Position paper of diagnosis and treatment of post-extubation laryngitis in children: a multidisciplinary expert-based opinion.

OBJECTIVES: To make recommendations on the diagnosis and treatment of post-extubation laryngitis (PEL) in children with or without other comorbidities. METHODS: A three-iterative modified Delphi method was applied. Specialists were recruited representing pediatric otolaryngologists, pediatric and neonatal intensivists. Questions and statements approached topics encompassing definition, diagnosis, endoscopic airway evaluation, risk factors, comorbidities, management, and follow-up. A consensus was defined as a supermajority >70%. RESULTS: Stridor was considered the most frequent symptom and airway endoscopy was recommended for definitive diagnosis. Gastroesophageal reflux and previous history of intubation were considered risk factors. Specific length of intubation did not achieve a consensus as a risk factor. Systemic corticosteroids should be part of the medical treatment and dexamethasone was the drug of choice. No consensus was achieved regarding dosage of corticosteroids, although endoscopic findings help defining dosage and length of treatment. Non-invasive ventilation, laryngeal rest, and use of comfort sedation scales were recommended. Indications for microlaryngoscopy and bronchoscopy under anesthesia were symptoms progression or failure to improve after the first 72-h of medical treatment post-extubation, after two failed extubations, and/or suspicion of severe lesions on flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopy. CONCLUSIONS: Management of post-extubation laryngitis is challenging and can be facilitated by a multidisciplinary approach. Airway endoscopy is mandatory and impacts decision-making, although there is no consensus regarding dosage and length of treatment.

Probiotics for infantile colic: Is there evidence beyond doubt? A meta-analysis and systematic review.

AIM: This study is a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials that employed probiotics and symbiotics for treating infantile colic. METHODS: We performed electronic systematic literature searches in Embase, PubMed and Web of Science, to identify articles published between 1950 and April 2023. Only RCT involving infants with infantile colic under 3 months were included. The treatment plan comprised 15 probiotics, which included Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 and Bifidobacterium animalis lactis BB-12. The probiotics were administered alone or in combination with a prebiotic, vs. no intervention or a placebo. RESULTS: Probiotics resulted in an average reduction of 51 min of crying per day (p = 0.001). Further analysis of subgroups showed that the reduction was -39.30 min for vaginal delivery (p = 0.003), -64.66 min for Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 (p = 0.03), -40.45 min for other strains (p < 0.00001), -74.28 min for exclusively breastfed infants (p = 0.0003) and -48.04 min for mixed feeding (p < 0.00001). CONCLUSION: All probiotic strains seem effective in treating infantile colic. Exclusively breastfed infants have demonstrated more significant reduction in crying time. However, the available evidence on the effectiveness of probiotics in formula-fed and caesarean-born infants is limited.

Position paper of diagnosis and treatment of post-extubation laryngitis in children: a multidisciplinary expert-based opinion

Abstract Objectives To make recommendations on the diagnosis and treatment of post-extubation laryngitis (PEL) in children with or without other comorbidities. Methods A three-iterative modified Delphi method was applied. Specialists were recruited representing pediatric otolaryngologists, pediatric and neonatal intensivists. Questions and statements approached topics encompassing definition, diagnosis, endoscopic airway evaluation, risk factors, comorbidities, management, and follow-up. A consensus was defined as a supermajority >70%. Results Stridor was considered the most frequent symptom and airway endoscopy was recommended for definitive diagnosis. Gastroesophageal reflux and previous history of intubation were considered risk factors. Specific length of intubation did not achieve a consensus as a risk factor. Systemic corticosteroids should be part of the medical treatment and dexamethasone was the drug of choice. No consensus was achieved regarding dosage of corticosteroids, although endoscopic findings help defining dosage and length of treatment. Non-invasive ventilation, laryngeal rest, and use of comfort sedation scales were recommended. Indications for microlaryngoscopy and bronchoscopy under anesthesia were symptoms progression or failure to improve after the first 72-h of medical treatment post-extubation, after two failed extubations, and/or suspicion of severe lesions on flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopy. Conclusions Management of post-extubation laryngitis is challenging and can be facilitated by a multidisciplinary approach. Airway endoscopy is mandatory and impacts decision-making, although there is no consensus regarding dosage and length of treatment.

Viral Coinfection of Children Hospitalized with Severe Acute Respiratory Infections during COVID-19 Pandemic.

