Diagnostic utility, disease activity, and disease phenotype correlation of serum ASCA, pANCA, and PR3-ANCA in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease

Abstract Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic utility, disease activity, and phenotypic association of serum anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibody (ASCA), perinuclear anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (pANCA), PR3-ANCA, and MPO-ANCA in pediatric patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Methods: Pediatric patients diagnosed with IBD were recruited and classified as Crohn's disease (CD), ulcerative colitis (UC), and IBD-unclassified (IBD-U) through full investigation. The Paris classification was used to evaluate disease phenotypes of pediatric CD and UC. Results: In all, 229 pediatric patients with IBD (CD 147, UC 53, IBD-U 29) were included. The ASCA IgG seropositivity significantly differed among the three groups (CD 75.4%, UC 17.5%, and IBD-U 60.0%; p < 0.001). PR3-ANCA positive rates were the highest in UC (24.0%), followed by IBD-U (17.6%), and none in CD (p = 0.002); pANCA-positive rates were higher in IBD-U (33.6%), followed by UC (28.0%) than in CD (1.4%) (p < 0.001). Regarding disease phenotype, perianal disease revealed higher serum ASCA IgG titers (median 36.7 U/mL in P1 vs. 25.2 U/mL in P0, p = 0.019). Serum ASCA IgG and IgA cutoff values to distinguish CD were 32.7 (U/mL) and 11.9 (U/mL), respectively, with a specificity of 80.0%. Conclusion: Serological biomarkers of ASCA IgG and IgA were effective for differentiating CD in pediatric IBD patients, and serum pANCA and PR3-ANCA, but not MPO-ANCA, were effective in distinguishing UC and IBD-U. Furthermore, measuring serological titers of ASCA IgG and IgA may help differentiate CD and evaluate the disease activity and phenotype of pediatric IBD in practice.

Epidemic characteristics of human brucellosis in Yunnan Province from 2019 to 2021 / 中华地方病学杂志

Objective:To study the epidemic characteristics of human brucellosis in Yunnan Province, and to provide a reliable scientific basis for formulating accurate prevention and control strategies of brucellosis.Methods:The epidemic data of human brucellosis in Yunnan Province from January 2019 to December 2021 were collected from the information system of the China Center for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as annual monitoring data on brucellosis reported by various states (municipalities) in Yunnan Province. Descriptive epidemiological methods were adopted to analyze the epidemic situation, distribution characteristics (time, region, population), and serological and pathogenic monitoring results of brucellosis.Results:From 2019 to 2021, 1 408 cases of brucellosis were reported in Yunnan Province, with an average annual incidence of 1.00/100 000. The number of cases increased from 321 in 2019 to 701 in 2021, and the incidence increased from 0.68/100 000 in 2019 to 1.50/100 000 in 2021. The onset time was mainly from April to September (857 cases). The top 3 regions with the highest number of reported cases were Kunming City (483 cases), Qujing City (379 cases), and Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (281 cases), accounting for 81.18% (1 143/1 408) of the total number of cases. The age of onset was mainly 20 - < 70 years old, accounting for 89.70% (1 263/1 408). There were 958 males and 450 females, with a sex ratio of 2.13 ∶ 1.00. Farmers were the main occupation, accounting for 84.02% (1 183/1 408). From 2019 to 2021, a total of 26 280 serum samples from key populations of brucellosis were monitored in Yunnan Province, with 572 positive serological tests and a positive rate of 2.18% (572/26 280). A total of 169 strains of Brucella were isolated from blood samples from hospitals throughout the province, including 155 strains of sheep type 3 and 14 strains of sheep type 1. Conclusions:From 2019 to 2021, the incidence of human brucellosis in Yunnan Province has been on the rise, with a high incidence in summer and autumn. The main population affected is young and middle-aged male farmers. Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen disease monitoring and health education for key populations during the high incidence season.

Factors associated with prior testing for HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis B and C among transgender women and travestis in Brazil / Fatores associados à realização de testagem prévia para HIV, sífilis e hepatites B e C entre mulheres trans e travestis no Brasil

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate the prior testing for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B (HBV), and hepatitis C (HCV) among transgender women and travestis (TGW) in five Brazilian cities and identify factors associated with each of these previous tests. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study with the recruitment of TGW through respondent-driven sampling (TransOdara Study). The investigated outcome variable was prior testing for HIV, syphilis, HBV, and HCV in the last 12 months. The association between sociodemographic and behavioral factors with the outcome was analyzed using a binomial logistic regression with mixed effects. Adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI95%) were estimated. Results: The proportions of individuals with prior testing in the past year were as follows: 56.3% for HIV, 58.0% for syphilis, 42.1% for HBV, and 44.7% for HCV. Negative associations with prior testing were observed for individuals aged 35 years or older, whereas positive associations were found for those with high school education, those who experienced verbal or psychological violence in the last 12 months, and those who had commercial or casual partners in the last 6 months. Conclusion: There was low frequency of testing in the 12 months preceding the study for HIV, syphilis, HBV, and HCV compared to the guidelines established by the Ministry of Health. Expanding access to and engagement with healthcare and prevention services for TGW is an essential strategy in reducing the transmission chain of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

RESUMO Objetivo: Investigar a realização de testagem prévia de HIV, sífilis, hepatites B (HBV) e C (HCV) entre mulheres trans e travestis (MTT) em cinco cidades brasileiras e identificar fatores associados à testagem. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo de corte transversal, com recrutamento de MTT através do respondent-driven sampling (Projeto TransOdara). A variável de desfecho investigada foi realização de testagem prévia HIV, Sífilis, HBV e HCV nos últimos 12 meses. A associação entre fatores sociodemográficos e comportamentais com o desfecho foi analisada usando modelo de regressão logística binomial com efeitos mistos. Estimou-se odds ratio ajustada (aOR) e intervalos de confiança a 95% (IC95%). Resultados: As proporções de pessoas com realização prévia de testagem foram: 56,3% para HIV, 58,0% para sífilis, 42,1% para HBV e 44,7% para HCV. Observaram-se associação negativa da testagem prévia com idade de 35 anos ou mais e associação positiva com ter ensino médio, ter sofrido violência verbal ou psicológica nos últimos 12 meses e ter tido parceiro comercial ou casual nos últimos seis meses. Conclusão: Verificou-se baixa frequência de testagem nos últimos 12 meses anteriores ao estudo para HIV, Sífilis, HBV e HCV em comparação às orientações estipuladas pelo Ministério da Saúde. A ampliação do acesso e vinculação aos serviços de atenção e prevenção para as MTT é uma estratégia essencial para a redução da cadeia de transmissão do HIV e outras infecções sexualmente transmissíveis.

