Costos directos en el tratamiento del pie diabético Unidad de Pie Diabético. Hospital de Clínicas. Universidad de la República / Direct costs of diabetic foot treatment Diabetic Foot Department Clínicas Hospital UDELAR / Custos diretos no tratamento do Pé Diabético Unidad de Pie Diabético. Hospital de Clínicas. UDELAR

En el mundo un paciente diabético gasta entre dos y tres veces más que el no diabético. El pie diabético disminuye la calidad de vida, aumenta la morbimortalidad y la carga económica del sistema de salud. Objetivo: comunicar la investigación realizada sobre costos directos en el tratamiento de la úlcera del pie diabético. Material y método: estudio observacional, descriptivo, retrospectivo de pacientes asistidos en la Unidad de Pie del Hospital de Clínicas, Universidad de la República, entre octubre de 2014 y septiembre de 2016. Se estimaron gastos directos del tratamiento ambulatorio e internación a través de información de la historia clínica. El horizonte de tratamiento fue de tres meses. Se calcularon los gastos en unidades reajustables (UR), pesos y dólares. Los gastos se actualizaron a octubre del 2022 utilizando el índice de precios al consumo (IPC), ajustado a la tasa de inflación acumulada. Resultados: incluimos 49 pacientes, 11 mujeres y 38 hombres, edad promedio 61,5 años. El gasto general fue mayor a 400.000 dólares, con el mayor costo en gastos de internación. El gasto total promedio por paciente fue de 8.799 dólares. El tratamiento convencional fue 3.707,93 dólares, la amputación mayor 32.003,61 dólares y amputación menor 12.385,34 dólares. El gasto en internación fue muy superior al del paciente ambulatorio. En emergencia, 28 pacientes gastaron 4.396 dólares. El incremento de costos al año 2022 fue de 37,45%, suponiendo un gasto general de 16.682.993,4 pesos o 410.830,2 dólares. Conclusión: primera evaluación en nuestro país de estimación de gastos en pie diabético. El costo de la úlcera genera una carga económica notoria y en aumento. La gravedad inicial de la úlcera determina ingresos con elevados costes. Los gastos de internación y amputaciones representan la mayor erogación económica.

On a global scale, a diabetic patient incurs healthcare expenses that are 2 to 3 times higher than those of a non-diabetic individual. Diabetic foot syndrome reduces the quality of life, increases morbidity and mortality, and places an economic burden on the healthcare system. Objective: Communicating the research conducted on direct costs in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers. Method: Observational, descriptive, retrospective study of patients treated at the Foot Unit of the Hospital de Clínicas (UDELAR) between October 2014 and September 2016. Direct treatment costs for outpatient care and hospitalization were estimated using information from the medical records. The treatment horizon extended over a period of 3 months. Expenses were calculated in readjustable units, Uruguayan pesos (UYU), and United States dollars (USD). Expenses were updated to October 2022 using the Consumer Price Index (IPC) adjusted for the cumulative inflation rate. Results: 49 patients were included in the study: 11 women and 38 men, average age was 61.5 years old. The overall expenditure exceeded 400,000 USD, with the highest cost attributed to hospitalization expenses. The average total expenditure per patient amounted to 8,799 USD. The cost of conventional treatment was 3,707.93 USD, major amputation represented USD 32,003.61, and minor amputation USD 12,385.34. Hospitalization expenses significantly exceeded those of outpatient care. In the emergency department, 28 patients spent USD 4,396. The increase in costs by the year 2022 amounted to 37.45%, resulting in a total expenditure of UYU 16,682,993.4 (Uruguayan pesos) or USD 410,830.2. Conclusions: It was the first assessment in our country to estimate diabetic foot costs. The cost of ulcer management imposes a significant and increasing economic burden. The initial severity of the ulcer results in hospitalization which implies high associated costs. Hospitalization and amputation costs constitute the most substantial economic expenditure.

Em todo o mundo, um paciente diabético gasta entre 2 e 3 vezes mais do que um paciente não diabético. O pé diabético reduz a qualidade de vida, aumenta a morbimortalidade e a carga económica no sistema de saúde. Objetivos: Comunicar os resultados da pesquisa realizada sobre os custos diretos no tratamento das úlceras do pé diabético. Materiais e métodos: Estudo observacional, descritivo e retrospectivo de pacientes atendidos na Unidade de Pie do Hospital de Clínicas (UDELAR), entre outubro de 2014 e setembro de 2016. Foram estimados gastos diretos com tratamento ambulatorial e internação, por meio de informações do prontuário do paciente. O período de tratamento estudado foi de 3 meses. As despesas foram calculadas em Unidades Ajustáveis, em pesos uruguaios (UYU) e em dólares norte-americanos (USD). As despesas foram atualizadas para outubro de 2022 pelo Índice de Preços ao Consumidor (IPC) ajustado à inflação acumulada. Resultados: Foram incluídos 49 pacientes: 11 mulheres e 38 homens com idade média de 61,5 anos. A despesa global foi superior a US$ 400.000, com o maior custo em despesas de hospitalização. A despesa total média por paciente foi de US$ 8.799. Os custos por tratamento foram: Tratamento convencional US$ 3.707,93 USD, amputação maior US$ 32.003,61 e amputação menor US$ 12.385,34. O gasto com internação foi muito superior ao do ambulatório. No atendimento de emergência 28 pacientes gastaram US$ 4.396. O aumento dos custos até 2022 foi de 37,45%, assumindo uma despesa geral de UY$ 16.682.993,4 ou US$ 410.830,2 USD. Conclusão: Esta é a primeira avaliação de estimativa de gastos com pé diabético realizada no Uruguai. O custo das úlceras gera uma carga económica notável e crescente. A gravidade inicial da úlcera determina internações com custos elevados. As despesas com hospitalização e amputação representam o maior gasto financeiro.

Development of a New LAMP Assay for the Detection of Ancylostoma caninum DNA (Copro-LAMPAc) in Dog Fecal Samples.

