Acesso a medicamentos anti-hipertensivos pelos usuários de uma unidade ambulatorial / Antihypertensive drugs access by users of ambulatory unit

Objetivo: caracterizar o acesso aos medicamentos anti-hipertensivos pelas pessoas com hipertensão arterial atendidas em uma unidade ambulatorial. Metodologia: estudo descritivo, quantitativo, desenvolvido com 103 pessoas com hipertensão arterial em uso de anti-hipertensivos. Os dados foram coletados por meio de questionário com perguntas sociodemográficas, sobre tratamento e acesso aos medicamentos anti-hipertensivos. Utilizou-se a estatística descritiva e teste qui-quadrado de Pearson ou exato de Fisher para análise dos dados. Resultados: Predominou a faixa etária de 50-69 (68,9%), sexo feminino (85,4%) e raça/cor autodeclarada preta (46,6%). Quanto ao acesso aos anti-hipertensivos, 70,9% relataram ter acesso gratuito, 60,2% os obtêm nas unidades de saúde, 65,7% não referiram dificuldades na aquisição e 86,4% que tinham acesso total. Todos os participantes que tinham dificuldade econômica também tinham dificuldade de acesso aos anti-hipertensivos. Verificou-se associação significativa entre a dificuldade de acesso aos anti-hipertensivos com forma de acesso (total ou parcial), quantidade de drogas e disponibilidade do medicamento nas farmácias (p<0,005). Conclusão: observou-se que, embora a maioria dos participantes do estudo não encontre dificuldades para obtenção dos anti-hipertensivos nas farmácias das unidades básicas de saúde, ainda assim, existe uma parcela da população sem acesso total aos anti-hipertensivos de forma gratuita, sendo essencial melhorias dos programas de fornecimento de medicamentos.

Objective: to characterize access to antihypertensive drugs by patients with arterial hypertension treated at an ambulatory unit. Methodology: descriptive, quantitative study, developed with a group of 103 people with arterial hypertension currently using antihypertensive drugs. The data were collected through a questionnaire with sociodemographic questions, with respect to treatment and access to antihypertensive drugs. Descriptive statistics and Pearson's chi-square test or Fisher's exact test were used for data analysis. Results: the age group 50-69 (68.9%), female (85.4%) and black self-declared race (46.6%) predominated. Regarding access to antihypertensive drugs, 70.9% reported having free access, 60.2% obtained them at health units, 65.7% did not mention difficulties in acquiring them and 86.4% that had full access. All participants who had economic difficulties also had difficulty accessing antihypertensive drugs. It was identified a significant association between difficulty in accessing antihypertensive drugs and the means of access (total or partial), quantity of drugs and availability of the drug in pharmacies (p<0.005). Conclusion: it was observed that, that most of the study participants did not find it difficult to obtain antihypertensive drugs in the pharmacies of basic health units, notwithstanding, there is a portion of the population without full access to antihypertensive drugs free of charge, improvements in drug supply programs are essential.

Patients satisfaction with dental service, school of dentistry, University of Costa Rica / Satisfacción de los usuarios del Servicio de Odontología, Universidad de Costa Rica

The objective of this research was to use the Dental Satisfaction Questionnaire to determine the level of patient's satisfaction who come to the School of Dentistry of the University of Costa Rica. The research was conducted with the entire population of patients who received dental care in the Undergraduate Student Clinics of the School of Dentistry between April and September 2021. A digital survey was generated with the questions of the DSQ and sociodemographic variables, which was sent by email. Descriptive statistics were performed to establish the absolute and relative frequency, as well as measures of central tendency and variability, according to the nature of the variables. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used in the conformity assessment of the data for the normal distribution. The relationships between the scores obtained from the Dental Satisfaction Questionnaire and the sociodemographic variables were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U Test and the Kruskal-Wallis Test. A response rate of 36% was obtained. 98.5% of the subjects were satisfied with the services received. There was a statistically significant difference between the frequency of visits and the dental satisfaction scale (p=0.001). The scoring by type of clinic with regards to access, pain management, cost and availability were statistically significant (p=0.001, p=0.014, p=0.001, p=0.001, respectively). The differences in the relationship between the age groups and access was significant (p=0.014); in addition to that between education level and cost (p=0.001). A large majority of patients who come to the services of the School of Dentistry UCR are satisfied with the service received.

El objetivo de esta investigación fue utilizar el cuestionario DSQ para determinar el nivel de satisfacción de los pacientes que acuden a la Facultad de Odontología de la UCR. La investigación se realizó con toda la población de pacientes que recibieron atención dental en las Clínicas de pregrado y grado de la Facultad de Odontología UCR entre abril y setiembre del 2021. Se generó una encuesta digital con las preguntas del cuestionario DSQ y variables sociodemográficas, la cual se envió por medio del correo electrónico. Se realizó estadística descriptiva estableciendo la frecuencia absoluta y relativa, así como medidas de tendencia central y variabilidad, según la naturaleza de las variables. La prueba de Kolmogorov-Smirnov fue utilizada en la evaluación de la conformidad de los datos para la distribución normal. Las relaciones entre las puntuaciones obtenidas del Cuestionario de Satisfacción Dental y las variables sociodemográficas se analizaron mediante las pruebas de Prueba U de Mann-Whitney y la Prueba de Kruskal-Wallis. Se obtuvo un índice de respuesta del 36%. El 98,5% de los sujetos estuvo satisfecho con los servicios recibidos. Hubo diferencia estadísticamente significativa entre la frecuencia de visitas y la escala de satisfacción dental (p=0,001). También hubo diferencia estadísticamente significativa entre las diferentes clínicas y el acceso, manejo del dolor, costo y disponibilidad (p=0,001, p=0,014, p=0,001, p=0,001, respectivamente). De igual forma, hubo diferencia significativa en los grupos de edad y el acceso (p=0,014) y entre el nivel educativo y el costo (p=0,001). Una gran mayoría de los pacientes que acuden a los servicios de la Facultad de Odontología UCR están satisfechos con el servicio recibido.