Application value of serum pepsinogen and Helicobacter pylori combined with endoscopic Kimura-Takemoto classification in the diagnosis of early gastric cancer / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the application value of pepsinogen, Helicobacter pylori combined with endoscopic Kimura-Takemoto classification in the diagnosis of early gastric cancer. Methods:Sixty patients with gastric cancer who received treatment in the Department of Gastroenterology, the First People's Hospital of Huzhou from January to June 2022 were included in the gastric cancer group. An additional 60 patients with benign gastric lesions (benign gastric lesion group) and 60 patients with precancerous lesions of the stomach (precancerous lesion group) were also included in this study. Serologic testing for pepsinogen and Helicobacter pylori antibody combined with endoscopic Kimura-Takemoto classification was performed to evaluate their application value in the diagnosis of early gastric cancer. Results:Compared with the benign gastric lesion and precancerous lesion groups, the pepsinogen I/pepsinogen II ratio was significantly lower, and the pepsinogen II level and Helicobacter pylori infection rate [71.67% (43/60)] were significantly higher in the gastric cancer group ( F = 108.14, 71.75, 38.43, χ2 = 6.89, all P < 0.05). Compared with the benign gastric lesion and precancerous lesion groups, the Kimura-Takenmoto classification in the gastric cancer group was significantly higher ( H = 38.91, P < 0.05). In the gastric cancer group, pepsinogen I level and pepsinogen I/pepsinogen II ratio decreased and pepsinogen II level increased with the increase of pathological stage ( F = 65.79, 5.66, 53.32, all P < 0.01). There was no significant difference in Helicobacter pylori infection rate between different stages of gastric cancer ( P < 0.05) in the gastric cancer group. There was no significant difference in Kimura-Takenmoto classification between different stages of gastric cancer (all P > 0.05) in the gastric cancer group. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve plotted for evaluating pepsinogen I, pepsinogen II, and pepsinogen I/pepsinogen II ratio for diagnosis of gastric cancer was 0.865, 0.664, and 0.881, respectively. Conclusion:Serum pepsinogen, Helicobacter pylori combined with endoscopic Kimura-Takemoto classification can increase the diagnostic rate of early gastric cancer. The Kimura Takemoto classification is helpful for risk stratification in the endoscopic screening of gastric cancer, and its results are consistent with pepsinogen levels. The combined application is of a high application value.

Research progress on biomarkers related to ACPA-negative rheumatoid arthritis / 中国基层医药

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a group of heterogeneous autoimmune diseases with erosive arthritis as the main clinical feature. The pathogenesis of RA remains unclear. Autoantibodies can be detected in blood or synovial fluid in approximately 70% of patients with RA in the early stage of the disease. Anti-citrullinated protein antibody (ACPA) is the most commonly used autoantibody in the diagnosis of RA. However, ACPA is not a specific antibody for RA. The discovery and clinical application of serum ACPA-negative RA biomarkers is of positive significance for the early diagnosis and prognosis improvement of RA. This paper reviews the research progress of ACPA-negative RA biomarkers.

Indications for prenatal diagnosis and pregnancy outcomes of Turner syndrome with different karyotypes in 205 cases / 中华围产医学杂志

Objective:To investigate the indications for prenatal diagnosis and pregnancy outcomes of fetal Turner syndrome (TS) with different karyotypes.Methods:Clinical data of TS cases diagnosed by fetal karyotyping in the Prenatal Diagnostic Center of Guangzhou Women and Children′s Medical Center from January 1, 2010, to June 30, 2021, were analyzed retrospectively. According to the karyotyping results, these cases were divided into two groups: monosomy X (45,X) and non-monosomy X groups (including karyotypes of mosaic monosomy X, isochromosome X, X deletion, X rearrangement, pseudodicentric X, and mosaicism with Y or Y deletion). Chi-square test was used to compare the detection rate, indications for prenatal diagnosis, and pregnancy outcomes of the two groups, and the Bonferroni test was conducted for further pairwise comparisons between the subgroups. The Chi-square test (or Fisher's exact test) was used to compare the abnormal ultrasound signs. Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare the nuchal translucency (NT) thickness of the two groups. Results:(1) Invasive prenatal diagnosis was performed on 27 981 pregnancies, and 205 (0.73%) of them were diagnosed with TS, including 135 cases of monosomy X and 70 cases of non-monosomy X (44 with numerical sex chromosome abnormalities, and 26 with structural sex chromosome abnormalities). (2) Out of the 205 pregnancies, 164 (80.0%) had one indication for prenatal diagnosis, and 41 (20.0%) had multiple indications. The detection rate of fetal ultrasonographic abnormalities [85.2% (115/135)] in monosomy X cases was significantly higher than that of three other indications [positive serological screening for Down's syndrome: 67.3% (35/52); positive non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) for sex chromosome abnormality: 60.0% (15/25); and other indications (advanced maternal age, adverse pregnancy history and thalassemia genes carried by both parents): 5.2% (7/135); all P<0.05], and also higher than the figure in non-monosomy X cases [25.7% (18/70), χ 2=71.55, P<0.001]. In non-monosomy X cases, the detection rates of TS among cases with high-risk results from serological screening for Down's syndrome and NIPT for sex chromosome abnormality [54.7% (29/53) and 68.3% (28/41)] were higher than those of the other two indications [fetal ultrasonographic abnormalities: 25.7% (18/70), other indications: 14.3% (10/70); all P<0.05]. (3) Of the 133 pregnancies with fetal ultrasonographic abnormalities as the indication, 65 (48.9%) had one abnormal ultrasound sign, and 68 (51.1%) had multiple signs. Among the 95 cases with ultrasound abnormalities in the first trimester and 38 cases in the second or third trimester, the incidence of cystic hygroma and hydrops was significantly higher in monosomy X cases than in non-monosomy X cases [in the first trimester: 71.8% (61/85) vs 1/10, 34.1% (29/85) vs 0/10; in the second or third trimester: 73.3% (22/30) vs 0/8, 50.0% (15/30) vs 0/8; Fisher's exact test, all P<0.05]. NT thickness in monosomy X cases was greater than that of non-monosomy X cases [7.5 mm (1.0-17.4 mm) vs 1.7 mm (0.8-9.5 mm), Z=－5.25, P<0.001]. (4) Among the 72 pregnancies with indications other than ultrasound abnormalities, 68 underwent Down's syndrome screening and 61 underwent NIPT. The detection rates among the cases with positive results in Down's syndrome screening, NIPT for a sex chromosome abnormality, and other indications (advanced maternal age, adverse pregnancy history, and thalassemia genes carried by both parents) were 54.4% (37/68), 59.0% (36/61) and 22.2% (16/72), respectively ( χ 2=22.40, P<0.001). The detection rates of the cases with high-risk results from Down's syndrome screening and NIPT for sex chromosome abnormality were higher than that of the cases with other indications ( χ 2=18.77 and 15.40, both P<0.001). Of the 72 pregnancies, 19 (26.4%) were monosomy X and 53 (73.6%) were non-monosomy X, including 42 (58.3%) with chromosomal mosaicism. (5) Among the 205 cases of TS, 185 were successfully followed up (123 were monosomy X and 62 were non-monosomy X). There was one live birth in monosomy X cases (0.8%, 1/123) and 17 in non-monosomy X cases (27.4%, 17/62), and the difference was statistically significant ( χ2=33.22, P<0.001). Sixty-three TS cases with normal ultrasound findings were followed up (18 were monosomy X and 45 were non-monosomy X). In these cases, all 18 pregnancies with monosomy X and 32 (71.1%, 32/45) with non-monosomy X were terminated and the other 13 (28.9%, 13/45) cases of non-monosomy X were delivered. Of the 18 live births, one (non-monosomy X) was delivered at 36 weeks of gestation and the rest were born at term. Eleven cases of them were followed up. The height of one child with monosomy X was lower than the average height of children of the same age and sex by more than 2 standard deviations (－2 SD). The height of 10 children with non-monosomy X were between－1 SD and +3 SD among the children of the same age and gender. The mental and motor development were good in the 11 cases, and no other structural abnormalities were observed. The remaining seven cases refused to be followed up. Conclusions:Ultrasonographic abnormalities are the main indications of fetal TS with monosomy X, while positive Down's syndrome screening and positive NIPT for sex chromosome abnormality are indicators of non-monosomy X. The termination rate for pregnancies with monosomy X is higher than that for non-monosomy X.

