aqueles sem anticorpos. Todos os sintomas foram relatados com maior frequência por indivíduos com presença de anticorpos. A divisão da prevalência de sintomas entre indivíduos com anticorpos pela prevalência entre indivíduos sem anticorpos evidenciou as seguintes razões de prevalência: para alterações de olfato ou paladar (9,1), febre (4,2), tremedeira (3,9), dificuldade respiratória (3,2) e tosse (2,8 vezes). Anosmia e febre foram os sintomas com maior capacidade de predizer a presença de anticorpos. CONCLUSÃO A prevalência de sintomas foi maior entre indivíduos com anticorpos contra SARS-CoV-2. A proporção de indivíduos assintomáticos foi baixa. Alteração de olfato ou paladar e febre foram os sintomas que mais predizem a presença de anticorpos. Esses resultados podem auxiliar a identificação de casos prováveis, contribuindo para o diagnóstico clínico e triagem de pacientes para testagem e orientação de isolamento em casos positivos, especialmente em cenários de escassez de testes diagnósticos de covid-19.

Adesão aos protocolos de atendimento para a não infecção de sítio cirúrgico de coluna / Adherence to care protocols for non-infection of the surgical site of the spine / Cumplimiento de los protocolos de atención para la no infección del sitio quirúrgico de la columna vertebral

Objetivo: avaliar a adesão aos protocolos de atendimento para a não infecção de sítio cirúrgico (NISC) de coluna e os fatores associados. Método: estudo transversal realizado por meio da revisão de 60 prontuários de pacientes submetidos à cirurgia de coluna de 2015 a 2019, seu desfecho de não infecção e as condições relacionadas. O estudo foi executado no primeiro semestre de 2020. Resultados: algumas variáveis relacionadas para NISC foram: profilaxia antimicrobiana de 30 a 60 min antes da cirurgia (RR= 0,97; p=0,026), normotermia (RR= 0,80; p=0,050), internação pós cirúrgica em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva (até 3 dias) (RR=2,00; p=0,040). A frequência de NISC foi de 83,3% (50/60) p= 0,728). Conclusão: apenas a normotermia foi fator associado a não infecção para NISC na regressão linear. Ressalta-se que a adesão aos processos de trabalho é primordial para a proteção das infecções, reduzir eventos adversos e garantir a segurança.

Objective: to evaluate adherence to treatment protocols for non-surgical site infection (NISC) of the spine and associated factors. Method: cross-sectional study conducted through the review of 60 medical records of patients undergoing spinal surgery from 2015 to 2019, its non-infection outcome and related conditions. The study was carried out in the first half of 2020. Results: some variables related to NISC were: antimicrobial prophylaxis from 30 to 60 min before surgery (RR= 0.97; p=0.026), normothermia (RR= 0.80; p =0.050), post-surgical hospitalization in the Intensive Care Unit (up to 3 days) (RR=2.00; p=0.040). The frequency of NISC was 83.3% (50/60) p= 0.728). Conclusion: only normothermia was a factor associated with non-infection for NISC in linear regression. It is noteworthy that adherence to work processes is essential to protect against infections, reduce adverse events and ensure safety.

Objetivo: Evaluar la adherencia a los protocolos de tratamiento de la infección del sitio no quirúrgico (NISC) de la columna y los factores asociados. Método: estudio transversal realizado mediante la revisión de 60 historias clínicas de pacientes sometidos a cirugía de columna entre 2015 y 2019, su desenlace no infeccioso y afecciones relacionadas. El estudio se realizó en el primer semestre de 2020. Resultados: Algunas variables relacionadas con NISC fueron: profilaxis antimicrobiana de 30 a 60 min antes de la cirugía (RR = 0,97; p = 0,026), normotermia (RR = 0,80; p = 0,050), internación posquirúrgica en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos (hasta 3 días) (RR = 2,00; p = 0,040). La frecuencia de NISC fue del 83,3% (50/60) p = 0,728). Conclusión: solo la normotermia fue un factor asociado a la no infección por NISC en regresión lineal. Es de destacar que la adherencia a los procesos de trabajo es fundamental para proteger contra infecciones, reducir los eventos adversos y garantizar la seguridad.