Ancylostoma caninum is a zoonotic nematode which is able to affect animals and humans. Diagnosis in the definitive host and environmental detection are key to prevent its dissemination and achieve control. Herein, a new coprological LAMP method for the detection of A. caninum (Copro-LAMPAc) DNA was developed. DNA extraction was performed using a low-cost method and a fragment of the cox-1 gene was used for primer design. The analytical sensitivity, evaluated with serial dilutions of genomic DNA from A. caninum adult worms, was 100 fg. A specificity of 100% was obtained using genomic DNA from the host and other pathogens. The Copro-LAMPAc was evaluated using environmental canine fecal samples. When compared with gold standard optical microscopy in epidemiological studies, it proved to be more sensitive. This new LAMP assay can provide an alternative protocol for screening and identification of A. caninum for epidemiological studies in endemic areas.

Validación de cuestionario para detección de epilepsia en guaraní

RESUMEN En el Paraguay como país bilingüe y contexto histórico característico siempre se ha considerado un desafío llegar a la población guaraní parlante, especialmente de sectores más vulnerables, mediante el uso de herramientas que acorten la brecha de la barrera idiomática en los servicios de atención en general. Realizando la traducción del cuestionario de diagnóstico de epilepsia dirigido a su uso en atención primaria, se pretende acercar al profesional médico un elemento útil en la práctica clínica que además aporte datos de valor diagnóstico y guía de tratamiento. En este trabajo se realizó la validación del cuestionario, originalmente concebido en español, distinguiendo algunos aspectos idiomáticos que aportan riqueza a la historia clínica en epilepsia y definen el aspecto terapéutico brindando al profesional médico un material de uso práctico y fácil de aplicabilidad en la práctica clínica diaria.

ABSTRACT In Paraguay, as a bilingual country and its characteristic historical context, to reach the speaking Guaraní population has always been considered a challenge, especially in the most vulnerable sectors, through the use of tools that reduce the gap of the language barrier in health care services in general. By translating the epilepsy diagnosis questionnaire aimed at its use in primary care, it was expected to bring closer to the medical professional a useful element in clinical practice that also provided data of diagnostic value and treatment guidelines. In this work, the validation of the questionnaire, originally conceived in Spanish, was carried out, distinguishing some idiomatic aspects that contribute richness to the clinical history in epilepsy and define the therapeutic aspect, providing the medical professional with a material of practical use and easy to apply in daily clinical practice.

Identification of potential 'hot spots' of cystic echinococcosis transmission in the province of Río Negro, Argentina.

Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a parasitic zoonosis caused by Echinococcus granulosus. The control program of CE of Rio Negro province, Argentina, involves annual surveillance using ultrasound (US) screening in school children, and five-year cross-sectional surveys to detect livestock farms with parasitized dogs by coproELISA with confirmation tests (Western Blot or PCR). Control program is based on deworming of dogs with praziquantel and the aim is to identify areas at risk of Cystic echinococcosis transmission to humans, using all available data sources. The information was spatially distributed in 13 program areas and, at a smaller geographical scale, in 80 Primary Health Care Centers. CoproELISA surveys involved three randomized sampling periods (2003-05, 2009-10, 2017-18), with 1790 canine fecal samples. The US surveys were conducted in 2003-08, 2009-16 and 2017-18 in 34,515 children. Heat maps were created at the smallest geographic scale with QGIS 3.4.6. For the consecutive sampling periods, prevalence of positive canine fecal samples from livestock farms were 14.7, 12.1 and 7.8%, respectively, and children prevalence was 0.4, 0.2 and 0.1%, respectively. The study has been developed on a scale according to which the temporal-spatial distribution of CE allows to adjust control strategies in those areas of potential transmission of the zoonosis to humans.

First inter-laboratory comparison of Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato diagnosis in Latin America

[ABSTRACT]. Objective. To compare the performance of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) tests for diagnosing Echinococcus granulosus in dog feces among national reference laboratories in Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay. Methods. National laboratories affiliated with the Ministry of Health/Agriculture of each country exchanged panels of 10 positive/negative samples obtained from their regular national surveillance programs in November 2015 – November 2016. All laboratories applied PCR; two also applied ELISA techniques. Sensitivity and specificity were determined for each laboratory and concordance of results among the laboratories was evaluated by Cohen Kappa coefficient. Results. Poor concordance (3 of 10 paired comparisons had values of Kappa > 0.4), low sensitivity and specificity across all laboratories, and poor performance of both techniques in detecting E. granulosus in canine feces was demonstrated in this study. An ex-post comparison of the laboratories’ test protocols showed substantial heterogeneity that could partially explain poor concordance of results. Conclusion. The results underscore the heterogeneity of canine echinococcosis diagnosis across the region and indicate possible sources of variability. Efforts to standardize canine echinococcosis testing must be included in the plan of action for the Regional Initiative for the Control of Cystic Echinococcosis. Future comparisons with fecal samples of known parasite load are needed.

[RESUMEN]. Objetivo. Comparar el rendimiento de los ensayos de la reacción en cadena de la polimerasa y el enzimoinmunoanálisis de adsorción en fase sólida (o ELISA, por su sigla en inglés) para diagnosticar Echinococcus granulosus en heces caninas en los laboratorios de referencia nacionales de Argentina, Chile, Perú y Uruguay. Métodos. Los laboratorios nacionales, afiliados a los ministerios de salud y agricultura y ganadería de cada país, intercambiaron paneles de diez muestras positivas y negativas obtenidas de sus respectivos programas nacionales de vigilancia desde el mes de noviembre del año 2015 hasta el mismo mes del año siguiente. Todos los laboratorios emplearon la reacción en cadena de la polimerasa y dos emplearon también técnicas de ensayo inmunoenzimático (ELISA). Se determinó la sensibilidad y la especificidad de cada laboratorio y se evaluó la concordancia entre los resultados de los laboratorios mediante el coeficiente kappa de Cohen. Resultados. Este estudio descubrió una escasa concordancia (3 de 10 comparaciones de pares obtuvieron valores de kappa > 0,4), una sensibilidad y especificidad bajas en todos los laboratorios y un rendimiento deficiente de ambas técnicas de diagnóstico de Echinococcus granulosus en heces caninas. La comparación ex post de los protocolos de ensayo de los laboratorios mostró una heterogeneidad sustancial que podría explicar parcialmente la escasa concordancia de los resultados. Conclusiones. Los resultados subrayan la heterogeneidad del diagnóstico de equinococosis canina en toda la región e indican posibles fuentes de esta variabilidad. Deben incluirse medidas para estandarizar la prueba de equinococosis canina en el plan de acción de la Iniciativa Sudamericana para el Control de la Equinococosis Quística. En el futuro serán necesarias comparaciones adicionales con muestras fecales con una carga de parásitos conocida.