Sensibilidad de la prueba ELISA para detectar los anticuerpos IgG contra el Strongyloides stercoralis en pacientes inmunocomprometidos

Objetivo: la sensibilidad subóptima de las pruebas coproparasitológicas dificulta el diagnóstico de la estrongiloidiasis. Los métodos serológicos son más sensibles, pero los estudios en pacientes inmunodeprimidos son escasos. El objetivo del estudio fue de evaluar la sensibilidad de una prueba ELISA comercial en pacientes inmunodeprimidos. Métodos: se realizó en Bolivia un estudio multicéntrico en pacientes con cáncer, VIH, enfermedades reumatológicas y hematológicas. 88 pacientes con larvas de S.stercoralis en heces identificadas mediante técnicas coproparasitológicas tuvieron una prueba serológica ELISA (Bordier Affinity Products). Resultados: la sensibilidad de la técnica ELISA fue de 77,3% (61/88) (CI95%: 67,7-85,1). La sensibilidad de este test serológico fue identificada más baja en pacientes HIV+ con CD4300 o una serología VIH desconocida (84,2%) (p=0,035). Conclusiones: la sensibilidad del ELISA es inversamente proporcional al grado de inmunosupresión. Este resultado refuerza la recomendación de diagnosticar la estrongiloidiasis mediante una combinación de técnicas serológicas y coproparasitológicas.

Objectives: the sensitivity of coproparasitological tests for the diagnosis of strongyloidiasis are suboptimal. Serological methods are more sensitive, but studies among immunocompromised patients are scarce. The aim of this study was to evaluate the sensitivity of a commercial ELISA test among immunocompromised patients. Methods: a multicenter study was conducted in Bolivia among patients with cancer, HIV, rheumatologic or hematologic diseases. 88 patients with S. stercoralis larvae in stool identified by coproparasitological techniques had an ELISA serological test (Bordier Affinity Products). Results: the sensitivity of the ELISA technique was 77,3% (61/88) (CI95%: 67,7-85,1), and was identified lower among HIV+ patients with CD4300 or unknown HIV serology (84,2%) (p=0,035). Conclusions: the sensitivity of ELISA is inversely proportional to the degree of immunosuppression. This result reinforces the recommendation to diagnose strongyloidiasis by a combination of serological and coproparasitological techniques.

Projeto de ação integrativa serviço-academia para testagem para IST/HIV em unidades móveis em Niterói, Rio de Janeiro / Service-academy integrative action project for STI/HIV testing in mobile units in Niterói, Rio de Janeiro

RESUMO O conhecimento precoce da sorologia do HIV/IST favorece a adoção de medidas preventivas. Estruturas móveis de atendimento conseguem ampliar as testagens, principalmente em populações de difícil acesso. Neste artigo, apresentamos informações básicas coletadas em uma ação de testagem móvel para HIV, sífilis e hepatites virais realizada entre 02/2016 e 06/2017 em Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, descrevemos alguns desafios da implementação e discutimos a importância da interdisciplinaridade no enfrentamento das IST/HIV. A soroprevalência do HIV foi de 1,6%, variando com o mês e a localização da unidade móvel. A maior parte da população atendida era de homens (2.323/58,4%), de raça negra (2.375/60,1%) e com faixa etária entre 20-29 anos (1.706/42,9%). A prevalência total de sífilis foi de 12,8% (20,5% no Jardim São João). Cerca de 21% dos/as usuários/as já haviam testado para o HIV antes e quase 40% referia uma exposição para a testagem atual (97,5% sexual). IST prévia era referida por 9,6% das pessoas atendidas. Nossos dados parecem indicar que a ação atingiu uma população com maior risco para adquirir o HIV. A relação de horizontalidade entre as três esferas de governo que pautou a experiência permitiu a valorização dos diferentes saberes, ampliando as perspectivas para identificar e propor soluções.

ABSTRACT Early knowledge of HIV/STI serology favors the adoption of preventive measures. Mobile service structures are able to expand testing, especially in hard-to-reach populations. In this article, we present basic information collected in a mobile testing action for HIV, syphilis and viral hepatitis carried out between 02/2016 and 06/2017 in Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, we describe some implementation challenges and discuss the importance of interdisciplinarity in facing the challenges of STI/HIV. HIV seroprevalence was 1.6%, varying with the month and location of the mobile unit. Most of the included population was male (2,323/58.4%), black (2,375/60.1%) and aged between 20-29 years (1,706/42.9%). The total prevalence of syphilis was 12.8% (20.5% in Jardim São João). About 21% of users had tested for HIV before and almost 40% reported a current exposure for testing (97.5% sexual). Previous STI was reported by 9.6% of the people assisted. Our data seem to indicate that the action reached a population most at risk of acquiring HIV. The horizontal relationship between the three spheres of government that guided the experience allowed the appreciation of different knowledge, expanding perspectives to identify and propose solutions.

Evaluación del cambio del algoritmo de diagnóstico serológico para la enfermedad de Chagas en Colombia / Evaluation of a change in the serological diagnostic algorithm for Chagas disease in Colombia / Avaliação da mudança do algoritmo de diagnóstico sorológico da doença de Chagas na Colômbia

RESUMEN Objetivo. Evaluar los efectos del cambio del algoritmo de diagnóstico serológico para la infección por T. cruzi en los Laboratorios de Salud Pública Departamentales y en el Laboratorio Nacional de Referencia de Colombia, desde una perspectiva del acceso al diagnóstico. Métodos. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, transversal, a partir de fuentes secundarias entre el 2015 y 2021, se consolidó el número de ensayos serológicos realizados por los laboratorios. Se elaboró una encuesta para identificar beneficios y limitaciones en la implementación del nuevo algoritmo de diagnóstico serológico. Se estimaron totales, proporciones y promedios del número de pruebas comparando dos periodos diferentes. Resultados. Se analizó la información de 33 Laboratorios de Salud Pública, encontrando que el 87,9% de ellos procesaron ensayos serológicos durante el periodo analizado. El uso de las pruebas serológicas aumentó después de la publicación del nuevo lineamiento en 2017 y la capacidad de realización de la segunda prueba paso de 4 a 33 Laboratorios de Salud Pública. La ELISA de antígenos totales y de antígenos recombinantes se consolidaron como las pruebas más realizadas en Colombia después del 2017. Conclusiones. El cambio del algoritmo de diagnóstico serológico para la enfermedad de Chagas en Colombia en 2017 tuvo efectos positivos en el acceso al diagnóstico ya que facilitó el uso de la segunda prueba, esta modificación se tradujo en aumento de la cobertura diagnóstica. Los laboratorios del país tienen disponible un algoritmo sencillo, oportuno, de calidad y que podría ser implementado en casi cualquier laboratorio clínico del país.

