Lineamientos técnicos para el abordaje integral de enfermedades respiratorias crónicas, asma en personas mayores o iguales a 12 años y Enfermedad Pulmonar Obstructiva Crónica (EPOC) / Technical guidelines for the comprehensive approach to chronic respiratory diseases, asthma in people older than or equal to 12 years of age, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Las enfermedades respiratorias crónicas golpean los sistemas de salud por los altos costos que se derivan por la atención de pacientes en los diferentes estadios de estas enfermedades, en particular aquellas etapas en las que las personas se encuentran con múltiples afecciones provocadas o sumadas por el desarrollo de las enfermedades respiratorias crónicas. Con el fin de mejorar la atención de los pacientes con enfermedades respiratorias crónicas priorizadas; y brindar al personal de salud una herramienta técnico-científica para estandarizar la identificación, diagnóstico y tratamiento de las personas mayores de 12 años, la Unidad de Prevención y Control de la Tuberculosis y Enfermedades Respiratorias, ha elaborado el presente documento, el cual será de mucha utilidad en los diferentes niveles de atención, para brindar una atención de calidad a los pacientes con enfermedades respiratorias crónicas. En su contenido se integran instrucciones para la atención del asma y la Enfermedad Pulmonar Obstructiva Crónica (EPOC), con un abordaje clínico terapéutico más actualizado, para que puedan darse las atenciones en los establecimientos del Sistema Nacional Integrado de Salud (SNIS), así como las actividades educativas que permitan incidir en la prevención de estas enfermedades

Chronic respiratory diseases hit health systems due to the high costs derived from the care of patients in the different stages of these diseases, particularly those stages in which people have multiple conditions caused or added by the development of chronic respiratory diseases. In order to improve the care of patients with prioritized chronic respiratory diseases; and provide health personnel with a technical-scientific tool to standardize the identification, diagnosis and treatment of people over 12 years of age, the Unit for the Prevention and Control of Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases has prepared this document, which will be of very useful at different levels of care, to provide quality care to patients with chronic respiratory diseases. Its content includes instructions for the care of asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), with a more up-to-date clinical-therapeutic approach, so that care can be given in the establishments of the National Integrated Health System (SNIS), as well as educational activities that make it possible to influence the prevention of these diseases

Periostin as an important biomarker of inflammatory phenotype T2 in Brazilian asthma patients / Periostina como um importante biomarcador do fenótipo inflamatório T2 em pacientes brasileiros com asma

ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the laboratory performance of periostin associated with a panel of biomarkers to identify the inflammatory phenotype of Brazilian asthma patients. Methods: We evaluated 103 Brazilian individuals, including 37 asthmatics and 66 nonasthmatic controls. Both groups underwent analyses for serum periostin, eosinophil levels in the peripheral blood, the fraction of exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), total serum IgE, urinary leukotriene E4, and serum cytokines. Results: Higher levels of periostin (p = 0.005), blood eosinophils (p = 0.012), FeNO (p = 0.001), total IgE (p < 0.001), and IL-6 (p ≤ 0.001) were found in the asthmatic patients than the controls. Biomarker analyses by the ROC curve showed an AUC greater than 65%. Periostin (OR: 12,550; 95% CI: 2,498-63,063) and IL-6 (OR: 7,249; 95% CI: 1,737-30,262) revealed to be suitable asthma inflammation biomarkers. Blood eosinophils, FeNO, total IgE, IL-6, TNF, and IFN-g showed correlations with clinical severity characteristics in asthmatic patients. Periostin showed higher values in T2 asthma (p = 0.006) and TNF in non-T2 asthma (p = 0.029). Conclusion: The panel of biomarkers proposed for the identification of the inflammatory phenotype of asthmatic patients demonstrated good performance. Periostin proved to be an important biomarker for the identification of T2 asthma.

RESUMO Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi de avaliar o desempenho laboratorial da periostina associada a um painel de biomarcadores para identificar o fenótipo inflamatório de pacientes brasileiros com asma. Métodos: Foram avaliados 103 indivíduos brasileiros, incluindo 37 asmáticos e 66 controles não asmáticos. Ambos os grupos foram submetidos a análises de periostina sérica, níveis de eosinófilos no sangue periférico, a fração exalada de óxido nítrico (FeNO), IgE sérica total, leucotrieno E4 urinário e citocinas séricas. Resultados: Maiores níveis de periostina (p = 0,005), eosinófilos periféricos (p = 0,012), FeNO (p = 0,001), IgE total (p < 0,001) e IL-6 (p ≤ 0,001) foram encontrados nos pacientes asmáticos do que nos controles. As análises de biomarcadores pela curva ROC mostraram uma AUC superior a 65%. A periostina (OR: 12.550; IC 95%: 2.498-63.063) e a IL-6 (OR: 7.249; IC 95%: 1.737-30.262) se mostraram biomarcadores adequados da inflamação da asma. Eosinófilos periféricos, FeNO, IgE total, IL-6, TNF e IFN-g apresentaram correlação com características clínicas de gravidade em pacientes asmáticos. A periostina teve valores mais elevados na asma T2 (p = 0,006) e o TNF na asma não T2 (p = 0,029). Conclusão: O painel de biomarcadores proposto para a identificação do fenótipo inflamatório de pacientes asmáticos demonstrou bom desempenho. A periostina provou ser um importante biomarcador para a identificação da asma T2.

