Foot pain and disability in patients with ankylosing spondylitis is associated to disease activity / Dor e deficiência no pé em pacientes com espondilite anquilosante estão associadas à atividade da doença

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The feet may be involved in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS), causing pain and walking difficulties. This research aimed to study the involvement of the foot in a sample of Brazilian patients with AS. METHODS: The Brazilian version of the Foot Function Index (FFI-BR) was applied to 103 individuals (57 AS patients and 46 controls). Clinical profiles were obtained in AS patients as well as the measurement of disease activity by the ASDAS (Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score)-ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate), ASDAS-CRP (C reactive protein) and BASDAI (Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index) and function by BASFI (Bath Ankylosing spondylitis functional score). RESULTS: Only 19.2% of AS patients did not have any foot complaints and the FFI-BR score presented worse results than the control group (p = 0.02). The "pain" domain of FFI-BR scored highest in AS patients, followed by "disability". There was no association between the results of the FFI-BR and the clinical profile of patients with AS, but there was an association between the score and the disease activity indexes (r = 0.50, p = 0.003 with ASDAS-ESR; r = 0.44, p = 0.005 with ASDAS-CRP; and r = 0.60, p < 0.0001 with BASDAI). The BASFI also showed a positive correlation (r = 0.72; p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: Pain and disability are common in AS patients and these symptoms are associated with disease activity.

RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: Os pés podem ser acometidos em pacientes com espondilite anquilosante (EA), causando dor e dificuldade de locomoção. O objetivo deste trabalho foi estudar o envolvimento do pé em uma amostra de pacientes brasileiros com EA. MÉTODOS: A versão brasileira do Foot Function Index (FFI-BR) foi aplicada a 103 indivíduos (57 pacientes com EA e 46 controles). O perfil clínico foi obtido para pacientes com EA, bem como a medição da atividade da doença por meio do ASDAS (Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score)-ESR. (velocidade de hemossedimentação), ASDAS-CRP (proteína C reativa) e BASDAI (Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index) e função pelo BASFI (Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Score). RESULTADOS: Apenas 19,2% dos pacientes com EA não apresentaram queixas nos pés e o escore FFI-BR apresentou resultados piores do que os do grupo controle (p = 0,02). O domínio "dor" do FFI-BR apresentou a maior pontuação nos pacientes com EA seguido pelo domínio "disfunção". Não se observou associação dos resultados do FFI-BR com o perfil clínico dos pacientes com EA, mas houve associação do escore com os índices de atividade da doença (r = 0,50, p = 0,003 com ASDAS-ESR; r = 0,44, p = 0,005 com ASDAS-CRP; e r = 0,60, p < 0,0001 com BASDAI). O BASFI também apresentou correlação positiva (r = 0,72; p< 0,0001). CONCLUSÃO: Dor e disfunção são comuns em pacientes com EA e estes sintomas se associam com atividade de doença.

Hospital admissions for chronic liver diseases: a temporal study in the South Region of Brazil

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to compare the epidemiology and clinical profiles of hospital admissions in a single Brazilian Hepatology Unit from the period 2014-2017 to 2019-2022. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of hospital database from the abovementioned periods was done. The study included patients over the age of 18 years who were hospitalized due to complications of diseases such as viral hepatitis, alcoholic disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and autoimmune liver and drug-induced hepatitis. RESULTS: In both study periods, middle-aged males were predominant and were younger than females. In the first period (2014-2017), hepatitis C (33.5%) was the most prevalent cause of admission, followed by alcoholic liver disease (31.7%). In the second period (2019-2022), nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (38%) and alcoholic liver disease (27.6%) were the most frequent causes of admission. No changes were observed in the proportion of alcoholic liver disease or drug-induced hepatitis in both study periods. The prevalence of viral hepatitis decreased in both genders, with hepatitis C decreasing from 32.4 to 9.7% for males and 35.4 to 10.8% for females, and OR=0.2; 95%CI 0.1-0.3 for both males and females. Similarly, the prevalence of hepatitis B decreased from 19.1 to 8.1% and OR=0.3; 95%CI 0.2-0.5 for males and 8.2 to 3.7% and OR=0.4; 95%CI 0.1-0.9 for females. The prevalence of autoimmune liver diseases increased only in males, from 2.1 to 5.9% and OR=2.9; 95%CI 1.2-6.6. CONCLUSION: Over the past 4 years, there has been a shift in hospital admission profile at a Brazilian Hepatology Unit, with a decrease in viral hepatitis and an increase in autoimmune diseases and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Males were more affected at younger ages than females. Furthermore, ascites was the most prevalent cause of complications in both periods analyzed.