ABSTRACT Objective. To evaluate the effects of changing the algorithm for serological diagnosis of T. cruzi infection in departmental-level public health laboratories and in the National Reference Laboratory of Colombia, from the perspective of access to diagnosis. Methods. A descriptive, cross-sectional study was carried out, based on secondary sources between 2015 and 2021, consolidating the number of serological tests carried out by the laboratories. A survey was developed to identify benefits and limitations in the implementation of the new algorithm for serological diagnosis. Totals, proportions, and averages of the number of tests were estimated by comparing two different periods. Results. Information from 33 public health laboratories was analyzed, 87.9% of which processed serological assays during the period under study. The use of serological tests increased after the publication of the new guideline in 2017, and the capacity to perform the second test increased from four to 33 public health laboratories. In absolute terms, ELISAs for antigens and recombinant antigens became the most performed tests in Colombia after 2017. Conclusions. The change in the algorithm for serological diagnosis of Chagas disease in Colombia in 2017 had positive effects on access to diagnosis since it facilitated the use of the second test. This change resulted in increased diagnostic coverage. The country's laboratories have access to a simple, timely, quality algorithm that could be implemented in almost any clinical laboratory in the country.

RESUMO Objetivo. Avaliar os efeitos da mudança do algoritmo de diagnóstico sorológico da infecção por T. cruzi nos Laboratórios Departamentais de Saúde Pública e no Laboratório Nacional de Referência da Colômbia desde a perspectiva do acesso ao diagnóstico. Métodos. Foi realizado um estudo descritivo transversal a partir de fontes secundárias do período entre 2015 e 2021, consolidando-se o número de testes sorológicos realizados pelos laboratórios. Foi desenvolvido um questionário para identificar benefícios e limitações na implementação do novo algoritmo de diagnóstico sorológico. Os totais, as proporções e as médias do número de testes foram estimados pela comparação de dois períodos diferentes. Resultados. Dados de 33 laboratórios de saúde pública foram analisados, e constatou-se que 87,9% processaram testes sorológicos durante o período analisado. O uso de testes sorológicos aumentou após a publicação das novas diretrizes em 2017, e a capacidade de realizar um segundo teste aumentou de 4 para 33 laboratórios de saúde pública. O ELISA com antígeno total e o ELISA com antígeno recombinante se consolidaram como os testes mais realizados na Colômbia após 2017. Conclusões. A mudança no algoritmo de diagnóstico sorológico da doença de Chagas na Colômbia em 2017 teve efeitos positivos no acesso ao diagnóstico, facilitando o uso do segundo teste, o que resultou em maior cobertura diagnóstica. Os laboratórios do país têm à sua disposição um algoritmo simples, oportuno e de alta qualidade que poderia ser implementado em quase todos os laboratórios clínicos do país.

Linfocitosis monoclonal de células B en familiares de pacientes colombianos con síndromes linfoproliferativos crónicos B / B-cell lymphocytosis in relatives of Colombian patients with chronic B-cell lymphoproliferative disorders

Introducción. La linfocitosis monoclonal de células B, generalmente, precede la leucemia linfocítica crónica y afecta alrededor del 12 % de la población adulta sana. Esta frecuencia se incrementa en familiares de pacientes con síndromes linfoproliferativos crónicos de células B. Objetivo. Determinar la frecuencia de linfocitosis monoclonal B en familiares de pacientes con síndromes linfoproliferativos crónicos B, sus características inmunofenotípicas y citogenéticas, posible relación con agentes infecciosos, y seguimiento a corto plazo de población colombiana. Materiales y métodos. Se estudiaron 50 adultos sanos con antecedentes familiares de síndromes linfoproliferativos crónicos de célula B, empleando citometría de flujo multiparamétrica, pruebas citogenéticas y serológicas, encuesta de hábitos de vida y seguimiento a dos años. Resultados. La frecuencia encontrada de linfocitosis monoclonal B fue del 8 %, con predominio del sexo femenino y edad avanzada, incrementándose al 12,5 % en individuos con antecedentes familiares de leucemia linfocítica crónica. Tres de cuatro individuos presentaron inmunofenotipo de tipo leucemia linfocítica crónica, todas con bajo recuento. A su vez, en estos individuos se observa de manera significativa un mayor número de células/µl en subpoblaciones linfocitarias T, junto con mayor predisposición a la enfermedad. Las poblaciones clonales descritas aumentan a lo largo del tiempo de manera no significativa. Conclusiones. La frecuencia y comportamiento de la linfocitosis monoclonal de célula B en pacientes con antecedentes familiares de síndromes linfoproliferativos crónicos B es similar a lo encontrado en estudios relacionados,lo que sugiere que no existe afectación degenes de mayor relevancia que puedan desencadenar una proliferación clonal descontrolada, pero que generan desregulación inmunológica que podría indicar un mayor riesgo de infección grave en estos individuos.

Introduction. Monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis generally precedes chronic lymphocytic leukemia, affecting about 12% of the healthy adult population. This frequency increases in relatives of patients with chronic B-cell lymphoproliferative disorders. Objective. To determine the frequency of monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis in relatives of patients with chronic B-cell lymphoproliferative disorders, their immunophenotypic/cytogenetic characteristics, a possible relationship with infectious agents, and short-term follow-up in the Colombian population. Materials and methods. Fifty healthy adults with a family history of chronic B-cell lymphoproliferative disorders were studied using multiparametric flow cytometry, cytogenetic/serological testing, lifestyle survey, and 2-year follow-up. Results. The frequency of monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis found was 8%, with a predominance of female gender and advanced age, increasing to 12.5% for individuals with a family history of chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Three out of four individuals presented chronic lymphocytic leukemia-type immunophenotype, all with low counts. In turn, a significantly higher number of cells/µl is observed in these individuals in T lymphocyte subpopulations, together with a greater predisposition to the disease. The described clonal populations increase over time in a non-significant manner. Conclusions. The frequency and behavior of monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis in patients with family history of chronic B-cell lymphoproliferative disorders are like those found in related studies, which suggests that there is no involvement of more relevant genes that can trigger uncontrolled clonal proliferation, but that generates immunological deregulation that could justify a greater risk of serious infection in these individuals.

Safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 SPUTNIK V vaccine in dialysis patients / Seguridad y efectividad de vacuna COVID-19 SPUTNIK V en pacientes en diálisis

Abstract Introduction: Given the vulnerability of chronic kidney disease individuals to SARS-CoV-2, nephrology societies have issued statements calling for prioritization of these patients for vaccination. It is not yet known whether COVID-19 vaccines grant the same high level of protection in patients with kidney disease compared to the non-dialysis population. The aims of this study were to evaluate the safety - measured by the adverse events potentially attributed to vaccines (ESAVI) - and the effectiveness - evaluated by the presence of antibodies - in dialysis patients immunized with the COVID-19 Sputnik V vaccine. Methods: multicenter, ob servational and analytical study of a prospective cohort of hemodialysis patients from the Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires participating in an official vaccination program. Dialysis requiring individuals older than 18 years, who received both components of the COVID-19 vaccine were included. Results: Data from 491 patients were included in the safety analysis. ESAVI with either the first or second component was detected in 186 (37.9%, 95% CI 33.6%-42.3%). Effectiveness analysis measuring antibodies levels against SARS-CoV-2 were performed in 102 patients; 98% presented these IgG antibodies at day 21 after the second component. In patients with COVID-19 prior to vaccination, antibodies at day 21 after the first component reached almost the highest levels compared to patients without previous COVID-19, but IgG rise among patients with previous COVID-19 was lower than in those without this previous disease. Conclusion: The Sputnik V vaccine has been shown to be safe and effective in this patient's population.

Resumen Introducción: Dada la vulnerabilidad al SARS-CoV-2 de las personas con enfermedad renal crónica, las sociedades de nefrología han emitido declaraciones pidiendo priorizar a estos pacientes para la vacunación. Aún no se sabe si las vacunas COVID-19 confieren el mismo nivel de protección en pacientes con enfermedad renal. Los objetivos de este estudio fueron evaluar la seguridad, medida por eventos supuestamente atribuidos a las vacunas (ESAVI) y la efectividad, evaluada por la presencia de anticuerpos en pacientes en diálisis inmuniza dos con la vacuna COVID-19 Sputnik V. Métodos: estudio multicéntrico, observacional y analítico de una cohorte prospectiva de pacientes en hemodiálisis, en la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, con plan de vacunación. Se incluyeron pacientes mayores de 18 años en diálisis que recibieron ambos componentes de la vacuna COVID-19. Resultados: 491 pacientes fueron incluidos en el análisis de seguridad. Se detectó ESAVI con el primer o el segundo componente en 186 (37.9% IC 95%: 33.6%-42.3%). La efectividad medida por presencia de anticuerpos IgG contra SARS-Cov-2 se realizó en 102 pacientes, 98% presentaba IgG contra SARS-CoV-2, 21 días después del segundo componente. En pacientes con COVID-19 previo a la vacunación, los anticuerpos al día 21 del primer componente alcanzaron niveles casi mayores que en aquellos que no habían sufrido COVID-19, aunque el aumento de los niveles a los 21 días del segundo componente fue menor que en los pacientes sin COVID-19 previo. Conclusión: Los pacientes en diálisis constituyen una población vulnerable para la infección por SARS-CoV-2, por lo tanto, más allá de las recomendaciones implementadas por las unidades de diálisis, la vacunación completa es mandatoria. Se ha demostrado que la vacuna Sputnik V es segura y eficaz en esta población de pacientes.

Seroepidemiologic survey of the household contacts of leprosy patients

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: Leprosy is a disabling infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of leprosy among household contacts of leprosy patients. METHODS: This study is a serological survey in household contacts of leprosy patients who had been treated or were undergoing treatment in the city of Presidente Prudente, São Paulo, Brazil, from 2006-2016, using clinical examination and screening for anti- Phenolic glycolipid-I antibodies with Mycobacterium leprae-flow serology. RESULTS: A total of 263 index cases of leprosy were identified during the study period. Of these, 53 were approached, and among their household contacts, 108 were examined. The ML-flow test was positive in 2 (1.85%) individuals, but clinical examination revealed no signs or symptoms of leprosy in them. Therefore, they were considered to have a subclinical infection. Leprosy was not confirmed in any household contacts. In this study, a lower percentage of household contacts, when compared to that in the literature, had a positive Mycobacterium leprae-flow test result. CONCLUSION: The use of Mycobacterium leprae-flow should be encouraged during the follow-up of at-risk populations, such as the household contacts of leprosy patients.

Laboratory perspectives for Leprosy: Diagnostic, prognostic and predictive tools

The diagnosis of leprosy poses several challenges. The bacillary load, serology, and tissue response are determined by the host immune status, which make individual tests unsuitable across the spectrum. The sensitivity of tests for identifying paucibacillary cases remains limited, on the other hand, many tests lack specificity in differentiating contacts from diseased cases. Nonetheless, a plethora of laboratory tests have been added to the armamentarium of the clinicians dealing with leprosy. In the current review, we critically analyze the tests available for diagnosis, prognostication, and prediction of treatment response in leprosy. We discuss in brief the conventional tests available and detail the newer serologic and molecular tests added over the past few years with an attempt to suggest the pros and cons of each, and the tests best fit for each clinical scenario. Slit skin smears and skin or nerve biopsies are primarily performed to exclude clinical mimics, confirm a diagnosis, and immunologically subtype the case. Antibody titres of phenolic glycolipid-1 and its synthetic variants can be measured in serum and saliva and provide noninvasive means to detect leprosy with good specificity. Conventional, quantitative, real-time, and other variants of PCR can detect M. leprae DNA and have been used to effect in blood, tissue, and urine samples. T helper I and II cytokine signatures can be used to differentiate the subtypes of leprosy. Newer machine learning algorithms use combinations of these tests to predict the development of leprosy in contacts. Tests to detect treatment response, antimicrobial drug resistance, and predict the onset of reactions in leprosy can be used to advantage. We compare the characteristics of these tests and suggest an algorithm for leprosy diagnosis optimally utilizing them in various clinical settings.

Utilidad diagnóstica de pruebas rápidas para detectar anticuerpos IgG/IgM anti COVID-19

RESUMEN Fundamento Las pruebas rápidas para el diagnóstico del SARS-CoV-2 constituyen opciones atractivas por su simplicidad, rapidez y rentabilidad; pero poseen diferentes grados de sensibilidad y especificad diagnóstica. Objetivo evaluar el desempeño analítico de pruebas rápidas para detectar anticuerpos IgG/IgM anti COVID-19. Métodos estudio descriptivo, realizado con los pacientes ingresados en el Centro Especializado Ambulatorio Héroes de Playa Girón, de Cienfuegos, con diagnóstico presuntivo, probable o confirmado de COVID-19 durante dos períodos de tiempo. A todos se les realizó la prueba rápida para detectar anticuerpos anti COVID-19, además de un ensayo confirmatorio por biología molecular. Se calcularon la sensibilidad y especificidad diagnósticas, los valores predictivos y la eficiencia de la prueba rápida dentro de un intervalo de confianza del 95 %. Resultados se obtuvo una excelente especificidad (98,75 %) y regular sensibilidad (54,54 %), así como buenos valores predictivos y eficiencia diagnóstica global. Conclusión Las pruebas rápidas anti COVID-19 evaluadas mostraron un desempeño diagnóstico adecuado. Resultan una alternativa diagnóstica asequible y valiosa para evaluar exposición previa al SARS-CoV-2. Su uso clínico está restringido para ciertas situaciones médicas; sin embargo, constituyen una herramienta epidemiológica útil.

