Ensayo controlado y aleatorizado del uso de Heberkinasa® en el derrame pleural paraneumónico en niños / Randomized Controlled Trial of the Use of Heberkinase® in Parapneumonic Pleural Effusion in Children

Introducción: El derrame pleural paraneumónico resulta la complicación más frecuente de la neumonía bacteriana, de manejo complejo y muchas veces quirúrgico. No existen publicaciones en Cuba provenientes de ensayos clínicos controlados y aleatorizados ni del uso de la estreptoquinasa recombinante (Heberkinasa®) en el derrame pleural. Objetivo: Evaluar la eficacia y la seguridad de la Heberkinasa® en el tratamiento del derrame pleural paraneumónico complicado complejo y el empiema en niños. Métodos: Ensayo clínico fase III, abierto, aleatorizado (2:1), en grupos paralelos y controlado. Se concluyó la inclusión prevista de 48 niños (1-18 años de edad), que cumplieron los criterios de selección. Los progenitores otorgaron el consentimiento informado. Los pacientes se distribuyeron en dos grupos: I- experimental: terapia estándar y administración intrapleural diaria de 200 000 UI de Heberkinasa® durante 3-5 días y II-control: tratamiento estándar. Las variables principales: necesidad de cirugía y la estadía hospitalaria. Se evaluaron los eventos adversos. Resultados: Ningún paciente del grupo I-experimental requirió cirugía, a diferencia del grupo II-control en el que 37,5 por ciento necesitó cirugía video-toracoscópica, con diferencia altamente significativa. Se redujo la estadía hospitalaria (en cuatro días), las complicaciones intratorácicas y las infecciones asociadas a la asistencia sanitaria en el grupo que recibió Heberkinasa®. No se presentaron eventos adversos graves atribuibles al producto. Conclusiones: La Heberkinasa® en el derrame pleural paraneumónico complicado complejo y empiema resultó eficaz y segura para la evacuación del foco séptico, con reducción de la necesidad de tratamiento quirúrgico, de la estadía hospitalaria y de las complicaciones, sin eventos adversos relacionados con su administración(AU)

Introduction: Paraneumonic pleural effusion is the most frequent complication of bacterial pneumonia, with complex and often surgical management. There are no publications in Cuba from randomized controlled clinical trials or the use of recombinant streptokinase (Heberkinase®) in pleural effusion. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Heberkinase® in the treatment of complex complicated parapneumonic pleural effusion and empyema in children. Methods: Phase III, open-label, randomized (2:1), parallel-group, controlled clinical trial. The planned inclusion of 48 children (1-18 years of age), who met the selection criteria, was completed. Parents gave informed consent. The patients were divided into two groups: I-experimental: standard therapy and daily intrapleural administration of 200,000 IU of Heberkinase® for 3-5 days; and II-control: standard treatment. The main variables: need for surgery and hospital stay. Adverse events were evaluated. Results: No patient in group I-experimental required surgery, unlike group II-control in which 37.5 percent required video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery, with a highly significant difference. Hospital stay (to 4 days), intrathoracic complications and infections associated to healthcare in the group that received Heberkinase® was reduced. No serious adverse events attributable to the product occurred. Conclusions: Heberkinase® in complex complicated parapneumonic pleural effusion and empyema was effective and safe for the draining of the septic focus, with reduction of the need for surgical treatment, hospital stay and complications, with no adverse events related to its administration(AU)

Factores pronósticos de fallo de trombólisis en pacientes con diagnóstico de infarto agudo de miocardio / Prognostic factors of thrombolytic failure in patients diagnosed with acute myocardial infarction

RESUMEN Introducción: La medida terapéutica más importante en pacientes con infarto agudo de miocardio con supradesnivel del segmento ST es la reperfusión del territorio isquémico; la fibrinólisis es la estrategia primaria en muchos hospitales. El diagnóstico temprano de aquellos pacientes con riesgo de fallo de trombólisis es vital. Objetivo: Identificar los factores pronósticos de fallo de trombólisis en pacientes con diagnóstico de infarto agudo de miocardio con supradesnivel del segmento ST. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo y prospectivo que incluyó a pacientes atendidos en la Emergencia del Hospital Clínico-Quirúrgico «Joaquín Albarrán¼, con diagnóstico de la enfermedad antes mencionada, y tratados con estreptoquinasa recombinante, entre noviembre de 2018 hasta mayo de 2020. Fueron incluidos 66 pacientes en la investigación. Las variables analizadas fueron: Edad, sexo, hipertensión arterial, diabetes mellitus, tiempo entre inicio de síntomas y comienzo de fibrinólisis, localización del infarto, duración del complejo QRS, duración y profundidad de onda. Resultados: Hubo fallo de trombólisis en 27 pacientes (40,9 %). Las variables: Tiempo de realización de trombólisis, duración y profundidad de la onda Q, así como la duración del QRS mostraron valores con diferencias significativas entre ambos grupos (p<0,05). El análisis multivariado confirmó la duración y profundidad de la onda Q como factores independientes, predictores de fallo de trombólisis: (OR= 14,50; IC 95 % 1,58-132,33); (OR: 1,69; IC 95 % 1,27-2,26), respectivamente. Conclusiones: El análisis de la profundidad y duración de la onda Q en el electrocardiograma inicial de los pacientes estudiados, permite predecir a una subpoblación de pacientes con riesgo de fallo de trombólisis.

