Randomized Study Comparing Radiofrequency Ablation with the PVAC Gold System vs. Antiarrhythmic Drugs in Elderly Patients with Symptomatic Atrial Fibrillation. / Estudo Randomizado Comparando a Ablação por Cateter com o PVAC Gold vs. Tratamento com Fármacos Antiarrítmicos em Pacientes Idosos com Fibrilação Atrial Sintomática.

BACKGROUND: There are no randomized studies comparing the maintenance of sinus rhythm after catheter ablation (CA) concerning treatment with antiarrhythmic drugs (AA) in elderly patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF). OBJECTIVES: To compare the clinical results of pulmonary vein (PV) isolation with the second-generation PVAC Gold catheter against AA treatment in elderly people with recurrent symptomatic paroxysmal AF, refractory to at least one AA, and without structural heart disease. METHODS: Sixty patients with paroxysmal AF ≥ 65 years old were randomized to two forms of treatment: group 1: CA and group 2: AA drugs. The primary outcome was the AF recurrence-free rate after at least one year of follow-up. Secondary outcomes were: progression to persistent forms of AF, impact on quality of life (QOLF), and complications. The significance level adopted in the statistical analysis was 5% (p<0.05). RESULTS: The AF recurrence-free rate was 80% (10% with amiodarone) in the CA group, after 1.3 procedures per patient and 65% in the AA group (60% with amiodarone), (p = 0.119) in an average follow-up of 719 days (Q1: 566; Q3: 730). The persistent AF free rate was 83.4% in the AC group and 67.7% in the AA group (p = 0.073) Both strategies showed an improvement in the AFQoL score during follow-up (p < 0.001), with no difference between the groups. Although without clinical repercussions or impact on the intellectual assessment test, 25% of patients in the CA group showed signs of cerebral embolization on brain MRI. CONCLUSIONS: Both strategies for maintaining sinus rhythm promoted an improvement in the quality of life of elderly patients with symptomatic AF, with no statistical difference in the clinical outcomes. Additional studies using technologies with a better safety profile are needed to evaluate the benefits of CA in elderly patients with AF.

FUNDAMENTO: Não existem estudos randomizados comparando a manutenção do ritmo sinusal após ablação por cateter (AC) em relação ao tratamento com fármacos antiarrítmicos (AA) em pacientes idosos portadores fibrilação atrial (FA) paroxística. OBJETIVOS: Comparar os resultados clínicos do isolamento das veias pulmonares (VPs) com o cateter PVAC Gold de segunda geração com o uso de AA em idosos com FA paroxística sintomática, recorrente, apesar do uso de fármacos AA. MÉTODOS: Sessenta pacientes com FA paroxística ≥ 65 anos e sem cardiopatias estruturais foram randomizados para duas formas de tratamento: grupo 1: AC e grupo 2: AA. O desfecho primário foi a taxa livre de recorrência de FA após pelo menos um ano de seguimento. Os desfechos secundários foram: progressão para formas persistentes de FA, impacto na qualidade de vida (QVFA) e complicações. O nível de significância adotado na análise estatística foi de 5% (p<0,05). RESULTADOS: A taxa livre de recorrência de FA foi de 80% (10% com amiodarona) no grupo AC, após 1,3 procedimentos por paciente e de 65% no grupo AA (60% com amiodarona), (p = 0,119) num seguimento médio de 719 dias (Q1: 566; Q3: 730). A taxa livre de FA persistente foi de 83,4% no grupo AC e de 67,7% no grupo AA (p = 0,073). Ambas as estratégias apresentaram melhora no escore de QVFA durante o seguimento (p < 0,001), sem diferença entre os grupos. Embora sem repercussão clínica ou impacto no teste de avaliação intelectual, 25% dos pacientes do grupo PVAC apresentou sinais de embolização cerebral na RNM cerebral. CONCLUSÕES: Ambas as estratégias para manutenção do ritmo sinusal promoveram melhora na qualidade de vida de pacientes idosos com FA sintomática, sem diferença estatística nos desfechos clínicos preconizados. Estudos adicionais usando tecnologias com melhor perfil de segurança são necessários para avaliar os benefícios da AC em pacientes idosos com FA.

Estudo Randomizado Comparando a Ablação por Cateter com o PVAC Gold vs. Tratamento com Fármacos Antiarrítmicos em Pacientes Idosos com Fibrilação Atrial Sintomática / Randomized Study Comparing Radiofrequency Ablation with the PVAC Gold System vs. Antiarrhythmic Drugs in Elderly Patients with Symptomatic Atrial Fibrillation

Resumo Fundamento Não existem estudos randomizados comparando a manutenção do ritmo sinusal após ablação por cateter (AC) em relação ao tratamento com fármacos antiarrítmicos (AA) em pacientes idosos portadores fibrilação atrial (FA) paroxística. Objetivos Comparar os resultados clínicos do isolamento das veias pulmonares (VPs) com o cateter PVAC Gold de segunda geração com o uso de AA em idosos com FA paroxística sintomática, recorrente, apesar do uso de fármacos AA. Métodos Sessenta pacientes com FA paroxística ≥ 65 anos e sem cardiopatias estruturais foram randomizados para duas formas de tratamento: grupo 1: AC e grupo 2: AA. O desfecho primário foi a taxa livre de recorrência de FA após pelo menos um ano de seguimento. Os desfechos secundários foram: progressão para formas persistentes de FA, impacto na qualidade de vida (QVFA) e complicações. O nível de significância adotado na análise estatística foi de 5% (p<0,05). Resultados A taxa livre de recorrência de FA foi de 80% (10% com amiodarona) no grupo AC, após 1,3 procedimentos por paciente e de 65% no grupo AA (60% com amiodarona), (p = 0,119) num seguimento médio de 719 dias (Q1: 566; Q3: 730). A taxa livre de FA persistente foi de 83,4% no grupo AC e de 67,7% no grupo AA (p = 0,073). Ambas as estratégias apresentaram melhora no escore de QVFA durante o seguimento (p < 0,001), sem diferença entre os grupos. Embora sem repercussão clínica ou impacto no teste de avaliação intelectual, 25% dos pacientes do grupo PVAC apresentou sinais de embolização cerebral na RNM cerebral. Conclusões Ambas as estratégias para manutenção do ritmo sinusal promoveram melhora na qualidade de vida de pacientes idosos com FA sintomática, sem diferença estatística nos desfechos clínicos preconizados. Estudos adicionais usando tecnologias com melhor perfil de segurança são necessários para avaliar os benefícios da AC em pacientes idosos com FA.