Characteristics of individuals with moderate to severe asthma who better respond to aerobic training: a cluster analysis / Características de indivíduos com asma moderada a grave que melhor respondem a treinamento aeróbio: análise de conglomerados

ABSTRACT Objective: To determine the characteristics of individuals with asthma who are responsive to aerobic training. Methods: This post hoc analysis of pooled data from previous randomized controlled trials involved 101 individuals with moderate to severe asthma who underwent aerobic training. Participants underwent a maximal cardiopulmonary exercise test and completed the Asthma Control Questionnaire and the Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire before and after a 24-session aerobic training program. Better and worse responders to aerobic training were identified by cluster analysis. Results: Two clusters were identified according to the improvement in peak VO2 after aerobic training (better and worse responders). Characteristics of the better responder group were being older, being female, having higher BMI, and having higher cardiac reserve at baseline when compared with the worse responder group. Also, better responders had worse clinical control, worse quality of life, and lower physical capacity at baseline. After training, worse responders, in comparison with better responders, showed half the improvement in Δpeak VO2 (7.4% vs. 13.6%; 95% CI, −12.1 to −0.92%; p < 0.05) and worse asthma control. A weak, negative, but significant association (r = −0.35; p < 0.05) was observed between clinical control and aerobic fitness only in the better responder group. Both groups showed significant improvement in quality of life. Conclusions: Obese individuals with worse exercise capacity, clinical control, and quality of life showed improvement with aerobic training. Moreover, worse responders also improved with training, but to a lesser extent.

RESUMO Objetivo: Determinar as características de indivíduos com asma responsivos a treinamento aeróbio. Métodos: Esta análise post hoc de dados agrupados provenientes de ensaios clínicos controlados randomizados anteriores envolveu 101 indivíduos com asma moderada a grave submetidos a treinamento aeróbico. Os participantes foram submetidos a um teste de exercício cardiopulmonar máximo e responderam ao Asthma Control Questionnaire e ao Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire antes e depois de um programa de treinamento aeróbio de 24 sessões. Melhores e piores respondedores ao treinamento aeróbio foram identificados por análise de conglomerados. Resultados: Foram identificados dois conglomerados de acordo com a melhora do VO2 de pico após o treinamento aeróbio (melhores e piores respondedores). As características do grupo melhor respondedor foram maior idade, sexo feminino, IMC mais elevado e maior reserva cardíaca basal em comparação com o grupo pior respondedor. Os melhores respondedores também apresentavam pior controle clínico, pior qualidade de vida e menor capacidade física basal. Após o treinamento, os piores respondedores, em comparação com os melhores respondedores, apresentaram metade da melhora no ΔVO2 de pico (7,4% vs. 13,6%; IC95%: -12,1 a -0,92%; p < 0,05) e pior controle da asma. Observou-se uma associação negativa fraca, mas significativa (r = −0,35; p < 0,05) entre controle clínico e aptidão aeróbia apenas no grupo melhor respondedor. Ambos os grupos apresentaram melhora significativa da qualidade de vida. Conclusões: Os indivíduos obesos com pior capacidade de exercício, controle clínico e qualidade de vida apresentaram melhora com o treinamento aeróbio. Além disso, os piores respondedores também melhoraram com o treinamento, mas em menor grau.

Prevalence of rhinitis and associated factors in adolescents and adults: a Global Asthma Network study / Prevalência de rinite e fatores associados em adolescentes e adultos: um estudo da Global Asthma Network

Abstract Objective: To determine the prevalence of allergic rhinitis and associated factors in adolescents and in their parents/guardians. Methods: A cross-sectional study, applying a standardized and validated written questionnaire. Adolescents (13-14 years old; n=1,058) and their parents/guardians (mean age=42.1 years old; n=896) living in the city of Uruguaiana, southern Brazil, responded to the Global Asthma Network standard questionnaires. Results: The prevalence of allergic rhinitis in adolescents was 28.0%, allergic rhinoconjunctivitis, 21.3%, and severe forms of allergic rhinitis, 7.8%. In the adults, the prevalence of allergic rhinitis was 31.7%. Some associated factors with allergic rhinitis in adolescents include low physical exercise (OR 2.16; 95%CI 1.15-4.05), having only one older sibling (OR 1.94; 95CI 1.01-3.72) and daily meat consumption (OR 7.43; 95% CI 1.53-36.11). In contrast, consuming sugar (OR 0.34; 95%CI 0.12-0.93) or olive oil (OR 0.33; 95%CI 0.13-0 .81) once or twice a week, and eating vegetables daily (OR 0.39; 95%CI 0.15-0.99) were considered factors negatively associated. In adults, exposure to fungi at home (OR 5.25; 95%CI 1.01-27.22) and consumption of meat once or twice a week (OR 46.45; 95CI 2.12-1020.71) were factors associated with the medical diagnosis of allergic rhinitis, while low education (OR 0.25; 95%CI 0.07-0.92) was found to be a factor negatively associated. Conclusions: The prevalence of allergic rhinitis in adolescents is high, as well as its medical diagnosis in adults living in Uruguaiana. Environmental factors, especially food habits, were associated with findings in both groups.