ABSTRACT Introduction: the most important therapeutic measure in patients with ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction is reperfusion of the ischemic territory; fibrinolysis is the primary strategy in many hospitals. Early diagnosis of those patients with risk of failed thrombolysis is vital. Objective: to identify prognostic factors of thrombolytic failure in patients diagnosed with ST- segment elevation acute myocardial infarction. Methods: a descriptive and prospective study including patients treated in the Emergency department at "Joaquín Albarrán" Clinical and Surgical Hospital, who were diagnosed with the previously mentioned disease and treated with recombinant streptokinase, between November 2018 and May 2020. A number of 66 patients were included in the investigation. Age, gender, arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, time between onset of symptoms and onset of fibrinolysis, location of the infarction, QRS complex duration, duration and depth of the wave were the analyzed variables. Results: thrombolysis failed in 27 patients (40.9%). Time of performing thrombolysis, duration and depth of the Q wave, as well as the QRS duration showed values with significant differences between both groups (p<0.05). The multivariate analysis confirmed the duration and depth of the Q wave as independent factors, predictors of thrombolysis failure: (OR= 14.50; 95% CI 1.58-132.33); (OR: 1.69; 95% CI 1.27-2.26), respectively. Conclusions: the analysis of the depth and duration of the Q wave in the initial electrocardiogram of the studied patients allows us to predict a subpopulation of patients with risk of failed thrombolysis.

Insuficiencia renal aguda transitoria después de trombólisis coronaria con estreptoquinasa / Transient acute renal failure after coronary thrombolysis with streptokinase

Introducción: En la actualidad existen más de 150 medicamentos relacionados con la aparición de rabdomiólisis e insuficiencia renal aguda transitoria. La estreptoquinasa puede ser uno de ellos. Objetivo: Presentar un caso en el cual la administración de trombólisis con estreptoquinasa pudiera estar relacionado con una insuficiencia renal aguda transitoria. Caso clínico: Paciente de 38 años, con antecedentes de salud anterior y creatinina de 81 mg/L días antes del ingreso, sufrió infarto miocárdico agudo y después de la trombólisis con estreptoquinasa presentó dolores musculares intensos, náuseas, vómitos y lumbalgia intensa. La creatinina ascendió progresivamente; tuvo oligoanuria progresiva que evolucionó hasta las dos semanas y luego se recuperó. A los 21 días, la creatinina estaba en 116 mg/L. En la coronariografía, las coronarias son normales. Comentarios: Las causas de insuficiencia renal aguda transitoria pudieran ser, rabdomiólisis asociada con alteraciones del metabolismo del ATP y trastornos inmunológicos provocados por la administración de estreptoquinasa. La coronariografía resultó normal(AU)

Introduction: There are currently more than 150 medications related to the appearance of rhabdomyolysis and transient acute renal failure. Streptokinase can be one of them. Objective: Presenting a case the administration of streptokinase as a possible cause of acute, transient renal failure. Case report: A 38-year-old patient with a previous health history and 81 mg creatinine per liter days before admission, suffers acute myocardial infarction and after streptokinase thrombolysis he suffers severe muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, severe low back pain, creatinine ascends progressively and progressive oligoanuria that evolves until two weeks when it begins to return. At 21 days with 116 mg creatinine per liter, coronary angiography was performed with normal coronaries. Comments: The causes of transient acute renal failure may be rhabdomyolysis associated with abnormalities of the metabolism of ATP and immune disorders, caused by the administration of streptokinase. His coronary angiography was completely normal(AU)

Perfil clínico y angiográfico de las mujeres con infarto agudo al miocardio en un hospital nacional / Clinical and angiographic profile of women with acute myocardial infarction in a national hospital

Resumen Justificación: La cardiopatía isquémica es la principal causa de muerte de mujeres en Costa Rica, y su incidencia ha aumentado con los años. A pesar de esto, hay pocos estudios clínicos a este respecto en nuestro país. El objetivo del presente trabajo es presentar las principales características clínicas y angiográficas de un grupo de pacientes con infarto agudo del miocardio con la idea de establecer no solo sus particularidades sino permitir comparaciones con otras poblaciones. Métodos: Se trató de un estudio observacional, descriptivo y retrospectivo, de un periodo de cinco años, en el cual se incluyeron a las pacientes ingresadas con infarto del miocardio a la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos. Se registraron datos demográficos, de evolución clínica, complicaciones, hallazgos angiográficos, tratamiento y desenlace. El análisis estadístico fue cuantitativo descriptivo, realizado con el programa informático SPSS v.21 (IBM Corp., EEUU) y éste consistió en cálculos de frecuencia, tendencia central, medidas de variabilidad de rango, percentiles, y chi-cuadrado. El protocolo de la investigación fue aprobado por el Comité Ético Científico del Hospital Rafael Ángel Calderón Guardia (DG-3380-2020). Resultados: De 190 pacientes se incluyeron un total de 54. La edad promedio fue de 60 años, con una mortalidad del 17,9%, la cual fue 5,4 % más alta que en los hombres. La mayor parte de las pacientes padecía de hipertensión arterial (74%), 24 (44,5%) eran taba- quistas y 23 (42,5%) tenían diabetes mellitus. Los síntomas más frecuentes fueron: dolor torácico, criodiaforesis y disnea. Se consideró que hubo dolor torácico atípico en 8 casos (15%). A 48 pacientes se le llevó a angioplastia coronaria y solo 35% la recibieron en tiempo oportuno. A 17 pacientes se les aplicó trombólisis farmacológica y solo en 3 pacientes fue exitosa. La arteria coronaria derecha y la arteria descendente anterior fueron los vasos responsables en la mayoría de los casos (19 casos (39,5%) cada uno de ellas.) Conclusión: Esta población tuvo síntomas isquémicos claros, con enfermedad coronaria severa y una mortalidad mayor que los hombres. En general la terapia farmacológica, así como la mecánica se aplicaron en forma tardía.