Abstract Background There are no randomized studies comparing the maintenance of sinus rhythm after catheter ablation (CA) concerning treatment with antiarrhythmic drugs (AA) in elderly patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF). Objectives To compare the clinical results of pulmonary vein (PV) isolation with the second-generation PVAC Gold catheter against AA treatment in elderly people with recurrent symptomatic paroxysmal AF, refractory to at least one AA, and without structural heart disease. Methods Sixty patients with paroxysmal AF ≥ 65 years old were randomized to two forms of treatment: group 1: CA and group 2: AA drugs. The primary outcome was the AF recurrence-free rate after at least one year of follow-up. Secondary outcomes were: progression to persistent forms of AF, impact on quality of life (QOLF), and complications. The significance level adopted in the statistical analysis was 5% (p<0.05). Results The AF recurrence-free rate was 80% (10% with amiodarone) in the CA group, after 1.3 procedures per patient and 65% in the AA group (60% with amiodarone), (p = 0.119) in an average follow-up of 719 days (Q1: 566; Q3: 730). The persistent AF free rate was 83.4% in the AC group and 67.7% in the AA group (p = 0.073) Both strategies showed an improvement in the AFQoL score during follow-up (p < 0.001), with no difference between the groups. Although without clinical repercussions or impact on the intellectual assessment test, 25% of patients in the CA group showed signs of cerebral embolization on brain MRI. Conclusions Both strategies for maintaining sinus rhythm promoted an improvement in the quality of life of elderly patients with symptomatic AF, with no statistical difference in the clinical outcomes. Additional studies using technologies with a better safety profile are needed to evaluate the benefits of CA in elderly patients with AF.

High Fatality Rates in Pediatric Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome: A Multicenter Experience From the Epicenter of Brazil's Coronavirus Pandemic.

BACKGROUND: Brazil´s case fatality rate (CFR) of pediatric multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children and adolescents (MIS-C) is among the highest worldwide. Despite these concerns, limited hospital-based and comprehensive pediatric data have been published on MIS-C in Brazilian children. METHODS: We performed a descriptive analysis of the MIS-C scores in 16 public and private hospitals providing secondary and tertiary care in the metropolitan area of São Paulo, Brazil. Clinical and demographic information were systematically extracted from the electronic medical records of each patient. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the combined effects of MIS-C phenotype, disease severity and comorbidity as dependent variables. RESULTS: A total of 101 patients met the MIS-C criteria and were evaluated. The median age was 67 months, 60% were male, 28.7% were black or afrodescendant and 62.3% were admitted to public hospitals. Underlying medical conditions were observed in 16.8% of patients and were associated with a longer duration of hospitalization. A Kawasaki disease-like phenotype was observed in 43.5% of patients, and they demonstrated a trend of lower median age. Children with severe MIS-C were older (median age 91 months vs. 36 months) and had a nonspecific phenotype, more cardiovascular and respiratory involvement and kidney injury; 73.3% required intensive care, 20.8% required mechanical ventilation and 35.6% required inotropic support. Four deaths occurred (CFR = 3.9%), three of which were in healthy participants. CONCLUSION: We identified a lower median age, particularly among children with Kawasaki disease-like phenotypes, those with a significant need for intensive care, and a high CFR in MIS-C. Our findings confirmed the increased severity of the disease in the selected Brazilian population.

Risk factors for mortality in 1528 Brazilian childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus patients.

OBJECTIVES: To identify associations between mortality in cSLE patients and their characteristics: clinical and laboratory features, disease activity and damage scores, and treatment; to evaluate risk factors associated with mortality in cSLE; and to determine the most frequent causes of death in this group of patients. METHODS: We performed a multicenter retrospective cohort using data from 1,528 cSLE patients followed in 27 pediatric rheumatology tertiary centers in Brazil. Patients' medical records were reviewed according to a standardized protocol, in which information regarding demographic and clinical features, disease activity and damage scores, and treatment were collected and compared between deceased cSLE patients and survivors. Univariate and multivariate analyses by Cox regression model were used to calculate risk factors for mortality, whereas survival rates were analyzed by Kaplan-Meier plots. RESULTS: A total of 63/1,528 (4.1%) patients deceased, 53/63 were female (84.1%), median age at death was 11.9 (9.4-13.1) years and median time interval between cSLE diagnosis and death was 3.2 (0.5-5.3) years. Sepsis was the main cause of death in 27/63 (42.8%) patients, followed by opportunistic infections in 7/63 (11.1%), and alveolar hemorrhage in 6/63 (9.5%) patients. The regression models resulted in neuropsychiatric lupus (NP-SLE) (HR = 2.56, 95% CI = 1.48-4.42) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) (HR = 4.33, 95% CI = 2.33-4.72), as risk factors significantly associated with mortality. Overall patient survival after cSLE diagnosis at 5, 10, and 15 years were 97%, 95.4%, and 93.8%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: This study confirmed that the recent mortality rate in cSLE in Brazil is low, but still of concern. NP-SLE and CKD were the main risk factors for mortality, indicating that the magnitude of these manifestations was significantly high.

Atrial Fibrillation and Sepsis in Elderly Patients and Their Associaton with In-Hospital Mortality. / Fibrilação Atrial e Sepse em Pacientes Idosos e sua Associação com Mortalidade Intra-hospitalar.