Alerta de atraso no diagnóstico de colite microscópica em idosos. Uma série de casos / Warning to delay in diagnosing microscopic colitis in older adults. a series of cases

ABSTRACT Background: Microscopic colitis (MC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease causing non-bloody diarrhea, and several cases are undiagnosed as a hidden cause of chronic diarrhea. Objective: We aimed to report the symptoms, delay diagnosis and the treatment of MC in a case series. Methods: All patients were treated at a Gastroenterology reference office from May 2022 to June 2023. Personal history including preexisting disorders, use of medications and smoking habits were collected. The delay between the onset of symptoms and the correct diagnosis was informed. All patients consented to use budesonide MMX (Corament®) off label. Results: During the study period, six Caucasoid patients were diagnosed with MC, five females and one male, between the ages of 65 and 74. All patients had comorbities and were taking multiple prescription drugs. Laboratory findings showed negative serology for celiac disease for all patients, normal levels of albumin and vitamin B12. The delay between the symptoms and the MC diagnosis varied from 2 months to 6 years. All patients had a previous diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome. All patients were in complete clinical remission during the treatment and referred no side effects of the drug. Conclusion: Older females using high-risk medications are suggestive of MC. Preventing delay in the diagnosis of MC is crucial to improvement in patients´ quality of life. Budesonide MMX appears to be effective, safe and well-tolerated.

RESUMO Contexto: A colite microscópica (CM) é uma doença inflamatória intestinal crônica que causa diarreia não sanguinolenta, e vários casos não são diagnosticados como uma causa oculta de diarreia crônica. Objetivo: Esse estudo visou relatar os sintomas, qual o atraso diagnóstico e o tratamento da CM em uma série de casos. Métodos: Todos os pacientes foram atendidos em um consultório de referência em Gastroenterologia no período de maio de 2022 a junho de 2023. Foram coletados antecedentes pessoais, incluindo distúrbios preexistentes, uso de medicamentos e tabagismo. Foi buscado o período entre o início dos sintomas e o diagnóstico correto. Todos os pacientes consentiram em usar budesonida MMX (Corament®) off label. Resultados: Durante o período do estudo, seis pacientes caucasóides foram diagnosticados com CM, cinco mulheres e um homem, com idades entre 65 e 74 anos. Todos os pacientes apresentavam comorbidades e faziam uso de vários medicamentos prescritos. Os achados laboratoriais mostraram sorologia negativa para doença celíaca em todos os pacientes, níveis normais de albumina e vitamina B12. O atraso entre os sintomas e o diagnóstico de CM variou de 2 meses a 6 anos. Todos os pacientes tinham diagnóstico prévio de síndrome do intestino irritável. Todos os pacientes apresentaram remissão clínica completa durante o tratamento e não referiram efeitos colaterais da droga. Conclusão: As mulheres mais velhas que usam medicamentos de alto risco são sugestivas de CM. Evitar o atraso no diagnóstico de CM é fundamental para melhorar a qualidade de vida dos pacientes. A budesonida MMX foi eficaz, segura e bem tolerada.

Prevalence of positive tuberculin skin test in a Brazilian sample of rheumatoid arthritis and spondylarthritis patients

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: Patients with rheumatic diseases have an increased risk of infections, especially tuberculosis. In this study, we aimed to recognize the positivity rate of tuberculosis skin test in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and spondyloarthritis and the characteristics of the patients with positive results. METHODS: Retrospective study of tuberculosis skin test results in patients followed from 2004 to 2021 in a single rheumatology unit. Data related to clinical and epidemiological features, along with treatment information referring to the period in which the tuberculosis skin test was performed, were collected from patients' charts. RESULTS: A total of 723 tests were identified (448 tests in 269 rheumatoid arthritis patients and 275 in 174 spondyloarthritis patients). In the rheumatoid arthritis sample, 31/275 (11.5%) individuals had positive tests, and in the spondyloarthritis, 38/174 (21.8%) had positive tests. In the rheumatoid arthritis sample, patients with positive tuberculosis skin tests used a higher dose of methotrexate than those with negative results (median of 25 mg/week versus median of 20 mg/week respectively; p=0.02). In the spondyloarthritis sample, tuberculosis skin test positivity was associated with alcohol ingestion (13.1% versus 2.9% in users and non-users respectively; p=0.02) and sulfasalazine use (15.7% of positivity in users versus 5% in non-users; p=0.01). CONCLUSION: The tuberculosis skin test-positive prevalence in rheumatoid arthritis was lower than in the spondyloarthritis sample. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis using a higher dosage of methotrexate or with spondyloarthritis using sulfasalazine had more frequency of tuberculosis skin test positivity and should be carefully followed by the attending physician in order to avoid the appearance of full-blown tuberculosis.