ABSTRACT Background Rapid tests for the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 are attractive options due to their simplicity, speed and cost-effectiveness; but they have different degrees of sensitivity and diagnostic specificity. Objective to evaluate the analytical performance of rapid tests to detect IgG/IgM antibodies against COVID-19. Methods descriptive study, carried out with patients admitted to the Héroes de Playa Girón Specialized Ambulatory Center, in Cienfuegos, with a presumptive, probable or confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 during two periods of time. All of them underwent a rapid test to detect anti-COVID-19 antibodies, in addition to a confirmatory molecular biology test. Diagnostic sensitivity and specificity, predictive values, and rapid test efficiency were calculated within a 95% confidence interval. Results excellent specificity (98.75%) and regular sensitivity (54.54%) were obtained, as well as good predictive values and overall diagnostic efficiency. Conclusion The rapid anti-COVID-19 tests evaluated showed adequate diagnostic performance. They constitute an affordable and valuable diagnostic alternative to assess previous exposure to SARS-CoV-2. Its clinical use is restricted to certain medical situations; however, they constitute a useful epidemiological tool.

Perfil clínico-epidemiológico da dengue no município de anápolis - goiás entre os anos de 2016 a 2020 / Clinical-epidemiological profile of dengue in the municipality of anápolis - goiás from 2016 to 2020 / Perfil clínico-epidemiológico del dengue en el municipio de anápolis - goiás de 2016 a 2020

RESUMO Objetivo: descrever o perfil clínico epidemiológico da dengue em Anápolis, Goiás - BR entre os anos 2016 a 2020. Métodos: estudo descritivo de natureza quantitativa. Foram utilizados dados da ficha de notificação de dengue cadastrada no Departamento de Vigilância Epidemiológica. Utilizado o teste qui-quadrado com nível de significância cinco (5%) (p<0,05). Resultados: foram notificados 27.544 casos com o pico em 2019, sendo 54,2% do sexo feminino, faixa etária de 25 a 44 anos 36,7% e cor parda 70,3%. Dos casos ocorridos, 97,7% não foram hospitalizados, predominaram a dengue clássica em 98% e obteve-se cura em 99,9% dos casos. Houve diferença significativa em relação à faixa etária e à classificação da dengue, hospitalização e evolução clínica (p= 0,001). Conclusão: evidencia-se que a dengue é prevalente em Anápolis, sendo necessárias estratégias de prevenção e controle do vetor, principalmente, nos períodos de sazonalidade.

ABSTRACT Objective: to describe the clinical epidemiological profile of dengue in Anápolis, Goiás - BR between the years 2016 to 2020. Methods: descriptive study of a quantitative nature. Data from the dengue notification form registered in the Epidemiological Surveillance Department were used. Chi-square test was used with significance level five (5%) (p<0.05). Results: 27,544 cases were notified with the peak in 2019, being 54.2% female, age group 25 to 44 years 36.7% and brown color 70.3%. Of the cases that occurred, 97.7% were not hospitalized, classic dengue predominated in 98% and cure was obtained in 99.9% of cases. There was a significant difference regarding age group and dengue classification, hospitalization, and clinical evolution (p= 0.001). Conclusion: It is evident that dengue is prevalent in Anápolis, and strategies of prevention and control of the vector are necessary, especially during seasonal periods.

RESUMEN Objetivo: describir el perfil clínico epidemiológico del dengue en Anápolis, Goiás - BR entre los años 2016 a 2020. Métodos: estudio descriptivo de carácter cuantitativo. Se utilizaron datos de la ficha de notificación de dengue registrada en el Departamento de Vigilancia Epidemiológica. Se utilizó la prueba de chi-cuadrado con un nivel de significación del cinco (5%) (p<0,05). Resultados: Se notificaron 27.544 casos con el pico en 2019, siendo el 54,2% mujeres, el grupo de edad de 25 a 44 años el 36,7% y el color marrón el 70,3%. De los casos ocurridos, el 97,7% no fueron hospitalizados, el dengue clásico predominó en el 98% y se obtuvo la curación en el 99,9% de los casos. Hubo una diferencia significativa con respecto al grupo de edad y la clasificación del dengue, la hospitalización y la evolución clínica (p= 0,001). Conclusión: se evidencia que el dengue es prevalente en Anápolis, siendo necesarias estrategias de prevención y control del vector, principalmente, en los periodos de sazonalidad.

Reactive treponemal and non-treponemal tests in pregnant women and associated factors / Pruebas treponémicas y no treponémicas reactivas en mujeres embarazadas y factores asociados / Testes treponêmicos e não treponêmicos reagentes em gestantes e fatores associados

ABSTRACT Objective: to identify the rate of reactive treponemal and non-treponemal tests in pregnant women during childbirth and to analyze the factors associated with this seroreactivity. Method: this is a cross-sectional, quantitative study with secondary sources of sociodemographic and clinical data on 2,626 pregnant women treated at a public maternity hospital in the interior of São Paulo, in 2020. For statistical analysis, Fisher's exact test, Mann-Whitney test and the logistic regression model were used. A difference of p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: the rate of seropositivity for syphilis among pregnant women in this series was 2.74%. Among the groups with positive and non-reactive tests, marital status, occupation, place of residence and use of licit drugs indicated significant differences, but, in the final model, only unmarried marital status was associated with reactive tests (Odds Ratio: 0.169; Confidence Interval: 0.04-0.72; and p: 0.016). Conclusion: in this study, unmarried marital status was the only independent factor associated with seroreactivity for syphilis. Therefore, it is necessary to create strategies aimed at women in this condition, potentially reducing the rate of congenital syphilis.

RESUMEN Objetivo: identificar la tasa de pruebas treponémicas y no treponémicas reactivas en gestantes durante el parto y analizar los factores asociados a esta serorreactividad. Método: estudio transversal, cuantitativo con fuentes secundarias de datos sociodemográficos y clínicos de 2.626 gestantes atendidas en una maternidad pública del interior de São Paulo, en 2020. Para el análisis estadístico, se utilizaron las pruebas exactas de Fisher, las pruebas de Mann-Whitney y el modelo de regresión logística. Se consideró estadísticamente significativa una diferencia de p < 0,05. Resultados: la tasa de seropositividad para sífilis entre las gestantes de esta serie fue de 2,74%. Entre los grupos con pruebas positivas y no reactivas, estado civil, ocupación, lugar de residencia y uso de drogas lícitas indicaron diferencias significativas, pero, en el modelo final, solo el estado civil soltero se asoció con las pruebas reactivas (odds ratio: 0,169; intervalo de confianza: 0,04-0,72; y p: 0,016). Conclusión: en este estudio, el estado civil soltero fue el único factor independiente asociado a la serorreactividad para sífilis. Por lo tanto, es necesario crear estrategias dirigidas a mujeres en esta condición, potencialmente reduciendo la tasa de sífilis congénita.