Hepatitis C: evaluation of outcomes and georeferencing of cases in Santa Cruz do Sul, Brazil, between 2002 and 2015. A cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Hepatitis C virus infection is one of the main causes of chronic liver disease, with high death rates. The aim here was to analyze case outcomes, sociodemographic and clinical characteristics and spatial distribution among patients diagnosed with hepatitis C in the city of Santa Cruz do Sul (RS), Brazil. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study on 200 cases of hepatitis C in Santa Cruz do Sul that were notified between 2002 and 2015. METHODS: Secondary data including sociodemographic and clinical variables and type of outcome (death, follow-up, abandonment or clinical cure) were gathered. The spatial distribution analysis on hepatitis C virus cases according to outcome was based on information regarding residential address. RESULTS: 58.5% of the patients were 41 years of age and over, 67% were males and 92.5% had the chronic form of the disease. The most frequent transmission route was illicit drug injection (29%); 15.1% of the patients presented coinfection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Regarding outcomes, 31% achieved clinical cure, 10% died and 20% abandoned follow-up. The cases studied were mainly located in regions of the city characterized by lower socioeconomic status, with high frequency of places used for drug trafficking. CONCLUSION: The population consisted of adults aged 41 years and over, mostly with chronic hepatitis C. The most common transmission routes were illicit drug injection and blood transfusions. There were high rates of HIV coinfection and abandonment of disease monitoring and predominance of cases in neighborhoods with low socioeconomic status.

Avaliação dos tipos de próteses buco-maxilo-faciais empregadas na reabilitação de pacientes tratados em um centro oncológico brasileiro / Evaluation of the types of buco-maxillofacial prostheses used in the rehabilitation of patients treated at a Brazilian cancer center

Objetivo: Este estudo retrospectivo teve como objetivos avaliar e descrever os tipos de próteses buco-maxilo-faciais e próteses dentárias convencionais e relatar o índice de sucesso destas próteses e dos implantes osseointegrados extra-orais e intra-orais instalados nos pacientes reabilitados, no Departamento de Estomatologia, do A.C.Camargo Cancer Center. Pacientes e método: Foram avaliados os pacientes eabilitados com próteses no período de julho de 2007 a julho de 2015. A coleta de dados foi realizada através informações encontradas nos prontuários dos pacientes elegíveis para o estudo. Estes dados foram tabulados em ficha desenvolvida especificamente para este estudo e posteriormente foram transferidos e analisados em um banco de dados informatizado (SPSS versão 20 -Chicago, IL). Resultados: Dos 454 pacientes reabilitados com próteses, 28% receberam próteses buco-maxilo-faciais e 72% próteses convencionais. Foram realizadas 891 próteses no período estudado. Sendo 200 próteses buco-maxilo-faciais, divididas em 97 obturadoras, 57 oculares, 23 oculopalpebrais, 16 rebaixadoras de palato, 4 faciais extensas e 3 nasais; destas próteses, 14 foram implanto-suportadas. As 691 próteses convencionais foram divididas em 307 próteses totais, 242 próteses parciais fixas e 142 próteses parciais removíveis; e destas próteses, 202 foram implanto suportadas. Conclusões: No presente estudo foi avaliado os tipos de próteses utilizadas na reabilitação de pacientes em um centro oncológico e concluiu-se que: Aproximadamente 30% dos pacientes reabilitados necessitaram de algum tipo de prótese buco-maxilo-facial, sendo a prótese obturadora palatina a mais frequente, seguida pela ocular, oculopalpebral, rebaixadora de palato, facial extensa e nasal. Foi encontrado um índice de sucesso acima de 95%. A Prótese total foi a prótese convencional mais confeccionada, seguida pela prótese parcial fixa e parcial removível. Foi encontrado um índice de sucesso acima de 95%. A taxa de sucesso dos implantes extra-orais foi de 100% enquanto que a dos implantes intra-orais foi de 96,4%