Colite microscópica: considerações para gastroenterologistas, endoscopistas e patologistas / Microscopic colitis: considerations for gastroenterologists, endoscopists, and pathologists

ABSTRACT Microscopic colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized by non-bloody diarrhea that can range from mild to severe. It is difficult to attribute up to 10-20% of chronic diarrhea to microscopic colitis. The three determinants factors of the diagnosis are characteristic clinical symptoms, normal endoscopic picture of the colon, and pathognomonic histological picture. This manuscript aimed to update considerations and recommendations for professionals involved (gastroenterologist, endoscopists and pathologist) in the diagnosis of MC. In addition, a short recommendation about treatment.

RESUMO A colite microscópica é uma doença intestinal inflamatória crônica caracterizada por diarreia não sanguinolenta que pode variar de leve a grave. Atribui-se que cerca de 10-20% das diarreias crônicas são devidas à colite microscópica. Os três fatores determinantes para o diagnóstico são sintomas clínicos característicos, quadro endoscópico normal do cólon e quadro histológico patognomônico. Este manuscrito tem como objetivo atualizar e trazer recomendações para os profissionais envolvidos (gastroenterologista, endoscopista e patologista) no diagnóstico de colite microscópica. Adicionalmente, uma breve recomendação sobre o tratamento.

Abnormalities in preoperative examinations of plastic surgery patients / Anormalidades em exames pré-operatórios de pacientes de cirurgia plástica

Introduction: Preoperative tests (EPO) aim to detect abnormalities and give greater safety to the procedure. However, the request for these tests is still controversial, either because they do not bring about changes in conduct for the procedure or result in some harm to the patient. The objective is to assess the frequency of EPO requests and abnormalities in aesthetic plastic surgery patients, to verify what these abnormalities are, what preoperative management should be done based on the finding, and to associate the data obtained with the patient's profile and the planned surgery. Method: Retrospective study evaluating medical records of aesthetic plastic surgery patients who underwent routine EPO in a plastic surgery hospital in 2019. Results: 978 patients were studied, and 51% had some abnormality in EPO. 93.7% were women, with a mean age of 46.5 years. 12.3 exams were performed per patient, and abnormality was observed in 6.1% of EPO. The exams that had the most abnormalities were the lipidogram (23.8%) and the cardiac evaluation (14.1%). Hypothyroidism was the most common comorbidity (18.4% of patients); 70% of diabetics had a glycemic level above the recommended level. Only 3.4% of the patients suffered a change in preoperative management due to EPO abnormality, and in 57.9% of these cases, the surgery was postponed. Test alterations were more frequent in male patients (p<0.0001). Conclusion: The performance of routine EPO showed a low frequency of altered exams (3.4%) and implied changes in the preoperative conduct of plastic surgery patients.

Introdução: Os exames pré-operatórios (EPO) visam detectar anormalidades e dar maior segurança ao procedimento. No entanto, a solicitação desses exames ainda é controversa, seja por não trazerem mudanças de conduta para o procedimento ou resultar em alguns malefícios para o paciente. O objetivo é avaliar a frequência de solicitações e de anormalidades dos EPO em pacientes de cirurgia plástica estética, verificar quais são estas anormalidades, qual conduta pré-operatória mediante o achado e associar os dados obtidos com o perfil do paciente e cirurgia prevista. Método: Estudo retrospectivo avaliando prontuários de pacientes de cirurgia plástica estética que realizaram EPO de rotina em um hospital de cirurgia plástica durante o ano de 2019. Resultados: Foram estudados 978 pacientes e 51% desses apresentaram alguma anormalidade nos EPO. 93,7% eram mulheres, com média de idade 46,5 anos. Foram realizados 12,3 exames por paciente e observada anormalidade em 6,1% dos EPO. Os exames que mais tiveram anormalidades foram o lipidograma (23,8%) e os da avaliação cardíaca (14,1%). Hipotireoidismo foi a comorbidade mais achada (18,4% dos pacientes); 70% dos diabéticos estavam com o nível glicêmico acima do recomendado. Apenas 3,4% dos pacientes sofreram alteração da conduta pré-operatória devido anormalidade dos EPO e em 57,9% desses casos houve adiamento da cirurgia. Alterações de exames foram mais frequentes em pacientes do sexo masculino (p<0,0001). Conclusão: A realização de EPO de rotina mostrou baixa frequência de exames alterados (3,4%) e implicou em mudanças na conduta pré-operatória em pacientes de cirurgia plástica.