[RESUMO]. Objetivo. Comparar o desempenho dos métodos de reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR) e ensaio imunoenzimático (ELISA) no diagnóstico de infecção pelo Echinococcus granulosus em fezes de cães entre laboratórios de referência nacional na Argentina, Chile, Peru e Uruguai. Métodos. Laboratórios nacionais conveniados ao Ministério da Saúde/Agricultura de cada país participante intercambiaram grupos de 10 amostras positivas/negativas coletadas rotineiramente pelos programas nacionais de vigilância no período de novembro de 2015 a novembro de 2016. Todos os laboratórios empregaram o método de PCR e dois empregaram também o método de ELISA. A sensibilidade e a especificidade dos métodos foram determinadas em cada laboratório, e a concordância dos resultados entre os laboratórios participantes foi avaliada com o coeficiente kappa de Cohen. Resultados. Observou-se fraca concordância (3 de 10 comparações pareadas com kappa >0,4), baixa sensibilidade e especificidade e fraco desempenho de ambos os métodos na identificação do E. granulosus em amostras fecais de cães nos laboratórios participantes do estudo. Uma comparação retroativa revelou considerável heterogeneidade dos protocolos de análise laboratorial, o que poderia em parte explicar a fraca concordância entre os resultados. Conclusões. Os resultados deste estudo apontam para a falta de uniformidade no diagnóstico de equinococose canina em toda a Região e indicam possíveis causas para variabilidade. A padronização da análise laboratorial da equinococose canina deve constar do plano de ação para a Iniciativa Regional para Controle da Hidatidose. Outras comparações de amostras fecais de parasitas conhecidos devem ser realizadas.

Eficiencia global diagnóstica del equipo concentrador de enteroparásitos Mini Parasep® SF / Global diagnostic efficiency of the enteroparasite concentrator Mini Parasep® SF kit

Las enteroparasitosis poseen una distribución universal, tanto en zonas rurales como urbanas, y afectan principalmente a la población infantil, para la cual representan un problema muy frecuente en salud pública. El daño ocasionado en el aparato digestivo puede causar en los niños retardo de la maduración, alteraciones del estado nutricional y bajo rendimiento escolar. Respecto del diagnóstico etiológico, la aplicación de técnicas de concentración a las muestras fecales, previa a la observación microscópica, mejora la sensibilidad, debido a que la excreción de elementos parasitarios puede, en ocasiones, ser escasa o intermitente. Los métodos de sedimentación como el de Telemann son los más empleados en el diagnóstico parasitológico, aunque poseen la desventaja del uso de éter etílico, compuesto moderadamente tóxico. Con el objetivo de evaluar la eficiencia global diagnóstica del equipo Mini Parasep® SF, y su confiabilidad durante su empleo, se procesaron 148 muestras de materia fecal por los métodos de Telemann modificado y Mini Parasep® SF. Una vez aplicados los métodos convencionales, el diagnóstico microscópico fue realizado por dos observadores a través de una investigación a doble ciego. Del total de muestras analizadas (n=148) y desagregando aquellas positivas en resultados individuales cuando éstas tenían más de un agente etiológico (ntotal=234), el 65,8% (154/234) fueron positivas y el 34,2% (80/234) negativas. A partir de observaciones aleatorizadas y repetidas se estimó la acordancia de resultados intraoperador en 90,3% y entre operadores en 90,5%. A partir de las observaciones independientes, se obtuvo un índice de concordancia entre operadores, Kappa=0,83 (muy bueno). No se observaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre los valores de sensibilidad (S) y especificidad (E) estimados para cada uno de los observadores (O) con un IC95%, (S/O1) 94,8%; (S/O2) 97,4%; y (E/O1) 92,5%; (E/O2) 95,0%. La eficiencia global del test según operador fue 94,02% y 96,58 respectivamente. Los resultados obtenidos sugieren que ambas técnicas podrían ser empleadas para concentrar muestras fecales para investigar enteroparásitos. El método Mini Parasep® SF demostró ser sencillo, rápido y efectivo, y no necesitó éter como solvente orgánico, y por su eficiencia global, podría ser útil en aquellos laboratorios imposibilitados de utilizar las técnicas convencionales.

Enteroparasitoses have a universal distribution, both in rural and urban areas, and they affect mainly the infant population, for which reason they represent a very frequent problem in public health. The damage caused in the digestive system can give rise to retardation in children, changes in nutritional status and poor school performance. With respect to the etiological diagnosis, the application of concentration techniques to fecal samples, prior to microscopic observation, improves sensitivity, taking into account that the excretion of parasitic elements can sometimes be scarce or intermittent. Sedimentation methods such as Telemann, are the most widely used in the parasitological diagnosis, although they have the disadvantage of the use of ethyl ether, a moderately toxic compound. In order to evaluate the overall diagnostic efficiency of the Mini Parasep® SF kit, and its reliability during its use, 148 stool samples were processed by modified Telemann and Mini Parasep® SF methods. Once the conventional methods were applied, the microscopic diagnosis was made by two observers through double-blind research. Of the total samples analyzed (n=148) and disaggregating positive ones in individual results when they had more than one etiological agent (n total=234), 65.8% (154/234) were positive and 34.2% (80/234) negative. Based on randomized and repeated observations, the accordance of intraoperator results was estimated at 90.3% and between operators at 90.5%. From the independent observations, a concordance index between operators was obtained, Kappa=0.83 (very good). No statistically significant differences were observed between the values of sensitivity (S) and specificity (E) estimated for each of the observers (O) with an IC95%, (S/O1) 94.8%; (S/O2) 97.4%; and (E/O1) 92.5%; (E/O2) 95.0%. The overall efficiency of the test according to the operator was 94.02% and 96.58 respectively. The results obtained suggest that both techniques could be used to concentrate fecal samples to investigate enteroparasites. The Mini Parasep® SF method proved to be simple, fast and effective, and did not need ether as an organic solvent. Because of its overall efficiency, it could be useful in laboratories that are unable to use conventional techniques.

