Frequency of skin diseases in renal transplant recipients and patients with chronic kidney disease in a tertiary center: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) has increased in the recent decades, along with the number of patients in the terminal stages of this disease, requiring transplantation. Some skin disorders are more frequent in patients with CKD and in renal transplant recipients (RTR). OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the frequency of skin diseases in RTR and patients with CKD receiving conservative treatment. DESIGN AND SETTING: This observational cross-sectional study recruited consecutive patients with CKD and RTR from a nephrology clinic at a teaching hospital in Brazil between 2015 and 2020. METHODS: Quantitative, descriptive, and analytical approaches were used. The sample was selected based on convenience sampling. Data were collected from dermatological visits and participants' medical records. RESULTS: Overall, 308 participants were included: 206 RTR (66.9%, median age: 48 years, interquartile range [IQR] 38.0-56.0, 63.6% men) and 102 patients with CKD (33.1%, median age: 61.0 years, IQR 50.0-71.2, 48% men). The frequency of infectious skin diseases (39.3% vs. 21.6% P = 0.002) were higher in RTR than in patients with CKD. Neoplastic skin lesions were present in nine (4.4%) RTR and in only one (1.0%) patient with CKD. Among the RTR, the ratio of basal cell carcinoma to squamous cell carcinoma was 2:1. CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed that an increased frequency of infectious skin diseases may be expected in patients who have undergone kidney transplantation. Among skin cancers, BCC is more frequently observed in RTR, especially in those using azathioprine.

Quantitative PCR-Based Diagnosis and Follow-up of Chagas Disease Primary Infection After Solid Organ Transplant: A Multicentre Study.

Chagas disease in solid organ transplant recipients may present as a primary infection (PI). Early detection is crucial for timely treatment. This is the largest observational multicentre study evaluating qPCR for early diagnosis and treatment monitoring of PI in seronegative recipients of organs from seropositive donors. Of 34 patients admitted at 5 health centers, PI was detected by qPCR in 8 (23.5%) within a posttransplant period of 40 days (interquartile range [IQR], 31-50 days). No PI was detected by the Strout test or clinical symptoms/signs. All patients had favorable treatment outcome with negative qPCR 31 days (IQR, 18-35 days) after treatment, with no posttreatment relapse episodes.

Giant perianal condyloma successfully treated with podophyllin at 25% in solid petrolatum

Purpose: Giant perianal condyloma (GPC) is a rare condition. The effective treatment is a multidisciplinary challenge; topical treatments are usually ineffective, and surgical resection has significant morbidity. Podophyllin at 25% in solid petrolatum (25%PSP) can be an effective treatment option for GPC. The aim of the present study was to assess its response and tolerability. Methods: This retrospective, single-center case series evaluated the clinical response of 14 patients with GPC treated with 25%PSP in a public hospital in Buenos Aires between December 2015 and December 2019. After obtaining a full history and performing a physical exam, the lesions were measured and photographed. Biopsies were performed to exclude malignancy, as well as exams to rule out pregnancy. Podophyllin at 25% in solid petrolatum was administered topically in cases of GPC and washed off by the patients at home after 4 hours. The patients underwent at least 4 weekly visits, which included interval history, photodocumentation of the lesions, and provider-applied 25%PSP. The response rate was assessed by comparingmeasurements and the overall decrease in volume of the GPC based on photos from the first and last sessions. Adverse outcomes were noted. Results: In total, 10 men, 3 women, and 1 transgender woman with GPC unresponsive to prior treatments and a mean age of 34.5 years were included. A total of 12 patients were immunosuppressed. All the perianal lesions were circumferential and measured between 8 cm and 20 cm. Overall, 7 patients had genital condyloma outside of the anus and perianus; the histology showed low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions in all cases. While on treatment, 7 patients reported dermatitis, and 71% of the patients had 75% reduction in lesion size. Conclusions: Podophyllin at 25% in solid petrolatum is an effective, well-tolerated topical treatment option for GPC. (AU)

Histoplasmosis: informe de un caso / Histoplasmosis: a case report

Objetivo: Describir el diagnóstico y el tratamiento interdisciplinario de un caso clínico de histoplasmosis. Caso clínico: Un paciente masculino de 39 años, con antecedentes de consumo de drogas, alcohol, tabaquismo crónico y VIH+ sin adherencia al tratamiento, acudió al Servicio de Odontología por una interconsulta del Servicio de Clínica Médica para la evaluación de lesiones erosivas en paladar duro y blando, reborde alveolar anterior, dorso lingual y lesión tumoral en encía anterosuperior. El diagnóstico definitivo se obtuvo por medio del análisis de muestras de biopsia transbronquial, lavado broncoalveolar y biopsia de lesión en piel. El paciente recibió tratamiento sistémico con antimicóticos (anfotericina B e itraconazol según esquema) y tratamiento local con colutorio de clorhexidina al 0,12% y 100.000 UI de nistatina en suspensión. Al momento del alta, presentaba una considerable mejoría de su estado general y de las lesiones orales, con disminución de sintomatología dolorosa. Se indicó turno para control a los 7 días de forma ambulatoria, al cual el paciente no asistió. El abordaje interdisciplinario y el análisis de los diferentes aspectos socioeconómicos, culturales, ambientales y sistémicos del paciente facilitaron el diagnóstico temprano de la enfermedad (AU)