Prevalence of skin lesions in a sample of Brazilian patients with inflammatory bowel disease

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: Inflammatory bowel diseases may have extra intestinal manifestations such as those affecting the skin. This study aimed to study skin manifestations in a cohort of Brazilian patients with inflammatory bowel diseases. METHODS: Epidemiological and clinical data were obtained through a cross-sectional study of 70 inflammatory bowel diseases patients and a control group comprising 50 healthy individuals. All patients were subjected to dermatological examination and photography of skin lesions. RESULTS: Out of the 70 inflammatory bowel diseases patients, 50 had ulcerative colitis and 20 had Crohn's disease. Skin lesions occurred in 95.7% of the inflammatory bowel diseases patients and in 88% of individuals in the control group (p=0.001). Alopecia (p<0.0001), xerosis (p=0.03), striae (p=0.02), and acne (p=0.04) were more common in inflammatory bowel diseases patients than in the control group. Alopecia was more frequent in females (p=0.01) than in males. Two male patients, one with ulcerative colitis and the other with Crohn's disease, had pyoderma gangrenosum. Erythema nodosum was not observed in both groups. CONCLUSION: There was a high prevalence of skin lesions in the Brazilian inflammatory bowel diseases patients. Additionally, alopecia, xerosis, striae, and acne were more common in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases than in those in the control group.

Resistin serum levels and its association with clinical profile and carotid intima-media thickness in psoriasis: a cross-sectional study

Abstract Background Psoriasis is a protean disease associated with several comorbidities that may have increased levels of adiponectin such as resistin. This may affect the patients atherosclerotic risk. Objective To study resistin levels in a sample of Brazilian patients with psoriasis and its association with clinical profile, comorbidities, and carotid Intima-Media Thickness (cIMT). Methods This is a cross-sectional study of 119 individuals: 34 healthy controls and 85 patients with psoriasis, 42 of which with skin involvement only and 43 with psoriatic arthritis. Clinical and epidemiological data, measurement of PASI (Psoriasis Area Severity Index) and DAPSA (Disease Activity in Psoriatic Arthritis), lipid profile, cIMT by ultrasound were collected from medical records. Resistin serum levels were measured by ELISA. Results Patients with psoriasis had higher resistin levels (p = 0.009) and worse cIMT (p = 0.0002) than controls. In the psoriasis sample, no associations of resistin levels with epidemiological, clinical findings, and activity indexes were found. Resistin serum levels were associated with the presence of diabetes (p = 0.008) and metabolic syndrome (p = 0.01) and correlated with total cholesterol (r = 0.26) and triglycerides (r = 0.33) but not with cIMT. Study limitations This work is limited by its transversal design and by the limited number of patients included. Conclusion Resistin serum levels are elevated in psoriasis patients. In this sample, clinical, epidemiological, and activity indexes were not linked to resistin serum levels, but atherosclerotic risk factors were.

Periodontitis in rheumatoid arthritis: a case-control study in a brazilian sample

To investigate the presence of periodontitis in RA patients comparing it with controls in a Brazilian sample. Methods: This is a case control study conducted in a public health rheumatologic center. One hundred and sixteen RA patients and 68 paired controls were compared for epidemiological data and presence of periodontal disease evaluated by number of remaining teeth, presence of bacterial plaque, bleeding on probing, probing depth and clinical level of gingival insertion. In addition, data on comorbidities was collected. Results: RA patients and controls have the same amount of teeth loss (P = 0.84). RA patients had more calculus (P = 0.02); dental plaques (P = 0.04); gingival recession (P = 0.02) and bleeding (P = 0.01). Although the number of individuals with periodontitis was higher in RA patients, the severity of periodontitis was similar in both groups (P = ns). Presence of diabetes and hypothyroidism also associated with periodontitis (P = 0.01 and 0.02 respectively). In a model of logistic regression built to assess the independence of association of RA and its comorbidities with periodontitis, only diabetes and RA remained independent. Conclusion: This case control study shows higher frequency of periodontitis in RA patients than controls

Presentation patterns and outcomes in patients with colorectal cancer seeking the emergency department for consultation

Background: Patients with colorectal cancer may seek the emergency department for symptoms related to chemotherapy and radiotherapy side effects as well as those from the disease itself and from surgery complications. Objectives: To establish the epidemiological and clinical profile of colorectal cancer patients that look for consultations in the emergency department. Methods: Retrospective study of emergency room charts from colorectal cancer patients that consulted in a single oncological hospital for the period of 1 year. Results: Four hundred and forty-six consultations were identified (49.5% males and 50.5% females) with a mean age of 63 years and with advanced disease (most with tumor, node, metastases [TNM] stages III and IV). The most common complaint was abdominal pain (27.5%), followed by nausea (4.7%; more commonly seen in females with p =0.03) and bladder symptoms (4.7%; more commonly seen in males, with p =0.003). Infections (10.3%) and acute abdominal pain (9.1%) were the most frequent diagnoses. About 18% of them were admitted to the hospital and 80% were discharged home. Conclusion: The profile of patients with colorectal cancer seeking the emergency department comprises patients with advanced disease and a similar proportion of males and females. Symptom-driven complaints were the most frequent reason for consultations. (AU)

Effects of aging and the body mass index on male sex hormones: a cross-sectional study in 701 Brazilian men / Efeitos do envelhecimento e do índice de massa corporal sobre os hormônios sexuais masculinos: um estudo transversal em 701 homens brasileiros