The main pathogens of severe respiratory infection in children are respiratory viruses, and the current molecular technology allows for a rapid and simultaneous detection of a wide spectrum of these viral pathogens, facilitating the diagnosis and evaluation of viral coinfection. METHODS: This study was conducted between March 2020 and December 2021. All children admitted to the ICU with a diagnosis of SARI and who were tested by polymerase chain reaction on nasopharyngeal swabs for SARS-CoV-2 and other common respiratory viral pathogens were included in the study. RESULTS: The result of the viral panel identified 446 children, with one infected with a single virus and 160 co-infected with two or more viruses. This study employed descriptive analyses, where a total of twenty-two coinfections among SARI-causing viruses were identified. Thus, the five most frequent coinfections that were selected for the study are: hRV/SARS-CoV-2 (17.91%), hRV/RSV (14.18%), RSV/SARS-CoV-2 (12.69%), hRV/BoV (10.45%), and hRV/AdV (8.21%). The most significant age group was 38.1%, representing patients aged between 24 and 59 months (61 individuals). Patients older than 59 months represented a total of 27.5%, comprising forty-four patients. The use of oxygen therapy was statistically significant in coinfections with Bocavirus, other CoVs, Metapneumovirus, and RSV. Coinfections with SARS-CoV-2 and the other different coinfections presented a similar time of use of oxygen therapy with a value of (p > 0.05). In the year 2020, hRV/BoV was more frequent in relation to other types of coinfections, representing a total of 35.1%. The year 2021 presented a divergent profile, with hRV/SARS-CoV-2 coinfection being the most frequent (30.8%), followed by hRV/RSV (28.2%). Additionally, 25.6% and 15.4% represented coinfections between RSV/SARS-CoV-2 and hRV/AdV, respectively. We saw that two of the patients coinfected with hRV/SARS-CoV-2 died, representing 9.52% of all deaths in the study. In addition, both hRV/hBoV and hRV/RSV had death records for each case, representing 8.33% and 6.67% of all deaths, respectively. CONCLUSION: Coinfections with respiratory viruses, such as RSV and hBoV, can increase the severity of the disease in children with SARI who are admitted to the ICU, and children infected with SARS-CoV-2 have their clinical condition worsened when they have comorbidities.

Profile analysis of emerging respiratory virus in children.

Acute respiratory infections (ARIs) are caused by a variety of microorganisms. Of all ARIs, 80% are caused by viruses such as human respiratory syncytial virus, metapneumovirus, influenza, parainfluenza, rhinovirus, and, more recently, Sars-CoV-2, which has been responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. The objective of our study was to evaluate clinical data from a viral panel performed in children hospitalized with SARS or COVID-19 in the infirmary or ICU of 5 pediatric hospitals in the city of Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were collected for analysis, and data on the outcomes underwent statistical treatment. A total of 128 patients were selected for the study, 54% of whom were male and 46% female. The viral panel included rhinovirus, COVID-19, metapneumovirus, adenovirus, and parainfluenza. Descriptive analyses of age profile showed differences in the involvement of particular viruses. The percentage of patients who required hospitalization in the ICU, infirmary, as well as individuals who were discharged after therapy or who died, were described. Our work shows that epidemiological surveillance measures are indispensable, especially if used in the continued analysis of viral panels in all pediatric patients with SARS.

Staphylococcus spp. Causatives of Infections and Carrier of blaZ, femA, and mecA Genes Associated with Resistance.

Staphylococcus spp. have been associated with cases of healthcare associated infections due to their high incidence in isolates from the hospital environment and their ability to cause infections in immunocompromised patients; synthesize biofilms on medical instruments, in the case of negative coagulase species; and change in genetic material, thus making it possible to disseminate genes that code for the acquisition of resistance mechanisms against the action of antibiotics. This study evaluated the presence of blaZ, femA, and mecA chromosomal and plasmid genes of Staphylococcus spp. using the qPCR technique. The results were associated with the phenotypic expression of resistance to oxacillin and penicillin G. We found that the chromosomal femA gene was present in a greater proportion in S. intermedius when compared with the other species analyzed, while the plasmid-borne mecA gene was prevalent in the S. aureus samples. The binary logistic regression performed to verify the association among the expression of the genes analyzed and the acquisition of resistance to oxacillin and penicillin G were not significant in any of the analyses, p > 0.05.