BACKGROUND: Atrial fibrillation (AF) affects about 2% to 4% of the world population, and in patients hospitalized in intensive care units, this incidence can reach up to 23% in those with septic shock. The impact of AF in patients with sepsis is reflected in worse clinical outcomes, and the identification of the triggering factors can be a target for future prevention and treatment strategies. OBJECTIVES: To verify the relationship between the development of AF and mortality in patients over 80 years of age included in the sepsis protocol and to identify the risk factors that contribute to the development of AF in this population. METHODS: Retrospective observational study, with a review of electronic medical records and inclusion of 895 patients aged 80 years or older, included in the sepsis protocol of a high-complexity private hospital in São Paulo, SP, from January 2018 to December 2020. All tests were performed with a significance level of 5%. RESULTS: The incidence of AF in the sample was 13%. After multivariate analysis, using multiple logistic regression, it was possible to demonstrate an association of mortality, in the studied population, with the SOFA score (odds ratio [OR] 1.21 [1.09 - 1.35]), higher values of C-reactive protein (OR 1.04 [1.01 - 1.06]), need for vasoactive drugs (OR 2.4 [1.38 - 4.18]), use of mechanical ventilation (OR 3.49 [1.82 - 6.71]), and mainly AF (OR 3.7 [2.16 - 6.31]). CONCLUSION: In very elderly patients (80 years of age and older) with sepsis, the development of AF was shown to be an independent risk factor for in-hospital mortality.

FUNDAMENTO: A fibrilação atrial (FA) acomete cerca de 2% a 4% da população mundial. Nos pacientes internados em unidades de terapia intensiva, esta incidência pode chegar em até 23% naqueles com choque séptico. O impacto da FA nos pacientes sépticos se reflete em piores desfechos clínicos e o reconhecimento dos fatores desencadeantes pode ser alvo para estratégias de tratamento e prevenção futuras. OBJETIVOS: Verificar a relação entre desenvolvimento de FA e mortalidade nos pacientes acima de 80 anos incluídos no protocolo sepse e identificar fatores de risco que contribuam para o desenvolvimento de FA nesta população. MÉTODOS: Estudo observacional retrospectivo, com revisão de prontuários eletrônicos e inclusão de 895 pacientes com 80 anos ou mais, incluídos no protocolo sepse de um hospital privado de alta complexidade em São Paulo/SP, no período de janeiro de 2018 a dezembro de 2020. Todos os testes foram realizados com nível de significância de 5%. RESULTADOS: A incidência de FA na amostra foi de 13%. Após análise multivariada por regressão logística múltipla, foi possível demonstrar associação de mortalidade na população estudada, com o escore SOFA ( odds ratio [OR] 1,21 [1,09 ­ 1,35]), valores mais altos de proteína C-reativa (OR 1,04 [1,01 ­ 1,06]), necessidade de droga vasoativa (OR 2,4 [1,38 ­ 4,18]), uso de ventilação mecânica (OR 3,49 [1,82 ­ 6,71]) e principalmente FA (OR 3,7 [2,16 ­ 6,31). CONCLUSÕES: No paciente grande idoso (80 anos ou mais) com sepse, o desenvolvimento de FA se mostrou como fator de risco independente para mortalidade intra-hospitalar.

Fibrilação Atrial e Sepse em Pacientes Idosos e sua Associação com Mortalidade Intra-hospitalar / Atrial Fibrillation and Sepsis in Elderly Patients and Their Associaton with In-Hospital Mortality

Resumo Fundamento A fibrilação atrial (FA) acomete cerca de 2% a 4% da população mundial. Nos pacientes internados em unidades de terapia intensiva, esta incidência pode chegar em até 23% naqueles com choque séptico. O impacto da FA nos pacientes sépticos se reflete em piores desfechos clínicos e o reconhecimento dos fatores desencadeantes pode ser alvo para estratégias de tratamento e prevenção futuras. Objetivos Verificar a relação entre desenvolvimento de FA e mortalidade nos pacientes acima de 80 anos incluídos no protocolo sepse e identificar fatores de risco que contribuam para o desenvolvimento de FA nesta população. Métodos Estudo observacional retrospectivo, com revisão de prontuários eletrônicos e inclusão de 895 pacientes com 80 anos ou mais, incluídos no protocolo sepse de um hospital privado de alta complexidade em São Paulo/SP, no período de janeiro de 2018 a dezembro de 2020. Todos os testes foram realizados com nível de significância de 5%. Resultados A incidência de FA na amostra foi de 13%. Após análise multivariada por regressão logística múltipla, foi possível demonstrar associação de mortalidade na população estudada, com o escore SOFA ( odds ratio [OR] 1,21 [1,09 - 1,35]), valores mais altos de proteína C-reativa (OR 1,04 [1,01 - 1,06]), necessidade de droga vasoativa (OR 2,4 [1,38 - 4,18]), uso de ventilação mecânica (OR 3,49 [1,82 - 6,71]) e principalmente FA (OR 3,7 [2,16 - 6,31). Conclusões No paciente grande idoso (80 anos ou mais) com sepse, o desenvolvimento de FA se mostrou como fator de risco independente para mortalidade intra-hospitalar.

Abstract Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) affects about 2% to 4% of the world population, and in patients hospitalized in intensive care units, this incidence can reach up to 23% in those with septic shock. The impact of AF in patients with sepsis is reflected in worse clinical outcomes, and the identification of the triggering factors can be a target for future prevention and treatment strategies. Objectives To verify the relationship between the development of AF and mortality in patients over 80 years of age included in the sepsis protocol and to identify the risk factors that contribute to the development of AF in this population. Methods Retrospective observational study, with a review of electronic medical records and inclusion of 895 patients aged 80 years or older, included in the sepsis protocol of a high-complexity private hospital in São Paulo, SP, from January 2018 to December 2020. All tests were performed with a significance level of 5%. Results The incidence of AF in the sample was 13%. After multivariate analysis, using multiple logistic regression, it was possible to demonstrate an association of mortality, in the studied population, with the SOFA score (odds ratio [OR] 1.21 [1.09 - 1.35]), higher values of C-reactive protein (OR 1.04 [1.01 - 1.06]), need for vasoactive drugs (OR 2.4 [1.38 - 4.18]), use of mechanical ventilation (OR 3.49 [1.82 - 6.71]), and mainly AF (OR 3.7 [2.16 - 6.31]) Conclusion In very elderly patients (80 years of age and older) with sepsis, the development of AF was shown to be an independent risk factor for in-hospital mortality.