Background: Some studies indicated that body mass index (BMI) is inversely proportional to serum testosterone concentrations in men. Purposes: This study aimed to analyze the effects of aging and obesity on total testosterone (TT), free testosterone (FT), bioavailable testosterone (BT), luteinizing hormone (LH), and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) levels. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed to assess the clinical and laboratory profiles of 701 patients treated at a private urology clinic in Ponta Grossa, Brazil, from January 2016 to December 2018. Results: Patients' age ranged from 16 to 88 years (mean, 56.9 ± 13.62 years). Age did not significantly influence serum TT concentrations, except compared to patients aged >70 years. However, changes were observed in FT and BT (p < 0.05). The mean SHBG increased with age (p < 0.05). A tendency toward LH elevation was observed in older patients, but it was not statistically significant. An inverse proportional relationship between TT, FT, and BT and the testosterone deficiency rate (TT < 300 ng/dL) was observed within BMI groups (p < 0.05). The testosterone deficiency rate was 21.5% in individuals with normal BMI, 29% in overweight individuals, and 37% in obese individuals. Conclusions: Aging affected the testosterone concentrations in men and became increasingly evident using FT and BT instead of TT. SHBG increased with age. Obesity was associated with a decrease in TT, FT, and BT but also increased the rate of hypogonadism. (AU)

Fundamentos: Alguns estudos indicam que o índice de massa corporal (IMC) é inversamente proporcional à con-centração de testosterona sérica em homens. Objetivos: O objetivo deste estudo é analisar o efeito do envelhe-cimento e da obesidade na testosterona biodisponível total e livre, bem como nos níveis de hormônio luteinizante e globulina ligadora de hormônio sexual. Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo transversal abordando o perfil clínico e laboratorial de 701 pacientes atendidos em uma clínica privada de urologia em Ponta Grossa, Brasil, de janei-ro de 2016 a dezembro de 2018. Resultados: A idade dos pacientes variou de 16 a 88 anos (média de 56,9 ± 13,62 anos). A idade não influenciou significativamente as concentrações séricas de testosterona total, exceto quando comparada a pacientes com mais de 70 anos. No entanto, foi observada diferença na testosterona livre e biodisponível (p <0,05). A média de globulina de ligação aos hormônios sexuais aumentou com a idade (p <0,05). Embora uma tendência à elevação da luteinização tenha sido observada em pacientes mais idosos, ela não foi significativa. Relação inversa entre testosterona total, livre e biodisponível e taxa de deficiência de testosterona (testosterona total <300 ng / dL) foi observada dentro dos grupos de índice de massa corporal (p <0,05). A taxa de deficiência de testosterona em indivíduos com índice de massa corporal normal foi de 21,5%, indivíduos com sobre-peso foi de 29% e em indivíduos com obesidade foi de 37%. Conclusões: O envelhecimento afetou a concentração de testosterona em homens, mais evidente ao avaliar testosterona livre e biodisponível em vez de testosterona total. A globulina de ligação aos hormônios sexuais aumentou com a idade. A obesidade foi associada à redução da testosterona total, livre e biodisponível e ao aumento da taxa de hipogonadismo. (AU)

Índice de independência funcional de pacientes pós-acidente vascular cerebral submetidos a um programa de reabilitação multiprofissional / Functional independence index of patients submitted to multiprofessional rehabilitation program after cerebrovascular accident

Acidente Vascular Cerebral (AVC) pode causar óbito ou sequelas motoras e funcionais de intensidade variável. O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar o índice de independência funcional de pacientes pós-Acidente Vascular Cerebral submetidos a um programa de reabilitação multiprofissional. Trata-se de estudo retrospectivo por meio de revisão dos prontuários de sobreviventes de lesão vascular na artéria cerebral média, admitidos entre 2014 e 2019 em hospital público de Curitiba - Paraná, e que foram analisados na admissão e na alta por meio da Escala de Rankin modificada (mRS). Foram aplicados teste Qui-Quadrado, Mann-Whitney e Wilcoxon, considerando p < 0,05 %. A amostra, composta por 64 pacientes, teve predomínio masculino (56 %), faixa etária média de 59 anos, eapresentou como sequelas principais déficit motor (98 %), disartria (51 %), afasia (46 %), dor (45 %) e incontinência urinária (42 %). Houve diferença significativa entre os escores aferidos por meio da mRS na admissão e na alta, com maior independência funcional após realização do programa de reabilitação proposto (p < 0,001). Conclui-se que a participação no programa refletiu em ganho de autonomia no autocuidado e na realização de atividades diárias pelos pacientes. [au]