Resumo Objetivo: Determinar a prevalência de rinite alérgica e fatores associados em adolescentes e em seus pais/responsáveis. Métodos: Estudo transversal, com aplicação de questionário escrito padronizado e validado. Adolescentes (13-14 anos; n=1.058) e seus pais/responsáveis (média de idade=42,1 anos; n=896) residentes na cidade de Uruguaiana, Sul do Brasil, responderam aos questionários padrão da Global Asthma Network. Resultados: A prevalência de rinite alérgica em adolescentes foi de 28,0%, a de rinoconjuntivite alérgica foi de 21,3% e a de formas graves de rinite alérgica, de 7,8%. Nos adultos, a prevalência de rinite alérgica foi de 31,7%. Alguns fatores associados à rinite alérgica em adolescentes incluem fazer pouco exercício físico (odds ratio — OR 2,16; intervalo de confiança — IC95% 1,15-4,05), ter apenas um irmão mais velho (OR 1,94; IC95% 1,01-3,72) e consumir carne diariamente (OR 7,43; IC95% 1,53-36,11). Por outro lado, consumir açúcar (OR 0,34; IC5% 0,12-0,93) ou azeite de oliva (OR 0,33 IC95% 0,13-0,81) uma ou duas vezes por semana e comer vegetais diariamente (OR 0,39; IC95% 0,15-0,99) foram considerados fatores associados negativamente. Em adultos, a exposição a fungos no domicílio (OR 5,25; IC95% 1,01-27,22) e o consumo de carne uma ou duas vezes por semana (OR 46,45; IC95 2,12-1020,71) foram fatores associados ao diagnóstico médico de rinite alérgica, enquanto a baixa escolaridade (OR 0,25; IC95% 0,07-0,92) se mostrou como fator associado negativamente. Conclusões: A prevalência de rinite alérgica em adolescentes é alta, assim como seu diagnóstico médico em adultos residentes em Uruguaiana. Fatores ambientais, especialmente hábitos alimentares, foram associados aos achados em ambos os grupos.

The Impact of Cultural Factors, The Level of Health Education Received by the Caregivers, and Stigma on Asthma Treatment among Children in Southern Jordan

Abstract For asthma treatment in children, caregivers need good knowledge and attitudes regarding the disease and its treatment. This study aimed to determine the impact of cultural factors, the level of health education provided to patients and their families, as well as the impact of stigmatization on the treatment awareness of children with asthma in southern Jordan. A validated questionnaire was used to collect data from a sample of ninety-seven caregivers selected from three hospitals in southern Jordan. Open ended questions were answered after demonstrating the inhaler technique in and evaluated according to the instructions of the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP, 2013). The result revealed moderate knowledge of asthma with a mean score of (22.36/32), as well as moderate knowledge of asthma treatment (24.26/40). A high mean was found for the impact of cultural and environmental factors (22.93/28), whereas low impact was found for stigma with a mean value of (4.73/12). Therefore, to improve future asthma management, additional efforts are required to educate caregivers and improve their asthma awareness and rectify any falsehoods regarding asthma medications by health care providers.

Allergic sensitization in low-income urban children: relationship with current symptoms of asthma and rhinitis / Sensibilización alérgica en niños urbanos de escasos recursos: relación con síntomas actuales de asma y rinitis

Abstract Background: Recent information on the prevalence of allergic sensitization (AS) in children from low-income urban areas is limited. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional, randomized, population-based study to determine the prevalence of AS, and its relationship with asthma and rhinitis in low-income schoolchildren in Santiago, Chile. The parents answered a standardized questionnaire on respiratory symptoms, and a skin prick test (SPT) for common aeroallergens was performed on all children. Results: In the 545 schoolchildren studied (mean age 8.3 ± 0.9 years), the prevalence of positive SPT was 25.5%. The current prevalence of asthma, rhinitis, and rhinoconjunctivitis was 20%, 43.4%, and 27.8%, respectively. SPT was positive in 30.6%, 32.8%, and 38.0% of children with current asthma, rhinitis, and rhinoconjunctivitis, respectively. Positive SPT was significantly associated with rhinitis and rhinoconjunctivitis (p < 0.001) but not with asthma. Breastfeeding for at least 4 months was significantly protective against AS (odds ratio [OR] 0.48, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.26-0.78; p = 0.008); no other factor studied was associated with AS. Conclusions: The prevalence of AS was low; less than 40% of children with current asthma, rhinitis, or rhinoconjunctivitis symptoms evidenced AS. The prevalence of non-atopic asthma and rhinitis is consistent with previous findings in children from low-income urban areas. Other environmental factors, such as the high burden of respiratory infections and environmental pollution, might be more critical than atopy for developing asthma and rhinitis in schoolchildren from deprived urban areas.