Aim: To describe the diagnosis and interdisciplinary treatment of a clinical case of histoplasmosis. Clinical case: 39-year-old male patient with a history of drug abuse, alcohol, and chronic smoking, HIV+ without treatment compliance, attends the dental department referred by the medical department for the diagnosis of erosive lesions in the hard and soft palate, anterior alveolar ridge, lingual dorsum and tumor lesion in the anterosuperior gingiva. The definitive diagnosis was obtained by the analysis of transbronchial biopsy, bronchoalveolar lavage and skin lesion biopsy. The patient received systemic treatment with antifungals (amphotericin b, itraconazole according to protocol), and local treatment with 0.12% chlorhexidine mouthwash and 100,000 IU nystatin suspension. At the time of medical discharge, the patient presented a considerable improvement in his general condition and of the oral lesions with a reduced pain. A 7 days recall was prescribed, however the patient failed to attend. The interdisciplinary approach to the patient and the analysis of the different socio-economic, cultural, environmental and systemic aspects of the patient facilitates the early diagnosis of the disease (AU)

Future strategies to improve short- and long-term outcomes of renal transplantation in dogs / Estratégias futuras para melhorar os resultados de transplante renal em cães a curto e longo prazo

Transplants for cats with naturally occurring renal disease have been introduced into clinical practice, but canine renal transplantation represents a greater challenge because of the lack of a balanced immunosuppressive protocol, difficulty in selecting compatible canine kidney donors, and absence of transplantation monitoring protocols. This and other important factors will be discussed in this review to help improve short- and long-term outcomes for renal transplantation in dogs.(AU)

O transplante renal em gatos com doença renal naturalmente adquirida está cada vez mais sendo introduzido na prática clínica. O transplante renal em cães, por sua vez, representa um desafio maior devido a falta da definição de um protocolo imunossupressor equilibrado, dificuldade na seleção de doadores compatíveis e ausência de protocolos de monitoramento de transplantes. Esses e outros fatores serão abordados nesta revisão afim de melhorar os resultados, tanto a curto quanto a longo prazo do transplante renal em cães.(AU)

Future strategies to improve short- and long-term outcomes of renal transplantation in dogs / Estratégias futuras para melhorar os resultados de transplante renal em cães a curto e longo prazo

ABSTRACT: Transplants for cats with naturally occurring renal disease have been introduced into clinical practice, but canine renal transplantation represents a greater challenge because of the lack of a balanced immunosuppressive protocol, difficulty in selecting compatible canine kidney donors, and absence of transplantation monitoring protocols. This and other important factors will be discussed in this review to help improve short- and long-term outcomes for renal transplantation in dogs.

RESUMO: O transplante renal em gatos com doença renal naturalmente adquirida está cada vez mais sendo introduzido na prática clínica. O transplante renal em cães, por sua vez, representa um desafio maior devido a falta da definição de um protocolo imunossupressor equilibrado, dificuldade na seleção de doadores compatíveis e ausência de protocolos de monitoramento de transplantes. Esses e outros fatores serão abordados nesta revisão afim de melhorar os resultados, tanto a curto quanto a longo prazo do transplante renal em cães.

[Streptococcus agalactiae in non-pregnant adults. Analysis of 10 years in a University Hospital.] / Streptococcus agalactiae en adultos no gestantes. Análisis de 10 años en un Hospital Universitario.

Introduction: Streptococcus agalactiae (GBS) is a recognized pathogen associated with infections in newborns and small infants, pregnant women, and puerperal women. In recent years there has been an increase in infections by this agent in non-pregnant adult patients, being more frequent in people over 65 years of age and with some comorbidity. Methods: retrospective and observational study of samples from non-pregnant adult patients analyzed in the Bacteriology Laboratory of the Hospital Nacional de Clínicas of the city of Córdoba, from January 2008 to December 2017. Age and sex of the patients, comorbidities, and type of sample were analyzed shows. Results: The total of positive samples was 187, 91 (49%) corresponded to women and 96 (51%) to men. The average age was 67 years. Of the samples, urine was the prevalent one with 90 isolates (48.1%), followed by blood with 39 (20.8%) and skin and soft tissues with 38 (20.3%). Of the 187 adults, 177 (95%) had at least one comorbidity, the most frequent being diabetes, followed by neoplasms. Only 10 (5%) did not present comorbidities. Conclusions: The findings in our work, as well as those published by various authors, show the need to consider Streptococcus agalactiae not only a pathogen of neonates and pregnant women, but also of elderly patients with different comorbidities, especially those who suffer from DBT or neoplasia.