Objective: This retrospective study aimed to evaluate and describe the types of buco-maxillofacial prostheses and conventional dental prostheses and to report the success rate of these prostheses and the extra and intraoral implants instaled in rehabilitated patients in the Department Department of Stomatology, at A.C.Camargo Cancer Center. Patients and method: The patients rehabilitated with prostheses were evaluated from July 2007 to July 2015. Data collection was performed through information found in the patients' charts that were eligible for the study. These data were tabulated in specifically developed form for this study and were subsequently transferred and analyzed in a computerized database (SPSS version 20 -Chicago, IL). Results: Of the 454 patients rehabilitated with prostheses, 28% received buco-maxillofacial prostheses and 72% were conventional prostheses. A total of 891 prostheses were performed during the study period. There were 200 prostheses with buco maxillofacial prostheses, divided into 97 obturators, 57 ocular, 23 oculopalpebral, 16 palatal, 4 facial and 3 nasal; of these prostheses, 14 were implant-supported. The 691 conventional prostheses were divided into 307 total prostheses, 242 fixed partial dentures and 142 removable partial dentures; and of these prostheses, 202 were implants supported. Conclusions: The present study evaluated the types of prostheses used in the rehabilitation of patients in a cancer center and it was concluded that: Approximately 30% of the rehabilitated patients needed some kind of buco-maxillofacial prosthesis, the palatine obturator prosthesis being the more frequent, followed by the ocular, oculopalpebral, palatal, facial and nasal. A success rate above 95% was found. The total prosthesis was the most conventional prosthesis confeccionated, followed by fixed partial denture and removable partial prosthesis. A success rate above 95% was found. The success rate of extra-oral implants was 100% while that of intraoral implants was 96.4%

Crioglobulinemia: relação entre hepatite C e glomerulonefrite / Cryoglobulinemia: link between hepatitis C and glomerulonephritis

A Hepatite C é um problema de saúde mundial. Uma associação entre infecção pelo vírus da hepatite C (HCV) e crioglobulinemia mista com doença renal tem sido descrita, sendo a glomerulonefrite membranopoliferativa (GNMP) tipo I o acometimento renal mais comum. A GNMP é frequentemente associada com a crioglobulinemia mista tipo II. Esse relato de caso objetiva descrever fatores clínicos dos pacientes com crioglobulinemia mista, a qual é uma manifestação extra-hepática da infecção por HCV, assim como discutir a sua fisiopatologia e tratamento, baseado no relato de caso. (AU)

Hepatitis C is a public health concern worldwide. An association of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection with mixed cryoglobulinemia and renal disease has been described, and type I membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN) is the most common. MPGN is often associated with type II mixed cryoglobulinemia. This case report aimed to describe the clinical features of patients with mixed cryoglobulinemia, a major extrahepatic manifestation of HCV infection, and to discuss its pathophysiology and treatment of HCV infection based on the case report. (AU)

Latent tuberculosis among professionals from a referral hospital in oncology

Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) is an ancient contagious disease, and continues to be the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among infectious contagious diseases. It can be considered an occupational infectious disease when it happens in health professionals. These professionals are directly exposed to TB and are considered to be a high risk population for latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) and active TB. The primary aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of LTBI among the clinical and administrative staff of an oncology referral hospital in Rio Grande do Sul. The secondary aim of this study was evaluate tuberculin skin test (TST) conversion rate and the risk factors for TST positivity in this population. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in a retrospective cohort with data collected in March 2013 and March 2014. Data of professionals from different hospital units were included. Those with induration ≥ 10 mm were considered as reactors, and conversion rate was assessed by an increase ≥ 10 mm in induration in the second TST compared with the first one. Results: Among the 225 professionals evaluated in 2013, 135 (60%) were reactors and 90 (40%) were non-reactors. The mean age was 32.9 (± 9.55), 176 (78.22%) were female, and most of the reactors worked in the hospital for 4 years or less. Non-reactors in 2013 were recommended to repeat the test in 2014, and the conversion rate was 9.37%. There was no significant difference in prevalence among the different professional categories, and the assessed risk factors were not associated with ILTB. Conclusions: The prevalence of LTBI in the study population was high, reinforcing the need to implement effective control measures to prevent LTBI in the hospital where the study was conducted (AU)