RESUMO Objetivo: identificar a taxa de testes treponêmicos e não treponêmicos reagentes em gestantes no período do parto e analisar os fatores associados a essa sororreatividade. Método: estudo transversal, quantitativo, com fontes secundárias de dados sociodemográficos e clínicos de 2.626 gestantes atendidas em uma maternidade pública do interior paulista, em 2020. Para a análise estatística, foram utilizados os Testes Exato de Fisher, de Mann-Whitney e o modelo de regressão logística. Considerou-se diferença com significância estatística valores de p < 0,05. Resultados: a taxa de soropositividade para sífilis entre gestantes nesta casuística foi de 2,74%. Entre os grupos com testes reagentes e não reagentes à situação maritária, ocupação, local da residência e uso de drogas lícitas indicaram diferenças significantes, mas, no modelo final, apenas a situação marital não casada apresentou associação com os testes reagentes (Odds Ratio: 0,169; Intervalo de Confiança: 0,04-0,72; e p: 0,016). Conclusão neste estudo, a situação maritária não casada foi o único fator independente associado à sororreatividade para a sífilis. Por isso, faz-se necessária a criação de estratégias voltadas para mulheres nessa condição, potencialmente reduzindo a taxa de sífilis congênita.

Testes treponêmicos e não treponêmicos reagentes e não reagentes em gestantes e os fatores associados / Reactive and non-reactive treponemal and non-treponemal tests and associated factors in pregnant women

Introdução: o aumento no número de casos de sífilis em gestantes, tendo como consequência a sífilis congênita, indica que a doença persiste e continua desafiando os serviços de saúde. Objetivo: analisar a taxa de testes treponêmicos e não treponêmicos reagentes e não reagentes em gestantes, no período do parto, e os fatores associados a esses resultados. Métodos: estudo transversal, retrospectivo e quantitativo, realizado a partir de fontes secundárias de informações (prontuários eletrônicos), com dados sociodemográficos e clínicos de gestantes atendidas em uma maternidade de Ribeirão Preto, de janeiro a dezembro de 2020. Para investigação da sífilis, foi considerada a triagem com teste rápido treponêmico e teste Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) para confirmação diagnóstica de sífilis. Os dados do prontuário eletrônico foram digitados no sistema REDCap para organização do banco de dados e analisados por meio do programa STATA SE, versão 14. Foram utilizados os testes Exato de Fisher (para comparação das variáveis qualitativas com a variável dependente) e de Mann-Whitney (para análise de associação entre variáveis quantitativas). A análise dos fatores associados à sororreatividade dos testes treponêmicos e não treponêmicos foi realizada utilizando o modelo de regressão logística. Foram inseridas no modelo final as variáveis que apresentaram na análise univariada p valor <0,20. Para todas as análises foi adotado nível de significância α=0,05. Resultados: os dados avaliados foram de dois grupos de gestantes, sendo o grupo reagente (gestantes que apresentaram testes treponêmicos e não treponêmicos reagentes) e o grupo não reagente (gestantes que apresentaram testes treponêmicos não reagentes). Foram incluídas 2.626 parturientes. Dessas, 2.554 (97,26%) eram do grupo não reagente e 72 (2,74%) do grupo reagente, com uma taxa de positividade de 2,74%. As variáveis situação maritária (p=0,000), ocupação (p=0,019), local da residência (p=0,012) e uso de drogas lícitas (p=0,035) apresentaram significância estatística entre os dois grupos. Por meio da regressão logística, a situação maritária - OR (0,169), IC (0,04-0,72), p=0,016 - foi apontada como associada à ocorrência de gestantes que chegam à maternidade com testes treponêmicos e não treponêmicos reagentes, ou seja, ser casada é um fator protetor contra a sífilis, porém isso não isenta a investigação da doença no parceiro. Dos recém-nascidos (RN) das 72 gestantes do grupo reagente, 42 apresentaram teste de VDRL realizado no sangue com resultados reagentes e 25 que realizaram o exame no liquor apresentaram resultados não reagentes. Dos 42 RN com resultados reagentes, 17 receberam tratamento com penicilina. Além disso, outros 4 RN foram tratados, mesmo o RN tendo o exame negativo. Conclusão: variáveis sociodemográficas influenciam a taxa de sororreatividade de pacientes que chegam à maternidade com sorologia para sífilis reagente, sendo que a situação maritária não casada foi apontada neste estudo como fator isolado e independente à sororreatividade para a sífilis. Portanto, visando à eliminação da sífilis congênita, faz-se necessária a criação de melhores estratégias voltadas para mulheres nesta condição

Background: the increase in syphilis cases numbers in pregnant women, resulting in congenital syphilis, indicates that the disease persists as a challenge to health services. Objective: to identify the positivity rate and the factors associated with reactive treponemal and non-treponemal tests in pregnant women at delivery. Methods: a cross-sectional and retrospective study, quantitative carried out from secondary sources of information (electronic medical records), with sociodemographic and clinical data of pregnant women attended at a maternity hospital in Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil, from January to December 2020. Screening with rapid treponemal test and Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) test was considered for diagnostic confirmation of syphilis. Data from electronic medical records were entered into REDCap system to organize the database and analyzed using the program STATA SE, version 14. Fisher's exact test was used to compare qualitative variables with dependent variable. We used Mann-Whitney test to analyze association between quantitative variables. The analysis of factors associated with the reactivity of treponemal and non-treponemal tests was performed using logistic regression model. The variables that presented p value < 0.20 in univariate analysis were included in the final model. We used a significance level of α= 0.05 for all analyses. Results: we evaluated data from two groups of pregnant women, one is the reagent group (pregnant women who presented reactive treponemal and non-treponemal tests) and the non-reactive group (pregnant women who presented non-reactive treponemal tests). We included 2,626 parturients. Of these, 2,554 (97.26%) belonged to non-reactive group and 72 (2.74%) to reactive group, with a prevalence of 2.74%. Some qualitative items such as race and pregnancy outcome also did not show significance. Regarding marital status (p=0.000), occupation (p=0.019), residence (p=0.012), use of licit drugs (p=0.035), these variables were statistically significant between the two groups. Through logistic regression, the marital situation without a partner - OR (0.169), CI (0.04 0.72), p=0.016 - was identified as associated with the occurrence of pregnant women arriving at the maternity hospital with treponemal tests and non-treponemal reagents, however this does not eliminate the investigation of the disease in the partner. Of the newborns (NB) of the 72 pregnant women in the reagent group, 42 had a VDRL blood test with reactive results and 25 who underwent the liquor exam had non-reactive results. Of the 42 NB with positive results, 17 received treatment with penicillin. In addition, other 4 NB were treated, even though the NB had a negative test. Conclusion: sociodemographic variables influence the positivity rate of patients who arrive at the maternity hospital with positive syphilis serology, and the marital situation, without a partner, was pointed out in this study as an isolated and independent factor for this positivity. Therefore, it is necessary to create strategies aimed at women in this situation for congenital syphilis elimination