Introducción: Streptococcus agalactiae (SGB) es un reconocido patógeno asociado a infecciones en recién nacidos y lactantes pequeños, en mujeres gestantes y en puérperas. En los últimos años se ha observado un incremento de infecciones por este agente en pacientes adultos no gestantes, siendo más frecuentes en mayores de 65 años y con alguna comorbilidad. Métodos: estudio retrospectivo y observacional de muestras de pacientes adultos no gestantes analizadas en el laboratorio de Bacteriología del Hospital Nacional de Clínicas de la ciudad de Córdoba, desde enero de 2008 a diciembre de 2017. Se analizó edad y sexo de los pacientes, comorbilidades y tipo de muestra. Resultados: El total de muestras positivas fue de 187, 91 (49%) correspondieron a mujeres y 96 (51%) a varones. La edad media fue de 67 años. De las muestras, orina fue la prevalente con 90 aislamientos (48.1%), seguidas de sangre con 39 (20.8%) y piel y partes blandas con 38 (20.3%). De los 187 adultos, 177 (95%) presentaron al menos una comorbilidad, siendo la más frecuente diabetes, seguida de neoplasias. Sólo 10 (5%) no presentaron comorbilidades. Conclusión: Los hallazgos en nuestro trabajo, como así también los publicados por diversos autores, ponen en evidencia la necesidad de considerar a Streptococcus agalactiae no sólo un patógeno de neonatos y embarazadas, sino también de pacientes adultos mayores y con diferentes comorbilidades, en especial aquellos que padecen DBT o neoplasias.Palabras claves: Streptococcus agalactiae; infecciones estreptocócicas; inmunosupresión; bacteriemia; comorbilidad.

Meeting Report of the XIV International Small Bowel Transplant Symposium: Summary of Presentations, Workshops, and Debates From a Comprehensive Meeting on Intestinal Failure, Rehabilitation, and Transplantation, Buenos Aires, Argentina, June 10-13, 2015.

The 2015 meeting of the Intestinal Transplant Association was held in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This was the 14th International Small Bowel Transplant Symposium, and it was the first meeting organized as a joint venture of the Transplantation Society, the Intestinal Transplant Association, and the Argentinean Transplant Society (Sociedad Argentina de Trasplantes). Innovative aspects of the classic meeting format included workshops sessions, debates, and multicenter studies. This report highlights the most prominent scientific contributions and results of the first such symposium in a Latin American country.

[Neurological disorders and immunosuppression in kidney transplant patients. Preliminary study]. / Alteraciones neurológicas e inmunosupresión en pacientes con trasplante renal. Estudio preliminar.

BACKGROUND: Neurological disorders in kidney transplant patients may be related to several factors, including high toxicity to the use of immunosuppressive drugs. OBJECTIVE: To find out whether there was association between neurological complications and immunosuppression in a sample of patients who received renal transplantation. METHODS: Cross-sectional study in which 121 renal transplant patients participated, of which 22 (18%) had neurological disorders, chi-squared test was used to analyze the relation between neurological disorders and comorbidity such as diabetes mellitus and hypertension and time of immunosuppressant use. A significance level of p <0.05 was accepted for all determinations. RESULTS: Of the subjects studied, 13 were male (59%) and nine female (41%). The mean age of the patients included in the study was 33 ± 12 years. 59% of neurological disorders occurred between six months and five years after patients had received the transplant. Neurological alterations found were: tremor (7.4%), dizziness (4.1%), peripheral neuropathy (3.3%), headache (2.4%), and decreased strength (0.8%). CONCLUSION: No statistically significant association was found between neurological disorders and immunosuppressant use, or between them and the duration of immunosuppression.

Antecedentes: Las alteraciones neurológicas en pacientes trasplantados de riñón pueden relacionarse con diversos factores, entre ellos la toxicidad secundaria al uso de medicamentos inmunosupresores. Objetivo: Conocer si existió asociación entre complicaciones neurológicas e inmunosupresión en una muestra de pacientes que recibieron trasplante renal. Métodos: Estudio transversal en el que participaron 121 pacientes con trasplante renal, de los cuales 22 (18 %) presentaron alteraciones neurológicas, Se usó χ2 para analizar la relación entre alteraciones neurológicas y comorbilidad como diabetes mellitus e hipertensión arterial y tiempo del uso de inmunosupresor. Se aceptó un nivel de significación p<0.05 para todas las determinaciones Resultados: De los sujetos estudiados, 13 eran hombres (59%) y nueve mujeres (41%). La edad media de los pacientes incluidos en el estudio fue 33 ± 12 años. El 59 % de las alteraciones neurológicas ocurrieron entre seis meses y cinco años de que los pacientes habían recibido el trasplante. Las alteraciones neurológicas encontradas fueron: temblor (7.4%), vértigo (4.1%), neuropatía periférica (3.3%), cefalea (2.4%) y disminución de la fuerza (0.8 %). Conclusión: No se encontró relación estadísticamente significativa entre las alteraciones neurológicas y el inmunosupresor usado ni entre éstas y el tiempo que duró la inmunosupresión.