Detection of Oxacillin/Cefoxitin Resistance in Staphylococcus aureus Present in Recurrent Tonsillitis.

BACKGROUND: Recurrent tonsillitis is one of the most common diseases in childhood, caused many times by ß-lactam-resistant S. aureus. The objective of this study was to investigate an alternative method to identify resistance to oxacillin/cefoxitin in S. aureus from hospitalized children with recurrent tonsillitis. METHODS: The samples of S. aureus came from patients with recurrent tonsillitis and were used in 16S rRNA sequencing and an antibiogram test for identification and verifying resistance, after which HSI methodology were applied for separation of S. aureus resistances. RESULTS: The S. aureus isolated showed sensitivity to oxacillin/cefoxitin and the diagnostic images show a visual description of the resistance different groups formed, that may be related to sensitivity and resistance to oxacillin/cefoxitin, characterizing the MRSA S. aureus. CONCLUSIONS: Samples that showed phenotypic resistance to oxacillin/cefoxitin were clearly separated from samples that did not show this resistance. A PLS-DA model predicted the presence of resistance to oxacillin/cefoxitin in S. aureus samples and it was possible to observe the pixels classified as MRSA. The HSI was able to successfully discriminate samples in replicas that were sensitive and resistant, based on the calibration model it received.

Characterization of T Helper 1 and 2 Cytokine Profiles in Newborns of Mothers with COVID-19.

An infectious disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19 greatly affects the pediatric population and is 3 times more prevalent in newborns than in the general population. In newborns, the overexpression of immunological molecules may also induce a so-called cytokine storm. In our study, we evaluated the expression of cytokines in newborns admitted to a neonatal ICU whose mothers had SARS-CoV-2 and symptoms of SARS. The blood of newborns of infected and healthy mothers was collected to identify their Th1 and Th2 cytokine profiles, and via flow cytometry, the cytokines TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-6, and IL-10 were identified. Overexpression was observed in the Th1 and Th2 cytokine profiles of newborns from infected mothers compared with the control group. Statistical analysis also revealed significant differences between the cellular and humoral responses of the infected group versus the control group. The cellular versus humoral responses of the newborns of infected mothers were also compared, which revealed the prevalence of the cellular immune response. These data demonstrate that some cytokines identified relate to more severe symptoms and even some comorbidities. IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-10 may especially be related to cytokine storms in neonates of mothers with COVID-19.

Severe Neurological Manifestation in a Child with Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: During the COVID-19 pandemic, we followed with concern the evolution of several children diagnosed with Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C). The purpose of this study is to describe the evolution of MIS-C in a previously healthy 3-year-old girl. METHODS: We tracked the daily medical report of all children admitted with suspected MIS-C to the five largest regional hospitals. RESULTS: Our screening identified a child who had several neurological complications associated with MIS-C. We report hematological alterations, transient cardiac dysfunction, and cerebral involvements such as laminar cortical necrosis caused by ischemic stroke. We present the course of treatment and clinical outcome, and other complications such as a severe subglottic stenosis occurring after extubation. CONCLUSION: Subglottic stenosis is an expected complication after prolonged intubation, and the presence of dysphonia and/or stridor is an important predictive factor. MIS-C with severe neurological alteration may occur in a healthy child, and early diagnosis and treatment with a pulse of corticoid with immunoglobulin are essential for a favorable outcome.

Influenza and other respiratory viruses in children: prevalence and clinical features.

With the COVID-19 pandemic still ongoing, the annual season of influenza and other respiratory virus epidemics has arrived. Specimens from patients suspected of respiratory viruses infection were collected. Viral detection was performed following RNA extraction and real-time RT-PCR. During the study period, we received and tested a total of 606 specimens. Rhinovirus virus was the viral type most prevalent, detected in 186 (45.47%) specimens. The age range of patients positive for influenza A, influenza A (H1N1), and influenza B was 18 days to 13 years. With female prevalence for this viral type, cough and asthma were the main clinical manifestations presented by this viral type. Our results indicate that rhinoviruses, adenoviruses, metapneumoviruses, and influenza are among the most important agents of ARI in pediatrics. The epidemic period of respiratory infections observed in Goiânia can be useful for planning and implementing some prevention strategies.