Comprensión del consentimiento informado por parte de los pacientes de la Facultad de Odontología de la Universidad de Costa Rica / Understanding of informed consent by patients at the Faculty of Dentistry of the University of Costa Rica

Introducción: El consentimiento informado es el resultado de la evolución de la relación entre las personas profesionales de la salud y sus pacientes o usuarios donde el principio de autonomía está por encima de cualquier otra cosa. Existen muchos artículos sobre el consentimiento informado pero ninguno de los estudios encontrados evaluó si los pacientes realmente lo comprenden. El objetivo de esta investigación fue determinar el nivel de comprensión del consentimiento informado por parte de los pacientes de la Clínica de Exodoncia y Cirugía de la Facultad de Odontología de la Universidad de Costa Rica, en el período agosto a septiembre del 2022, mediante un cuestionario que permitiera correlacionar la comprensión con el nivel de escolaridad. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un cuestionario a 100 personas dividido en dos partes, una sobre datos sociodemográficos y la otra para establecer la comprensión del consentimiento informado y determinar si el grado de escolaridad tenía relación con la comprensión de este. Resultados: El grupo entre 20 y 30 años fue el mayor, de estos el 51% tuvo estudios universitarios, y aunque la mayoría (98%) refirió conocer el concepto de consentimiento informado, únicamente el 33 % obtuvo las respuestas correctas a las preguntas clínicas realizadas. Conclusiones: A pesar de que los pacientes refieren conocer qué es el consentimiento informado los resultados sugieren una comprensión poco clara de conceptos importantes como complicaciones o reacciones adversas inmediatas o tardías producidas por el efecto de los tratamientos odontológicos o procedimientos quirúrgicos.

Introduction: Informed consent is the result of the evolution of the relationship between health professionals and their patients or users where the principle of autonomy is above anything else. There are many articles on informed consent but none of the studies found assessed whether patients really understand it. The objective of this research was to determine the level of understanding of informed consent by the patients of the Clinic of Oral Surgery of the Faculty of Dentistry of the University of Costa Rica, in the period August to September 2022, by means of a questionnaire that would allow correlating the understanding with the level of schooling. Materials and methods: A questionnaire was administered to 100 people divided into two parts, one on sociodemographic data and the other to establish the understanding of informed consent and to determine whether the level of schooling was related to the understanding of the same. Results: The group between 20 and 30 years of age was the largest, of these 51% had university studies, and although the majority (98%) referred to knowing the concept of informed consent, only 33% obtained the correct answers to the clinical questions asked. Conclusions: Even though patients refer to knowing what informed consent is the results suggest an unclear understanding of important concepts such as complications or immediate or late adverse reactions produced by the effect of dental treatments or surgical procedures.

A clínica psicanalítica das urgências subjetivas no hospital universitário: construção de um caso clínico / Psychoanalysis of subjective urgencies at a university hospital: construing a clinical case / La clínica psicoanalítica de urgencias subjetivas en el hospital universitario: construcción de un caso clínico

O hospital constitui-se como um contexto em que a urgência subjetiva pode vir a se apresentar de forma frequente, instaurando, para cada sujeito, uma vivência de angústia. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi investigar as possibilidades para uma clínica das urgências subjetivas no contexto de um hospital universitário em Salvador, considerando as vivências em uma residência multiprofissional. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa de caráter exploratório, em que se realizou revisão teórica sobre o tema e se construiu um caso clínico, sob orientação psicanalítica. A escolha do caso baseou-se na escuta clínica ao longo dos atendimentos e da atuação em equipe multiprofissional, considerando os impasses ao longo do tratamento. Foram utilizados registros documentais produzidos pela psicóloga residente ao longo dos atendimentos, que ocorreram durante três meses. Os resultados apontam para as contribuições da escuta psicanalítica no tratamento das urgências e na atuação em equipe multiprofissional no contexto hospitalar. A subjetivação da urgência permitiu, no caso em questão, um tratamento pela palavra do que havia incidido diretamente no corpo como fenômeno. Conclui-se pela relevância em discutir o tema da urgência e suscitar novas pesquisas, reintroduzindo no contexto hospitalar a questão sobre a subjetividade.(AU)

Hospitals are contexts in which subjective urgency can frequently materialize, triggering an experience of anguish for each subject. Hence, this research investigates the possibilities of establishing a subjective urgency clinic at a university hospital in Salvador, considering the experiences in a multidisciplinary residence. A qualitative, exploratory research was conducted by means of a theoretical review on the topic and construction of a clinical case, under psychoanalytical advisement. The case was chosen based on clinical listening during the sessions and performance in a multidisciplinary team, considering the obstacles for long-term treatment. Data were collected from documentary records produced by the resident psychologist during three months. Results point to the contributions of psychoanalytic listening to treating subjective urgencies and to the performance of a multidisciplinary team in the hospital context. In the case in question, subjectivation of urgency allowed a treatment through the word of affecting phenomenon. In conclusion, discussing urgency and conducting further research, are fundamental to reintroduce subjectivity in the hospital context.(AU)

El hospital es un contexto en el que frecuentemente se puede percibir una urgencia subjetiva, estableciendo una experiencia de angustia para cada sujeto. El objetivo de esta investigación fue investigar las posibilidades de una clínica de urgencia subjetiva en el contexto de un hospital universitario en Salvador (Brasil), considerando las experiencias en una Residencia Multiprofesional. Se trata de una investigación cualitativa, de carácter exploratorio, en la que se realizó una revisión teórica sobre el tema y construcción de un caso clínico, con orientación psicoanalítica. La elección del caso se basó en la escucha clínica a lo largo de las sesiones y actuación en un equipo multidisciplinar, considerando los impasses para el tratamiento a largo plazo. Se utilizaron registros documentales elaborados por el psicólogo residente, durante las atenciones, que se realizaron durante tres meses. Los resultados apuntan a las contribuciones de la escucha psicoanalítica en el tratamiento de urgencias y en la actuación de un equipo multidisciplinario en el contexto hospitalario. La subjetivación de la urgencia permitió, en el caso en cuestión, un tratamiento a través de la palabra de lo que había afectado directamente al cuerpo como fenómeno. Se concluye que es relevante discutir el tema de la urgencia y plantear nuevas investigaciones, reintroduciendo el tema de la subjetividad en el contexto hospitalario.(AU)