A risk score for predicting death in COVID-19 in-hospital infection: A Brazilian single-center study.

BACKGROUND: There is a paucity of information about Brazilian COVID-19 in-hospital mortality probability of death combining risk factors. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to correlate COVID-19 Brazilian in-hospital patients' mortality to demographic aspects, biomarkers, tomographic, echocardiographic findings, and clinical events. METHODS: A prospective study, single tertiary center in Brazil, consecutive patients hospitalized with COVID-19. We analyzed the data from 111 patients from March to August 2020, performed a complete transthoracic echocardiogram, chest thoracic tomographic (CT) studies, collected biomarkers and correlated to in-hospital mortality. RESULTS: Mean age of the patients: 67 ± 17 years old, 65 (58.5%) men, 29 (26%) presented with systemic arterial hypertension, 18 (16%) with diabetes, 11 (9.9%) with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. There was need for intubation and mechanical ventilation of 48 (43%) patients, death occurred in 21/111 (18.9%) patients. Multiple logistic regression models correlated variables with mortality: age (OR: 1.07; 95% CI 1.02-1.12; p: 0.012; age >74 YO AUC ROC curve: 0.725), intubation need (OR: 23.35; 95% CI 4.39-124.36; p < 0.001), D dimer (OR: 1.39; 95% CI 1.02-1.89; p: 0.036; value >1928.5 ug/L AUC ROC curve: 0.731), C-reactive protein (OR: 1.18; 95% CI 1.05-1.32; p < 0.005; value >29.35 mg/dl AUC ROC curve: 0.836). A risk score was created to predict intrahospital probability of death, by the equation: 3.6 (age >75 YO) + 66 (intubation need) + 28 (C-reactive protein >29) + 2.2 (D dimer >1900). CONCLUSIONS: A novel and original risk score were developed to predict the probability of death in Covid 19 in-hospital patients concerning combined risk factors.

Paediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome temporally associated with SARS-CoV-2 (PIMS-TS): a Brazilian cohort.

BACKGROUND: Paediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome (PIMS) associated with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been described since mid-April 2020 with the first reports coming from Europe. Our objective was to describe the characteristics of patients among the Brazilian population. METHODS: A multicenter retrospective study was conducted with the participation of five pediatric rheumatology centers in Brazil during the period from March to November 2020. Children and adolescents with PIMS temporally associated with SARS-CoV-2 (TS) who met the definition criteria for the disease according to the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health were included. Demographic, clinical, laboratory, therapeutic characteristics and molecular and serological diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection were described. RESULTS: Fifty-seven children and adolescents with PIMS-TS were evaluated, 54% female, with a median age of 8 (3-11) years. Most (86%) were previously healthy, with asthma being the main comorbidity, present in 10% of the patients. Fever was the main manifestation, present in all patients, followed by mucocutaneous and gastrointestinal features, present in 89% and 81% of the patients, respectively. Myocarditis occurred in 21% of the patients and in 68% of them required intensive care. The Kawasaki disease phenotype occurred in most patients (77%). All patients had elevated inflammatory markers, with elevated CRP being the most found (98%). Anemia and lymphopenia were present in 79% and 72%, respectively. Laboratory evidence of SARS-CoV-2 was found in 77% of the patients, with 39% positive RT-PCR and 84% positive serology for SARS-CoV-2. An immunomodulatory treatment was performed in 91% of the patients, with 67% receiving intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) associated with glucocorticoid, 21% receiving IVIG, and 3.5% receiving glucocorticoid. The median length of hospitalization was 10 days. CONCLUSIONS: This study showed a high morbidity of PIMS-TS in Brazilian children, with a prolonged length of hospitalization and a high rate of admission to pediatric intensive care unit. Multicenter prospective studies are needed to assess the morbidity of the disease in the medium and long term.

Selenium nutritional status and its association with SLEDAI-2K, HOMA-IR and lipid profile in Juvenile Systemic Lupus Erythematosus patients.

OBJECTIVES: To assess nutritional status regarding selenium in adolescents with Juvenile Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (jSLE) and analyze possible associations with disease activity, insulin resistance and lipid profile. METHODS: This was an observational, cross-sectional study of 31 female adolescents with jSLE and 31 healthy female volunteers as a comparison group. We obtained demographic, anthropometric (weight, stature, waist, and neck circumferences), and clinical data (disease activity measured by SLEDAI-2K) from both groups; laboratory data including: lipid profile, plasma selenium, erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase activity (GPx), plasma malondialdehyde (MDA), ultrasensitive C-reactive protein (usCRP), insulin levels, and glycemia (Homeostasis Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance-HOMA-IR). RESULTS: Mean age at diagnosis of jSLE group was 15.9±1.7 years, with mean disease duration of 3.6±2.6 years. 48% of patients and controls had below-reference Se levels (≤46mcg/L). GPx was more frequently below reference levels (<4.171U/L) in the jSLE group, compared to controls. A ROC curve was used to assess the power of the variables to discriminate between both groups; insulin (AUC = 0.712; CI 95% 0.584-0.840), waist-to-height ratio (AUC = 0.704; CI 95% 0.572-0.837), and HOMA-IR (AUC = 0.689; CI 95% 0.556-0.822) were the variables with the greatest discriminatory power. Linear regression showed an independent inverse association between Se levels and c-LDL; no such correlation was found for GPx activity. SLEDAI-2 K and HOMA-IR showed no association with levels of Se and GPx activity. CONCLUSIONS: Approximately, 50% of jSLE adolescents had below reference Se levels. The frequency of inadequate GPx values was higher in patients, compared to controls. There was an independent inverse association between Se and c-LDL levels in both groups; this was not the case for HOMA-IR and SLEDAI-2K. The data show the importance of assessing Se nutritional status in jSLE patients.

Paediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome temporally associated with SARS-CoV-2 (PIMS-TS): a Brazilian cohort

Abstract Background: Paediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome (PIMS) associated with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been described since mid-April 2020 with the first reports coming from Europe. Our objective was to describe the characteristics of patients among the Brazilian population. Methods: A multicenter retrospective study was conducted with the participation of five pediatric rheumatology centers in Brazil during the period from March to November 2020. Children and adolescents with PIMS temporally associated with SARS-CoV-2 (TS) who met the definition criteria for the disease according to the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health were included. Demographic, clinical, laboratory, therapeutic characteristics and molecular and serological diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection were described. Results: Fifty-seven children and adolescents with PIMS-TS were evaluated, 54% female, with a median age of 8 (3-11) years. Most (86%) were previously healthy, with asthma being the main comorbidity, present in 10% of the patients. Fever was the main manifestation, present in all patients, followed by mucocutaneous and gastrointestinal features, present in 89% and 81% of the patients, respectively. Myocarditis occurred in 21% of the patients and in 68% of them required intensive care. The Kawasaki disease phenotype occurred in most patients (77%). All patients had elevated inflammatory markers, with elevated CRP being the most found (98%). Anemia and lymphopenia were present in 79% and 72%, respectively. Laboratory evidence of SARS-CoV-2 was found in 77% of the patients, with 39% positive RT-PCR and 84% positive serology for SARS-CoV-2. An immunomodulatory treatment was performed in 91% of the patients, with 67% receiving intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) associated with glucocorticoid, 21% receiving IVIG, and 3.5% receiving glucocorticoid. The median length of hospitalization was 10 days. Conclusions: This study showed a high morbidity of PIMS-TS in Brazilian children, with a prolonged length of hospitalization and a high rate of admission to pediatric intensive care unit. Multicenter prospective studies are needed to assess the morbidity of the disease in the medium and long term.

Muscle Echogenicity and Changes Related to Age and Body Mass Index.

INTRODUCTION: Muscle fibers are lost and replaced by fat- and fibrous-tissue infiltration during aging. This process decreases muscle quality and influences tissue appearance on ultrasound images over time. Increased muscle "echogenicity" represents changes caused by fat- and fibrous-tissue infiltration and can be quantified with recently developed software. OBJECTIVE: To investigate skeletal muscle quality through echogenicity, estimates according to participant's body mass index (BMI) and age were taken. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study performed at the Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Baton Rouge, Louisiana with 117 participants (57 men and 60 women), with mean age (±SD) 38.9 ± 17.0 years and BMI 28.6 ± 6.2 kg/m². All participants were examined by ultrasound (LOGIQ GE Healthcare), using a 5.0-MHz linear transducer. Participants had muscle thickness measured by ultrasound at 4 anatomic locations (biceps and triceps brachial, femoral quadriceps, and calf triceps). Echogenicity was analyzed with specific software (Pixel Health) that evaluated the image in gray scale. RESULTS: According to BMI, 41% of participants were obese. There was a positive correlation between age and thigh-muscle echogenicity (rp = 0.534, P < .0001) and a negative correlation between thigh-muscle echogenicity and thickness (rp = -0.395, P <.0001). There was high muscle echogenicity in participants with overweight and obesity aged 50 years or older (P < .05). CONCLUSION: Older age and higher BMI were associated with stronger echogenicity signals and smaller muscle thickness. People with overweight, obesity, and/or older than 50 years old have reduced muscle quality with smaller muscle thickness, as observed with ultrasound.

Impact of Obesity and Visceral Fat on Mortality in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation.

RATIONALE: Many studies have shown the importance of body composition parameters, muscle, and fat mass, evaluated by several methods in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) outcomes. Ultrasound (US) is an efficient and low-cost method to evaluate body composition, even though there have not been many studies in HSCT. OBJECTIVES: Our goal was to investigate the muscle, visceral fat (VF), and echogenicity before HSCT and after engraftment, evaluated by US and its association with outcomes. METHODS: All adult patients with hematological malignances admitted for HSCT autologous and allogeneic were eligible to enter this prospective study. Their thigh muscle thickness, VF, and echogenicity were evaluated by US on the first day of hospitalization (baseline) and after engraftment (15-25 days post-HSCT). RESULTS: We evaluated 50 patients; 42% were male and 58% had undergone allogeneic HSCT. Most patients were <55 years old (68%) and had normal body mass index (50%). We found a significant reduction of right and left muscle thickness (P < .001) and echogenicity (P = .002) after engraftment compared with baseline. Our elderly patients had significantly bigger right-thigh muscle thickness (P = .02) and more VF (P = .009). The following data were higher in obese patients: right and left muscle thickness (P < .001), VF (P = .003), and echogenicity (P = .04). Death in the first 100 days had a positive association with obesity (P = 0.001) and VF (P = .002). VF was the only variable independent of HSCT type and age in mortality risk. CONCLUSION: Obesity and VF had an important impact in mortality. US could be a useful tool and strategy for evaluating body composition in HSCT patients.

Factors associated with chronic kidney disease: epidemiological survey of the National Health Survey. / Fatores associados à doença renal crônica: inquérito epidemiológico da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde.