Correlation between cow's milk protein allergy and otitis media: a systematic review / Correlação entre alergia à proteína do leite de vaca e otite média: uma revisão sistemática

Abstract Objectives To review the evidence pertaining to the association between cow's milk protein allergy and recurrent acute otitis media and otitis media with effusion. Methods The CENTRAL, Web of Science, EMBASE, MEDLINE, LILACS databases, and gray literature were searched. Results Four studies were included, identifying the prevalence rates: 0.2% of delayed speech due to chronic otitis media with effusion in 382 children with cow's milk protein allergy, 10.7% of cow's milk protein allergy in 242 children who underwent ENT procedures, 40% of cow's milk protein allergy in 25 children with recurrent otitis media with effusion and higher tendency to otitis media in children with cow's milk protein allergy of 186 children (1.5 + 0.6 vs. 0.4 + 0.1; p< 0.1). Conclusion Considering the characteristics and methodological variations of the identified studies, it is not possible to state that there is reliable evidence of an association between cow's milk protein allergy and otitis media.

Resumo Objetivo Revisar as evidências sobre a correlação entre alergia à proteína do leite de vaca e otite média aguda recorrente e otite média com efusão. Métodos As buscas foram feitas nas bases de dados Central, Web of Science, Embase, Medline, Lilacs e na literatura cinzenta. Resultados Quatro estudos foram incluídos, identificaram‐se as prevalências: 0,2% de fala atrasada devido a otite média com efusão crônica entre 382 crianças com alergia à proteína do leite de vaca, 10,7% de alergia à proteína do leite de vaca entre 242 crianças submetidas a procedimentos otorrinolaringológicos, 40% de alergia à proteína do leite de vaca entre 25 crianças com otite média com efusão recorrente e maior tendência à otite média em alérgicos à proteína do leite de vaca entre 186 crianças (1,5 + 0,6vs.0,4 + 0,1; p < 0,1). Conclusão Se considerarmos as características e variações metodológicas dos estudos identificados, não é possível afirmar a existência de evidência confiável sobre a correlação entre alergia à proteína do leite de vaca e otite média.

Congenital laryngeal webs: from diagnosis to surgical outcomes / Membranas laríngeas congênitas: do diagnóstico aos resultados cirúrgicos

Abstract Introduction: Congenital laryngeal webs are rare, may be associated with other airway abnormalities and be one of many features of microdeletion 22q11. Meticulous evaluation is imperative when deciding which surgical technique to use. The choice of appropriate stenting may be decisive to avoid persistent anterior commissure synechia and poor voice results. Objective: To report outcomes for endoscopic and open surgical approaches in the treatment of congenital laryngeal webs and the challenges one may encounter while applying the current classification and deciding for the best treatment option. Methods: Retrospective review of medical and surgical charts for congenital laryngeal webs treated in two tertiary university centers. Results: Seven patients were included; following Cohen's classification there were: three type II webs, one of them with an atypical posterior synechia, two type III webs and two type IV webs. Six patients were submitted to laryngotracheal reconstruction and one was treated with an endoscopic approach. Description of precise glottic and subglottic involvement and tailored surgical options are presented. The LT mold® stent was used for long-term stenting that varied between 40 to 60 days. All patients were successfully decannulated with good voice quality and after follow-up of over one year, there were no complications associated with the surgeries. Conclusion: Congenital laryngeal webs should be suspected and thoroughly evaluated in the presence of neonatal dysphonia and early onset of laryngitis. Otolaryngologists must be familiar with associated lesions and genetic conditions that may be associated to congenital laryngeal webs. Congenital laryngeal webs may be successfully treated at an early age. The correct choice of surgical technique after meticulous evaluation of glottic and subglottic components of the web, presence of concomitant lesions and appropriate stenting, is imperative to avoid persistent scarring and poor voice quality.