Resumen Introducción: La información reciente sobre la prevalencia de sensibilización alérgica (SA) en niños de áreas urbanas de bajos recursos es limitada. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio transversal, aleatorio, a nivel poblacional, para determinar la prevalencia de SA y su relación con asma y rinitis en escolares de bajos recursos en Santiago de Chile. Los padres respondieron un cuestionario estandarizado de síntomas respiratorios y se realizaron pruebas cutáneas (PC) para alérgenos comunes en los niños. Resultados: En los 545 escolares estudiados (media de edad 8.3 ± 0.9 años) la prevalencia de PC positivas fue del 25.5%. La prevalencia actual de asma, rinitis y rinoconjuntivitis fue del 20%, 43.4% y 27.8%, respectivamente. Las PC fueron positivas en el 30.6%, 32.8% y 38.0% de los niños con síntomas actuales de asma, rinitis y rinoconjuntivitis, respectivamente. La rinitis y la rinoconjuntivitis se asociaron significativamente con PC positiva (p < 0.001), pero no el asma. La lactancia materna por al menos cuatro meses protegió significativamente contra SA (razón de momios [RM] 0.48, intervalo de confianza [IC] 95% 0.26-0.78; p = 0.008); ningún otro factor estudiado se asoció con SA. Conclusiones: La prevalencia de SA fue baja; menos del 40% de los niños con síntomas actuales de asma, rinitis o rinoconjuntivitis evidenció SA. La alta prevalencia de asma y rinitis no atópicas concuerda con hallazgos previos en niños de áreas urbanas de bajos ingresos. Otros factores ambientales como la alta carga de infecciones respiratorias y contaminación ambiental podrían ser más importantes que la atopia para el desarrollo de asma y rinitis en escolares de áreas urbanas desfavorecidas.

Cost comparison of dupilumab and omalizumab for the treatment of severe allergic asthma patients from the Brazilian private healthcare system perspective / Comparação dos custos de dupilumabe e omalizumabe para o tratamento de pacientes com asma alérgica grave na perspectiva do sistema de saúde privado brasileiro

Objective: To compare the costs of dupilumab and omalizumab for treating severe allergic asthma patients from the perspective of the Brazilian private healthcare system. Methods: Using clinical and demographic inputs from the literature, we simulated a cohort of 5,000 severe allergic asthma patients and estimated the treatment cost with omalizumab. Results: In the simulated cohort, 81.3% were female, the mean body weight was 75.1 kg (SD 13.1), and the mean serum IgE was 532 IU/mL (SD 688). All patients were eligible for treatment with dupilumab, but 830 (16.6%) were ineligible for treatment with omalizumab due to serum IgE level and/or body weight combinations, according to the product label. Over four weeks, the mean dose of omalizumab was 537 mg (SD 285). The annual mean per-patient cost for treatment with omalizumab was BRL 110,783.89 (SD 58,385.81), ranging from BRL 31,797.49 to BRL 246,643.15. The treatment cost with dupilumab is BRL 111,724.21 for the first year and BRL 107,599.91 for subsequent years. Conclusions: We observed slightly lower mean treatment costs with dupilumab than with omalizumab. However, while the treatment cost with dupilumab is fixed and predictable, the treatment cost with omalizumab is highly variable, depending on patients' characteristics. Health managers should consider these findings for reimbursement and clinical protocol development decisions.

Objetivo: Comparar os custos de dupilumabe e omalizumabe para o tratamento de pacientes com asma alérgica grave na perspectiva do sistema de saúde privado brasileiro. Métodos: Utilizando parâmetros clínicos e demográficos a partir de dados da literatura, simulamos uma coorte com 5.000 pacientes com asma alérgica grave e estimamos o custo de tratamento com o omalizumabe. Resultados: Na coorte simulada, 81,3% eram do sexo feminino, com peso médio de 75,1 kg (DP 13,1) e IgE sérica de 532 IU/mL (DP 688). Todos os pacientes eram elegíveis para o tratamento com dupilumabe, porém 830 (16,6%) não eram elegíveis para o tratamento com omalizumabe devido a combinações específicas de IgE sérica e/ou peso corporal, de acordo com a bula do produto. Para o período de 4 semanas, a dose média de omalizumabe foi de 537 mg (DP 285). O custo médio anual por paciente do tratamento com omalizumabe foi de R$ 110.783,89 (DP 58.385,81), variando de R$ 31.797,49 a R$ 246.643,15. O custo do tratamento com dupilumabe é de R$ 111.724,21 no primeiro ano e R$ 107.599,91 nos anos seguintes. Conclusões: Foi observado que o custo médio do tratamento com dupilumabe é ligeiramente menor que o custo com omalizumabe. Todavia, enquanto o custo do tratamento com dupilumabe é fixo e previsível, o custo do tratamento com omalizumabe é altamente variável, dependendo de características dos pacientes. Esses achados devem ser considerados pelos gestores de saúde para decisões sobre reembolso e desenvolvimento de protocolos clínicos.

In-hospital severe COVID-19 in a philanthropic tertiary hospital setting: is asthma a concern? A retrospective study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The frequency of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases among asthmatics has been reported to be reduced. However, the findings regarding the association between asthma and the risk of severe COVID-19 have been divergent. OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether asthma is associated with a reduced risk of development of severe COVID-19. DESIGN AND SETTING: Retrospective analysis on COVID-19 surveillance databases at two tertiary-level hospitals in São Paulo, Brazil. METHODS: The medical records of patients hospitalized due to COVID-19 between March and August 2020 were reviewed in accordance with the clinical, laboratorial, radiological and epidemiological criteria for COVID-19, and for comorbidities. RESULTS: Among the adult patients included (> 18 years of age) there were 52 asthmatics and 1,318 non-asthmatics. Their median ages and interquartile ranges (IQR) were, respectively, 54 (41-69) and 60 (44-72) years. At least one comorbidity was seen in 73% of asthmatics and 56% of the non-asthmatics. Among the asthmatics, most presented mild asthma (92%) and the prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was high (27%). The asthmatics presented an unadjusted odds ratio (OR) for severe COVID-19 of 0.89 (95% confidence interval, CI 0.5-1.56); and OR 0.88 (95% CI 0.5 -1.68) after multivariable adjustment. Age > 60 years, male sex, hypertension, diabetes, cancer and homelessness were covariates associated with increased odds for severe COVID-19. Kaplan-Meier estimated survival over hospitalization of up to 30 days did not differ between the groups (log-rank P = 0.09). CONCLUSIONS: The association between asthma and decreased risk of severe COVID-19 or increased survival was statistically non-significant.