Muscle strength to body weight ratio is a better predictor of low physical function than absolute muscle strength in postmenopausal women / A força muscular corrigida pela massa corporal é um preditor melhor da baixa função física do que a força muscular absoluta em mulheres na pós-menopausa

Objective: We investigated the predictive contributions and diagnostic accuracy of muscle strength (MS) and muscle strength to body weight ratio (MS/BW) on physical function in postmenopausal women (PW). Methods: This cross-sectional study evaluated forty-nine sedentary PW (61.7 ± 7.9 years). Body weight and height were measured with a digital scale and a stadiometer respectively. Muscle strength was determined by manual dynamometer and the left and right hand values were summed. Physical function was assessed by the six-minute walk test, short physical performance battery (SPPB) and Quality of Life Questionnaire (SF-36). A composite measure of physical function was calculated by summing the Z scores (x-µ/σ) of each individual assessment to provide a global index of physical function. Results: Muscle strength-specific linear regression analyses indicated that the strongest predictor of physical function was MS/BW [Beta of Z score = 0.91±0.07 (SE)] when compared to MS [Beta of Z score = 0.59±0.13 (SE)]. The ROC curve values indicated that the more accurate measure of physical function (P = 0.026) was MS/BW [AUC = 0.91±0.04 (SE)] when compared to MS [AUC = 0.75±0.08 (SE)]. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that MS/ BW is more accurate and predictive measure of low physical function than absolute MS in PW

Comparação do teste tuberculínico e do ensaio de liberação de interferon-gama para diagnóstico de tuberculose latente em agentes comunitários de saúde do Sul do Brasil, Rio Grande do Sul, 2012 / Comparison of tuberculin test and interferon-gamma release assay for diagnosing latent tuberculosis in Community Health Workers, State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, 2012 / Comparación de la prueba de tuberculina y del ensayo de liberación de interferón gamma para diagnóstico de tuberculosis latente en agentes comunitarios de salud del Sur de Brasil, Rio Grande do Sul, 2012

Objetivo: comparar a capacidade de detecção de infecção latente por Mycobacterium tuberculosis em agentes comunitários de saúde (ACS) com uso do teste tuberculínico (TT) e do ensaio de liberação de interferon-gama (IGRA). Métodos: estudo transversal realizado no município de Santa Cruz do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, com aplicação do TT e do IGRA em 47 ACS no período de março a junho de 2012; o TT foi considerado positivo na presença de uma induração = 10 mm, assim como o IGRA, se houvesse concentração = 0,35 UI/ml de interferon-gama. Resultados: 12 ACS apresentaram TT positivo e 6 tiveram IGRA positivo; a concordância entre os testes foi avaliada como pobre (?=0,063). Conclusão: apesar do número limitado de amostras, a alta discordância entre os testes evidencia a necessidade de desenvolver mais estudos que busquem encontrar uma explicação biológica para tais diferenças e avaliem a relação de custo-benefício na utilização do IGRA...

Objective: to compare the ability to detect latent Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection among community health workers using the tuberculin skin test (TST) and Interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA). Methods: this was a cross-sectional study conducted in Santa Cruz do Sul-RS, Brazil, applying TST and IGRA to 47 community health workers between March and June 2012. TST was considered positive when induration was = 10mm. IGRA was considered positive when interferon-gama concentration was at least 0.35 IU/mL. Results: 12 community health workers presented positive TST and 6 had positive IGRA, the agreement between the tets was considered poor (k=0.063). Conclusion: despite the limited number of samples there is a high discrepancy between the tests, what emphasize the need for more studies to find a biological explanation for these differences and to examine the cost-benefit of using IGRA...