Prevalence of COVID-19 in medical school and residency in Porto Alegre, RS

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: A multicentric, cross-sectional study was carried out to determine the prevalence and risk factors for Coronavirus disease 2019 in medical students and residents from four universities and affiliated hospitals in Brazil. METHODS: A survey about contamination risk and symptoms was sent to all participants through email and WhatsApp. Prevalence was measured by the self-report of positive polymerase chain reaction or serological test. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed, and odds ratio and 95% confidence interval were calculated. RESULTS: Prevalence of infection by Sars-CoV-2 was 14.9% (151/1011). The disease was more prevalent in residents and interns than in undergraduate students. Contact with an infected relative outside the hospital or with colleagues without using personal protective equipment was associated with higher contamination. Contact with patients without wearing goggles and higher weekly frequency of contact were the two factors independently associated with the infection by Coronavirus disease 2019 in the multivariate analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Medical students, interns, and residents have a higher prevalence of Coronavirus disease 2019 than the general population, in which the last two groups are significantly at higher risk. Contacting patients at a higher weekly frequency increases the risk for infection. The use of goggles should be reinforced when contacting patients.

Profil épidémiologique des urgences péniennes au CHU de Libreville / Epidemiological profile of penile emergencies at the University Hospital of Libreville

Introduction : Les urgences péniennes sont multiples et variées. Elles peuvent mettre en jeu le pronostic fonctionnel sexuel du patient. L'objectif de notre étude était de rapporter les aspects cliniques et thérapeutiques des urgences péniennes au CHU de Libreville. Matériel et Méthodes : Nous avons réalisé une étude rétrospective de janvier 2016 à décembre 2020 au service d'urologie du CHU de Libreville. Les variables comprenaient les données sociodémographiques, cliniques et thérapeutiques des patients pris en charge pour une urgence pénienne. Résultats : Durant cette période, 63 patients ont été pris en charge pour urgences péniennes. L'âge moyen était de 27±17,3 ans avec des extrêmes de 1 et 90 ans. Les urgences péniennes les plus fréquentes étaient le priapisme (55,5%) et la fracture de verge (15,9%). Le délai moyen de consultation en urologie était de 121 343,3 heures pour une médiane de 10 heures tandis que celui de prise en charge était de 34,3±74,6 pour une médiane de 2 heures. Les principaux gestes effectués étaient la ponction des corps caverneux (n=29, 46%) suivie de l'albuginorraphie (n=9, 14,3%) et du shunt caverno spongieux (n=9, 14,3%). Conclusion : Les urgences péniennes sont relativement fréquentes. Elles sont dominées par le priapisme et la fracture de verge dans notre contexte. Le pronostic fonctionnel sexuel est bon mais le délai de prise en charge demeure encore long.

Introduction: Penile emergencies are multiple and varied. They can jeopardize the patient's functional sexual prognosis. The objective of our study was to report the clinical and therapeutic aspects of penile emergencies at the University Hospital of Libreville. Material and Methods: We conducted a retrospective study from January 2016 to December 2020 at the Urology Department of the CHU of Libreville. Variables included sociodemographic, clinical and therapeutic data of patients managed for a penile emergency. Results: During this period, 63 patients were managed for penile emergencies. The mean age was 27±17.3 years with extremes of 1 and 90 years. The most frequent penile emergencies were priapism (55.5%) and penile fracture (15.9%). The mean time to consultation in urology was 121,343.3 hours with a median of 10 hours, while the mean time to management was 34.3±74.6 with a median of 2 hours. The main procedures performed were corpora cavernosa puncture (n=29, 46%) followed by albuginorraphy (n=9, 14.3%) and cavernospongiosus shunt (n=9, 14.3%). Conclusion: Penile emergencies are relatively frequent. They are dominated by priapism and penile fracture in our context. The sexual functional prognosis is good but the delay of management remains long.

Etude rétrospective des cancers rénaux dans le service d'oncologie médicale CHU Annaba (2008-2016) / Retrospective study of kidney cancer in the department of medical oncology of Annaba university hospital (2008-2016)

Objectif. Notre étude avait pour objectif de dégager le profil épidémiologique, clinique, histopathologique, thérapeutique et évolutif des cancers rénaux dans le centre anti cancer Annaba Algérie. Patients et méthodes. Etude rétrospective incluant 50 cas de cancers rénaux traités au sein des services d'oncologie médicale CHU Annaba entre janvier 2008 et octobre 2016. Résultats. Il s'agissait de 30 hommes et de 20 femmes. L'âge moyen de découverte était de 51 ans (extrêmes : 23-79 ans). Le facteur de risque le plus fréquemment observé était le tabagisme (58 %) suivi par l'hypertension artérielle (40 %). La douleur lombaire était le signe révélateur le plus fréquemment noté chez 48 % des patients. Le diagnostic a été basé sur la tomodensitométrie chez 100 % des patients. 54 % des tumeurs étaient localisées dans le rein droit. 42 % des patients étaient de groupe pronostique intermédiaire. La néphrectomie était pratiquée chez 90 % des patients. Le type histologique prédominant était le carcinome rénal à cellule claire (70 %), le grade de Fuhrman prédominant (grade 2 et 3) (36%). 86 % des patients étaient métastatique. 37.2 % des patients avaient 2 sites métastatiques. Parmi les 50 malades, 43 avaient reçu un traitement systémique versus 7 une surveillance. En 1ère ligne un inhibiteur de tyrosine kinase a était administré chez 41 malades (sunitinib (35pts) /sorafénib (6pts)), chimiothérapie associée à un anti angiogenèse chez deux malades. Sunitinib schéma (4/2) a était utilisé chez 19 pts versus (2/1) chez 14 pts, une réduction de dose a été pratiquée chez 18 pts. Les effets secondaires les plus rencontrés ont était l'asthénie (14 tous grades/09 grade 3et 4), syndrome main/pied (08 tous grades/05 grades 3 et 4), mucite (11 pts), neutropénie (8 pts), hypertension artérielle (5 pts), hypothyroïdie (5 pts). Neuf malades avaient reçu une 2ème ligne de traitement, un malade une 3ème ligne thérapeutique. L'évolution des malades était : 14 % (surveillance) ,4 % (RC) ,14 % (RP), (MP) ,60 % décédés. La médiane de survie globale était de 38,5 mois avec des extrêmes de 3 et de 74 mois. Conclusion. Le cancer rénal dans notre population était rencontré chez le sujet de la cinquième décennie avec prédominance masculine, la symptomatologie clinique était polymorphe dominée par des signes urologiques, la majorité des patients ont été métastatiques. Presque la totalité avait bénéficié d'une néphrectomie. Les inhibiteurs de tyrosine kinase ont été le traitement de choix de première ligne chez la majorité des malades avec une amélioration significative de la survie globale mais au prix d'une toxicité importante.