Risk of vancomycin-resistant enterococci bloodstream infection among patients colonized with vancomycin-resistant enterococci

Background: Vancomycin-resistant enterococci colonization has been reported to increase the risk of developing infections, including bloodstream infections. Aim: In this study, we aimed to share our experience with the vancomycin-resistant enterococci bloodstream infections following gastrointestinal vancomycin-resistant enterococci colonization in pediatric population during a period of 18 months. Method: A retrospective cohort of children admitted to a 400-bed tertiary teaching hospital in Izmir, Turkey whose vancomycin-resistant enterococci colonization was newly detected during routine surveillances for gastrointestinal vancomycin-resistant enterococci colonization during the period of January 2009 and December 2012 were included in this study. All vancomycin-resistant enterococci isolates found within 18 months after initial detection were evaluated for evidence of infection. Findings: Two hundred and sixteen patients with vancomycin-resistant enterococci were included in the study. Vancomycin-resistant enterococci colonization was detected in 136 patients (62.3%) while they were hospitalized at intensive care units; while the remaining majority (33.0%) were hospitalized at hematology-oncology department. Vancomycinresistant enterococci bacteremia was present only in three (1.55%) patients. All these patients were immunosuppressed due to human immunodeficiency virus (one patient) and intensive chemotherapy (two patients). Conclusion: In conclusion, our study found that 1.55% of vancomycin-resistant enterococcicolonized children had developed vancomycin-resistant enterococci bloodstream infection among the pediatric intensive care unit and hematology/oncology patients; according to our findings, we suggest that immunosupression is the key point for developing vancomycinresistant enterococci bloodstream infections. .

Risk of vancomycin-resistant enterococci bloodstream infection among patients colonized with vancomycin-resistant enterococci.

BACKGROUND: Vancomycin-resistant enterococci colonization has been reported to increase the risk of developing infections, including bloodstream infections. AIM: In this study, we aimed to share our experience with the vancomycin-resistant enterococci bloodstream infections following gastrointestinal vancomycin-resistant enterococci colonization in pediatric population during a period of 18 months. METHOD: A retrospective cohort of children admitted to a 400-bed tertiary teaching hospital in Izmir, Turkey whose vancomycin-resistant enterococci colonization was newly detected during routine surveillances for gastrointestinal vancomycin-resistant enterococci colonization during the period of January 2009 and December 2012 were included in this study. All vancomycin-resistant enterococci isolates found within 18 months after initial detection were evaluated for evidence of infection. FINDINGS: Two hundred and sixteen patients with vancomycin-resistant enterococci were included in the study. Vancomycin-resistant enterococci colonization was detected in 136 patients (62.3%) while they were hospitalized at intensive care units; while the remaining majority (33.0%) were hospitalized at hematology-oncology department. Vancomycin-resistant enterococci bacteremia was present only in three (1.55%) patients. All these patients were immunosuppressed due to human immunodeficiency virus (one patient) and intensive chemotherapy (two patients). CONCLUSION: In conclusion, our study found that 1.55% of vancomycin-resistant enterococci-colonized children had developed vancomycin-resistant enterococci bloodstream infection among the pediatric intensive care unit and hematology/oncology patients; according to our findings, we suggest that immunosupression is the key point for developing vancomycin-resistant enterococci bloodstream infections.

Caracterización de pacientes hospitalizados con infecciones causadas por micobacterias no tuberculosas, en un hospital de alta complejidad en Colombia / Characteristics of inpatients with nontuberculous mycobacterial infections in a highly complex hospital in Colombia

Antecedentes: Las infecciones por micobacterias no tuberculosas (MNT) se describen en los últimos años con mayor frecuencia, especialmente en pacientes con inmunosupresión y en pacientes tratados por procedimientos estéticos. Las MNT incluyen especies del género Mycobacterium , diferentes del complejo Mycobacterium tuberculosis y Mycobacterium leprae . Objetivo: Describir las características demográficas y clínicas de pacientes hospitalizados con infecciones por MNT. Metodología: Estudio descriptivo retrospectivo. Resultados: De 187 pacientes con infección por micobacterias documentadas por cultivo, 17 (9,1%) tuvieron infección por MNT. Edad promedio de 38,4 ± 19,2 años. El 58,82% fueron hombres. Las principales comorbilidades fueron VIH/sida (41,17%), diabetes mellitus (23,53%), enfermedad renal crónica (17,64%), terapia inmunosupresora (17,64%) y neoplasias (17,64%). En los coinfectados con VIH el recuento de CD4 fue <50 en 85,71%. Las especies más frecuentes fueron complejo M. avium (CMA) 35,29%, M. abscessus (17,65%) y M. chelonae (11,76%). Las formas de infección fueron: diseminada (35,29%), pulmonar (23,53%), piel y tejidos blandos (17,64%) y gastrointestinal (11,76%). Estancia promedio de 22,1 días; un 23,53% requirió atención en UCI. La mortalidad general fue 23,53%. Conclusión: Las infecciones por MNT causan una serie de condiciones patológicas, los pacientes inmunocomprometidos son la población de mayor riesgo y las formas diseminada y pulmonar,las más frecuentes. La sospecha temprana así como la toma de muestras adecuadas y el uso de métodos diagnósticos apropiados son indispensables para su diagnóstico oportuno y tratamiento adecuado.