Resumo Introdução: As membranas laríngeas congênitas são raras, podem estar associadas a outras anormalidades das vias aéreas e ser uma das muitas características da microdeleção 22q11. A avaliação cuidadosa é imprescindível na decisão de qual técnica cirúrgica deve ser usada. A escolha do stent apropriado pode ser decisiva para evitar sinéquia persistente da comissura anterior e maus resultados vocais. Objetivo: Relatar os resultados das abordagens cirúrgicas abertas e endoscópicas no tratamento das membranas laríngeas congênitas e os desafios que podem ser encontrados ao aplicar a classificação atual e decidir a melhor opção de tratamento. Método: Revisão retrospectiva de prontuários médicos e cirúrgicos de membranas laríngeas congênitas tratadas em dois centros universitários terciários. Resultados: Sete pacientes foram incluídos, de acordo com a classificação de Cohen: três membranas do tipo II, uma delas com sinéquia posterior atípica, duas membranas do tipo III e duas membranas do tipo IV. Seis pacientes foram submetidos à reconstrução laringotraqueal e um foi tratado por abordagem endoscópica. Descrição precisa do envolvimento glótico e subglótico e opções cirúrgicas personalizadas são apresentadas. O stent utilizado foi o LT mold® e o período variou entre 40 e 60 dias. Todos os pacientes foram decanulados com boa qualidade de voz e o seguimento foi superior a um ano, não houve complicações associadas às cirurgias. Conclusão: As membranas laríngeas congênitas devem ser suspeitadas e avaliadas minuciosamente na presença de disfonia neonatal e laringite de início precoce. Os otorrinolaringologistas devem estar familiarizados com lesões associadas e condições genéticas que podem estar associadas a membranas laríngeas congênitas. As membranas laríngeas congênitas são tratadas com sucesso em idades precoces. A escolha da técnica cirúrgica após avaliação meticulosa dos componentes glóticos e subglóticos da membrana, presença de lesões concomitantes e uso do stent adequado é imprescindível para evitar cicatrizes persistentes e má qualidade da voz.

Single dose of intraoperative intravenous morphine for analgesia in children undergoing tonsillectomy: Randomized, double-blind clinical trial / Dose única de morfina endovenosa intraoperatória para analgesia de crianças submetidas à amigdalectomia: ensaio clínico randomizado duplo cego

Abstract Introduction Children undergoing tonsillectomy have severe pain in the postoperative period. One of the pharmacological options for analgesia is opioids, such as morphine. However, the risks of adverse effects, such as increased recovery time from anesthesia and respiratory depression, can limit its use. Objectives To evaluate the use of intraoperative intravenous morphine to reduce immediate postoperative pain in children undergoing tonsillectomy. Methods In this double-blind randomized study, children aged 3-10 years were submitted to tonsillectomy, with or without adenoidectomy, and divided into two groups. Children in group M received 0.1 mg/kg of intravenous morphine during anesthetic induction, while those in the control group received conventional anesthesia without morphine. Postoperative pain perceptions were assessed at 30, 60, 120, 180 and 240 min after recovery from anesthesia, by the children themselves and also by their parents or guardians, using a facial pain scale. Results A total of 57 children were included, 30 in the group with morphine and 27 in the group without morphine. According to the children themselves, the postoperative pain was less at the evaluations performed at 30 min after awakening from anesthesia (p= 0.023), while according to their parents/guardians, the pain was less intense in the evaluations performed at 30 (p= 0.002), 60 (p= 0.006) and 180 min (p= 0.007) after awakening. Moreover, postoperative analgesics were less requested by children in the morphine group. No observed side effects were associated with the use of morphine. Conclusion A single dose of intravenous morphine during anesthetic induction reduced the intensity of immediate postoperative pain in children undergoing tonsillectomy, without increasing the time of awakening from anesthesia and with lower consumption of rescue analgesics.

Resumo Introdução Crianças submetidas a amigdalectomias apresentam dor intensa no pós-operatório. Uma das opções farmacológicas de analgesia são os opioides, como a morfina. No entanto, os riscos de efeitos adversos, como aumento do tempo de recuperação da anestesia e depressão respiratória, podem limitar o seu uso. Objetivos Avaliar o uso de morfina endovenosa intraoperatória na redução da dor pós-operatória imediata de crianças submetidas a amigdalectomia. Método Neste estudo cego randomizado, crianças de 3 a 10 anos foram submetidas a amigdalectomia, com ou sem adenoidectomia, e divididas em dois grupos. As crianças do grupo M receberam 0,1 mg.kg-1 de morfina endovenosa na indução anestésica, enquanto as do grupo controle receberam anestesia convencional sem morfina. As percepções de dor no pós-operatório foram avaliadas aos 30, 60, 120, 180 e 240 min após a recuperação da anestesia, pelas próprias crianças e também pelos seus pais ou responsáveis, com uma escala de dor pela face. Resultados Foram incluídas 57 crianças, 30 no grupo com morfina e 27 no grupo sem morfina. De acordo com as próprias crianças, a dor pós-operatória foi menor durante as avaliações feitas aos 30 minutos após o despertar da anestesia (p = 0,023), enquanto segundo seus pais/responsáveis a dor foi menos intensa nas avaliações feitas aos 30 (p = 0,002), 60 (p = 0,006) e 180 minutos (p = 0,007) após o despertar. Além disto, analgésicos no pós-operatório foram menos solicitados pelas crianças do grupo da morfina. Não foram observados efeitos colaterais associados ao uso da morfina. Conclusão Uma dose única de morfina endovenosa durante a indução anestésica reduziu a intensidade da dor pós-operatória imediata de crianças submetidas a amigdalectomia, sem aumento do tempo de despertar da anestesia e com menor consumo de analgésicos de resgate.