OBJECTIVE: To identify the prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) self-reported in Brazil and characterize the factors associated with it. METHODS: This study was a cross-sectional health survey with a household-based, the National Health Survey, performed in 2013. The outcome in the present study was the prevalence of CKD. The groups of explanatory variables were socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyles, chronic self-reported diseases, anthropometry, and health evaluation. The prevalence of CKD, e their 95% respective confidence interval were estimated, univariate analysis and the multiple logistic regression model were calculated, and remained the variables statistically significant (p < 0.05). RESULTS: It noticed that 1.42% (95%CI 1.33 - 1.52) of the 60,202 interviewees self-reported CKD. The OR increased progressively with age, being 2.68 among the elderly with 65 years or more (95%CI 1.75 - 4.09). Having health plans with OR = 1.51 (95%CI 1.28 - 1.78), as well as smoking, hypertension and high cholesterol and poor self-reported health with OR = 1.75 (95%CI 1.45 - 2.12), OR = 1.20 (95%CI 1.02 - 1.42), OR = 1.83 (95%CI 1.56 - 2.15), OR = 4.70 (95%CI 3.75 - 5.88), respectively, showed a higher chance of CKD. CONCLUSIONS: The associated variables were increasing age, health plan coverage, smoking, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and regular or poor health status. The knowledge of CKD prevalence in Brazil and risk and protection factors are essential for disease prevention and the establishment of supporting public health policies.

OBJETIVOS: Identificar a prevalência da doença renal crônica (DRC) autorreferida no Brasil e caracterizar os fatores associados a essa enfermidade. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de um inquérito epidemiológico de base domiciliar, a Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde (PNS) realizada em 2013. O desfecho analisado foi a prevalência de DRC. Os grupos de variáveis explicativas foram: características sociodemográficas, estilos de vida, doenças crônicas autorreferidas, antropometria e avaliação de saúde. Foram estimadas as prevalências de DRC e os respectivos intervalos de confiança de 95% e foram realizados a análise univariada e o modelo de regressão logística múltipla, permanecendo as variáveis estatisticamente significativas (p < 0,05). RESULTADOS: Observou-se que 1,42% (intervalo de confiança de 95% - IC95% 1,33 - 1,52) dos 60.202 entrevistados referiram ser portadores de DRC. O odds ratio (OR) aumentou com a idade, sendo 2,68 entre os idosos com 65 anos ou mais (IC95% 1,75 - 4,09). Apresentaram chance maior de DRC: possuir planos de saúde, com OR = 1,51 (IC95% 1,28 - 1,78), tabagismo, hipertensão, colesterol elevado e autoavaliação de saúde ruim, com OR = 1,75 (IC95% 1,45 - 2,12), OR = 1,20 (IC95% 1,02 - 1,42), OR = 1,83 (IC95% 1,56 - 2,15), OR = 4,70 (IC95% 3,75 - 5,88), respectivamente. CONCLUSÕES: A prevalência de DRC foi maior em idade mais avançada, baixa escolaridade, possuir plano de saúde, tabagismo, hipertensão, hipercolesterolemia e avaliação regular ou ruim do estado de saúde. O conhecimento da prevalência da DRC e dos fatores de risco e de proteção são essenciais para prevenção da doença e para subsidiar as políticas públicas de saúde.

Comparison of three transfusion protocols prior to central venous catheterization in patients with cirrhosis: A randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Transfusion of blood components prior to invasive procedures in cirrhosis patients is high and associated with adverse events. OBJECTIVES: We compared three transfusion strategies prior to central venous catheterization in cirrhosis patients. PATIENTS/METHODS: Single center randomized trial that included critically ill cirrhosis patients with indication for central venous line in a tertiary private hospital in Brazil. INTERVENTIONS: Restrictive protocol, thromboelastometry-guided protocol, or usual care (based on coagulogram). The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients transfused with any blood component (ie, fresh frozen plasma, platelets, or cryoprecipitate). The secondary endpoints included incidence of bleeding and transfusion-related adverse events. RESULTS: A total of 57 patients (19 per group; 64.9% male; mean age, 53.4 ± 11.3 years) were enrolled. Prior to catheterization, 3/19 (15.8%) in the restrictive arm, 13/19 (68.4%) in the thromboelastometry-guided arm, and 14/19 (73.7%) in the coagulogram-guided arm received blood transfusion (odds ratio [OR], 0.07; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.01-0.45; P = .002 for restrictive versus coagulogram-guided arm; OR, 0.09; 95% CI, 0.01-0.56; P = .006 for restrictive versus thromboelastometry-guided arm; and OR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.14-4.15; P = .931 for thromboelastometry-guided versus coagulogram-guided arm). The restrictive protocol was cost saving. No difference in bleeding, length of stay, mortality, and transfusion-related adverse events was found. CONCLUSIONS: The use of a restrictive strategy is associated with a reduction in transfusion prior to central venous catheterization and costs in critically ill cirrhosis patients. No effect on bleeding was found among the groups.

Fatores associados à doença renal crônica: inquérito epidemiológico da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde / Factors associated with chronic kidney disease: epidemiological survey of the National Health Survey

RESUMO: Objetivos: Identificar a prevalência da doença renal crônica (DRC) autorreferida no Brasil e caracterizar os fatores associados a essa enfermidade. Métodos: Trata-se de um inquérito epidemiológico de base domiciliar, a Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde (PNS) realizada em 2013. O desfecho analisado foi a prevalência de DRC. Os grupos de variáveis explicativas foram: características sociodemográficas, estilos de vida, doenças crônicas autorreferidas, antropometria e avaliação de saúde. Foram estimadas as prevalências de DRC e os respectivos intervalos de confiança de 95% e foram realizados a análise univariada e o modelo de regressão logística múltipla, permanecendo as variáveis estatisticamente significativas (p < 0,05). Resultados: Observou-se que 1,42% (intervalo de confiança de 95% - IC95% 1,33 - 1,52) dos 60.202 entrevistados referiram ser portadores de DRC. O odds ratio (OR) aumentou com a idade, sendo 2,68 entre os idosos com 65 anos ou mais (IC95% 1,75 - 4,09). Apresentaram chance maior de DRC: possuir planos de saúde, com OR = 1,51 (IC95% 1,28 - 1,78), tabagismo, hipertensão, colesterol elevado e autoavaliação de saúde ruim, com OR = 1,75 (IC95% 1,45 - 2,12), OR = 1,20 (IC95% 1,02 - 1,42), OR = 1,83 (IC95% 1,56 - 2,15), OR = 4,70 (IC95% 3,75 - 5,88), respectivamente. Conclusões: A prevalência de DRC foi maior em idade mais avançada, baixa escolaridade, possuir plano de saúde, tabagismo, hipertensão, hipercolesterolemia e avaliação regular ou ruim do estado de saúde. O conhecimento da prevalência da DRC e dos fatores de risco e de proteção são essenciais para prevenção da doença e para subsidiar as políticas públicas de saúde.