Early detection of acute renal lesions by serum cystatin C in children at hospital and university Centre of Brazzaville

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is considered one of the main public health problems. The effective management of these alterations is based on the early detection of renal lesions. The objective of this study was to evaluate the contribution of the Cystatin C (CysC) assay in the early diagnosis of acute kidney injury (AKI) in children hospitalized in pediatric intensive care units in Brazzaville. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sixty children at high risk of developing AKI were included. Consent form signed was obtained from parents, socio-demographic data, weight and height of children recorded. Creatinine (Cr), CysC and urea were assayed in serum 24 hours after admission. Glomerular filtration clearance was estimated using serum creatinine and CysC. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was calculated from CysC and Cr. The diagnostic accuracy was determined by comparing the results of CysC to those of Cr (considered as a reference biomarker). RESULTS The median age was 5 years (with extremes ranging from 1 month to 17 years). Cr, CysC, urea, and GFR/Cr (mean ± standard deviation [range]) were 0.94±1.17 (0.2­ 1.4 mg/dl), 0.14 ± 0.062 (0.053-0.095 mg/l), 46.65±47.75 (15.0­45.0 mg/dl), 81.85±31.90 (≥190 ml/min per 1.73 m2 , respectively. The level of CysC in patients with ARL was significantly higher than that of children with normal renal function (p<0.001). Our results show that the performance of serum CysC in detecting AKI early was superior to that of serum Cr in children hospitalized in pediatric intensive care units in Brazzaville

Sufficient informed consent to medical treatment of adults legal and ethical perspectives from Malawi

This special communication discusses the current legal and ethical requirements for informed consent to medical treatment of adults in Malawi. It analyzes the scope of the laws and code of ethics on professional discipline, including criminal privilege for surgeries and clarifies when insufficient disclosures entitle patients to compensation under civil law. Inconsistencies and uncertainties in the law are made apparent. It evaluates to which degree disclosure standards of other Commonwealth jurisdictions (e.g. the case of Montgomery) would be suitable for the health care setting of a country like Malawi that is characterized by shortages of resources, high illiteracy rates and a communitarian cultural context. Doctor-patient communication is not alien to African culture and part of sufficient informed consent. In order to balance the need for efficiency in health care delivery, accountability for quality care, fairness and effective patient-doctor communication the authors suggest to adopt the reasonable patient test only, if a defence of heavy workload on case-to-case basis is introduced at the same time. This does not dispense the need for organisational diligence on part of the institutional health care provider within its capacity

Assessment of Risk Factors for Advanced Open Angle Glaucoma Presentation among Patients Visiting Jimma University Medical Center, Jimma, Ethiopia

Glaucoma is the predominant cause of irreversible blindness, particularly the late presentation. The purpose of this study is to identify the risk factors associated with late presentation in Jimma University Medical Center METHODS: A case-control study was done among patients newly diagnosed to have open angle glaucoma (of any type) at Jimma University Medical Center from July 2014 ­ January 2019. Cases were patients/eyes diagnosed to have any type of open angle glaucoma with advanced glaucomatous disc features, whereas controls were patients diagnosed with early and moderate stages of glaucoma. RESULTS: There were 205 (116 cases and 89 controls) participants. The mean age of the participants at the time of diagnosis was 58.3±13.4yrs. Family history of blindness, presenting IOP, type of glaucoma and age were independently associated with late presentation. Patients with family history of blindness had late advanced glaucoma five times higher than those with no family history of blindness. The presence of late glaucoma among patients with presenting intra ocular pressure < 30mmHg is lower than those having ≥30mmHg (Adjusted Odds Ratio= 0.136). Primary open-angle glaucoma patients were less likely to present with advanced glaucoma than pseudo exfoliative glaucoma patients (Adjusted Odds Ratio=0.39). The chance of presenting with late glaucoma was increased by 3.4% for every one-year increment of age. CONCLUSIONS: Presence of family history of blindness, high presenting intraocular pressure, pseudo exfoliative glaucoma and old age are risk factors for late presentation of glaucoma

Profil épidémiologique des genoux douloureux au service de rééducation fonctionnelle du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire d'Owendo / Epidemiological profile of painful knees in the functional rehabilitation department of the Owendo University Teaching Hospital

Introduction. Les gonalgies, souvent invalidantes, conduisent à un handicap fonctionnel altérant la qualité de vie des patients. L'objectif du travail était de décrire le profil épidémiologique des patients gonalgiques suivis dans le service de médecine Physique du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire d'Owendo (CHUO). Patients et méthodes. Nous avons mené une étude transversale descriptive, avec recueil rétrospectif de janvier à décembre 2021 dans le service de Médecine Physique et de Réadaption du CHUO. Résultats. Au total, 122 patients ont été retenus. L'âge moyen était de 44,54 ans. Le sexe féminin prédominait à 65,5%, les patients résidaient majoritairement en zone urbaine (90.9%). La population était célibataire à 51,3%, fonctionnaire pour 25,9%, avec une couverture sociale à 95,9%. Seul 50% pratiquait une activité physique régulière. L'HTA constituait l'antécédent médical le plus fréquent (27%). L'indice de masse corporelle moyen était de 27,59. Le délai moyen de prise en charge était de 63 jours (IQR 42,25), la moyenne de séances prescrites était de 15,66 et celles des séances effectuées était de 13,93. L'atteinte était dégénérative à 50% et traumatique à 41% des cas. Le traitement antalgique était initié concomitamment à la kinésithérapie dans 86% des fois, le palier OMS 1 était le plus fréquent (61,7%). Les mesures hygiéno-diététiques et d'économie articulaire ont été appliquées respectivement dans 70,6 et 90,2 % des cas. L'évolution a été favorable dans 80,3% des cas. Conclusion. La gonalgie touche majoritairement les femmes. Son évolution est favorable après un traitement de rééducation bien conduit.