As enteroparasitoses têm uma distribuição universal, tanto em áreas rurais como urbanas, e afetam principalmente a população infantil, para as quais representam um problema muito frequente na saúde pública. Os danos causados no sistema digestivo podem causar retardamento em crianças, alterações no estado nutricional e baixo desempenho escolar. No diagnóstico etiológico, as técnicas de concentração de aplicação para amostras fecais, antes da observação microscópica, melhoram a sensibilidade, uma vez que a excreção de elementos parasitas pode por vezes ser pouco ou intermitente. Métodos de sedimentação, como Telemann, são os mais utilizados no diagnóstico parasitológico, embora tenham a desvantagem do uso de éter etílico, um composto moderadamente tóxico. Para avaliar a eficiência diagnóstica geral do kit Mini Parasep® SF e sua confiabilidade durante o uso, 148 amostras de fezes foram processadas pelos métodos modificado Telemann e Mini Parasep® SF. Uma vez que os métodos convencionais foram aplicados, o diagnóstico microscópico foi feito por dois observadores através de pesquisa duplo-cego. De todas as amostras testadas (n=148) e desagregando esses resultados positivos quando estes indivíduo tinha mais do que um agente etiológico (N total=234), 65,8% (154/234) foram positivos, e 34,2% (80/234) negativos. Com base em observações aleatórias e repetidas, a acordância dos resultados intraoperatórios foi estimada em 90,3% e entre os operadores em 90,5%. A partir das observações independentes, obteve-se um índice de concordância entre os operadores, Kappa=0,83 (muito bom). Não foram observadas diferenças estatisticamente significativas entre os valores de sensibilidade (S) e especificidade (E) estimados para cada um dos observadores (O) com IC95%, (S/O1) 94,8%; (S/O2) 97,4%; e (E/O1) 92,5%; (E/O2) 95,0%. A eficiência global do teste de acordo com o operador foi de 94,02% e 96,58, respectivamente. Os resultados obtidos sugerem que ambas as técnicas podem ser usadas para concentrar amostras fecais para investigar enteroparasitas. O método Mini Parasep® SF mostrou-se simples, rápido e efetivo, não necessitando de éter como solvente orgânico e, devido à sua eficiência global, pode ser útil em laboratórios incapazes de utilizar técnicas convencionais.

First inter-laboratory comparison of Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato diagnosis in Latin America.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the performance of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) tests for diagnosing Echinococcus granulosus in dog feces among national reference laboratories in Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay. METHODS: National laboratories affiliated with the Ministry of Health/Agriculture of each country exchanged panels of 10 positive/negative samples obtained from their regular national surveillance programs in November 2015 - November 2016. All laboratories applied PCR; two also applied ELISA techniques. Sensitivity and specificity were determined for each laboratory and concordance of results among the laboratories was evaluated by Cohen Kappa coefficient. RESULTS: Poor concordance (3 of 10 paired comparisons had values of Kappa > 0.4), low sensitivity and specificity across all laboratories, and poor performance of both techniques in detecting E. granulosus in canine feces was demonstrated in this study. An ex-post comparison of the laboratories' test protocols showed substantial heterogeneity that could partially explain poor concordance of results. CONCLUSION: The results underscore the heterogeneity of canine echinococcosis diagnosis across the region and indicate possible sources of variability. Efforts to standardize canine echinococcosis testing must be included in the plan of action for the Regional Initiative for the Control of Cystic Echinococcosis. Future comparisons with fecal samples of known parasite load are needed.

Pilot field trial of the EG95 vaccine against ovine cystic echinococcosis in Rio Negro, Argentina: 8 years of work.

Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is endemic in the Rio Negro province of Argentina. After 30 years of control using praziquantel in dogs the transmission rate to humans and sheep has decreased significantly, however transmission persists. The objective of the study was to assess the inclusion of the EG95 for sheep in the control program and to determine the vaccine's operative feasibility in field conditions. An intervention study was defined in Rio Negro Province in Argentina comprising, in total, an area of 5820 Km2. Lambs received two vaccinations with the EG95 vaccine followed by a single booster injection when the animals were 1-1.5 years of age. Vaccination of lambs born into one trial site was introduced and continued for 8 years. Evidence for Echinococcus granulosus transmission was monitored before and after vaccination by coproantigen ELISA in faecal samples of dog, purgation of dogs to detect E. granulosus worms, necropsy on adult sheep and by ultrasound screening in children of 6-14 years old. 29,323 doses of vaccine were applied between 2009 and 2017, which a vaccination coverage of 80.1%/85.7% (57.3% average for fully vaccinated). Before the introduction of the vaccine 56.3% of the 6-year-old sheep were infected with E. granulosus at necropsy and 84.2% of the farms had infected sheep; 4.3% of the dogs were positive for E. granulosus infection using the arecoline test, and with coproELISA 9.6% of dog fecal samples were positive and 20.3% of the farms had infected dog.After the vaccine was introduced, 21.6% of sheep older than 6 years were found to be infected at necropsy and 20.2% of the farms were found to be infected; in dogs, 4.5% were found positive for E. granulosus using arecoline purgation and with coproELISA 3.7% of samples were positive, with 8.9% of farms having a positive dog. In 2016 only one case of E. granulosus infection was diagnosed by US screening in a 6-14 years old child. Included in the analysis are discussions of difficulties experienced in the field which affected correct vaccine administration as well as social features and practices that may impact on echinococcosis control and the EG95 vaccination program in Rio Negro. Vaccination of sheep with the EG95 vaccine provides a valuable new tool which improves the effectiveness of CE control activities. Vaccination was effective even in a difficult, remote environment where only approximately half the lambs born into the communities were fully vaccinated.