Background: Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infections has been described more frequently in recent years, especially in immunosuppression conditions and after cosmetic surgical procedures. The NTM include species of the genus Mycobacterium , other than Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex and Mycobacterium leprae. Objective: To describe the demographic and clinical characteristics of Colombian in-patientswith NTM infections. Methodology: A retrospective descriptive study. Results: In 187 patients with culture- confirmed mycobacterial infection, 17 (9,1%) had NTM.The mean age was 38,4 ± 19,2 and 58,82% were men. Major comorbidities were: HIV/AIDS(41,1%), diabetes mellitus (23,5%), chronic renal disease (17,6%), immunosuppressive therapy(17,6%) and neoplasms (17,6%). In patients co-infected with HIV, CD4 count was <50 in 85,7%.The most frequent species were M. avium complex (MAC) in 35,2%, M. abscessus in 17,6% and M. chelonae in 11,7%. Infections were disseminated (35,2%), pulmonary (23,5%), skin and soft tissue (17,6%) and in gastrointestinal system (11,7%). The average hospital stay was 22,1 day sand 23,5% required intensive care unit. Overall mortality was 23,5%. Conclusion: MNT infections cause a number of pathological conditions, being more frequent in immunocompromised patients. The disseminated and pulmonary forms were the most common. Early clinical suspicion and appropriate samples and diagnostic assays, are crucial for early diagnosis and treatment.

Aspergilosis traqueobronquial invasiva en un paciente con púrpura trombocitopénica trombótica tratada con Anti-CD20 / Invasive tracheobronchial aspergillosis in a patient with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) and immunosuppressed due to the use of steroids and anti-CD20

La aspergilosis invasiva es una complicación que se presenta con mayor frecuencia en pacientes con inmunosupresión. La aspergilosis traqueobronquial es una complicación muy rara con mínimas manifestaciones clínicas. Se informa de una paciente de 53 años con diagnóstico de púrpura trombocitopénica trombótica (PTT) con inmunosupresión por el uso de esteroides y anti CD-20, que presentó hemoptisis en 2 ocasiones; la segunda fue masiva y ocasionó la muerte. Previo al segundo evento de la hemoptisis se logró realizar broncoscopía, que mostró pseudomembranas y ulceración del epitelio bronquial. En el postmortem se logró documentar la presencia de Aspergillus tanto en la biopsia como en el cultivo. Es de gran importancia la sospecha y un reconocimiento temprano de esta patología en pacientes con inmunosupresión por su alta mortalidad.

Invasive aspergillosis is a complication most commonly developed in immunosuppressed patients. Tracheobronquial aspergillosis is an extremely rare complication with minimal clinical expression. We present the case of a 53-year-old female patient diagnosed with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) and immunosuppressed due to the use of steroids and anti-CD20, who presented hemoptisis twice; being the second one massive leading to death. Before the second event of hemoptisis, bronchoscopy was performed, which showed pseudomembranes and ulceration of the bronchial epithelium. In the post-mortem examination, the presence of Aspergillus was evidenced by both biopsy and culture. The presumption and early diagnosis of this condition are paramount for immunosuppressed patients due to its high mortality.

Tratamiento sistémico del penfigoide cicatrizal ocular / Systemic treatment of ocular cicatricial pemphigoid

El penfigoide cicatrizal ocular (PCO) es una enfermedad ampollar autoinmune que produce daño conjuntival grave. Se conoce poco acerca de la respuesta del PCO al tratamiento inmunosupresor. Describimos un grupo de 76 pacientes con PCO, 62 mujeres y 14 hombres. La edad media al diagnóstico fue de 67 ± 14 años, con un retraso de 7.5 ± 10 años. Sesenta se siguieron en nuestro servicio por 19 ± 21 meses. De 51 en quienes se describe la gravedad de la enfermedad al inicio del tratamiento, fue leve en 19 pacientes, moderada en 19, grave en cinco y muy grave en ocho. Las drogas mayormente prescriptas fueron dapsona en 35 pacientes, de los que 23 la discontinuaron por efectos adversos, y metotrexate en 42, de los que nueve lo suspendieron. Otros recibieron azatioprina, ciclofosfamida y ciclosporina. A 17 se les indicaron corticoides orales, además del inmunosupresor. Cuatro combinaron dos drogas para controlar la enfermedad. Tres pacientes refractarios recibieron gammaglobulina EV con buena respuesta. De 48 evaluados, 39 mostraron mejoría, ocho no tuvieron cambios y uno progresó. En nuestra experiencia, metotrexate y azatioprina son efectivos, con baja toxicidad. Dapsona es útil en casos leves, con efectos adversos frecuentes. La gammaglobulina EV fue efectiva en casos refractarios.(AU)