Introduction. Gonalgia is often disabling and may lead to a functional disability altering the quality of life of patients. The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiological profile of gonalgic patients in the Physical Medicine department of the Owendo University Teaching Hospital (CHUO). Patients and methods. We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study, with retrospective data collection from January to December 2021 in the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department of the CHUO. Results. A total of 122 patients were included. Their average age was 44.54 years. Women represented 65.5% of cases and the patients resided mainly in urban areas (90.9%). The patients were single (51.3%), while 25.9% were civil servants and 95.9% had social security coverage. Only 50% practised regular physical activity. High blood pressure was the most frequent medical history (27%). The average body mass index was 27.59. The median time to treatment was 63 days (IQR 42.25). The average number of sessions prescribed was 15.66 and the average number of sessions performed was 13.93. The etiology was degenerative in 50% of cases and traumatic in 41% of cases. An analgesic treatment was initiated concomitantly with physiotherapy in 86% of cases, with WHO level 1 being the most frequent (61.7%). Hygienic were applied in 70.6% and and dietary measures in 90.2% of cases. The outcome was favorable in 80.3% of cases. Conclusion. Gonalgia mainly affects women. Its evolution is favorable after a well conducted rehabilitation treatment

Perfil clínico e epidemiológico e comorbidades dos pacientes com artrite reumatoide atendidos no centro de especialidades médicas do centro universitário do Pará / Clinical and epidemiological and comorbidities of patients with rheumatoid arthritis assisted at the medical specialties center of Centro Universitário do Pará

Objetivos: Descrever as características clínico e epidemiológicas e a prevalência das comorbidades que acometem os pacientes com artrite reumatóide (AR) atendidos no ambulatório de reumatologia do Centro de Especialidades Médicas do Cesupa (CEMEC). Métodos: Estudo descritivo, observacional e retrospectivo realizado por meio da coleta de dados de prontuários médicos, no período de janeiro a novembro de 2020, de pacientes com artrite reumatoide, atendidos no Centro de Especialidades Médicas do Cesupa no período de 2012 a 2020. Resultados: Foram analisados 122 prontuários. A maioria dos pacientes foi do sexo feminino (88,52%). A raça predominante foi a não branca (90,88%) e a idade média dos participantes foi 54,09 anos (DP± 11,33). A maioria dos pacientes apresentavam fatores reumatoides positivo (56,55%). O tempo médio de doença foi de 9,7 anos (±8,57). As principais comorbidades não infecciosas encontradas foram: hipertensão arterial (40,16%), osteoporose (23,77%), dislipidemia (19,67%), diabetes (12,29%), obesidade (8,19%), depressão (4,09%), neoplasias (2,45%) e osteopenia (1,63%). Os medicamentos utilizados foram metotrexato (59,83%), prednisona (55,73%), leflunomida (36,06%), tocilizumabe (7,37%), anti-TNF (7,37%), anti-inflamatórios não hormonais (6,55%), tofacitinibe (2,45%), abatacepte (2,45%) e rituximabe (0%). Conclusão: As principais comorbidades que atingiram estes pacientes foram a hipertensão, osteoporose e dislipidemia. Assim, verifica-se a necessidade do controle de fatores de risco modificáveis dessas comorbidades assim como prezar pelo uso de doses baixas e pelo menor tempo possível, a fim de, apenas enquanto as drogas modificadoras de doença reumática (DMARDs) não estão fazendo efeito, reduzir a prevalência dessas comorbidades nestes pacientes.

Objectives: To describe the clinical and epidemiological characteristics and the prevalence of the main non ­ infectious comorbidities that affect patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated at the rheumatology outpatient clinic of the Centro de Especialidades Médicas do Cesupa (CEMEC). Methods: This is a descriptive, observational and retrospective study carried out by collecting data from medical records, from January to November 2020, of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, treated a Centro de Especialidades Médicas from 2012 to 2020. Results: In total, 122 medical records were analyzed, most of which corresponded to female patients (88.52%). The predominant race was non-white (90.88%) and the mean age of the participants was 54.09 years, with a standard deviation of 11.33 years. Regarding the rheumatoid factor, most of the sample is positive (56.55%). The mean disease duration was 9.7 years, with a standard deviation of 8.57 years. The main non-infectious comorbidities found were: arterial hypertension (40.16%), osteoporosis (23.77%), dyslipidemia (19.67%), diabetes (12.29%), obesity (8.19%) depression (4,09%), neoplasms (2.45%) and osteopenia (1.63%). The drugs used were methotrexate (59.83%), prednisone (55.73%), leflunomide (36.06%), tocilizumab (7.37%), anti-TNF (7.37%), non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. hormonal agents (6.55%), tofacitinib (2.45%), abatacept (2.45%) and rituximab (0%). Conclusion: The main comorbidities that affected these patients were hypertension, osteoporosis and dyslipidemia; and the most used drugs were prednisone, methotrexate and leflunomide, which are also related to the emergence of these pathologies. Thus, there is a need to encourage the practice of physical activity, as well as to value the use of low doses of corticosteroids, only while disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are ineffective, in order to reduce the prevalence of these Comorbidities in these patient

Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance clinic during the coronavirus disease-19 pandemic: caring for the vulnerable in an academic medical center

Background: Patients with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) have clinical features including older age, presence of medical comorbidities, susceptibility to infections, and thrombotic tendencies which are relevant when assessing their risk during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Objective: To study the vulnerability of patients with MGUS during the COVID-19 pandemic, we assessed the local management of MGUS patients and their clinical outcomes. Methods: Retrospective chart reviews were performed for all patients with MGUS seen at a university medical center clinic (2014-2020). Results: A total of 228 MGUS patients were included; 211 patients are alive, 7 patients died before the pandemic, and 10 patients died since the pandemic declaration. The mean age and the overall survival (OS) of the patients who died before versus during the pandemic were 83.0 versus 75.2 years, p = 0.4, and OS 40.6 versus 53.2 months, p = 0.3, respectively. One patient died of COVID-19. Nine patients had venous thromboembolisms (VTE), all of which occurred before the pandemic onset. Conclusions: There were no significant differences found in the mean age or OS of the MGUS patients who died before versus after the pandemic onset. An increase in VTE rates was not seen. Study results are limited by small patient numbers.