OBJETIVO: comparar la capacidad de detección de infección latente por Mycobacterium tuberculosis en agentes comunitarios de salud (ACS) con la aplicación de la prueba de la tuberculina (PT) y del ensayo de liberación de interferón gamma (IGRA).MÉTODOS: estudio transversal realizado en el municipio de Santa Cruz do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, con aplicación de la PT y del IGRA en 47 ACS en el período de marzo a junio de 2012; la PT fue considerada positiva en la presencia de una induración ≥10 mm, así como el IGRA, si hubiera concentración ≥0,35 UI/ml de interferón gamma.RESULTADOS: 12 ACS presentaron PT positiva y 6 tuvieron IGRA positivo; a concordancia entre las pruebas se evaluó como pobre (κ=0,063).CONCLUSIÓN: a pesar del número limitado de muestras, la alta discordancia entre las pruebas hace evidente la necesidad de desarrollar más estudios que busquen encontrar una explicación biológica para tales diferencias y evalúen la relación de costo-beneficio en la utilización del IGRA...

Espondilodiscite séptica: série de casos / Septic spondylodiscitis: a case series

Introdução: Objetivamos avaliar os principais aspectos clínico-epidemiológicos relacionados à espondilodiscite séptica, infecção do corpo vertebral e espaço discal, em uma série de casos. Métodos: Estudo transversal dos casos de espondilodiscite séptica no período de dez anos (2002 - 2012). Resultados: Foram identificados 12 pacientes com espondilodiscite séptica, sendo 58% homens e a idade média de 64 anos. Quanto aos sintomas, todos os pacientes apresentaram dor nas costas, 25% febre e 25% parestesias e paresia nos membros inferiores. Patologias associadas foram diabetes mellitus e neoplasias, ambas em 25% dos casos. O micro-organismo predominante foi Staphylococcus aureus, em 54% dos pacientes. Conclusão: Os achados desta série de casos corroboram os dados apresentados na literatura médica. O diagnóstico de espondilodiscite séptica deve ser considerado em todo o paciente com dor nas costas associada à febre e marcadores laboratoriais de inflamação. O diagnóstico precoce permite o pronto início de antibioticoterapia,proporcionando melhores desfechos.

Introduction: We aimed to evaluate the main clinical and epidemiological aspects related to septic discitis, infection of the vertebral body and discal space in a series of cases. Methods: Cross-sectional study of cases of septic spondylodiscitis treated at Hospital Santa Cruz in the 2002-2012 period. Results: Twelve patients with septic discitis were identified, 58% of whom males, with mean age of 64 years. As for symptoms, all patients had back pain, 25% had fever and 25% paresthesia and weakness in lower limbs. Associated pathologies were diabetes mellitus and cancer, both in 25% of cases. The predominant micro-organism was Staphylococcus aureusin 54% of patients. Conclusion: The findings of this series of cases corroborate the data reported in the medical literature. The diagnosis of septic spondylodiscitis should be considered in every patient with back pain associated with fever and laboratory markers of inflammation. Early diagnosis allows prompt initiation of antibiotic therapy, leading to better outcomes.

Prevalência de anti-HCV em uma população privada de liberdade / Prevalence of anti-HCV in an inmate population

OBJETIVO: Estimar a prevalência do vírus da hepatite (HCV) através de um teste rápido em um grupo carcerário do interior do Rio Grande do Sul. MÉTODOS: Por meio de um estudo descritivo do tipo inquérito, foram avaliados 195 apenados por amostragem aleatória. RESULTADOS: Um total de 9,7% dos apenados era reagente. Nesta análise, a variável que se mostrou preditora para infecção pelo HCV foi o uso de drogas injetáveis. CONCLUSÃO: A alta prevalência da sorologia reagente para o HCV observada entre os internos causa particular preocupação, uma vez que é bem maior em relação à população em geral. Portanto, é necessária a realização de campanhas de abordagens específicas para mais informações sobre doenças infecciosas em ambientes prisionais, além de um adequado tratamento para evitar a disseminação viral.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the prevalence of hepatitis C using a rapid hepatitis C virus (HCV) test in an inmate population from the countryside of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. METHODS: Through a descriptive study, 195 inmates were evaluated by random sampling. RESULTS: A total of 9.7% of the inmates were positive. In this analysis, the variable injectable drug use was predictive of HCV infection. CONCLUSION: The high prevalence of positive serology for HCV observed among the inmates is of particular concern, as it is much higher than in the general population. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct specific approach campaigns to gather more information on infectious diseases in prison settings, as well as to provide appropriate treatment to prevent viral dissemination.