Ocular cicatricial pemphigoid (OCP) is a blistering autoimmune disease that can produce severe conjunctival damage. Its response to immunosuppressive treatment is poorly known. We describe a group of 76 patients, 62 women and 14 men. Mean age at diagnosis was 67±14 years old, with a delay to diagnosis of 7.5±10 years. Sixty patients continued their follow up in our services for 19±21 months. Nineteen out of 51 had mild disease, 19 moderate, 5 severe and 8 very severe at onset of treatment. The more frequently prescribed drugs were dapsone, in 35 (23 discontinued it because of adverse effects), and methotrexate in 42 patients, nine of them stopped it. Other patients received azathioprine, cyclophosphamide and ciclosporine. Seventeen received oral steroids in addition to immunosuppresive drugs. Four patients combined two immunosupressive drugs to control their disease. In three refractory cases IV immunoglobulin (Ig) was administered with good response. From 48 evaluated patients, 39 improved with treatment, eight remained stable and one progressed. In our experience, methotrexate and azathioprine were effective drugs, with low toxicity. Dapsone was useful in mild cases, with frequent adverse effects. IVIg was effective for refractory cases.(AU)

Tratamiento sistémico del penfigoide cicatrizal ocular / Systemic treatment of ocular cicatricial pemphigoid

El penfigoide cicatrizal ocular (PCO) es una enfermedad ampollar autoinmune que produce daño conjuntival grave. Se conoce poco acerca de la respuesta del PCO al tratamiento inmunosupresor. Describimos un grupo de 76 pacientes con PCO, 62 mujeres y 14 hombres. La edad media al diagnóstico fue de 67 ñ 14 años, con un retraso de 7.5 ñ 10 años. Sesenta se siguieron en nuestro servicio por 19 ñ 21 meses. De 51 en quienes se describe la gravedad de la enfermedad al inicio del tratamiento, fue leve en 19 pacientes, moderada en 19, grave en cinco y muy grave en ocho. Las drogas mayormente prescriptas fueron dapsona en 35 pacientes, de los que 23 la discontinuaron por efectos adversos, y metotrexate en 42, de los que nueve lo suspendieron. Otros recibieron azatioprina, ciclofosfamida y ciclosporina. A 17 se les indicaron corticoides orales, además del inmunosupresor. Cuatro combinaron dos drogas para controlar la enfermedad. Tres pacientes refractarios recibieron gammaglobulina EV con buena respuesta. De 48 evaluados, 39 mostraron mejoría, ocho no tuvieron cambios y uno progresó. En nuestra experiencia, metotrexate y azatioprina son efectivos, con baja toxicidad. Dapsona es útil en casos leves, con efectos adversos frecuentes. La gammaglobulina EV fue efectiva en casos refractarios.(AU)

Ocular cicatricial pemphigoid (OCP) is a blistering autoimmune disease that can produce severe conjunctival damage. Its response to immunosuppressive treatment is poorly known. We describe a group of 76 patients, 62 women and 14 men. Mean age at diagnosis was 67ñ14 years old, with a delay to diagnosis of 7.5ñ10 years. Sixty patients continued their follow up in our services for 19ñ21 months. Nineteen out of 51 had mild disease, 19 moderate, 5 severe and 8 very severe at onset of treatment. The more frequently prescribed drugs were dapsone, in 35 (23 discontinued it because of adverse effects), and methotrexate in 42 patients, nine of them stopped it. Other patients received azathioprine, cyclophosphamide and ciclosporine. Seventeen received oral steroids in addition to immunosuppresive drugs. Four patients combined two immunosupressive drugs to control their disease. In three refractory cases IV immunoglobulin (Ig) was administered with good response. From 48 evaluated patients, 39 improved with treatment, eight remained stable and one progressed. In our experience, methotrexate and azathioprine were effective drugs, with low toxicity. Dapsone was useful in mild cases, with frequent adverse effects. IVIg was effective for refractory cases.(AU)

Tratamiento sistémico del penfigoide cicatrizal ocular / Systemic treatment of ocular cicatricial pemphigoid