Abstrac Justification: The ischemic heart disease is the main cause of death of women in Costa Rica, and its incidence has increased with the years. In spite of this, there are few clinical studies in this respect in our country. The aim of this paper is to present the main clinical and angiographic characteristics of a group of patients with acute myocardial infarction in order to establish not only their particularities but also to allow comparisons with other populations. Methods: An observational, descriptive and retrospective study was carried out over a period of five years, in which patients admitted with myocardial infarction to the Intensive Care Unit were included. Demographic data, clinical evolution, complications, angiographic findings, treatment, and outcome were recorded. Statistical analysis was quantitative and descriptive, performed with SPSS v.21 software (IBM Corp., USA) and consisted of calculations of frequency, central tendency, measures of variability, percentiles, and chi-square. The Ethical Committee of the Hospital Rafael Angel Calderon Guardia approved the research protocol (DG-3380-2020). Results: A total of 54 out of 190 patients were included. The average age was 60 years, with a mortality rate of 17.9%, which was 5.4% higher than in men. Most of the patients suffered from arterial hypertension (74%), 24 (44.5%) were smokers and 23 (42.5%) had diabetes mellitus. The most frequent symptoms were chest pain, cryodiaphoresis and dyspnea. It was considered that there was atypical chest pain in 8 cases (15%). Forty-eight patients were taken for coronary angioplasty and only 35% received it in time. Pharmacological thrombolysis was applied to 17 patients, and it was successful in only 3 patients. The right coronary artery and the anterior descending artery were the vessels responsible in most cases (19 cases (39.5%) each). Conclusión: This population had clear ischemic symptoms, with severe coronary disease and higher mortality than men. In general, pharmacological as well as mechanical therapy was applied late.

Sgarbossa Criteria in Left Bundle Branch Block in a Hypertensive Emergency, a Case Report

Abstract Left bundle branch block and hypertensive emergency are very common conditions in clinical cardiovascular and emergency practice. Hypertensive emergency encompasses a spectrum of clinical presentations in which uncontrolled blood pressure leads to progressive end-organ dysfunction. Suspected acute myocardial infarction in the setting of a left bundle branch block presents a unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenge to the clinician. The diagnosis is especially difficult due to electrocardiographic changes caused by altered ventricular depolarization. However, reports on the use of the Sgarbossa's criteria during the management of hypertensive emergency are rare. My current case is a hypertensive emergency patient with acute chest pain and left bundle branch block. Sgarbossa's criteria were initially very weak and, over time, became highly suggestive of acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. Interestingly, chest pain increased as the Sgarbossa's diagnostic criteria were met. Here, we present a case of developing ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction with left bundle branch block that is indicating for thrombolytic therapy. Thrombolytic therapy was strongly indicated because of a higher developing of Sgarbossa criteria scoring. Thus, the higher Sgarbossa criteria scoring in the case was the only indication for thrombolytic. Therefore, how did Sgarbossa criteria developing during the course of the case to indicating the need for thrombolytic therapy?

Eficacia y seguridad de la estreptoquinasa recombinante en niños con derrame pleural paraneumónico / Effectiveness and security of recombinant streptokinase in children with parapneumonic pleural efussion

Introducción: El derrame pleural paraneumónico como complicación de neumonías adquiridas en la comunidad en la población pediátrica constituye un problema de salud mundial y en Cuba. El empleo de fibrinolíticos intrapleurales es una acertada opción terapéutica. Objetivo: Evaluar la eficacia y seguridad de la utilización de la estreptoquinasa recombinante en el tratamiento del derrame pleural paraneumónico complicado complejo en niños. Métodos: Ensayo clínico confirmatorio fase III, monocentro, abierto, aleatorizado y controlado (RPCEC00000292), realizado entre septiembre 2018 - octubre 2019. Se incluyeron niños (1 - 18 años de edad), que cumplieron los criterios de selección, incluida la voluntariedad. Todos recibieron el tratamiento convencional establecido y se distribuyeron en dos grupos: I-experimental (estreptoquinasa recombinante, dosis diaria intrapleural de 200 000 UI, 3-5 días); II-control (terapia convencional). Las variables principales fueron: necesidad de cirugía y la estadía hospitalaria. Se evaluaron también los eventos adversos. Resultados: Se evaluaron 55 niños con la enfermedad referida, de ellos, 34 (61,8 por ciento) se incluyeron en el estudio. Ningún paciente del grupo experimental requirió cirugía, a diferencia del grupo control que lo requirió en 25 por ciento. Se redujo significativamente la estadía hospitalaria en el grupo que recibió estreptoquinasa recombinante. No se presentaron eventos adversos graves atribuibles al tratamiento experimental. Conclusiones: La estreptoquinasa recombinante administrada en el derrame pleural paraneumónico complicado complejo resultó un método eficaz y seguro para la evacuación del foco séptico, con un impacto positivo expresado en la reducción de complicaciones, la necesidad de tratamiento quirúrgico y la estadía hospitalaria, sin la ocurrencia de eventos adversos relacionados con su uso(AU)