Near-fatal asthma as clinical manifestation in onset diabetic patient: Case report / Asma casi fatal como manifestación clínica en paciente diabética debut: Reporte de caso

Near-fatal asthma (NFA) is defined as the most severe form of asthma characterized by a refractory asthma attack with an arterial carbon dioxide tension (PaCO2) greater than 45 mmHg and altered consciousness, requiring mechanical ventilation. We reported the case of 40-year-old female patient, obese and asthmatic with irregular treatment who presented dyspnea accompanied by severe oppressive chest pain and loss of consciousness, with generalized cyanosis and severe shortness of breath, for which she underwent emergency endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation. Laboratory tests show decompensated respiratory acidosis, glycemia of 258 mg / dl and HbA1C of 7.94%; her diagnosing diabetes mellitus. Asthmatic patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who have irregular treatment for both diseases are at increased risk of manifesting near-fatal asthma.

El asma casi fatal (ACF) se define como la forma más severa de asma que se caracteriza por una crisis asmática refractaria con una presión parcial de dióxido de carbono (PaCO2) mayor a 45 mmHg y alteración de la conciencia que requiere ventilación mecánica. Presentamos a una paciente femenina de 40 años, obesa y asmática con tratamiento irregular que acude por disnea acompañada de dolor torácico tipo opresivo de intensidad severa y pérdida de la conciencia, con cianosis generalizada y dificultad intensa para respirar por lo que se le realiza intubación endotraqueal de emergencia y ventilación mecánica. En los exámenes de laboratorio se encuentra acidosis respiratoria descompensada, glicemia de 258 mg/dl y HbA1C de 7.94%; diagnosticándole diabetes mellitus. Los pacientes asmáticos con diabetes mellitus tipo 2 que tienen un tratamiento irregular para ambas enfermedades presentan mayor riesgo de manifestar un asma casi fatal.

Evaluating the effect of childhood and adolescence asthma on the household economy

Abstract Objective To evaluate the relationship between asthma control, family income and family costs of asthma in a population of children-adolescents; to detail the family costs of asthma in this age range; and to compare asthma costs for the families of children-adolescents and adults. Methods The authors invited asthmatic subjects who attended a scheduled spirometry test at the Jundiaí School of Medicine (FMJ). The FMJ performs all spirometry tests requested by staff physicians who serve at the public healthcare system in the municipality. Volunteers responded to the ACQ, the Asthma Family Costs Questionnaire and underwent a spirometry test. Results The authors included 342 children-adolescents. Families of children-adolescents taking maintenance therapy and families of those reporting uncontrolled asthma symptoms were more likely to report any expenditure with asthma during the preceding month. In this age range, the smallest expenditures were on diagnostic tests and medical consultations, while home expenditures to avoid asthma triggers were the highest ones. As compared to adults' families, the children and adolescents families reported a greater proportion of income committed with asthma. Expenditures with transportation to healthcare facilities for asthma care were greater in the families of children-adolescents as compared to the values reported by the adults' families; in contrast, loss of income due to asthma was smaller in the families of children-adolescents. Conclusions Children-adolescents' asthma affects the household economy. The authors believe researchers should assess this outcome when designing studies about asthma. Finally, the study's data support the necessity of public policies in low-resource communities to minimize the economic impact of children and adolescents' asthma.

Técnicas fisioterapéuticas de entrenamiento muscular inspiratorio y Buteyko en niños con asma bronquial / Inspiratory and Buteyko muscular training physiotherapeutic techniques in children with bronchial asthma

RESUMEN El asma bronquial es una enfermedad respiratoria crónica que genera elevados índices de discapacidad, sobre todo en la población infantil. La aplicación de fisioterapia respiratoria constituye un coadyuvante en los esquemas terapéuticos de la enfermedad; en este sentido el entrenamiento muscular inspiratorio y el método Buteyko constituyen técnicas respiratorias que han sido reportadas como útiles en el tratamiento del asma bronquial. La presente investigación tuvo como objetivo describir las ventajas que ofrecen ambos métodos como esquemas terapéuticos de niños con asma bronquial. Como principales resultados se describen una serie de estudios que muestran las ventajas de la implementación de estos métodos para mejorar distintos componentes de la patogenia y manifestaciones clínicas del asma bronquial. Estos estudios muestran que la aplicación indistinta de uno o ambos métodos mejora diversos aspectos entre los que sobresalen mejorar volúmenes y capacidades pulmonares, función pulmonar, fuerza muscular ventilatoria y la mecánica respiratoria. Adicionalmente, mejoran algunos elementos relacionados con la mecánica respiratoria como es el uso de la respiración bucal. Se concluye que la realización de la fisioterapia respiratoria en niños con asma bronquial constituye una alternativa viable y eficaz en el mejoramiento de varios parámetros relacionados con esta enfermedad. Diversos estudios demuestran que la aplicación de estas técnicas respiratorias mejora la capacidad respiratoria, el tono y trofismo de músculos respiratorios y la mecánica respiratoria. Los resultados positivos evidencian la necesidad de aumentar la implementación del entrenamiento muscular inspiratorio y el método Buteyko como esquema terapéutico en niños con asma bronquial en unidades de atención pública y privada.