El penfigoide cicatrizal ocular (PCO) es una enfermedad ampollar autoinmune que produce daño conjuntival grave. Se conoce poco acerca de la respuesta del PCO al tratamiento inmunosupresor. Describimos un grupo de 76 pacientes con PCO, 62 mujeres y 14 hombres. La edad media al diagnóstico fue de 67 ± 14 años, con un retraso de 7.5 ± 10 años. Sesenta se siguieron en nuestro servicio por 19 ± 21 meses. De 51 en quienes se describe la gravedad de la enfermedad al inicio del tratamiento, fue leve en 19 pacientes, moderada en 19, grave en cinco y muy grave en ocho. Las drogas mayormente prescriptas fueron dapsona en 35 pacientes, de los que 23 la discontinuaron por efectos adversos, y metotrexate en 42, de los que nueve lo suspendieron. Otros recibieron azatioprina, ciclofosfamida y ciclosporina. A 17 se les indicaron corticoides orales, además del inmunosupresor. Cuatro combinaron dos drogas para controlar la enfermedad. Tres pacientes refractarios recibieron gammaglobulina EV con buena respuesta. De 48 evaluados, 39 mostraron mejoría, ocho no tuvieron cambios y uno progresó. En nuestra experiencia, metotrexate y azatioprina son efectivos, con baja toxicidad. Dapsona es útil en casos leves, con efectos adversos frecuentes. La gammaglobulina EV fue efectiva en casos refractarios.

Ocular cicatricial pemphigoid (OCP) is a blistering autoimmune disease that can produce severe conjunctival damage. Its response to immunosuppressive treatment is poorly known. We describe a group of 76 patients, 62 women and 14 men. Mean age at diagnosis was 67±14 years old, with a delay to diagnosis of 7.5±10 years. Sixty patients continued their follow up in our services for 19±21 months. Nineteen out of 51 had mild disease, 19 moderate, 5 severe and 8 very severe at onset of treatment. The more frequently prescribed drugs were dapsone, in 35 (23 discontinued it because of adverse effects), and methotrexate in 42 patients, nine of them stopped it. Other patients received azathioprine, cyclophosphamide and ciclosporine. Seventeen received oral steroids in addition to immunosuppresive drugs. Four patients combined two immunosupressive drugs to control their disease. In three refractory cases IV immunoglobulin (Ig) was administered with good response. From 48 evaluated patients, 39 improved with treatment, eight remained stable and one progressed. In our experience, methotrexate and azathioprine were effective drugs, with low toxicity. Dapsone was useful in mild cases, with frequent adverse effects. IVIg was effective for refractory cases.

Enfermedad linfoproliferativa difusa postrasplante en adultos: comunicación de un caso y revisión de la literatura / Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder in adults: case report and review of the literature

The post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) corresponds to a heterogeneous group of lymphoproliferative diseases that develop in solid organ and bone marrow transplant recipients. It occurs in 3-10 percent of patients receiving solid organ transplants, mostly children. It is called early PTLD if it occurs in the first year after transplantation, if it affects B-cell lymphocytes and is associated with infection by Epstein-Barr virus. Late presentation occurs after the first year of transplantation and its pathogenesis is less clear. Clinical manifestations vary from a benign mononucleosis-like clinical setting to high-grade tumors with high mortality (40-60 percent). Treatment depends on the extent of the disease, including reduction of immunosuppressive therapy, radiotherapy, surgery and, more recently, the use of anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody. We report the case of a 67 year-old woman presenting with PTLD on the eighth month after receiving a liver graft.

La enfermedad linfoproliferativa difusa postrasplante (ELDP), corresponde a un grupo heterogéneo de desórdenes linfoproliferativos que se desarrollan en receptores de órganos sólidos y médula ósea. Ocurre en 3 a 10 por ciento de los pacientes receptores de órganos sólidos, fundamentalmente pediátricos. Se denomina ELDP precoz si se presenta en el primer año posterior al trasplante, afecta a los linfocitos de estirpe B y se asocia a la infección por virus Epstein-Barr. La presentación tardía ocurre luego del primer año de trasplante y su etiopatogenia es menos clara. Las manifestaciones clínicas varían desde un cuadro benigno similar a la mononucleosis a neoplasias de alto grade, con elevada mortalidad (40-60 por ciento). El tratamiento dependerá de la extensión de la enfermedad, incluyendo reducción del tratamiento inmunosupresor, radioterapia, cirugía y más recientemente el uso de anticuerpos monoclonales anti CD20. Presentamos el caso clínico de una mujer de 67 años, que al octavo mes de recibir un injerto hepático presenta ELDP.