in the community by the pediatric population represents a health problem in the world and in Cuba. The use of intrapleural fibrinolytics is a good therapeutic option. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness and security of the use of recombinant streptokinase in the treatment of complex parapneumonic pleural efussion in children. Methods: Phase III confirmatory clinical trial, monocentric, open, randomized and controlled (RPCEC00000292) - named as DENIS study- carried out from September 2018 to October, 2019. There were included children (from 1 to 18 years old) that met the selection criteria including voluntariness. All of them received the established conventional treatment and were distributed in two groups: I- experimental (recombinant streptokinase, intrapleural daily dose of 200 000 UI, 3 - 5 days); II- control (conventional therapy). The main variables were need of surgery and hospital stay. There were also assessed the adverse events. Results: 55 children with the above mentioned disease were assessed; 34 of them (61.8 percent) were included in the study. Any of the patients of the experimental group required surgery, opposite to the control group that required it in a 25 percent. The hospital stay was significantly reduced in the group that had treatment with recombinant streptokinase. There were not any severe adverse events related to the experimental treatment. Conclusions: When recombinant streptokinase was administered in the complex parapneumonic pleural efussion resulted in an efficient and safe method for the elimination of the septic focus, with a positive impact expressed in the reduction of complications, the need of surgical treatment and the hospital stay without presenting related adverse events while using it(AU)

Complicaciones del infarto agudo del miocardio tratado con trombolisis / Complications of the acute hearth attack treated with thrombolysis

RESUMEN Introducción: el infarto agudo de miocardio es una de las formas más graves de cardiopatía isquémica. Representa un problema de salud de relevancia mundial. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo con el objetivo de determinar el comportamiento de pacientes portadores de infarto agudo del miocardio tratados por trombolisis en el Hospital Provincial Docente "Amalia Simoni", de Camagüey, en el período comprendido desde 2013 a 2015. Objetivo: determinar el comportamiento de pacientes portadores de infarto agudo de miocardio, tratados por trombolisis en el Hospital Provincial Docente "Amalia Simoni", de Camagüey. Materiales y métodos: la muestra la conformó los 146 pacientes que ingresaron, en el período antes mencionado, en el Servicio de Gariatría, Hospital Provincial Docente "Amalia Simoni". Se emplearon métodos de estadística descriptiva y se determinó la frecuencia y el porcentaje. Resultados: reveló un predominio de hombres entre 60 y 79 años, con antecedentes de hipertensión arterial y en un elevado porcentaje de fumadores, clasificados en Killip Kimball I y II, con excelentes resultados los tratados antes de las 3 h, y con complicaciones inmediatas sobre el músculo cardiaco. Conclusiones: el tratamiento trombólitico es muy efectivo en las 3 h primeras del comienzo de los síntomas.

ABSTRACT Introduction: the myocardial acute infarct is one of the forms of the ischemic heart disease, being a health problem around the world. The authors carried out a descriptive study with the objective of determining the behavior of patients suffering a myocardial acute infarct treated by thrombolysis in the Teaching Provincial Hospital "Amalia Simoni", of Camagüey, in the period from 2013 to 2015. Objective: to determine the behavior of patients suffering a myocardial acute infarct treated by thrombolysis in the Teaching Provincial Hospital "Amalia Simoni", of Camagüey. Material and methods: the simple was formed by all the 146 patients who entered the Teaching Provincial Hospital "Amalia Simoni" in the before-mentioned period with a diagnosis of myocardial acute infarct. Descriptive statistic methods were used and frequency and percentage were determined. Results: the study showed the predominance of men aged 60-79 years, with antecedents of arterial hypertension and a high number of cigarette smokers, classified in Killip&Kimball I and II. The patients treated before 3 hours passed showed excellent results, and with immediate complications on the heath muscle. Conclusions: thrombolytic treatment is very effective in the first 3 hours after the symptoms beginning.

Enhanced Production Of Streptokinase By Chemical Mutagenesis Of Streptococcus agalactiae EBL-20

Abstract Streptokinase (SK) is an enzyme that is used for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. The current study focused on the enhanced production of SK by inducing mutation in Streptococcus agalactiae EBL-20 and optimization of medium components and culture conditions for the maximum growth of mutant derived strain. S. agalactiae EBL-32 was selected as a potent mutant after exposure of S. agalactiae EBL-20 to EMS for 180 minutes. SK activity obtained from mutant derived strain was found to be 1.6 fold higher as compared to the activity achieved by wild strain. Nutritional requirements of the mutated strain were optimized by single factor analysis method suggesting glucose as the optimum carbon source; yeast extract and peptone as a suitable nitrogen sources and corn steep liquor (CSL) as an appropriate substrate for the maximum SK production. The culture conditions determined by response surface methodology (RSM) suggested that a temperature value of 37.5⁰C and pH 7 of the fermentation medium with 2.50 mL inoculum size for 36 hours of incubation was optimum for maximum yield of SK. Hence the optimization studies resulted into 1.92 fold increase in the yield of SK suggesting the new isolate suitable for commercial scale production of SK.