Causes de réhospitalisation pour insuffisance cardiaque dans le service de cardiologie du CHU de Brazzaville (République du Congo) / The causes of rehospitalization for heart failure in the department of cardiology at the university hospital of Brazzaville (Republic of the Congo)

But: Identifier les causes de réhospitalisation pour insuffisance cardiaque (IC) Patients et méthode: cette étude transversale a été menée entre avril 2014 et mars 2015 dans le service de cardiologie du centre hospitalier universitaire de Brazzaville (République du Congo). Ont été inclus, les patients ayant des antécédents d'hospitalisation pour IC. Résultats: Quatre-vingt-onze patients, 54 femmes (59,3%) ont été inclus. Le sexe-ratio était de 0,7. La fréquence de réhospitalisation pour IC était de 19%. L'âge moyen était de 62 ± 16 ans (extrêmes: 24-89 ans). Le nombre moyen de réadmissions était de 2 ± 0,8 (extrêmes: 1 à 5), les réhospitalisation fréquentes (supérieur à 3) étaient de 33 (36,2%). Les patients présentaient un statut socioéconomique faible dans 59 cas (64,8%), et une hypertension artérielle dans 40 cas (43,9%). L'examen physique a retrouvé : une insuffisance cardiaque globale 77 cas (84,6%), une insuffisance cardiaque droite exclusive 5 cas (5,5%). Les causes de l'insuffisance cardiaque étaient: la cardiopathie hypertensive 40 cas (43,9%), la cardiomyopathie dilatée 28 cas (30,8%) et les valvulopathies 9 cas (10%). Les principales causes de réhospitalisation étaient: les écarts du régime hyposodé 64 cas (70,3%), la mauvaise observance du traitement 56 cas (61,5%), la grippe 15 cas (16,5%), la fibrillation atriale 12 cas (13,2%), débit de filtration glomérulaire réduite 12 cas (13,2%). La durée moyenne d'hospitalisation était de 11 ± 6,4 jours (extrêmes: 2-29). Le décès a été enregistré dans 5 cas (5,5%). Conclusion: L'absence de respect pour un régime pauvre en sodium et une mauvaise adhésion au médicament ont été les principales causes de réhospitalisation pour IC à Brazzaville. À cet égard, il est nécessaire de promouvoir l'éducation thérapeutique et d'améliorer l'accès au traitement.

Background: to identify the causes of readmission for heart failure (HF) Methods: this cross-sectional study was conducted in April 2014 to march 2015 in the department of cardiology, University Hospital of Brazzaville (Republic of the Congo). We had included, the patients who had a history of hospitalization for HF. Results: Ninety-one patients, 54 women (59.3%) were included. Sex-ratio was 0.7. The frequency of readmission for HF was 19%. The mean age was 62±16 years (range: 24-89). The average number of readmission was 2±0.8 (range: 1-5), the history of readmission ≥ 3, were 33 (36.2%). The patients were low socio-economic status in 59 cases (64.8%). In examination, patients were in congestive HF (n=77, 84.6%), right-sided HF (n=5). The causes of HF were: hypertensive heart disease (n=40, 43.9%), dilated cardiomyopathy (n=28, 30.8%), and valvular heart disease (n=9). The main causes of readmission were: excessive salt intake (n=64, 70.3%), poor drug-adherence (n=56, 61.5%), influenza (n=15, 16.5%), atrial fibrillation (n=12, 13.2%), reduced estimate glomerular filtration rate (n=12, 13.2%). The average length of hospitalization was 11±6.4 days (range: 2-29). The death was recorded in 5 cases (5.5%). Conclusion: No respect of low sodium diet and poor drug adherence, were the most causes of readmission for HF at Brazzaville. In regard of this facts, promoting therapeutic education is needed, and increasing access to treatment

Épidémiologie des candidoses systémiques dans les services à haut risque au CHU et au centre anti cancer de Batna ­Algérie / Epidemiology of systemic candidiasis in high-risk departments at the university hospital and cancer center of Batna -Algeria

Introduction : Les candidoses systémiques sont des affections graves responsables d'une mortalité élevée. L'objectif de ce travail est de décrire l'épidémiologie des candidoses systémiques dans les services à haut risque au CHU et au CAC de BATNA. Patients et méthodes : Il s'agit d'une étude prospective descriptive durant une période de trois ans (1er janvier 2016 au 31 décembre 2018). Les patients inclus sont ceux ayant au moins un prélèvement profond positif á Candida spp. Résultats : Un total de 69 cas de candidoses systémiques correspondant à 75 isolats et concernant 63 patients a pu être analysé. L'incidence globale était de 2,62 cas pour 1000 admissions. Les principaux motifs d'hospitalisation étaient les hémopathies malignes et le choc septique. La présence d'une colonisation ( 2 sites), une antibiothérapie á large spectre, d'un cathéter intra vasculaire, une corticothérapie, une chimiothérapie, une neutropénie étaient les facteurs de risque les plus retrouvés. L'analyse des souches isolées a montré la prédominance des espèces non albicans. L'index de colonisation ≥ 0,5 a été significativement associé au risque de candidose systémique. L'utilisation des Azolés a été associée á un taux de mortalité le plus élevé (19%). Le taux de mortalité est significativement élevé 51%. Conclusion : Les facteurs de risque et un index de colonisation ≥ 0,5 dans les services á haut risque constituent un facteur prédictif de candidose systémique. La prise en charge thérapeutique doit être instaurée pour réduire le taux de mortalité et éviter les complications liées á ces infections.