Sarcoma de Kaposi associado a corticoterapia sistêmica / Kaposi sarcoma associated with systemic corticosteroid therapy

Sarcoma de Kaposi é uma neoplasia angioproliferativa de origem mesenquimal com acometimento cutâneo frequente. Encontra-se relacionado a doenças infecciosas ou a condições que envolvam imunossupressão. O objetivo deste trabalho é descrever um caso de sarcoma de Kaposi disseminado iatrogênico, em paciente usuária crônica de corticosteroide. Embora, atualmente, o sarcoma de Kaposi seja relacionado principalmente à síndrome da imunodeficiência adquirida, é importante destacar seu comportamento crescente como malignidade oportunista em pacientes em uso de imunossupressores, particularmente, corticosteróide

Kaposi’s sarcoma is a mesenchymal angioproliferative neoplasm with frequent cutaneous involvement. It is related to infectious diseases or conditions involving immunosuppression. The aim of this paper is to describe a case of disseminated iatrogenic Kaposi’s sarcoma in a female patient under corticosteroid therapy. Although currently Kaposi’s sarcoma is related primarily to the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, it is important to highlight its growing presence as an opportunistic malignancy in patients taking immunosuppressive drugs, particularly corticosteroids

Efeitos do micofenolato de sódio no aparelho mucociliar: estudo experimental em ratos / Effects of mycophenolate on mucociliary clearance: experimental study in rats

O transplante pulmonar tem se tornado a opção de tratamento para os pacientes com doença pulmonar terminal. Maiores problemas associados são a rejeição e a infecção; por isso, a importância de se estudar os mecanismos de defesa do aparelho respiratório e o efeito de drogas imunossupressoras sobre o mesmo. O micofenolato de sódio é uma droga imunossupressora que inibe a proliferação dos linfócitos, envolvidos no mecanismo de defesa celular. Objetivo: Avaliar os efeitos do micofenolato de sódio versus solução salina no aparelho mucociliar de ratos. Métodos: Foram utilizados 60 ratos machos Wistar. Todos foram submetidos à cirurgia de secção e anastomose brônquica esquerda. Distribuídos aleatoriamente em dois grupos, um grupo de 30 ratos que recebeu solução salina, pulmão direito controle (S) e pulmão esquerdo operado (SC); enquanto que o segundo grupo recebeu, também por gavagem, micofenolato, pulmão direito controle (M) e pulmão esquerdo operado (MC); até o sacrifício no 7º, 15º e 30º dia de tratamento. Avaliados a frequência do batimento ciliar (FBC), velocidade do transporte mucociliar in vivo (VTMC); e a velocidade de transporte mucociliar in vitro (PLT). Resultados: A FBC é menor no grupo MC em relação ao grupo M, no período de 30 dias (p= 0, 003); e dentro do grupo MC, ao compararmos o 7º e o 30º (p=0, 0001) dia e o 15º e o 30º dia (p=0, 026) de tratamento notamos uma piora da FBC. Em relação à VTMC houve uma melhora no grupo SC no 7º e 30º dia (p=0, 003) e 15º e 30 º dia (p= 0, 005) de tratamento. Comparando o grupo SC e MC no período de 30 dias, verificamos que esta VTMC é menor no segundo grupo (p= 0, 0001). No PLT não houve diferença estatística entre os grupos. Conclusões: O micofenolato associado à secção brônquica diminui a FBC no decorrer do tempo; a VTMC no grupo que recebeu solução salina associado ao procedimento cirúrgico apresentou uma recuperação no decorrer do tempo, o mesmo não foi observado quando associado ao procedimento...

The lung transplantation has become the treatment option for the patients with terminal lung illness. Major problems associated are rejection and infection; that´s the reason the importance of studying the mechanism of respiratory system defense and the immunosuppressive drugs effects about itself. The sodium Mycophenolate is an immunosuppressive drug that inhibits the proliferation of lymphocytes, involved in cellular defense mechanism. Purpose: evaluating the sodium Mycophenolate effects versus salt solution in the mucociliary system of rats. Methods: sixty male Wistar rats were used. Every rat was submitted to section surgery and left bronchial anastomosis. The rats were randomly divided: a group of 30 rats which received saline solution; Right lung control (S) and operated Left lung (SC); meanwhile the second group received also by gavage Mycophenolate, Right lung control (M) and Left operated lung (MC); until the sacrifice at the seventh, fifteenth and thirtieth day of treatment. Ciliary beat frequency (CBF) has been evaluated, mucociliary transport speed in vivo (MCTS); and the Velocity of Transport of the Mucociliary in vitro (PLT). Results: the CBF is smaller in the MC group than M group, in thirty days (p=0,003), and inside MC group, when comparing with the seventh and the thirtieth (p=0, 0001) day and the fifteenth and the thirtieth day (p= 0,026) of the treatment we noticed a worsening of CBF. About the MCTS there was an improvement in the SC group in the seventh and the thirtieth day (p=0,003) and the seventh and the thirtieth day (p=0,005) of treatment. The comparing the SC and the MC groups in thirty days we noticed that this MCTS is smaller in the second group (p=0, 0001). In the PLT there were no statistic differences between those groups. Conclusions: the Mycophenolate associated to bronchial section reduces the CBF over time; the MCTS in the group that received salt solution associated to surgical procedure showed recovery, the same...