Fibrinolíticos: indicações e tratamento das complicações hemorrágicas / Fibrinolytics: indications and treatment of hemorrhagic complications

Os fibrinolíticos pertencem a uma classe de medicamentos especializada em promover a lise da fibrina e a consequente dissolução do trombo. Esse efeito baseia-se na transformação do plasminogênio em plasmina, potente enzima proteolítica. A sua aplicação nas diferentes síndromes cardiovasculares agudas alterou o curso natural do infarto agudo do miocárdio, da embolia pulmonar e do acidente vascular cerebral isquêmico agudo. Na prática, temos três gerações de fibrinolíticos disponíveis: estreptoquinase, alteplase e tenecteplase, essa última com alta afinidade à fibrina. As complicações hemorrágicas, embora raras, devem ser identificadas e tratadas de forma precoce. Isso se deve aos distúrbios da coagulação, especialmente, queda do fibrinogênio e outros fatores de coagulação, mais predominantes com a estreptoquinase. A correção baseia-se na administração de crioprecipitado e plasma fresco, ricos, respectivamente, em fibrinogênio e fatores de coagulação. A inexperiência ao administrar tais medicamentos e o receio hemorrágico tem sido fator agravante na sobrevida dessas doenças. Campanhas educacionais poderão amenizar tal cenário, especialmente, em centros mais carentes de recursos tecnológicos

Fibrinolytics belong to a class of drugs specialized in promoting lysis of fibrin and consequent dissolution of the thrombus. This effect is based on the conversion of plasminogen into plasmin, a potent proteolytic enzyme. Its application in different acute cardiovascular syndromes has changed the natural course of acute myocardial infarction, pulmonary embolism, and acute ischemic stroke. In practice, three generations of fibrinolytics are available: streptokinase, alteplase, and tenecteplase (the latter having high affinity to fibrin). Hemorrhagic complications, although rare, must be identified and treated early. This is due to coagulation disorders, especially the decrease in fibrinogen and other coagulation factors, more prevalent with streptokinase. Correction is based on the administration of cryoprecipitate and fresh plasma, which are rich in fibrinogen and coagulation factors, respectively. Inexperience in administering these drugs and hemorrhagic fear are aggravating factors of disease progression. Educational programs can mitigate such scenarios, especially in centers that lack technological resources.Inexperience administering such medicines and hemorrhagic fear has been an aggravating factor in the lives of these diseases. Educational campaigns will be able to mitigate such a scenario especially in the most lacking centers of technological resources

Fibrinolíticos en el infarto agudo de miocardio. Análisis de una cohorte uruguaya en un período de cuatro años / Fibrinolytics in acute myocardial infarction. Analysis of an uruguayan cohort in a four years period

Introducción: el tratamiento fibrinolítico (FBL) en el infarto agudo de miocardio con elevación del ST (IAMCEST) se realiza en Uruguay desde hace más de 30 años. Dado que el acceso a angioplastia primaria está restringido a Montevideo, los FBL siguen siendo el método de reperfusión para muchos pacientes. Desde el año 2011 el Fondo Nacional de Recursos (FNR) ofrece la cobertura financiera del tratamiento FBL. Existe escasa información actualizada sobre su empleo en nuestro medio. Objetivo: conocer el estado actual del uso de tratamiento FBL bajo cobertura del FNR, el proceso asistencial y los resultados obtenidos con el mismo. Método: estudio retrospectivo, observacional, que analiza una cohorte de pacientes con IAMCEST a quienes se les adminstró FBL financiados por el FNR entre el 1º de julio de 2011 y el 30 de junio de 2015. Se estudiaron de forma anónima factores demográficos, cobertura asistencial, características clínicas, tiempos asistenciales al tratamiento, signos clínicos de reperfusión, realización de cineangiocoronariografía (CACG), tratamiento coadyuvante, complicaciones intrahospitalarias y mortalidad. Resultados: se incluyeron 841 pacientes con IAMCEST que fueron tratados con FBL. La edad media fue de 62,6 años (rango 23-95 años), 74,2% era de sexo masculino. Cobertura asistencial pública 23,5% y privada 76,5%. Se utilizó estreptoquinasa (SK) en 52,9% y tenecteplase (TNK) en 47,1%. El tiempo medio entre el inicio de síntomas y el primer contacto médico (PCM) fue de 128 minutos. El tiempo medio PCM-ingreso a puerta fue de 78 minutos y el tiempo puerta-aguja de 77 minutos. Montevideo y tres departamentos cercanos presentaron las tasas más bajas de uso de FBL, el 97,2% fue tratado en el interior del país. Tuvo criterio electrocardiográfico de reperfusión a los 90 minutos, el 54,1%. Se presentó sangrado del sistema nervioso central (SNC) en 0,8%, sangrado digestivo en 0,5% y otros sangrados que requirieron transfusión en 0,6%. El primer día se realizó CACG en el 37,8% de los pacientes (32,8% del grupo SK y 43,5% del grupo TNK, p=0,001), y a los 30 días en 65% (60,6% del grupo SK y 69,7% del grupo TNK, p=0,002). La mortalidad en el primer día fue 5,1%, a los 30 días 10,9% y al año 14,3%, sin diferencia significativa entre los tratados con SK o TNK. Conclusiones: la tasa de uso de FBL en el IAMCEST en Uruguay es baja y aproximadamente la mitad se realizan bajo cobertura del FNR. Existen diferencias regionales e inequidad según la cobertura asistencial. Los tiempos al tratamiento son prolongados y están lejos de las pautas internacionales. Se realizó CACG dentro de los 30 días a casi dos tercios de los pacientes, pero solo a 37,8% en las primeras 24 horas. La mortalidad de esta serie es comparable con registros internacionales.