A cerebrovascular accident (CVA) can cause death or motor and functional consequences of variable intensity. This study analyzed the rate of functional independence of patients after a cerebrovascular accident and a multi professional rehabilitation program. This was a retrospective research analyzing the medical charts of middle cerebral artery stroke survivors, admitted to a public hospital at Curitiba-Paraná between 2014 and 2019. The participants were analyzed at admission and discharge using the Modified Rankin Scale (mRS). The Chi-Squared test, Mann-Whitney test and Wilcoxon tests were applied, considering p<0.05%. The sample was composed of 64 patients, mainly men (56%), with a mean age of 59 years old. The main stroke sequelae were motor deficit (98%), dysarthria (51%), aphasia (46%), pain (45%) and urinary incontinence (42%). There was a significant difference between the mRS scores at admission and discharge, with greater functional independence after the proposed rehabilitation program (p <0.001). It is concluded that participation in the program led to increased autonomy in self-care and daily activities for the patients.[au]

Pitiríase liquenoide pós-vacinação contra COVID-19: um relato de caso / Pityriasis lichenoides after COVID-19 vaccination: a case report

O artigo aborda o primeiro relato de caso que associa o desenvolvimento de pitiríase liquenoide com a vacinação contra a COVID-19. Em uma revisão literária foram encontrados escassos estudos que associam a pitiríase liquenoide como reação a outras vacinas. O mecanismo de desenvolvimento da doença ainda não é bem conhecido. Sabe-se apenas que se trata de uma reação inflamatória imunomediada. O diagnóstico da pitiríase liquenoide é clínico e é considerado um desafio, devido ao grande número de diagnósticos diferenciais e das diferentes formas de apresentação da doença. Desse modo, a maioria dos casos exige amparo na biópsia e em exames laboratoriais. As opções terapêuticas podem incluir o uso de antibióticos e imunossupressores. Destaca-se ainda a efetividade da fototerapia como tratamento de escolha da pitiríase liquenoide, podendo proporcionar uma resolução quase que completa das lesões e não causar efeitos sistêmicos que outras terapias poderiam trazer.

This study addresses the first case report of pityriasis lichenoides development after COVID-19 vaccination. A literature review found few studies describing pityriasis lichenoides as an adverse reaction to other vaccines. Although it is an immune-mediated inflammatory response, the development mechanism of this disease remains not well known. The diagnosis of pityriasis lichenoides is clinical and is considered a challenge due to the considerable number of differential diagnoses and the different forms of presentation of the disease. Thus, most cases require confirmation by biopsy and laboratory tests. Therapeutic options may include the use of antibiotics and immunosuppressants. The effectiveness of phototherapy is also highlighted as the treatment of choice for pityriasis lichenoides, as it can promote an almost complete resolution of lesions without causing systemic effects, unlike other therapies.

Anxiety and insecurity in medical interns: the impact of the pandemic COVID-19 / Ansiedade e insegurança em estudantes de medicina no internato: o impacto da pandemia da COVID-19

Purpose: We aimed to assess anxiety among medical interns and to identify changes regarding their perspective about the profession during the pandemic period in Brazil, between November 2020 and February 2021.Methods: This is a cross-sectional descriptive study which medical interns answered an online survey question-naire. The assessment was performed using the validated questionnaire General Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7). Results: 162 responses were collected, mean age of 24.9 years, majority female (66.7%); 83.3% had the option of returning to practical assistance. Among these, 35% claimed to have had contact with suspects COVID-19 patients and 13% had a positive test for COVID-19. GAD-7 scores showed that 33.4% were qualified as "Normal", while mild (37%), moderate (22.8%) or severe symptoms of anxiety (6.8%). A GAD-7 score positive for TAG was found in 29.6% of them. Anxiety was significantly associated (p=0.013) with questioning the choice of Medicine as a profession. Conclusions: We found a high frequency of interns with symptoms of anxiety, higher compared to similar studies prior to the pandemic. In addition, medical interns with anxiety were the ones who most questioned the choice of profession (AU)

Objetivo: Objetivou-se avaliar a ansiedade de estudantes de medicina ­ internos e identificar mudanças em relação à perspectiva sobre a profissão durante o período pandêmico no Brasil, entre novembro de 2020 e fevereiro de 2021.Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo transversal descritivo no qual os estudantes internos responderam a um questionário de pesquisa online. A avaliação foi realizada por meio do questionário validado General Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7).Resultados: Participaram 162 estudantes, com média de idade de 24,9 anos, maioria do sexo feminino (66,7%); 83,3% tiveram a opção de retornar ao atendimento prático. Destes, 35% afirmaram ter tido contato com pacientes suspeitos para COVID-19 e 13% tiveram teste positivo para COVID-19. Os escores do GAD-7 mostraram que 37% apresentaram sintomas de ansiedade leve, 22,8% moderado, e 6,8% grave. Um escore GAD-7 positivo para TAG foi encontrado em 29,6% deles. A ansiedade associou-se significativamente (p = 0,013) ao questionamento da escolha da Medicina como profissão.Conclusões: Encontramos alta frequência de internos com sintomas de ansiedade, superior à observada em estu-dos semelhantes anteriores à pandemia. Além disso, os acadêmicos com ansiedade foram os que mais questionar-am a escolha da profissão (AU)