ABSTRACT Bronchial asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that generates high rates of disability, especially in children. The application of respiratory physiotherapy constitutes an adjunct in the therapeutic schemes of the disease; in this sense, inspiratory muscle training and the Buteyko method constitute respiratory techniques that have been reported as useful in the treatment of bronchial asthma. The present investigation aimed to describe the advantages offered by both methods as therapeutic regimens for children with bronchial asthma. The main results are a series of studies that show the advantages of the implementation of these methods to improve different components of the etiopathogenesis and clinical manifestations of bronchial asthma. These studies show that the indistinct application of one or both methods improves different aspects, among which the improvement of lung volumes and capacities, lung function, ventilatory muscle strength and respiratory mechanics stand out. Additionally, they improve some elements related to respiratory mechanics such as the use of mouth breathing. It is concluded that the performance of respiratory physiotherapy in children with bronchial asthma constitutes a viable and effective alternative in the improvement of various parameters related to this disease. Several studies show that the use of these respiratory techniques improves respiratory capacity, tone and trophism of respiratory muscles, and respiratory mechanics. The positive results demonstrate the need to increase the implementation of inspiratory muscle training and the Buteyko method as a therapeutic scheme in children with bronchial asthma in public and private care units.

Factores de riesgo relacionados con la severidad del asma bronquial en el Servicio de Urgencias / Risk Factors Related to the Severity of Bronchial Asthma in an Emergency Service

Introducción: En la actualidad existen aproximadamente 300 millones de personas a nivel mundial con diagnóstico de asma y con una mortalidad de 250 mil cada año. Cuba no está ajena a esta realidad. Objetivo: Relacionar la frecuencia de presentación de factores de riesgo dependientes del huésped y del medio ambiente con el grado de severidad de las crisis en niños. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo transversal en 600 niños de 1 a 18 años de edad, atendidos en el Servicio de Urgencias del Hospital Pediátrico Juan Manuel Márquez, de enero a diciembre del año 2018. Resultados: La mayoría de los pacientes atendidos fueron del sexo masculino (53 por ciento) y del grupo de edad de 5 a 9 años (46,3 por ciento). Dentro de los factores de riesgo que predominaron en el estudio fueron los más frecuente las infecciones virales (51,3 por ciento), los cambios de temperatura (58,2 por ciento) y la no adherencia al tratamiento (45,5 por ciento). Se encontraron antecedentes familiares de asma bronquial en 62,2 por ciento y antecedentes de atopia en 60 por ciento. Conclusiones: Existen factores de riesgo modificables en pacientes asmáticos, lo que implica que se puede disminuir la severidad del asma bronquial en urgencias(AU)

Introduction: Currently, there are around 300 million people in the world diagnosed with asthma and a mortality rate of 250 thousand every year. Cuba is not apart from this reality. Objective: To relate the frequency of presentation of host- and environment-dependent risk factors with the degree of severity of crises among children. Methods: A cross-sectional and descriptive study was carried out with 600 children aged 1-18 years, who receive attention in the emergency department of Juan Manuel Márquez Pediatric Hospital from January to December 2018. Results: Most of the patients who received attention were male (53 percent) and belonged to the age group of 5-9 years (46.3 percent). Among the predominating risk factors of the study, the most frequent were viral infections (51.3 percent), temperature changes (58.2 percent) and non-adherence to treatment (45.5 percent). Family history of bronchial asthma was found in 62.2 percent, together with a history of atopy, accounting for 60 percent. Conclusions: There are modifiable risk factors in asthma patients, which allows to decrease the severity of bronchial asthma in the emergency department(AU)

Prevalence and associated factors for asthma in adults in Quito: a cross-sectional study / Prevalencia y factores asociados para asma en adultos en Quito: un estudio transversal

Abstract Background: Although several epidemiological studies of asthma have been carried out in Ecuador in the last two decades, none of these has estimated the prevalence of asthma in adult populations. Objective: To estimate the prevalence of asthma symptoms in adults in the city of Quito and to identify possible associated factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on subjects older than 18 years residing in the Metropolitan District of Quito. The Global Asthma Network (GAN) questionnaire was applied to collect information on asthma symptoms and sociodemographic and lifestyle data. Bivariate and multivariate analyses with logistic regression were used to identify asthma-related factors. Results: 2,476 subjects answered the questionnaire (80.9% women, mean age 40 years). The prevalence of wheezing in the last 12 months, asthma ever, and asthma diagnosed by a doctor were 6.3%, 1.9% and 1.6%, respectively. The prevalence of rhinitis ever and eczema ever was 13.7% and 5.5%. The presence of mould at home (OR: 2.13; 95% CI: 1.48 -3.06; p <0.001), cat at home (OR: 1.06; 95% CI: 1.06 -2.13; p <0.022) and rhinitis at some time (OR: 3.65; 95% CI: 2.53 - 5.29; p <0.022) were associated with the presence of wheezing in the last 12 months. Conclusions: Our study shows that, compared to other cities in Latin America, the prevalence of asthma in adults in Quito is relatively low. Along with the presence of rhinitis, factors related to housing quality are closely linked to the occurrence of asthma in adult populations.