Congenital laryngeal webs: from diagnosis to surgical outcomes.

INTRODUCTION: Congenital laryngeal webs are rare, may be associated with other airway abnormalities and be one of many features of microdeletion 22q11. Meticulous evaluation is imperative when deciding which surgical technique to use. The choice of appropriate stenting may be decisive to avoid persistent anterior commissure synechia and poor voice results. OBJECTIVE: To report outcomes for endoscopic and open surgical approaches in the treatment of congenital laryngeal webs and the challenges one may encounter while applying the current classification and deciding for the best treatment option. METHODS: Retrospective review of medical and surgical charts for congenital laryngeal webs treated in two tertiary university centers. RESULTS: Seven patients were included; following Cohen's classification there were: three type II webs, one of them with an atypical posterior synechia, two type III webs and two type IV webs. Six patients were submitted to laryngotracheal reconstruction and one was treated with an endoscopic approach. Description of precise glottic and subglottic involvement and tailored surgical options are presented. The LT mold® stent was used for long-term stenting that varied between 40 to 60 days. All patients were successfully decannulated with good voice quality and after follow-up of over one year, there were no complications associated with the surgeries. CONCLUSION: Congenital laryngeal webs should be suspected and thoroughly evaluated in the presence of neonatal dysphonia and early onset of laryngitis. Otolaryngologists must be familiar with associated lesions and genetic conditions that may be associated to congenital laryngeal webs. Congenital laryngeal webs may be successfully treated at an early age. The correct choice of surgical technique after meticulous evaluation of glottic and subglottic components of the web, presence of concomitant lesions and appropriate stenting, is imperative to avoid persistent scarring and poor voice quality.

Correlation between cow's milk protein allergy and otitis media: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVES: To review the evidence pertaining to the association between cow's milk protein allergy and recurrent acute otitis media and otitis media with effusion. METHODS: The CENTRAL, Web of Science, EMBASE, MEDLINE, LILACS databases, and gray literature were searched. RESULTS: Four studies were included, identifying the prevalence rates: 0.2% of delayed speech due to chronic otitis media with effusion in 382 children with cow's milk protein allergy, 10.7% of cow's milk protein allergy in 242 children who underwent ENT procedures, 40% of cow's milk protein allergy in 25 children with recurrent otitis media with effusion and higher tendency to otitis media in children with cow's milk protein allergy of 186 children (1.5 + 0.6 vs. 0.4 + 0.1; p < 0.1). CONCLUSION: Considering the characteristics and methodological variations of the identified studies, it is not possible to state that there is reliable evidence of an association between cow's milk protein allergy and otitis media.

Complicações em testes para COVID-19 com swab nasal: relatos de caso / COVID-19 nasal swab testing complications: case reports

Introdução: Atualmente, estamos enfrentando uma pandemia causada pela síndrome respiratória aguda grave coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) que é um vírus de RNA de uma única cadeia pertencente à família de coronavírus. O método mais utilizado para confirmar o diagnóstico da infecção pelo SARSCoV-2 é através de testes moleculares usando rRT-PCR (reações em cadeia de transcrição reversa em tempo real polimerase) para detectar o RNA viral. A maneira usual de colher amostras virais é através de cotonetes nasofaríngeos. Uma das formas efetivas de controlar a transmissão dessa doença é o diagnóstico precoce e isolamento dos pacientes infectados. Nesse relato abordaremos dois casos de complicações com swab nasal na coleta de rRT-PCR para COVID-19, atendidos em um pronto socorro de otorrinolaringologia. Relato de caso: O primeiro foi de uma paciente que teve a haste do cotonete quebrada em sua fossa nasal esquerda, necessitando de remoção do corpo estranho com por nasoendoscopia. Enquanto o segundo foi de uma paciente que apresentou epistaxe grave devido trauma do cotonete em esporão no septo nasal esquerdo, necessitando de abordagem em centro cirúrgico. Conclusão: É importante ressaltar que mesmo sujeito a complicações possivelmente graves, a realização de testes RT-PCR com cotonete nasal é o padrão ouro no diagnóstico de COVID-19. É muito importante advertir que o profissional treinado ao suspeitar de algum acidente durante o exame deve, precocemente, solicitar avaliação do especialista competente para abordagem adequada. [au]