Prevalence of intestinal parasites and the absence of soil-transmitted helminths in Añatuya, Santiago del Estero, Argentina.

BACKGROUND: Intestinal parasites (IP) have been reported in point studies from different provinces of Argentina. The presence of soil-transmitted helminths (STH) was detected in many of these studies, including varied prevalences of all five species of STH in the north were the climate is more appropriate for transmission. Nonetheless, Argentina lacks a comprehensive prevalence map of STH. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites, focusing on STH, in rural and peri-urban areas of Añatuya, Santiago del Estero Province and identifying risk factors for their transmission. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional survey in the entire population of three rural lots located on the outskirts of the city between March and June of 2015 and among children in a peri-urban neighbourhood of Añatuya city in July 2016. Socio-economic variables, characteristics of the house and stool samples were collected from each household. RESULTS: A total of 470 stool samples were analysed. The prevalence of STH was extremely low, with only 2 people being positive for hookworm and no detection of other STH. The prevalence of IP was 11.7% for protozoans and 11.1% for helminths. IP were significantly more prevalent in pre-school and school-aged children than in adults (P < 0.05). The level of education of adults was also significantly associated with infection (P = 0.001), as well as the practice of informal slaughter of animals (P = 0.002) and the presence of unimproved walls (P = 0.046) and unimproved floors (P = 0.021) in the household. Nonetheless, the only significant predictors of IP in the logistic regression analysis were age (P < 0.001) and main source of electricity (P = 0.026). CONCLUSIONS: The total prevalence of intestinal parasites in the study population was 22.6%. The intestinal parasites detected are transmitted mostly through water (Giardia lamblia) and close contact (Hymenolepis nana), evidencing the need to improve quality control in water facilities and access to improved sanitation to avoid contamination of stored water. The presence of IP was significantly associated with age (with children being more susceptible), households containing unimproved walls and those that did not have access to an electricity network.

Implementation of a programme to develop research projects in a school of midwifery in Santiago, Chile.

BACKGROUND: The acquisition of research skills by midwifery students is increasingly important especially for midwifery programmes in universities. Recently, universities in Chile have included the development of research skills in the majority of professional curricula for basic and post-basic degree programmes. The lack of research training is a limitation recognised and shared with other Latin American countries which prevents scientific and technological development. OBJECTIVES: To describe the process of implementation of a programme of research projects by midwifery students in a school in Chile and the results obtained, and the perceptions of students and teachers. RESULTS: 31 work groups were formed (92 students), who developed and implemented research projects in gynecology, public health and neonatology. Research was conducted at six public hospitals serving high risk populations, a private clinic, and nine family health centres. The average scores earned for the projects was a 5.7 (scale of 1-7). The students and teachers positively rated the experience of undertaking research. CONCLUSION: The development of research projects allows students to acquire competencies and confidence in their research skills. It is an experience that can be replicated in other countries supported by the commitment of the midwifery and university faculty and the training and motivation of a group of midwifery educators.

[Primary intra-osseous carcinoma]. / Carcinoma primario intraóseo.

Primary intra-osseous carcinoma (PIOC) is a rare tumor, defined as squamous cell carcinoma that develops in the jaw bones, having no initial connection to adjacent skin or mucosa. It is locally aggressive, with metastases to regional lymph nodes, (28% of cases) and lung (5% of cases) at the time of diagnosis. Its origin may be di novo or from other odontogenic tumors. The maxillary bones have epithelial tissues; therefore this neoplasm is located exclusively on this site, predominantly in the jaw. PIOC diagnostic criteria are strict and include: squamous cell carcinoma histopathology, lack of commitment and sinus mucosa, ruling out the possibility of metastasis from a distant site with a thorough clinical study and complementary methods. The treatment is, whenever possible, oncologic resection, additional radio and / or chemotherapy. Reconstructive surgery with graft and / or prostheses for aesthetic and functional are also required. We report the case of a 72 years old man who consulted for sore jaw three months after molar extraction. Curettage biopsy was performed and then resected mandible with lymphadenectomy. Histopathological examination showed a poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma, infiltrating jawbone with morphological findings linking him to residual odontogenic cyst and metastatic lymph nodes in 15 of 48 isolates. Postoperative radiotherapy was performed, he died at 30 months of diagnosis by progressive deterioration.

Carcinoma primario intraóseo / Primary intra-osseous carcinoma

El carcinoma primario intraóseo (PIOC) es un tumor poco frecuente, definido como carcinoma escamoso que se desarrolla en huesos maxilares, no teniendo conexión inicial con mucosa ni piel adyacente. Es localmente agresivo, con una incidencia de metástasis en ganglios regionales del 28% y en pulmón del 5%, en el momento del diagnóstico. Su origen puede ser de novo o a partir de otros tumores odontogénicos. Los huesos maxilares son los únicos que tienen en su interior tejidos epiteliales, por lo cual esta neoplasia se localiza exclusivamente en este sitio, predominantemente en la mandíbula. Los criterios diagnósticos del PIOC incluyen: histopatología de carcinoma escamocelular, ausencia de compromiso de mucosa oral y senos paranasales, descartando metástasis de un sitio distante en base a estudios clínicos y métodos complementarios. El tratamiento de elección consiste, siempre que sea posible, en la exéresis con criterios oncológicos, y radio y/o quimioterapia adicional. Se requiere además, cirugía reconstructiva con injerto y/o prótesis con fines estéticos y funcionales. Presentamos el caso de un varón de 72 años, que consultó por molestias en maxilar inferior tres meses después de la extracción de un molar. Se efectuó biopsia por curetaje y luego se resecó el maxilar inferior con vaciamiento ganglionar. El estudio histopatológico mostró un carcinoma escamoso pobremente diferenciado, infiltrante en hueso maxilar, con hallazgos morfológicos que lo vinculaban a quiste odontogénico residual, y metástasis en 15 de 48 ganglios aislados. Se realizó radioterapia postquirúrgica, falleciendo a los 30 meses del diagnóstico por deterioro progresivo.