COVID-19, quarantine and sexual life: a cross-sectional online survey of Brazilian individuals / COVID-19, quarentena e vida sexual: uma pesquisa online transversal com brasileiros

INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 outbreak was responsible for a high number of deaths worldwide. Not only the physical health was affected by COVID-19. Thus, to avoid the infection spreading, social distancing and quarantine have been adopted, bringing rupture to previous habits, economic losses, and isolation. OBJECTIVE: To study the sexual life during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazilian individuals. METHODS: This crosssectional study using an internet survey was conducted from June 10th to July 30th, 2020 with epidemiological questions, questions on fatigue and depression, and the sexual quotient scale (SQS). RESULTS: The survey was answered by 2,131 individuals: 325 males, median age 25 years (IQR=22.0-33.5 years), range between 18 to 69 years and 1,806 females with median age 25 years (IQR=22-31 years), range between 18 to 67 years. In 49% of males and 29% of females (29%), there were no changes in sexual life. In 43.7% of females and 32.1% of males, some deterioration was observed while in 26.3% of females and 18.1% some improvement was noted. Despite this, 90.8% of males and 85% of females scored as having good sexual performance according to SQS. Sexual performance was negatively influenced by fatigue, state of mind in males and females; having a fixed partner and staying at home impaired male performance. CONCLUSION: Despite the pandemic, the studied sample showed good sexual performance in the studied period.

Quality of life of patients with Parkinson's disease: a comparison between preoperative and postoperative states among those who were treated with deep brain stimulation / Qualidade de vida de pacientes com doença de Parkinson: uma comparação dos estados pré-operatório e pós-operatório daqueles tratados com estimulação cerebral profunda

ABSTRACT Background: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a well-established procedure for treating Parkinson's disease (PD). Although its mechanisms of action are still unclear, improvements in motor symptoms and reductions in medication side effects can be achieved for a significant proportion of patients, with consequent enhancement of quality of life. Objective: To investigate the impact of DBS on the quality of life of PD patients. Methods: This was a retrospective longitudinal study with collection of historical data in a neurosurgery center, from June 2019 to December 2020. The sample was obtained according to convenience, and the Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire (PDQ-39), Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) III and IV, Trail-Making Test and Verbal Fluency Test were used. Results: Data were collected from 17 patients (13 with subthalamic nucleus DBS and 4 with globus pallidus pars interna DBS). Significant improvement (p=0.008) on the UPDRS III was observed in comparing the preoperative without DBS with the postoperative with DBS. About 47.0% of the patients showed post-surgical improvement in QoL (p=0.29). Thirteen patients were able to complete part A of the Trail-Making Test and four of these also completed part B. Almost 60% of the patients scored sufficiently on the semantic test, whereas only 11.8% scored sufficiently on the orthographic evaluation. No association between implant site and test performance could be traced. Conclusions: Improvements in quality of life and motor function were observed in the majority of the patients enrolled. Despite the limitations of this study, DBS strongly benefits a significant proportion of PD patients when well indicated.

RESUMO Antecedentes: A estimulação cerebral profunda (ECP) é um procedimento bem estabelecido para o tratamento da doença de Parkinson (DP). Embora seus mecanismos de ação não sejam claros, a melhora dos sintomas motores e a redução dos efeitos colaterais dos medicamentos são contempladas em uma proporção significativa de pacientes, com melhora da qualidade de vida. Objetivo: Investigar o impacto da ECP na qualidade de vida de pacientes em DP. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo longitudinal retrospectivo, com coleta de dados históricos em um centro de neurocirurgia, de junho de 2019 a dezembro de 2020. A amostra foi feita por conveniência, e os questionários Parkinson's Disease Questionnare (PDQ-39), Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) III e IV, Trail Making Test e Teste de Fluência Verbal foram utilizados. Resultados: Dos dados coletados de 17 pacientes (13 ECP em núcleo subtalâmico e ECP em globo pálido interno) notou-se melhora significativa (p=0,008) no UPDRS III ao se comparar o pré-operatório sem ECP com pós-operatório com ECP, e cerca de 47,0% deles apresentaram melhora pós-cirúrgica na qualidade de vida (p=0,29). Treze pacientes conseguiram completar a parte A do Trail Making Test e quatro também completaram a parte B. Quase 60,0% dos pacientes obtiveram pontuação suficiente no teste semântico, enquanto apenas 11,8% obtiveram pontuação suficiente na avaliação ortográfica. Não foi possível rastrear a associação entre local do implante e desempenho. Conclusões: Melhora na qualidade de vida e na função motora foi observada na maioria dos pacientes. Apesar das limitações do estudo, a ECP beneficia fortemente uma proporção significativa de pacientes em DP quando bem indicada.