Background: We are currently facing a pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) which is a single-stranded RNA virus belonging to the coronavirus family. The most widely used method to confirm the diagnosis of SARSCoV-2 infection is through molecular tests using rRT-PCR (real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction) to detect viral RNA. The usual way to collect viral samples is through nasopharyngeal swabs. One of the effective ways to control the transmission of this disease is the early diagnosis and isolation of infected patients. In this report, we will approach two cases of complications with nasal swabs in the collection of rRT-PCR for COVID-19, treated in an otolaryngology emergency room. Case Report: The first was from a patient who had the swab rod broken in her left nasal cavity, requiring removal of the foreign body through nasoendoscopy. While the second was from a patient who had severe epistaxis due to trauma of the spur swab in the left nasal septum, requiring an approach in the surgery center. Conclusion: It is important to emphasize that, even subject to possibly serious complications, the performance of RT-PCR tests with a nasal swab is the gold standard in the diagnosis of COVID-19. It is very important to enhance that the trained professional, when suspecting an accident during the exam, should, early on, request an evaluation from the competent specialist for an adequate approach. [au]

Rhinophototherapy, an alternative treatment of allergic rhinitis: Systematic review and meta-analysis / Rinofototerapia, uma alternativa para o tratamento de rinite alérgica: revisão sistemática e metanálise

Abstract Introduction: Allergic rhinitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the nasal mucosa, mediated by immunoglobulin E, affecting 1 in 6 individuals. The treatment aims at attaining symptomatic control with minimal side effects, a requirement for new alternative therapies, including phototherapy, as it has an immunosuppressive and immunomodulatory effect. Objective: To identify the effectiveness of phototherapy in the treatment of allergic rhinitis through a meta-analysis. Methods: We searched Web of Science, Scielo, PubMed, SCOPUS, PEDro, and LILACS databases, using the terms: ''intranasal irradiation'', ''phototherapy'' and ''allergic rhinitis''. The R software Metafor package was used for the meta-analysis and the effect size was calculated for each symptom individually. Results: All symptoms decreased considerably after phototherapy: rhinorrhea (ES• = -1.35; p < 0.0001; I2 = 91.84%), sneezing (ES• = -1.24; p < 0.0001; I2 = 91.43%), nasal pruritus (ES• = -1.10; p < 0.0001; I2 = 91.43%); nasal obstruction (ES• = -1.11; p < 0.0001; I2 = 91.88%). The effects were more significant in perennial allergic rhinitis than in the seasonal type. Conclusion: Considering the effect size and the statistical significance attained in our study, rhinophototherapy showed to be an effective treatment for reducing the nasal symptom scores triggered by AR.

Resumo Introdução: A rinite alérgica é uma doença inflamatória crônica da mucosa nasal, imunomediada por imunoglobulina E, que afeta 1/6 dos indivíduos. O tratamento visa o controle dos sintomas com efeitos colaterais mínimos, uma prerrogativa para novas terapias alternativas, como a fototerapia, por apresentar efeitos imunossupressor e imunomodulador. Objetivo: Identificar, mediante uma metanálise, a eficácia da fototerapia no tratamento da rinite alérgica. Método: Usamos as bases de dados: Web of Science, Scielo, PubMed, SCOPUS, PEDro e LILACS, com os termos de busca: intranasal irradiation, phototherapy, allergic rhinitis. Para a metanálise foi usado o pacote metafor do software R, o tamanho do efeito foi calculado para cada sintoma separadamente. Resultados: Todos os sintomas apresentaram diminuição significante após a fototerapia: coriza (ES =-1,35; p < 0,0001; I2 = 91,84%), espirros (ES =-1,24; p < 0,0001; I2 = 91,43%), prurido nasal (ES =-1,10; p < 0,0001; I2 = 91,43%); obstrução nasal (ES =-1,11; p < 0,0001; I2 = 91,88%), com efeitos mais expressivos na rinite alérgica perene do que na rinite alérgica sazonal. Conclusão: Considerando-se a magnitude do efeito e a significância estatística alcançadas em nosso estudo, a rinofototerapia demonstrou-se um tratamento eficaz para a redução dos escores dos sintomas nasais desencadeados pela rinite alérgica.