ABSTRACT: Objective: To identify the prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) self-reported in Brazil and characterize the factors associated with it. Methods: This study was a cross-sectional health survey with a household-based, the National Health Survey, performed in 2013. The outcome in the present study was the prevalence of CKD. The groups of explanatory variables were socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyles, chronic self-reported diseases, anthropometry, and health evaluation. The prevalence of CKD, e their 95% respective confidence interval were estimated, univariate analysis and the multiple logistic regression model were calculated, and remained the variables statistically significant (p < 0.05). Results: It noticed that 1.42% (95%CI 1.33 - 1.52) of the 60,202 interviewees self-reported CKD. The OR increased progressively with age, being 2.68 among the elderly with 65 years or more (95%CI 1.75 - 4.09). Having health plans with OR = 1.51 (95%CI 1.28 - 1.78), as well as smoking, hypertension and high cholesterol and poor self-reported health with OR = 1.75 (95%CI 1.45 - 2.12), OR = 1.20 (95%CI 1.02 - 1.42), OR = 1.83 (95%CI 1.56 - 2.15), OR = 4.70 (95%CI 3.75 - 5.88), respectively, showed a higher chance of CKD. Conclusions: The associated variables were increasing age, health plan coverage, smoking, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and regular or poor health status. The knowledge of CKD prevalence in Brazil and risk and protection factors are essential for disease prevention and the establishment of supporting public health policies.

Implementação, acesso e uso das práticas integrativas e complementares no Sistema Único de Saúde: revisão da literatura / Implementation, access and use of integrative and complementary practices in the unified health system: a literature review

Resumo No Brasil, as Práticas Integrativas e Complementares (PIC) tiveram maior visibilidade após a criação da Política Nacional de Práticas Integrativas e Complementares, em 2006. Contudo, ainda existem lacunas sobre o cenário geral dessas práticas. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a implementação, o acesso e o uso das PIC no Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) após a implantação da política. Foi realizada uma revisão integrativa da literatura, guiada pela questão: "Qual o atual cenário de implementação, acesso e utilização das PIC no âmbito do SUS?", na Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde, na US National Library of Medicine e na Web of Science, com os descritores "Sistema Único de Saúde"/"Unified Health System" AND "Terapias complementares"/"Complementary Therapies". Da análise dos artigos, emergiram quatro categorias de discussão: "A abordagem das PIC no SUS: principais práticas usadas"; "O acesso às PIC: a Atenção Básica à Saúde como porta de entrada"; "Atual cenário de implementação das PIC: o preparo dos serviços e dos profissionais da saúde para a realização das PIC"; "Principais avanços no uso das PIC e desafios futuros". Observa-se que as PIC são oferecidas de forma tímida e os dados disponíveis são escassos, apesar dos reflexos positivos para os usuários e para os serviços que aderiram à sua utilização.

Abstract In Brazil, the Integrative and Complementary Practices (ICP) achieved greater visibility after the establishment of the National Integrative and Complementary Practices Policy (NICPP) in 2006. However, there are still gaps in the general setting of these practices. Thus, this study aimed to analyze the implementation, access and use of ICPs in the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) after the establishment of this policy. We performed an integrative literature review, guided by the question: "What is the current setting of implementation, access and use of ICPs within the SUS?", in the Virtual Health Library (BVS), the U.S. National Library of Medicine and in the Web of Science, with descriptors "Sistema Único de Saúde" / "Unified Health System" AND "Terapias Complementares" / "Complementary Therapies". The analysis of papers gave rise to four categories for discussion: "The ICP approach in the SUS: main practices used"; "Access to ICPs: Primary Health Care as a gateway"; "Current implementation scenario of ICPs: the preparation of health services and professionals for to implement ICPs"; "Main advances in the use of ICPs and future challenges". We have observed that ICPs are bashfully offered and that data available are scarce, despite the positive impacts on users and services that have embraced their use.

Implementation, access and use of integrative and complementary practices in the unified health system: a literature review. / Implementação, acesso e uso das práticas integrativas e complementares no Sistema Único de Saúde: revisão da literatura.

In Brazil, the Integrative and Complementary Practices (ICP) achieved greater visibility after the establishment of the National Integrative and Complementary Practices Policy (NICPP) in 2006. However, there are still gaps in the general setting of these practices. Thus, this study aimed to analyze the implementation, access and use of ICPs in the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) after the establishment of this policy. We performed an integrative literature review, guided by the question: "What is the current setting of implementation, access and use of ICPs within the SUS?", in the Virtual Health Library (BVS), the U.S. National Library of Medicine and in the Web of Science, with descriptors "Sistema Único de Saúde" / "Unified Health System" AND "Terapias Complementares" / "Complementary Therapies". The analysis of papers gave rise to four categories for discussion: "The ICP approach in the SUS: main practices used"; "Access to ICPs: Primary Health Care as a gateway"; "Current implementation scenario of ICPs: the preparation of health services and professionals for to implement ICPs"; "Main advances in the use of ICPs and future challenges". We have observed that ICPs are bashfully offered and that data available are scarce, despite the positive impacts on users and services that have embraced their use.