Adverse childhood experiences in patients with psoriasis

Abstract Introduction Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have been linked to occurrence of autoimmune diseases in adults, including psoriasis. Objectives To study the prevalence of ACEs in psoriasis patients, comparing them with a sample from the general population. Methods Three hundred and eighteen individuals were included (104 psoriasis patients and 214 controls). Patients and controls answered questions on an ACE study questionnaire about experiences of childhood abuse, negligence, domestic violence, and household dysfunction. Questionnaire scores range from zero (best result) to 8 (worst scenario). Psoriasis patients' charts were reviewed for epidemiological, clinical, and treatment data. A Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) was calculated from measurements taken when the questionnaire was administered. Results Psoriasis patients reported a median of 4 ACEs (interquartile range [IQR] = 3-5) while controls had a median of 3 (IQR = 2-4) with p < 0.0001. The number of ACEs was not associated with PASI, age of disease onset, or presence of associated arthritis (all p > 0.5). Female psoriasis patients had more ACEs than males (p = 0.04). Conclusion Patients with psoriasis have more ACEs than controls and ACEs were more common in female patients.

Mudanças no perfil da mulher vítima de violência sexual em uma capital do sul do brasil / Changes in the profile of women victims of sexual violence in a South Brazil Capital

RESUMO: Introdução: O perfil da mulher vítima de violência sexual deve ser conhecido para elaboração de medidas pre-ventivas. Objetivos: Avaliar o perfil epidemiológico e a aplicação do protocolo de atendimento para mulheres vítimas de violência sexual nos casos acolhidos no Hospital Universitário Evangélico Mackenzie (HUEM), em Curitiba-PR.Metodologia: Foram avaliados os dados da Ficha de Violência Interpessoal/ Autoprovocada de mulheres com idade maior ou igual a 12 anos, acolhidas no serviço de atenção à vítima de violência sexual do HUEM em Curitiba-PR, entre janeiro de 2015 a dezembro de 2018. Foram buscados dados sociodemográficos da vítima, da ocorrência em si, clínicos e laboratoriais, sobre o provável autor da violência e sobre o retorno ao serviço.Principais resultados: Foram estudadas 252 vítimas de violência sexual. No período, a idade das vítimas nos anos 2015 e 2016 (mediana de 19 anos) em relação aos anos 2017 e 2018 (mediana de 17 anos) reduziu de forma significativa (p=0,026). Já a escolaridade não influenciou a violência sexual (p=0,64) e ser solteira conferiu maior risco (p<0,0001; OR=16,1). O horário noturno foi o de maior risco (p<0,0001; OR=3,5). Dentre as vítimas com idade entre 12 e 18 anos, 63,6% dos agressores são conhecidos e nas maiores de 18 anos, 70,8% dos agressores são desconhecidos (p<0,0001). Observou-se que 46% das vítimas não retornaram para nenhuma das consultas previstas e apenas 1,6% cumpriram o protocolo de acompanhamento. Conclusão: No período estudado, a redução significativa da idade apontou uma mudança no perfil demográfico da mulher vítima de violência sexual. Mesmo em um serviço de referência, a taxa de retorno ainda é muito baixa e são necessárias medidas para aumentar a adesão ao protocolo. (AU)

ABSTRACT: Introduction: The profile of women who are victims of sexual violence must be known to develop preventive me-asures.Objectives: To evaluate the epidemiological profile and the application of the care protocol for women victims of sexual violence in the cases admitted at Hospital Universitário Evangélico Mackenzie (HUEM) in Curitiba-PR.Methodology: Data from the Interpersonal / Self-harmed Violence Sheet of women aged 12 years and over, recei-ved at the HUEM care service for victims of sexual violence in Curitiba-PR, were evaluated between January 2015 and December 2018. Socio-demographic data on the victim, on the occurrence itself, clinical and laboratory, on the likely perpetrator of the violence and on the return to service were sought.Main results: 252 victims of sexual violence were studied. In the period, the age of the victims in the years 2015 and 2016 (median of 19 years) in relation to the years 2017 and 2018 (median of 17 years) decreased significantly (p = 0.026). Education level did not influence sexual violence (p = 0.64) and being single conferred greater risk (p <0.0001; OR = 16.1). Night hours had greater risk (p <0.0001; OR = 3.5). Among victims aged between 12 and 18 years, 63.6% of known aggressors and in those over 18 years of age, 70.8% of aggressors are unknown (p <0.0001). It was observed that 46% of the victims did not return for any of the scheduled consultations and only 1.6% fulfilled the follow-up protocol.Conclusion: During the studied period, the significant reduction in age pointed to a change in the demographic profile of women victims of sexual violence. Even in a referral service, the rate of return is still very low and actions are needed to increase adherence to the protocol. (au)