Resumen Antecedentes: Aunque en el Ecuador se han realizado varios estudios epidemiológicos de asma en las dos últimas décadas, ninguno de estos ha estimado la prevalencia de asma en poblaciones adultas. Objetivo: Estimar la prevalencia de síntomas de asma en adultos en Quito e identificar posibles factores asociados. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio transversal en sujetos mayores a 18 años residentes en la ciudad de Quito-Ecuador. Se aplicó el cuestionario Global Asthma Network para recolectar información sobre síntomas de asma y datos sociodemográficas y de estilo de vida. Para la identificación de factores asociados con asma se utilizó análisis bivariados y multivariados con regresión logística. Resultados: Un total de 2,476 sujetos respondieron el cuestionario (80.9% mujeres, edad media 40 años). La prevalencia de sibilancias en los últimos 12 meses, asma alguna vez y asma diagnosticado por un médico fue de 6.3%; 1.9% y 1.6%, respectivamente. La prevalencia de rinitis y eczema alguna vez fue de 13.7% y 5.5%. La presencia de moho en el hogar (OR: 2.13; 95% IC: 1.48-3.06; p <0.001), gato en casa (OR: 1.06; 95% IC: 1.06-2.13; p <0.022) y rinitis alguna vez (OR: 3.65; 95% IC: 2.53-5.29; p <0.022) estaban asociados con la presencia de sibilancias en los últimos 12 meses. Conclusiones: Nuestro estudio muestra que, en comparación con otras ciudades de América Latina, la prevalencia de asma en adultos en Quito es relativamente baja. Junto con la presencia de rinitis, factores relacionados con la calidad de la vivienda están estrechamente ligados con la ocurrencia de asma en poblaciones adultas.

Asthma and COVID-19 Among Healthcare Workers from a Mexican Hospital: Is There an Association?

ABSTRACT Background: Asthma does not appear to be a risk factor for developing COVID-19. Objective: The objective of the study was to analyze the role of asthma as a factor associated with COVID-19 among healthcare workers (HW). Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in HW from a Mexican hospital. Data were obtained through an epidemiological survey that included age, sex, and history of COVID-19. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with COVID-19. Results: In total, 2295 HW were included (63.1% women; mean age 39.1 years); and 1550 (67.5%) were medical personnel. The prevalence of asthma in HW with COVID-19 was 8.3%; for the group without COVID-19, the prevalence was 5.3% (p = 0.011). The multivariate analyses suggested that asthma was associated with COVID-19 (OR 1.59, p = 0.007). Conclusion: Our study suggests that asthma could be a factor associated with COVID-19 in HW.

Idiopathic musculoskeletal pain, musculoskeletal pain syndromes, and use of electronic devices in adolescents with asthma

Abstract Objective: To evaluate idiopathic musculoskeletal pain, musculoskeletal pain syndromes, and use of electronic devices in adolescents with asthma and healthy controls. Methods: Cross-sectional study was conducted on 150 asthmatic adolescents and 300 controls. Adolescents completed a self-administered questionnaire regarding painful symptoms, use of electronic devices, and physical activity. Seven musculoskeletal pain syndromes were evaluated, and Asthma Control Test (ACT) was assessed. Results: Musculoskeletal pain (42% vs. 61%, p = 0.0002) and musculoskeletal pain syndromes (2.7% vs. 15.7%, p = 0.0006) were significantly lower in asthmatic adolescents than in controls. The frequency of pain in the hands and wrists was reduced in asthmatic than in controls (12.6% vs. 31.1%, p = 0.004), in addition to cell phone use (80% vs. 93%, p < 0.0001), simultaneous use of at least two electronic media (47% vs. 91%, p < 0.0001), myofascial syndrome (0% vs. 7.1%, p = 0.043), and tendinitis (0% vs. 9.2%, p = 0.008). Logistic regression analysis, including asthma with musculoskeletal pain as the dependent variable, and female sex, ACT > 20, simultaneous use of at least two electronic devices, cell phone use, and weekends and weekdays of cell phone use, as independent variables, showed that female sex (odds ratio [OR], 2.06; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.929-6.316; p = 0.0009) and ACT ≥ 20 (OR, 0.194; 95% CI, 0.039-0.967; p = 0.045) were associated with asthma and musculoskeletal pain (Nagelkerke R2 = 0.206). Conclusion: Musculoskeletal pain and musculoskeletal pain syndromes were lower in adolescents with asthma. Female sex was associated with musculoskeletal pain in asthmatic, whereas patients with asthma symptoms and well-controlled disease reported a lower prevalence of musculoskeletal pain.

A randomized clinical trial on inhaled ciclesonide for managing acute asthma in the emergency room