Primary intra-osseous carcinoma (PIOC) is a rare tumor, defined as squamous cell carcinoma that develops in the jaw bones, having no initial connection to adjacent skin or mucosa. It is locally aggressive, with metastases to regional lymph nodes, (28% of cases) and lung (5% of cases) at the time of diagnosis. Its origin may be di novo or from other odontogenic tumors. The maxillary bones have epithelial tissues; therefore this neoplasm is located exclusively on this site, predominantly in the jaw. PIOC diagnostic criteria are strict and include: squamous cell carcinoma histopathology, lack of commitment and sinus mucosa, ruling out the possibility of metastasis from a distant site with a thorough clinical study and complementary methods. The treatment is, whenever possible, oncologic resection, additional radio and / or chemotherapy. Reconstructive surgery with graft and / or prostheses for aesthetic and functional are also required. We report the case of a 72 years old man who consulted for sore jaw three months after molar extraction. Curettage biopsy was performed and then resected mandible with lymphadenectomy. Histopathological examination showed a poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma, infiltrating jawbone with morphological findings linking him to residual odontogenic cyst and metastatic lymph nodes in 15 of 48 isolates. Postoperative radiotherapy was performed, he died at 30 months of diagnosis by progressive deterioration.

Carcinoma primario intraóseo / Primary intra-osseous carcinoma

El carcinoma primario intraóseo (PIOC) es un tumor poco frecuente, definido como carcinoma escamoso que se desarrolla en huesos maxilares, no teniendo conexión inicial con mucosa ni piel adyacente. Es localmente agresivo, con una incidencia de metástasis en ganglios regionales del 28% y en pulmón del 5%, en el momento del diagnóstico. Su origen puede ser de novo o a partir de otros tumores odontogénicos. Los huesos maxilares son los únicos que tienen en su interior tejidos epiteliales, por lo cual esta neoplasia se localiza exclusivamente en este sitio, predominantemente en la mandíbula. Los criterios diagnósticos del PIOC incluyen: histopatología de carcinoma escamocelular, ausencia de compromiso de mucosa oral y senos paranasales, descartando metástasis de un sitio distante en base a estudios clínicos y métodos complementarios. El tratamiento de elección consiste, siempre que sea posible, en la exéresis con criterios oncológicos, y radio y/o quimioterapia adicional. Se requiere además, cirugía reconstructiva con injerto y/o prótesis con fines estéticos y funcionales. Presentamos el caso de un varón de 72 años, que consultó por molestias en maxilar inferior tres meses después de la extracción de un molar. Se efectuó biopsia por curetaje y luego se resecó el maxilar inferior con vaciamiento ganglionar. El estudio histopatológico mostró un carcinoma escamoso pobremente diferenciado, infiltrante en hueso maxilar, con hallazgos morfológicos que lo vinculaban a quiste odontogénico residual, y metástasis en 15 de 48 ganglios aislados. Se realizó radioterapia postquirúrgica, falleciendo a los 30 meses del diagnóstico por deterioro progresivo.(AU)

Primary intra-osseous carcinoma (PIOC) is a rare tumor, defined as squamous cell carcinoma that develops in the jaw bones, having no initial connection to adjacent skin or mucosa. It is locally aggressive, with metastases to regional lymph nodes, (28% of cases) and lung (5% of cases) at the time of diagnosis. Its origin may be di novo or from other odontogenic tumors. The maxillary bones have epithelial tissues; therefore this neoplasm is located exclusively on this site, predominantly in the jaw. PIOC diagnostic criteria are strict and include: squamous cell carcinoma histopathology, lack of commitment and sinus mucosa, ruling out the possibility of metastasis from a distant site with a thorough clinical study and complementary methods. The treatment is, whenever possible, oncologic resection, additional radio and / or chemotherapy. Reconstructive surgery with graft and / or prostheses for aesthetic and functional are also required. We report the case of a 72 years old man who consulted for sore jaw three months after molar extraction. Curettage biopsy was performed and then resected mandible with lymphadenectomy. Histopathological examination showed a poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma, infiltrating jawbone with morphological findings linking him to residual odontogenic cyst and metastatic lymph nodes in 15 of 48 isolates. Postoperative radiotherapy was performed, he died at 30 months of diagnosis by progressive deterioration.(AU)

Pilot field trial of the EG95 vaccine against ovine cystic echinococcosis in Rio Negro, Argentina: early impact and preliminary data.

Cystic echinococcosis is endemic in the Rio Negro province of Argentina. After 30 years of control using praziquantel in dogs the transmission rate to humans and sheep has decreased significantly, however transmission persists. The objective of the study is to assess the impact of the inclusion of the EG95 vaccine for sheep in the control programme, including analysis of the vaccine's operative feasibility in field conditions. The vaccine was applied in an area comprising four communities of native people including 79 farms with 3146 lambs and 311 dogs in total. Seventy one farms were designated as control areas where no vaccinations were undertaken while vaccinations of lambs undertaken on 91 farms. Lambs received two vaccinations with the EG95 vaccine followed by a single booster injection when the animals were 1-1.5 years of age. Farm locations were defined using GPS coordinates for the houses. Evidence for Echinococcus granulosus transmission was monitored by coproantigen ELISA on samples of dog faeces, by E. granulosus-specific PCR using soil samples, and anti-E. granulosus antibody assessments in sera from 2 to 4 teeth lambs, purgation of dogs to detect E. granulosus worms and necropsy on adult sheep. Before the vaccine was introduced, 26.2% of sheep with 2-4 teeth were positive using ELISA/WB, the prevalence decreased to 7.8% at the third year following use of the vaccine. Necropsy of animals older than 6 years (not vaccinated) showed that 66.1% of animals were infected with E. granulosus. In dogs, 4% was found positive for E. granulosus using arecoline purgation and 24.7% of the farms were infected using coproELISA/WB. During the first year of vaccination 2721 lambs received the first vaccine dose and 2448 received a booster. In the second year 2138 lambs were initially vaccinated and 1745 received a booster, and 1308 animals received the third dose. During the third year 1110 lambs received the first dose from which 539 received a booster and 723 animals received the third dose. An analysis of advantages and limitations of the diagnostic techniques used and the ability of the geospatial analysis to detect risk area are included. Based in the immunodiagnostic techniques, the EG95 vaccine has been able to prevent the infection in animals up to 3 years old. Also, the difficulties in the field for the correct vaccine administration and the social features and habits that may impact on echinococcosis control are included in the analysis.