Background: Systemic candidiasis are serious conditions responsible for high mortality. The objective of this work is to describe the epidemiology of systemic candidiasis in high-risk departments at the UHC and the ACC of BATNA. Patients and methods: This is a descriptive prospective study over a period of three years (January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2018). The patients included are those with at least one positive deep sample for Candida spp. Results: 69 cases of systemic candidiasis corresponding to 75 isolates and concerning 63 patients could be analyzed. The overall incidence was 2.62 cases per 1,000 admissions. The main reasons for hospitalization were hematologic malignancies and septic shock. The presence of colonization ( 2 sites), broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy, an intravascular catheter, corticosteroid therapy, chemotherapy, neutropenia were the most common risk factors. Analysis of the isolated strains showed the predominance of nonalbicans species. Colonization index ≥ 0.5 was significantly associated with the risk of systemic candidiasis. Azole's use was associated with the highest mortality rate (19%). The mortality rate is significantly high 51%. Conclusion. Risk factors and a colonization index ≥ 0.5 in high-risk wards are a predictor of systemic candidiasis. Therapeutic care must be instituted to reduce the mortality rate and avoid complications linked to these infections

Resection of the atrial appendages and its impact in the natriuretic homeostasis: development and validation of an animal model in an academic medical center

ABSTRACT Background: The left atrial appendage (LAAp) resection is an effective treatment approach to reduce the risk of thromboembolism in patients with atrial fibrillation. Objective: To study was to study the impact of removing atrial appendages in the production of natriuretic peptides (NPs) in conditions of volume overload and to develop an experimental model of LAAp resection. Materials and Methods: In a swine model of ischemic heart failure (HF), serum NP levels were measured before (Basal-1A) and after (Basal-1B) a fluid overload. Animals were grouped as follows: (0) preserved appendages, (1) resected LAAp, and (2) both atrial appendages resected. Levels of NP were measured before (2A) and after a fluid overload (2B). Results: Furin levels were higher in Group 0-2A than in Group 2-2A, and a significant increase was found in Group 0-2B compared to Groups 1-2B and 2-2B. Corin levels increased in Basal-1B versus Basal-1A. Atrial NP (ANP) decreased in Basal-1B compared to Basal-1A. After HF induction, ANP increased in Groups 2-2A and 2-2B. Conclusions: Resection of atrial appendages drastically modifies the natriuretic mechanisms of cardiac homeostasis, especially after a fluid overload challenge. Herein, we describe the face and predictive validation of an animal model of atrial appendage resection useful to investigations in translational medicine.

Relación entre niveles de proteína c-reactiva y Síndrome de Burnout en médicos de postgrado / Relationship between c-reactive proteins and burnout syndrome in postgraduate physicians / Relação entre os níveis de proteína c-reativa e a síndrome de burnout nos médicos pós-graduação

Introducción. El Síndrome de Burnout afecta mundialmente a más de 100,000,000 personas, con prevalencia entre 47 y 76% en médicos residentes. El objetivo de este trabajo fue determinar la relación entre el Síndrome de Burnout y los niveles de proteína C-reactiva ultrasensible en médicos residentes de un hospital universitario en Caracas, Venezuela. Metodología. Estudio transversal y descriptivo. El instrumento de recolección de datos, así como el test Maslach Burnout Inventory, fueron enviados en formato electrónico. Posteriormente, se seleccionó dos submuestras, a quienes se les determinó la concentración de proteína C-reactiva ultrasensible Resultados. La muestra inicial fue de 174 residentes, de los cuales 57 (32.8%) presentaban Burnout. Los residentes positivos para la presencia del síndrome tenían niveles más elevados de proteína C-reactiva ultrasensible (>0.50mg/dl) (р=0.001) con respecto al grupo sin Burnout. Igualmente, los residentes de género femenino (р=0.046), aquellos que dormían menos de 8 horas al día (р=0.032) y que estaban sometidos a estrés familiar (р=0.036) presentaron una asociación estadísticamente significativa para desarrollar el síndrome de bornout. Finalmente, se evidenció cómo los residentes de menor edad tenían mayores puntajes en la subescala despersonalización (p=0.036). Discusión. El estrés crónico (entre ellos el Síndrome de Bornout) puede activar de manera continua ejes fisiológicos estresores (hipotálamo-hipófisis- suprarrenal y simpático-adrenal); conllevando a la producción de citosinas y proteínas de fase aguda (como proteína C-reactiva ultrasensible), promoviendo un estado proinflamatorio en el individuo y el desarrollo de patologías crónicas. Conclusiones. El síndrome de bornout y las variables sociodemográficas/laborales representan una condición de estrés crónico que pueden asociarse entre sí y conducir al desarrollo de distintas enfermedades a largo plazo. Cómo citar. González-Moret YA, Guzmán Cuárez NE. Relación entre niveles de proteína c-reactiva y síndrome de burnout en médicos de postgrado. MedUNAB. 2020;23(3): 423-433. doi: https://doi.org/10.29375/01237047.3870