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Use of inhaled corticosteroids for managing acute asthma exacerbations has been tested since the 1990s. OBJECTIVE: To compare high doses of inhaled ciclesonide with systemic hydrocortisone for managing acute asthma exacerbations in the emergency department. DESIGN AND SETTING: Double-blind, randomized clinical trial in the public healthcare system of the city of São Paulo. METHODS: Fifty-eight patients with moderate or severe asthma with peak flow < 50% of predicted were randomized into two groups. Over the course of four hours, one group received 1440 mcg of inhaled ciclesonide plus hydrocortisone-identical placebo (ciclesonide + placebo), while the other received 500 mg of intravenous hydrocortisone plus ciclesonide-identical placebo (hydrocortisone + placebo). Both groups received short-acting bronchodilators (fenoterol hydrobromide and ipratropium bromide). The research protocol included spirometry, clinical evaluation, vital signs and electrocardiogram monitoring. Data were obtained at 30 (baseline), 60, 90, 120, 180, and 240 minutes. We compared data from baseline to hour 4, between and within groups. RESULTS: Overall, 31 patients received ciclesonide + placebo and 27 received hydrocortisone + placebo. Inhaled ciclesonide was as effective as intravenous hydrocortisone for improving clinical parameters (Borg-scored dyspnea, P = 0.95; sternocleidomastoid muscle use, P = 0.55; wheezing, P = 0.55; respiratory effort, P = 0.95); and spirometric parameters (forced vital capacity, P = 0.50; forced expiratory volume in the first second, P = 0.83; peak expiratory flow, P = 0.51). CONCLUSIONS: Inhaled ciclesonide was not inferior to systemic hydrocortisone for managing acute asthma exacerbations, and it improved both clinical and spirometric parameters. TRIAL REGISTRATION: RBR-6XWC26 - Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos (http://www.ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-6xwc26/).

Características de la exacerbación del asma bronquial en niños atendidos en el Servicio de Urgencias / Characteristics of the exacerbation of bronchial asthma in children managed in the Emergency Service

Introducción: Actualmente existen aproximadamente 300 millones de personas a nivel mundial con diagnóstico de asma y con una mortalidad de 250 mil cada año. Cuba no está ajena a esta realidad. Objetivo: Describir las características clínicas y epidemiológicas de la exacerbación del asma, y su relación con la edad y la estacionalidad en niños asistidos en el Servicio de Urgencias del Hospital Pediátrico Juan Manuel Márquez, desde enero a diciembre de 2018. Material y Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, prospectivo y transversal en pacientes con exacerbación del asma bronquial atendidos en el Servicio de Urgencias del Hospital Pediátrico Juan Manuel Márquez, desde enero a diciembre de 2018. Resultados: El mayor porciento se obtuvo en el sexo masculino con 53 por ciento, el grupo de edad de 5 a 9 años 46,3 por ciento. Dentro de los factores de riesgo que predominaron en el estudio fueron las infecciones virales 51,3 por ciento, los cambios de temperatura 58,2 por ciento y la no adherencia al tratamiento 45,5 por ciento . Las crisis de asma fueron frecuentes en los meses de octubre a diciembre 38,3 por ciento, con frecuencia entre 3 a 6 episodios por año 67,7 por ciento. El grado de severidad fue leve 82,0 por ciento. Conclusiones: Las exacerbaciones de asma bronquial son frecuentes en los servicios de urgencias pediátricos(AU)

Introduction: In these times, there are about 300 million people with the diagnosis of bronchial asthma worldwide and there is a mortality of 250 thousand per year. Cuba is not unaware of this reality. Objective: To describe the clinical and epidemiologic characteristics of the exacerbation of bronchial asthma in children assisted in the emergency service of Juan Manuel Márquez Pediatric University Hospital from January to December 2018. Material and Methods: A descriptive, prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted on 600 children from 1 to 18 years of age that fulfilled the inclusion criteria. These children were assisted in the emergency service of Juan Manuel Márquez Pediatric University Hospital from January to December 2018. Results: The highest percentage of patients were males (53 percent) and from the age group 5 to 9 years (46,3 percent). Among the risk factors that predominated in the study, viral infections (51,3 percent), weather changes (58,2 percent), and non-adherence to treatment (45,5 percent) were observed. The asthma crises were frequent from October to December (38,3 percent), and from 3 to 6 episodes occurred annually (67,7 percent). The degree of severity was mild (82,0 percent). Conclusions: Exacerbations of bronchial asthma are frequent in pediatric emergency services(AU)

Validation and reproducibility of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) Written Atopic Eczema Questionnaire for telephone survey in children aged 6-7 years

Abstract Background The prevalence of atopic eczema is unknown in many countries. The International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) is an epidemiological landmark in the study of allergic diseases. Objective To validate and assess the reproducibility of the ISAAC Written Atopic Eczema Questionnaire (WAEQ) for children aged between 6 and 7 years by telephone contact. Methods Observational study through interviews with guardians of children aged 6 to 7 years using the ISAAC atopic eczema module questionnaire in three different phases separated by 2 weeks: telephone interviews in the first and third contacts and in-person interviews under supervision in the second contact. Reproducibility was estimated using the Kappa index and validation using the sensitivity and specificity coefficients. Results Data from 88 children (32 from the atopic eczema group) were analyzed. Reproducibility showed almost perfect agreement for the questions "Recurrent pruritic lesions" and "Lesions in typical locations" (Kappa between 0.81-0.82), while a substantial agreement was observed for all other indicators (Kappa variation between 0.66 and 0.78). The validation showed high specificity (≥ 80.4%) and sensitivity (≥ 87.5%) for all questions, except those related to chronicity and medical diagnosis (34.4% and 40.6%, respectively). Study limitations Non-random selection, no sample size calculation, participants from a tertiary hospital and study period coincident with the Coronavirus pandemic. Conclusions Our results showed that the ISAAC atopic eczema module questionnaire by telephone interviews has good reproducibility and high agreement with the clinical diagnosis of atopic eczema. It may be an appropriate alternative tool in epidemiological studies of childhood atopic eczema, especially in periods of social isolation.