Direct, immunological and molecular techniques for a fasciolosis survey in a rural area of San Luis, Argentina.

Fasciolosis is a zoonosis caused by the trematode Fasciola hepatica, prevalent in cattle, that is actually emerging as a cause of disease in humans. The goal of this work was to describe the characteristics of fasciolosis in arroyo El Juncal region, La Toma, San Luis province, Argentina. In order to get this objective, a transversal, quantitative study was carried out by a fieldwork that allowed the collection of data, human, animal, and environmental samples. The materials were processed by direct, immunological and/or molecular diagnostic techniques. According to the geographical characteristics and in presence of all the definitive and intermediate hosts, reservoirs, and sources of infection, it was possible to describe the persistence of fasciolosis in the area. The prevalence was 11.90 % in humans (by serology), 5.26 % in cattle (by coprological analysis) and 61.76 % in snails (by PCR). The situation that was found for this area indicates that any measure of intervention for the control of this zoonosis should be adopted by multidisciplinary teams.

Correlación cito-colpo-histológica de lesiones causadas por el virus del papiloma humano (HPV) y la utilidad de la técnica de PCR para determinar la infección por HPV / Correlation of cyto-colpo-histology in human papillomaviruses (HPV) lesions and the use of PCR technique in determining HPV infection

Introducción: El cáncer de cuello uterino es una patología prevalente más aun en países sub-desarrollados y existe una relación causal entre la infección persistente con algún tipo oncogénico de HPV y el desarrollo de dicha neoplasia.Se cuenta con un estudio de screening mundialmente aceptado y que también previene el carcinoma cervical que es el Papanicolaou y colposcopia, y en los últimos años se han incorporado estudios de biología molecular para el estudio del ADN viral.Material y Métodos: Se estudiaron a 60 pacientes. Se tomo como método gold standard a la biopsia de cuello uterino y a 29 pacientes se les realizo PCR para identificar ADN-HPV. La edad promedio de las pacientes fue de 30,95 años con mayor cantidad de pacientes en el rango etareo de 21-25 años. Resultados: El 70% tuvo citología negativa y 48 pacientes tuvieron biopsia positiva, 16 con resultado positivo de PCR. Obtuvimos una alta especificidad el Papanicolaou con respecto a la biopsia (90%), no así en comparación con el test de PCR (S=56% E=50%) debido al número pequeño de pacientes que se sometieron a este estudio. Discusión: Las mujeres menores de 30 años son las que más chances tienen de contraer la infección, no así de desarrollar la enfermedad debido a la historia natural de la misma, por lo que aconsejamos continuar con el screening regular de Papanicolaou/colposcopia e introducir con lapsos de 3 años o más en mujeres mayores a 30 años los estudios de biología molecular.Conclusiones: Se espera poder contar con mayores estrategias que nos permitan usar los beneficios de los test ADN-HPV sin sobre tratar a mujeres que probablemente atraviesan por una infección transitoria.

Introduction: Cervical cancer is a prevalent pathology, especially in underdeveloped countries, and there is a causal relationship between persistent infection with some type of oncogenic HPVs and the development of said neoplasia. There are two universally-accepted screening studies which also prevent cervical cancer, i.e. Pap smear and colposcopy, and, in the last few years some molecular biology studies have been adopted for the study of viral DNA. Material and methods: 60 patients were studied. Cervical biopsy was the gold standard method used and 29 patients were tested using the PCR technique to identify HPV-DNA. Patients' average age was 30.95, most of whom belonged to the 21-25 years old age span. Results: 70% of patients had negative cytology test and 48 patients obtained positive biopsy results, 16 had positive results in the PCR test. The Pap smear specificity was higher as regards the biopsy (90%), unlike the PCR test (S=56% E=50%) due to the small number of patients that underwent this study. Discussion: Women younger than 30 years old have more chances of infection, but no of developing the disease considering its natural history. Therefore, we recommend continuing with the Pap smear/colposcopy regular screening and introducing molecular biology studies in women older than 30 years old, every 3 years or more.Conclusions: We hope to have more strategies available which enable the use of HPV-DNA test benefits, without overtreating patients who are probably suffering from a transitory infection.

Correlación cito-colpo-histológica de lesiones causadas por el virus del papiloma humano (HPV) y la utilidad de la técnica de PCR para determinar la infección por HPV / Correlation of cyto-colpo-histology in human papillomaviruses (HPV) lesions and the use of PCR technique in determining HPV infection