Introduction: fibrinolytic (FBL) treatment in ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) has been performed in Uruguay for more than 30 years. Considering that access to primary angioplasty is restricted to Montevideo, FBL remain the reperfusion method for many patients. Since 2011, Fondo Nacional de Recursos (FNR) offers the financial coverage of the FBL treatment. There is limited updated information on the use of FBL in our country. Objective: to know the current state of the use of FBL treatment under FNR coverage, the care process and the results obtained with it. Method: retrospective, observational study analyzing a cohort of patients with STEMI who were administered FBL funded by the FNR between 1st July 2011 and 30th June 2015. Demographic factors, health care coverage, clinical features, treatment times, clinical signs of reperfusion, cineangiocoronariography (CACG), adjuvant treatment, intrahospital complications and mortality, were studied anonymously. Results: were included 841 patients with STEMI who were treated with FBL. The mean age was 62,6 years (range 23-95 years), 74,2% were male. Public health care coverage 23.5% and private 76.5%. Streptokinase (SK) was used in 52,9% and tenecteplase (TNK) in 47,1%. The mean time between the onset of symptoms and the first medical contact (FMC) was 128 min. The mean time between FMC and emergency admission was 78 minutes and door to needle time was 77 minutes. Montevideo and three nearby departments presented the lowest rates of FBL use, 97.2% were treated in another city outside the capital. The 54,1% had electrocardiographic reperfusion criteria at 90 minutes. Central nervous system bleeding occurred in 0,8%, digestive bleeding in 0.5% and other bleeds requiring transfusion in 0.6%. On the first day, CACG was performed in 37,8% of the patients (32,8% in the SK group and 43,5% in the TNK group, p = 0,001), and at 30 days in 64,9% (60,6% % Of SK group and 69,7% of TNK group, p = 0,002). Mortality on the first day was 5,1%, at 30 days 10.9% and 14,3% at the year, with no significant difference between those treated with SK or TNK. Conclusions: the FBL use rate at STEMI in Uruguay is low and approximately half is done under FNR coverage. There are regional differences and inequity according to health care coverage. Treatment times are prolonged and far from international guidelines. CACG was performed within 30 days in almost two thirds of patients, but only 37,8% in the first 24 hours. Mortality in this series is comparable with international registries.

Neutrophil lymphocyte ratio: a prognostic marker in acute ST elevation myocardial infarction

Objective: To investigate if neutrophil lymphocyte ratio [NLR] predicts in-hospital adverse events and mortality, and shortterm [30-day] mortality in ST-elevated myocardial infarction [STEMI] patients thrombolysed with streptokinase [SK]

Study Design: An observational study

Place and Duration of Study: Rawalpindi Institute of Cardiology, from June 2014 till January 2015

Methodology: The STEMI patients, thrombolysed with SK had blood samples at admission, analysed for complete blood counts and NLR calculated. They were grouped into two, low and high NLR, taking 4.50 as cut-off. Chi square test was used to compare rate of adverse events and death in hospital stay. Mann-Whitney test was used to compare median NLR between patients died and discharged alive. Logistic regression analysis was used to estimate predictive ability of NLR for 30-day mortality

Results: A total of 145 [45.3%] patients had complications; 49 [15.3%] died in hospital, and 13 [4.06%] died in 30 days. Patients in high NLR group had higher rate of complications [63.5% vs. 25.5%, p <0.0001] and death [19.2% vs. 11.1%, p=0.046] in hospital than those in low NLR group. Cardiogenic shock [27.5% vs.11.1%, p <0.0001], heart failure [19.2% vs. 7.2%, p=0.002], arrhythmias [18% vs. 6.5%, p <0.0001], reinfarct/angina [9.6% vs.2% p=0.004] occurred more in high NLR group. Median NLR in patients died was higher than those discharged alive [7.46 vs. 4.70, p <0.0001]. Regression analysis showed NLR an independent predictor of mortality [OR 1.131 at 95% CI, p = 0.029]. Age, serum creatinine, Killip class were other predictors [p=0.002 and p=0.02, respectively]. ROC curve showed AUC 0.908 [p <0.0001]

Conclusion: A high NLR predicted increased in hospital complication rate, and in-hospital as well as 30-day mortality in STEMI patients thrombolysed with streptokinase

Deberia usarse fibrinoliticos (estreptoquinasa) para el manejo del derrame pleural complicado maligno o de origen infeccioso? / Should fibrinolytics (streptokinase) be used for the management of complicated malignant or infectious pleural effusion?

CONTEXTO: Históricamente, el tratamiento de elección para pacientes con derrame pleural maligno ha sido la pleurodesis, siendo el talco el agente de elección recomendado (5, 6). Para lograr la pleurodesis, es necesario tener la pleura visceral y parietal en aposición. Dado que al menos el 30% de los pacientes con MPE tienen pulmón no expansible, y el hecho de que la disnea em pacientes con derrame pleural se relaciona más con la ineficiencia diafragmática que con la expansión pulmonar, los IPC (indwelling pleural catheter) se han convertido en el tratamento de elección para los pacientes con antecedentes conocidos con pulmón no expandible. Actualmente no hay recomendaciones sobre si se deben usar IPC o pleurodesis en pacientes con pulmón expandible conocido o sospechado. MÉTODOS: Pregunta de investigación y estrategia de búsqueda. Derrame pleural sintomatico/derrame pleural complicado (infeccioso o derrame pleural maligno) con pulmon expandible, Streptokinasa, talco esteril/ placebo/drenaje, desenlaces: manejo de disnea, resolucion del derrame. Cochrane Library (3 revisiones 57 trials). Epistemonikos (3 ECA-1 en niños 1 revision bibliografica). RESUMEN DE JUICIOS: Teniendo en cuenta que comparaciones directas e indirectas que evaluan fibrinolíticos (estreptoquinasa) frente a estrategias terapeuticas convencionales de efectividad demostrada y avalada por metaanalisis y guias de practica clinica de alta confianza metodologica no fueron beneficiosos y el alto costo asociado con esta estrategia terapêutica. RECOMENDACION: Se recomienda en contra del uso de fibrinoliticos en el manejo del derrame pleural maligno y derrame pleural complicado de origen infeccioso. (Recomendacion FUERTE en contra sustentado en alta certeza de la evidencia).