Introduction. Burnout Syndrome affects over 100,000,000 people worldwide, with a prevalence of between 47% and 76% in resident physicians. This project's objective is to determine the relationship between Burnout Syndrome and ultrasensitive C-reactive protein in resident physicians in a university hospital in Caracas, Venezuela. Methodology. Cross-sectional and descriptive study. The data collection tool, as well as Maslach Burnout Inventory test, were sent digitally. Two sub-samples were subsequently collected, whose concentration of us ultrasensitive C-reactive protein was determined. Results. The initial sample was 174 residents, of which 57 (32.8%) had Burnout. Residents who tested positive for the syndrome had higher levels of us-CRP (>0.50mg/dl) (р=0.001) with respect to the group without Burnout. Moreover, female residents (р=0.046), those who slept less than 8 hours every day (р=0.032) and those who were subject to family stress (р=0.036) demonstrated a statistically significant association with developing Burnout Syndrome. Finally, it was evident how younger residents had higher scores on the Depersonalization Subscale (p=0.036). Discussion. Chronic stress (among which is burnout syndrome) can continuously activate physiological stress axes (hypothalamic-pituitary-suprarenal and sympathetic-adrenal), which leads to producing cytosines and acute-phase proteins (such as ultrasensitive C-reactive protein), promoting a proinflammatory state in individuals and the development of chronic pathologies. Conclusion. Burnout Syndrome and sociodemographic/work variables represent a chronic stress condition and can be related to each other. They may lead to developing various long-term diseases. Cómo citar. González-Moret YA, Guzmán Cuárez NE. Relación entre niveles de proteína c-reactiva y síndrome de burnout en médicos de postgrado. MedUNAB. 2020;23(3): 423-433. doi: https://doi.org/10.29375/01237047.3870

Introdução. A Síndrome de Burnout afeta mais de 100 milhões de pessoas em todo o mundo, com uma prevalência de 47-76% em médicos residentes. O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar a relação entre a síndrome de burnout e os níveis de proteína C-reativa ultrassensível em médicos residentes de um hospital universitário em Caracas, Venezuela. Metodologia. Trata-se de um estudo transversal e descritivo. O instrumento de coleta de dados, assim como o teste Maslach Burnout Inventory, foram enviados em formato eletrônico. Posteriormente, foram selecionadas duas subamostras, nas quais foi determinada a concentração de níveis de proteína C-reativa. Resultados. A amostra inicial foi de 174 residentes, dos quais 57 (32.8%) apresentaram Burnout. Os residentes positivos para a presença da síndrome apresentaram níveis mais elevados de níveis de proteína C-reativa (> 0.50mg/dl) (р = 0.001) em comparação com o grupo sem Burnout. Da mesma forma, residentes do sexo feminino (р = 0.046), aqueles que dormiam menos de 8 horas por dia (р = 0.032) e aqueles que foram submetidos a estresse familiar (р = 0.036) apresentaram uma associação estatisticamente significativa para o desenvolvimento da síndrome de burnou. Por fim, evidenciou-se que os residentes mais jovens apresentaram escores mais elevados na subescala de despersonalização (p = 0.036). Discussão. O estresse crônico (incluindo a síndrome de burnout) pode ativar continuamente os eixos fisiológicos dos estressores (hipotálamo-hipófise-suprarrenal e simpático-adrenal), levando à produção de citocinas e proteínas de fase aguda (como níveis de proteína C-reativa), promovendo um estado pró-inflamatório no indivíduo e o desenvolvimento de patologias crônicas. Conclusão. A síndrome de burnout e as variáveis sociodemográficas/laborais representam uma condição de estresse crônico que podem estar associadas entre si e levar ao desenvolvimento de diferentes doenças a longo prazo. Cómo citar. González-Moret YA, Guzmán Cuárez NE. Relación entre niveles de proteína c-reactiva y síndrome de burnout en médicos de postgrado. MedUNAB. 2020;23(3): 423-433. doi: https://doi.org/10.29375/01237047.3870

Les troubles cognitifs dans les syndromes cliniquement isolés: Etude cas-témoins / Cognitive impairment in clinically isolated syndromes: A control-case study

ntroduction - L'atteinte cognitive est fréquente dans la Sclérose en Plaques (SEP) mais son diagnostic se fait souvent tardivement, au stade de désinsertion sociale et professionnelle. Les études portant sur les aspects cognitifs dans les formes pré-coces de la SEP tels que les syndromes cliniquement isolés (SCI) et les syndromes radiologiquement isolés (SRI) sont rares.Objectifs - Analyserles fonctions cognitives d'un premier événement démyélinisant et identifier les domainesqui seraient les plus précocement atteints.Patients et méthodes - Le profil cognitif d'une populationhomogène de 13 patients présentant unSCI a été évalué, eta été comparé à 15 témoins sains appareillés en fonction de l'âge, du sexe et du niveau d'éducation. Une batterie de tests neu-ropsychologiques(BCCogSEP, batterie courte d'évaluation cognitive de la SEP),vali-dée dans la SEP, a été utilisée. Ses composants explorent les capacités mnésiques et verbales, l'attention, la vitesse de traitement de l'information (VTI) et les fonctions exécutives.Résultats - Lesperformances cognitives globales étaient amoindries dans le groupe SCI, comparativement au groupe témoin. Sur les 13 patients atteints de SCI, cinq (38%) présentaient une altération cognitive globale qui a été objectivée par l'at-teinte d'au moins deux ou trois tests de la batterie. La PASAT (Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test)était le test le plus altéré (84,6% d'atteinte). La VTI et la mémoire de travail étaient les fonctions les plus atteintes chez les patients.Conclusion - Les dysfonctions cognitives peuvent se voir très précocement et peuvent grever lourdement le pronostic de la SEP.

Introduction - Cognitive impairment is common in multiple sclerosis (MS) but its diagnosis is often made late, at the stage of social and professional disinsertion. Studies of the cognitive aspects in early forms of MS such as clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) and radiologically isolated syndrome (RIS) are rare. Objectives - To analysis the cognitive functions of a first demyelinating event and identify the areas that would be most affected early. Patients and methods - The cognitive profile of a homogeneous population of 13 patients with a CIS was evaluated, and compared with 15 healthy controls, matched according to age, sex and level of education. A battery of neuropsychological tests (BCCogSEP, Short battery for cognitive assessment of MS) validated in MS,was used. Its components explore memory and verbal skills, attention, information processing speed (IPS) and executive functions. Results - The overall cognitive performance was reduced in the CIS group,compared to control group. Five out of thirteen CIS patients (38%) had an overall cognitive impairment, demonstrated by the achievement of at least two or three battery tests. The Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT) was the most altered test (84.6% impairment). IPS and working memory were the most affected functions in the patients. Conclusion - Cognitive dysfunctions can be seen very early and can severely affect the prognosis of MS.