Introducción: El cáncer de cuello uterino es una patología prevalente más aun en países sub-desarrollados y existe una relación causal entre la infección persistente con algún tipo oncogénico de HPV y el desarrollo de dicha neoplasia.Se cuenta con un estudio de screening mundialmente aceptado y que también previene el carcinoma cervical que es el Papanicolaou y colposcopia, y en los últimos años se han incorporado estudios de biología molecular para el estudio del ADN viral.Material y Métodos: Se estudiaron a 60 pacientes. Se tomo como método gold standard a la biopsia de cuello uterino y a 29 pacientes se les realizo PCR para identificar ADN-HPV. La edad promedio de las pacientes fue de 30,95 años con mayor cantidad de pacientes en el rango etareo de 21-25 años. Resultados: El 70% tuvo citología negativa y 48 pacientes tuvieron biopsia positiva, 16 con resultado positivo de PCR. Obtuvimos una alta especificidad el Papanicolaou con respecto a la biopsia (90%), no así en comparación con el test de PCR (S=56% E=50%) debido al número pequeño de pacientes que se sometieron a este estudio. Discusión: Las mujeres menores de 30 años son las que más chances tienen de contraer la infección, no así de desarrollar la enfermedad debido a la historia natural de la misma, por lo que aconsejamos continuar con el screening regular de Papanicolaou/colposcopia e introducir con lapsos de 3 años o más en mujeres mayores a 30 años los estudios de biología molecular.Conclusiones: Se espera poder contar con mayores estrategias que nos permitan usar los beneficios de los test ADN-HPV sin sobre tratar a mujeres que probablemente atraviesan por una infección transitoria. (AU)

Introduction: Cervical cancer is a prevalent pathology, especially in underdeveloped countries, and there is a causal relationship between persistent infection with some type of oncogenic HPVs and the development of said neoplasia. There are two universally-accepted screening studies which also prevent cervical cancer, i.e. Pap smear and colposcopy, and, in the last few years some molecular biology studies have been adopted for the study of viral DNA. Material and methods: 60 patients were studied. Cervical biopsy was the gold standard method used and 29 patients were tested using the PCR technique to identify HPV-DNA. Patients average age was 30.95, most of whom belonged to the 21-25 years old age span. Results: 70% of patients had negative cytology test and 48 patients obtained positive biopsy results, 16 had positive results in the PCR test. The Pap smear specificity was higher as regards the biopsy (90%), unlike the PCR test (S=56% E=50%) due to the small number of patients that underwent this study. Discussion: Women younger than 30 years old have more chances of infection, but no of developing the disease considering its natural history. Therefore, we recommend continuing with the Pap smear/colposcopy regular screening and introducing molecular biology studies in women older than 30 years old, every 3 years or more.Conclusions: We hope to have more strategies available which enable the use of HPV-DNA test benefits, without overtreating patients who are probably suffering from a transitory infection. (AU)

Carcinoma primario intraóseo. / [Primary intra-osseous carcinoma].

Primary intra-osseous carcinoma (PIOC) is a rare tumor, defined as squamous cell carcinoma that develops in the jaw bones, having no initial connection to adjacent skin or mucosa. It is locally aggressive, with metastases to regional lymph nodes, (28

of cases) and lung (5

of cases) at the time of diagnosis. Its origin may be di novo or from other odontogenic tumors. The maxillary bones have epithelial tissues; therefore this neoplasm is located exclusively on this site, predominantly in the jaw. PIOC diagnostic criteria are strict and include: squamous cell carcinoma histopathology, lack of commitment and sinus mucosa, ruling out the possibility of metastasis from a distant site with a thorough clinical study and complementary methods. The treatment is, whenever possible, oncologic resection, additional radio and / or chemotherapy. Reconstructive surgery with graft and / or prostheses for aesthetic and functional are also required. We report the case of a 72 years old man who consulted for sore jaw three months after molar extraction. Curettage biopsy was performed and then resected mandible with lymphadenectomy. Histopathological examination showed a poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma, infiltrating jawbone with morphological findings linking him to residual odontogenic cyst and metastatic lymph nodes in 15 of 48 isolates. Postoperative radiotherapy was performed, he died at 30 months of diagnosis by progressive deterioration.

[Contribution of the PCR assay to the diagnosis of Mansonella ozzardi in endemic areas of Argentina]. / Aporte de la técnica de PCR en el diagnóstico de Mansonella ozzardi en zonas endémicas de la Argentina.

Mansonella ozzardi is a tissue-dwelling parasitic nematode, the causative agent of mansonelliasis in almost all Latin American countries. It has been described along the Argentine Yungas region. The microscopic diagnosis can yield false-negative test results at low microfilaremia levels. The aim of this study was to optimize the molecular diagnostic technique and compare it with the Knott's method and standard blood smear procedures (thin blood films and thick smears) in 92 blood samples of individuals from an endemic area. The PCR technique followed by the sequencing of the amplified product yielded 100 % sensitivity compared to the Knott's test, which is considered a reference method. Seven more cases of this parasitosis could only be identified with the molecular technique.

Aporte de la técnica de PCR en el diagnóstico de Mansonella ozzardi en zonas endémicas de la Argentina / Contribution of the PCR assay to the diagnosis of Mansonella ozzardi in endemic areas of Argentina

Mansonella ozzardi es un nematode parásito tisular, agente etiológico de mansonellosis en casi la totalidad de los países latinoamericanos. En Argentina la mansonellosis ha sido descrita a lo largo de la región de las yungas. Su diagnóstico microscópico puede dar resultados falsos negativos en microfilaremias bajas. El objetivo del presente estudio fue optimizar su diagnóstico molecular y comparar los resultados con los obtenidos mediante las pruebas microscópicas de Knott, de gota gruesa y de extendido hemático fino, en 92 muestras de sangre de pacientes de zona endémica. La técnica de PCR seguida de la secuenciación del producto amplificado presentó una sensibilidad del 100 % frente al método de Knott, considerado como referencia, e incluso permitió identificar 7 casos más de la parasitosis.

Mansonella ozzardi is a tissue-dwelling parasitic nematode, the causative agent of mansonelliasis in almost all Latin American countries. It has been described along the Argentine Yungas region. The microscopic diagnosis can yield false-negative test results at low microfilaremia levels. The aim of this study was to optimize the molecular diagnostic technique and compare it with the Knott's method and standard blood smear procedures (thin blood films and thick smears) in 92 blood samples of individuals from an endemic area. The PCR technique followed by the sequencing of the amplified product yielded 100 % sensitivity compared to the Knott's test, which is considered a reference method. Seven more cases of this parasitosis could only be identified with the molecular technique.