Utilização da Tomografia de Coerência Ótica na Abordagem de Lesão Intermediária em Paciente com Síndrome Coronariana Aguda / Optical Coherence Tomography in the Management of Intermediate Lesion in a Patient with Acute Coronary Syndrome

A tomografia de coerência ótica fornece imagens tomográficas da microestrutura coronária em alta resolução, possibilitando detalhada caracterização dos componentes e da morfologia da placa aterosclerótica, além de acurada determinação das dimensões vasculares. Relatamos aqui o caso de um paciente com lesão intermediária, na fase subaguda de um infarto do miocárdio, no qual a tomografia de coerência ótica foi utilizada como método diagnóstico complementar para a tomada de decisão e para guiar o procedimento...

Optical coherence tomography provides high-resolution tomography imaging of the coronary microstructure, allowing for detailed characterization of atherosclerotic plaque components and morphology, in addition to an accurate determination of vascular dimensions. We report the case of a patient with an intermediate coronary lesion, presenting in the subacute phase of a myocardial infarction, in whom optical coherence tomography was used as an adjunctive diagnostic method to aid in the decision-making process and to guide the interventional procedure...

Heparina no fraccionada o enoxaparina coadyuvante del tratamiento con estreptoquinasa y aspirina en el infarto agudo de miocardio con elevación del segmento ST / A decision analysis model: unfractionated heparin or enoxaparin coadjuvant for the treatment with streptokinase and aspirin in patients with acute myocardial infarction presenting with ST-Segment Elevation

Introducción: Es controvertida la indicación de heparina no fraccionada (HNF) o de bajo peso molecular (HBPM) como coadyuvante de estreptoquinasa y aspirina en el infarto agudo de miocardio (IAM). Objetivos: Establecer si la adición de anticoagulación es una opción más adecuada que la sola administración de estreptoquinasa y aspirina. En caso de resultar así, definir cuál tipo de heparina y vía de administración ofrece mayores beneficios. Métodos: Se realizó un análisis de decisión sobre una población simulada de 45 años de edad cursando un IAM de < 6 horas tratado con estreptoquinasa y aspirina. Se definieron cuatro estrategias coadyuvantes: no anticoagulación, HNF subcutánea (SC), HNF intravenosa (IV) y enoxaparina. Se definieron como eventos adversos al IAM, al IAM rcurrente y al accidente cerebrovascular menor o mayor ocurridos a los 30-35 días. En base a la evidencia se asignaron las probabilidades y las utilidades de los eventos aislados o combinados. Se estimó la expectativa de vida en años ajustados por calidad (QALYs). Se realizaron análisis de sensibilidad modificando las probabilidades y las utilidades de cada evento. Resultados: Las utilidades finales (QALYs) para cad estraegia resultaron: enoxaparina 8,4004; HNF IV 8,3275; HNF SC 8,3175 y no anticoagulación 8,2188. Enoxapirina resistió todos los análisis de sensibilidad planteados, excepto la asignación para HNF SC de un riesgo de muerte < 7,77 por ciento a los 30-35 días. Conclusiones: La adición de anticoagulación a estreptoquinasa y aspirina en el IAM resultó más adecuada que la sola administración de estreptoquinasa y aspirina. Enoxaparina resultó más conveniente que HNF.

It is controversial the indication of unfractioned heparin or low-molecular-weight heparin as a coadjuvant to streptokinase and aspirin, for the treatment of acute myocardial infarction. The objective of this study, was to investigate if the addition of anticoagulation is a more valid option than the sole supply of streptokinase and aspirin, and in such case, to establish which tipe of heparin should be the most suitable. It is concluded that the addition of anticoagulation to streptokinase and aspirin in acute myocardial infarction resulted more adequated than the sole administration of streptokinase plus aspirin. Enoxaparin resulted more convenient than unfractionated heparin

Thrombolysis in the treatment of acute stroke: is there a role for streptokinase when tissue plasminogen activator is not available?

Every year 350,000 people suffer an acute stroke in Pakistan. Treatment of acute stroke has not improved significantly despite the availability of intravenous thrombolysis with tissue plasminogen activator [tPA].The drug is expensive and is offered to a selected few. Streptokinase [SK], a low cost alternative thrombolytic agent, is widely available in Pakistan and is utilized to treat patients with acute coronary syndromes. Streptokinase was tested in acute stroke in the 1980's and found to be ineffective in ischemic stroke. This is likely due to trial design flaws, rather than the drug itself. Factors that may have contributed to poor outcomes include a prolonged treatment window, inclusion of patients with established infarction on CT scan, failure to treat excessive arterial pressures, a fixed dose of streptokinase and concomitant use of antithrombotic medications. Given the lack of therapeutic alternatives we believe that a properly designed trial in appropriate patient population utilizing stricter inclusion criteria, including early treatment with a lower dose of SK is warranted

Estreptoquinasa en infusión lenta versus infusión rápida en tromboembolismo pulmonar agudo de alto riesgo. Comparación de 3 casos clínicos. / Slow vs. rapid infusion streptokinase in high risk acute pulmonary thromboembolism. A comparison of 3 clinical cases

Presentamos tres casos clínicos ingresados en el servicio de Unidad Coronaria (UCO) del Hospital Privado de Sur de Bahía Blanca con diagnóstico de Tromboembolismo pulmonar (TEP) de alto riesgo tratados con Estreptoquinasa (EQ), dos de los pacientes recibieron infusión lenta y uno infusión rápida. El objetivo es evaluar comparativamente parámetros clínicos, hemodinámicos y complicaciones entre ambas formas infusión.