Uso de la imagen radiológica y serología por Western Blot para el diagnóstico de la neurocisticercosis en un hospital del norte del Perú / Use of radiological imaging and serology by Western Blot for the diagnosis of neurocysticercosis in a hospital in northern Peru

Introducción: La neurocisticercosis (NCC) es una zoonosis parasitaria del sistema nervioso central causada por el céstodo Taenia solium, y que afecta a países en desarrollo y con escaso saneamiento básico. Objetivo: Describir el uso y la concordancia de la imagen radiológica por tomografía (TAC) o resonancia magnética (RM) y serología por western Blot (WB) en el diagnóstico de la NCC en un hospital del norte del Perú. Material y Métodos: Estudio observacional retrospectivo. La historia clínica fue la unidad de análisis. Los casos se buscaron en la oficina de Epidemiología mediante el CIE-10- B69 y registro del Laboratorio de Parasitología, Metaxénicas y Zoonosis del mismo hospital, en el periodo del año 2015 al 2017. Resultados: Se estudiaron 67 historias clínicas, que cumplían con los criterios diagnósticos absolutos de NCC. Los pacientes fueron varones en el 55,2 % y tuvieron una media de edad de 40,2 (±17,8) años. El 35,9% tuvieron un resultado positivo por WB (19/39), las lesiones quísticas con escólex fueron observada en el 25,4% de las TAC y en el 29,6 de las RM. La concordancia observada entre la prueba serológica con TAC y RM fue escasa, siendo (Kappa=0,073, IC95%: 0,053 ­ 1,084) y (Kappa=0,112, IC95%: 0,092 ­ 1,092) y un porcentaje de acuerdo de 42,0% y 45,7% respectivamente. Conclusiones: Se observó uso diferenciado y escasa concordancia entre la prueba serológica por WB e imagen radiológica en pacientes con diagnóstico de neurocisticercosis en la población estudiada.

Background: Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is a parasitic zoonosis of the central nervous system caused by the tapeworm Taenia solium, which affects developing countries with poor basic sanitation. Objective: To describe the use and concordance of radiological tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and western blot (WB) serology in the diagnosis of NCC in a hospital in northern Peru. Material and Methods: Retrospective observational study. The medical history was the unit of analysis. The cases were searched in the Epidemiology office using the ICD-10-B69 and registry of the Laboratory of Parasitology, Metaxenics and Zoonoses of the same hospital, in the period from 2015 to 2017. Results: 67 medicales records were studied, which complied with the absolute diagnostic criteria for NCC. The patients were men in 55.2% and had a mean age of 40.2 (± 17.8) years. 35.9% had a positive result by WB (19/39), cystic lesions with scolex were observed in 25.4% of the CTand in 29.6 of the MRI. The concordance observed between the serological test with CTand MRI was poor, with (Kappa = 0.073, 95% CI: 0.053 - 1.084) and (Kappa = 0.112, 95% CI: 0.092 - 1.092) and a percentage of agreement of 42.0% and 45.7% respectively. Conclusions: Differentiated use and poor concordance between the WB serological test and radiological imaging are performed in patients with a diagnosis of neurocysticercosis in the studied population.

Anticuerpos neutralizantes, nuevas pruebas de laboratorio contra el SARS-CoV-2 / Neutralizing antibodies, new laboratory tests against SARS-CoV-2

RESUMEN Introducción: En la presente revisión conoceremos los detalles de esta nueva prueba de laboratorio, utilizada para cuantificar los anticuerpos neutralizantes contra el SARS-CoV-2. Esta prueba diagnóstica comienza a tener un mayor protagonismo, a razón del proceso de infección y vacunación en el mundo, para comprender los misterios del correlato de protección inmunológica. Contenido: Los anticuerpos neutralizantes pueden bloquear la capacidad del virus, para unirse al receptor ACE2 en las células humanas y estos anticuerpos permiten eliminar el efecto de microorganismos invasores. Su actividad se genera por las proteínas situadas en la superficie de los virus, a las que se unen para «bloquear¼ la infección. Los anticuerpos neutralizantes se definen in vitro por su capacidad para bloquear la entrada, fusión o salida del coronavirus, es decir son anticuerpos funcionales. En la actualidad existen diferentes pruebas de laboratorio (pruebas de inmunoensayo de alto rendimiento), que pueden detectar anticuerpos inmunoglobulinas G anti proteína S del SARS-CoV-2 y que se correlacionan con las pruebas de laboratorio idóneas para la determinación de estos anticuerpos. Es crucial que estas pruebas de inmunoensayo de alto rendimiento, sean validadas en su fabricación comparándolas con los métodos gold standard para determinar la presencia de anticuerpos neutralizantes. Perspectiva: Se pretende ampliar el conocimiento de esta nueva prueba, que en un futuro permitirán definir los valores de correlato inmunológico generados por las vacunas o por una infección previa.

ABSTRACT Introduction: In this review we will know the details of this new laboratory test, used to quantify neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2. This diagnostic test begins to have a greater role, due to the process of infection and vaccination in the world, to understand the mysteries of the correlate of immune protection. Content: Neutralizing antibodies can block the ability of the virus to bind to the ACE2 receptor in human cells and these antibodies allow to eliminate the effect of invading microorganisms. Their activity is generated by proteins on the surface of viruses, which they bind to "block" infection. Neutralizing antibodies are defined in vitro by their ability to block the entry, fusion or exit of the coronavirus, that is, they are functional antibodies. Currently there are different laboratory tests (high-throughput immunoassay tests), which can detect immunoglobulin G anti-protein S antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 and which correlate with the gold standard laboratory tests for the determination of these antibodies. It is crucial that these high-throughput immunoassay tests are manufacturing validated against gold standard methods to determine the presence of neutralizing antibodies. Perspective: This review aims to expand the knowledge of this new test, which in the future will allow defining the immunological correlate values generated by vaccines or by a previous infection.

Acute/subacute paracoccidioidomycosis with associated eosinophilia

Paracoccidioidomycosis is an endemic mycosis whose initial diagnosis may be difficult, as it shares the clinical characteristics of granulomatous and neoplastic diseases. Although its chronic form is the most frequent, we present the case of a young patient with an acute/ subacute presentation with lymphadenopathy, peripheral eosinophilia and a false-positive hepatitis C serology. The diagnosis was confirmed by histopathology and tissue culture, and he was treated with amphotericin B due to clinical deterioration secondary to progression of systemic involvement. (Acta Med Colomb 2021; 46. DOI: https://doi.org/10.36104/amc.2021.1921).

La paracoccidiodomicosis es una micosis endémica cuyo diagnóstico inicial puede ser difícil al compartir características clínicas de enfermedades granulomatosas y neoplásicas. Aunque su forma más frecuente es la crónica presentamos el caso de un paciente joven con un cuadro agudo/subagudo con linfadenopatías, eosinofilia periférica y una serología para hepatitis C falsamente positiva. El diagnóstico fue confirmado por histopatología y cultivo de tejidos y se dio manejo con anfotericina B ante el deterioro clínico por progresión del compromiso sistémico.