Olfactory dysfunction in the scenario of COVID-19 pandemic in patients screened by the telemonitoring.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the clinical and epidemiological profile of patients with olfactory dysfunction in the scenario of COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: The study selected patients with loss of smell, previously screened by telemonitoring system of the Municipal Health Department of Goiânia (GO), Brazil, who agreed to answer a questionnaire about COVID-19 symptoms and findings of exams. The interviews were conducted by six otolaryngologists, who applied the specific questionnaire, over the phone. RESULTS: A total of 13,910 patients underwent telemonitoring, and 627 (4.51%) had olfactory loss complaints. Out of them, 330 were included in the survey. We observed a higher prevalence of altered smell in women (67%), and in patients aged under 50 years (86%). In most cases the manifestations had a sudden onset (70%), and in the first 5 days of illness (80%). The most prevalent associated symptom was a change in taste (89%), and only 2.7% of interviewed patients required hospitalization. CONCLUSION: Anosmia in COVID-19 is more prevalent in females and individuals aged under 50 years. It is a relevant initial symptom predictive of the disease, together with dysgeusia.

A Periorbital Abscess with Combined Retinal Artery Occlusion and Retinal Vein Occlusion: A Case Report.

BACKGROUND Periorbital abscesses are uncommon complications of acute bacterial rhinosinusitis; with the evolution of diagnostic and therapeutic methods, it is rare that the patient progresses to irreversible blindness. Central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) and central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) rarely occur simultaneously and the factors that influence this occurrence are not well understood. CASE REPORT This is a case report of an immunocompetent healthy adolescent girl, who developed irreversible blindness caused by a periorbital abscess secondary to acute bacterial rhinosinusitis due to CRAO and CRVO. Despite 6 days of clinical treatment, including intravenous antibiotics (vancomycin-associated piperacillin with tazobactam), she had a large periorbital abscess and could not open her left eye. Therefore, she was transferred to a tertiary hospital; 1 day after her admission, she underwent surgical treatment to drain the abscess through external and endoscopic access. In addition, she received broad-spectrum antibiotics (meropenem with vancomycin) for 3 weeks. She was no longer able to perceive light with the left eye, despite her clinical improvement. This case report discusses the factors that could have contributed to this poor outcome, despite clinical and surgical treatment. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that there are several mechanisms that can lead to the loss of vision and when the indicated surgical intervention is delayed, it can increase the risk of visual sequelae.

Rhinophototherapy, an alternative treatment of allergic rhinitis: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Allergic rhinitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the nasal mucosa, mediated by immunoglobulin E, affecting 1 in 6 individuals. The treatment aims at attaining symptomatic control with minimal side effects, a requirement for new alternative therapies, including phototherapy, as it has an immunosuppressive and immunomodulatory effect. OBJECTIVE: To identify the effectiveness of phototherapy in the treatment of allergic rhinitis through a meta-analysis. METHODS: We searched Web of Science, Scielo, PubMed, SCOPUS, PEDro, and LILACS databases, using the terms: "intranasal irradiation", "phototherapy" and "allergic rhinitis". The R software Metafor package was used for the meta-analysis and the effect size was calculated for each symptom individually. RESULTS: All symptoms decreased considerably after phototherapy: rhinorrhea (ES• = -1.35; p < 0.0001; I2 = 91.84%), sneezing (ES• = -1.24; p <  0.0001; I2 = 91.43%), nasal pruritus (ES• = -1.10; p < 0.0001; I2 = 91.43%); nasal obstruction (ES• = -1.11; p < 0.0001; I2 = 91.88%). The effects were more significant in perennial allergic rhinitis than in the seasonal type. CONCLUSION: Considering the effect size and the statistical significance attained in our study, rhinophototherapy showed to be an effective treatment for reducing the nasal symptom scores triggered by AR.