Three patients are admitted at the Coronary Care Unit (CCU) of the Hospital Privado del Sur of the city of Bahía Blanca, with a diagnosis of high risk Pulmonary Thromboembolism (PTE). Two of them were treated with slow infusion streptokinase and the other one with rapid infusion streptokinase. The objective was to assess and compare clinical and hemodynamic parameters as well as complications between both infusion types.

Povidone-iodine versus bleomycin pleurodesis for malignant effusion in bronchogenic cancer guided by thoracic echography

This study was designed to compare effectiveness of intra-pleural instillation of bleomycin with instillation of povidone-iodine for control of malignant pleural effusion among patients with non-small cell lung cancer, guided by results of thoracic echography. Fifty one patients had the possibility of full lung expansion. Drainage of the effusion was followed by instillation of bleomycin or povidone- iodine through the thoracostomy tube. Four weeks after discharge, thoracic echography was performed and repeated 4 weeks later. Follow-up ranged between 4-32 months [mean: 21 + 3.5 months]. We received 79 patients with malignant pleural effusion as stage IV non-small cell lung cancer during the last four years. Seventeen patients had centrally-located tumors with persistent lung atelectasis. lntra-pleural injection of streptokinase to breakdown intra-pleural fibrinous adhesions, was carried out in 9 cases; and was successful in 6 cases 66% [6/9]. Finally, 54 patients had an evidence of possible lung expansion but three died before pleurodesis. Thus, 51 patients received intrapleural instillation of bleomycin or povidone-iodine in a randomized prospective comparative study. Among bleomycin group [no.=26]. echography showed excellent pleurodesis [no.= 21], effective pleurodesis [no.= 2] with one or two areas of free mobility and one area of fluid component, weak pleurodesis [no.= 3] with three areas of free lung movement [lung sliding sign] and areas of fluid component. Among povidone-iodine group [no.=25] excellent pleurodesis [no.=20], effective [no.=2] and weak pleurodesis.[no.=3]. The six cases with weak pleurodesis in both groups were those who had streptokinase before pleurodesis. Complications and hospital stay were comparable for both groups. Chest x-ray proved recurrence of effusion in the six cases with weak pleurodesis after symptom-free intervals that varied between 4 and 6 weeks among these 6 patients. Both bleomycin and povidone-iodine produced comparable excellent and effective pleurodesis among patients with malignant pleural effusion. The cost is much lower with povidone-iodine.

[ comparative study of streptococal infection in children with PANDAS: a case-control study]

Recent evidence suggest that group A beta-hemolytic streptococcal [GABHS] infection may increase the risk of pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders [PANDAS] composed of the clinical signs of obsessive-compulsive and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders. The objective of this study was to compare the titer of antibodies against GABHS between children with PANDS and the controls. This cross-sectional, case-control study was done in Hazrat Rasoul Hospital, in Tehran, Iran during 2008-2010. We compared serum antibodies streptolysin O, deoxyribonuclease B, and streptokinase against GABHS quantitatively in 79 cases with PANDAS and 39 age-matched controls. The area under ROC curve, sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value [PPV] of tests were calculated. Most cases were studied in summer [57%] and spring [23%]. The three aforesaid antibodies were higher in the cases [P=0.001]. Antisterptolysin O [cut-off point 195] had a 90% sensitivity, 82% specificity and a 92% PPV, [CI=95%, 0.99-0.91]. Anti streptokinase [cut-off point 223] had an 82% sensitivity, 82% specificity and a 95% PPV, [CI=95%, 0.934-0.735]. Anti-DNase [cut-off point 140] had an 82% sensitivity, 82% specificity and a 95% PPV, [CI=95%, 0.99-0.91]. The study demonstrated a possible role for streptococcal infection in PANDAS. We found a significantly higher antibody titer against GABHS in OCD and ADHD cases in comparison with healthy children. Treatment of streptococcal infection is achievable by the use of long-acting penicillin. Use of aggressive treatment schedules like plasmaphresis, IVIG, etc needs further RCT studies

Biological activity analysis of native and recombinant streptokinase using clot lysis and chromogenic substrate assay

Determination of streptokinase activity is usually accomplished through two assay methods: a] Clot lysis, b] Chromogenic substrate assay. In this study the biological activity of two streptokinase products, namely Streptase[registered], which is a native product and Heberkinasa[registered], which is a recombinant product, was determined against the third international reference standard using the two forementioned assay methods. The results indicated that whilst the activity of Streptase[registered] was found to be 101 +/- 4% and 97 +/- 5% of the label claim with Clot lysis and Chromogenic substrate assay respectively, for Heberkinasa[registered] the potency values obtained were 42 +/- 5% and 92.5 +/- 2% of the label claim respectively. To shed some light on the reason for this finding, the n-terminal sequence of the streptokinase molecules present in the two products was determined. The results showed slight differences in the amino acid sequence of the recombinant product in comparison to the native one at the amino terminus. This finding supports those of other workers who found that n-terminal sequence of the streptokinase molecule can have significant effect on the activity of this protein