No Brasil, as Práticas Integrativas e Complementares (PIC) tiveram maior visibilidade após a criação da Política Nacional de Práticas Integrativas e Complementares, em 2006. Contudo, ainda existem lacunas sobre o cenário geral dessas práticas. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a implementação, o acesso e o uso das PIC no Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) após a implantação da política. Foi realizada uma revisão integrativa da literatura, guiada pela questão: "Qual o atual cenário de implementação, acesso e utilização das PIC no âmbito do SUS?", na Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde, na US National Library of Medicine e na Web of Science, com os descritores "Sistema Único de Saúde"/"Unified Health System" AND "Terapias complementares"/"Complementary Therapies". Da análise dos artigos, emergiram quatro categorias de discussão: "A abordagem das PIC no SUS: principais práticas usadas"; "O acesso às PIC: a Atenção Básica à Saúde como porta de entrada"; "Atual cenário de implementação das PIC: o preparo dos serviços e dos profissionais da saúde para a realização das PIC"; "Principais avanços no uso das PIC e desafios futuros". Observa-se que as PIC são oferecidas de forma tímida e os dados disponíveis são escassos, apesar dos reflexos positivos para os usuários e para os serviços que aderiram à sua utilização.

Prevalence of practice of bullying reported by Brazilian students: data from the National School Health Survey, 2015. / Prevalência da prática de bullying referida por estudantes brasileiros: dados da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde do Escolar, 2015.

OBJECTIVE: to identify the practice of bullying reported by Brazilian students, according to sex, age and geographical location. METHODS: this was a cross-sectional study based on two national samples from the National School Health Survey (PeNSE), 2015; a total of 102,301 students participated in the study forming a nationally representative sample; data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire. RESULTS: bullying prevalence was 19.8% (95%CI - 19.2;20.3), with higher prevalence in the Southeast region of the country (22.2% - 95%CI 21.1;23.4), and in the State of São Paulo (24.2% - 95%CI 22.3;26.2), however the city with the highest prevalence was Boa Vista (25.5% - 95%CI 22.9;28.1), capital of the State of Roraima; boys (24.2% - 95%CI 23.4;25.0) practiced more bullying than girls (15.6% - 95%CI 14.9;16.2), as did younger students aged 13 to 15 years (22.0% - 95%CI 20.4;23.6). CONCLUSION: higher rates of reported bullying practices were found among adolescents from the Southeast region, among male and younger students.

Factors associated with family violence against adolescents based on the results of the National School Health Survey (PeNSE). / Fatores associados aos episódios de agressão familiar entre adolescentes, resultados da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde do Escolar (PeNSE).

The study analyzes factors associated with family aggression against adolescents. Data from the National School Health Survey for 2015 were analyzed, and the prevalence of physical aggression per family was calculated according to four blocks. The bivariate analysis was performed, calculating the unadjusted Odds Ratio (OR) within each block and the multivariate regression. Familial aggression was reported by 14.5%. The variables associated with the model were: female, black, yellow, brown, mothers with no higher educational level, adolescent workers (OR 2.10 CI 95% 1.78-2.47). In the family context, they remained associated with aggression, lack of parents "understanding" (OR 1.71 CI95% 1.63 -1.80) and their intrusion into adolescent's privacy (OR 1.80 CI95% 1.70 -1, 91). Report of missing school (OR1.43 CI95% 1.36-1.50). Among the behaviors: smoking (OR 1.23 CI95% 1.12-1.34), alcohol (OR 1.49 CI95% 1.41-1.57), drug experience (OR 1.24 CI95% 1, 15-1,33), early sexual intercourse (OR 1.40 CI95% 1.33 -1.48), reports of loneliness, insomnia and bullying (ORa 2.14 CI95% 2.00-2.30). It is concluded by the association between violence and gender, greater victimization of girls, living in unfavorable social and family contexts.

O estudo analisa fatores associados à agressão familiar contra adolescentes. Foram utilizados dados da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde dos Escolares 2015 e calculada a prevalência de sofrer agressão física por familiar, segundo quatro blocos de investigação. Procedeu-se a análise bivariada, calculando-se os Odds Ratios (ORs) não ajustados e, por fim, foi realizada a regressão multivariada. A agressão familiar foi referida por 14,5%. Variáveis associadas no modelo mutivariado no bloco sociodemográfico foram: sexo feminino, raça cor preta, amarela, parda, mães sem nível superior de escolaridade, adolescente que trabalham (OR 2,10 IC95% 1,78-2,47). No contexto familiar: a falta de compreensão dos pais (OR 1,71 IC95% 1,63 -1,80) e a intromissão na privacidade dos adolescentes (OR 1,80 IC95% 1,70 -1,91). Relato de faltar às aulas (OR 1,43 IC95% 1,36-1,50). Dentre os comportamentos: tabagismo (OR 1,23 IC95% 1,12-1,34), álcool (OR 1,49 IC95% 1,41-1,57), experiência com drogas (OR 1,24 IC95% 1,15-1,33), relação sexual precoce (OR 1,40 IC95% 1,33 -1,48), relato de solidão, insônia e bullying (ORa 2,14 IC95% 2,00-2,30). Conclui-se pela associação entre violência e gênero, maior vitimização das meninas e adolescentes mais jovens, que vivem em contextos sociais e familiares desfavoráveis.

Prevalence of bullying and associated factors among Brazilian schoolchildren in 2015. / Prevalência de bullying e fatores associados em escolares brasileiros, 2015.

This study analyzed the prevalence of bullying and associated factors among Brazilian schoolchildren using data produced by the 2015 National School Health Survey (PeNSE, acronym in Portuguese) consisting of a national sample of 102,301 eighth grade students. The prevalence of bullying was calculated and bivariate analysis was performed using a 95% confidence level to determine the association between victimization and socio-demographic variables and other variables relating to family background, mental health, and risk behaviors. Multivariate analysis was then conducted using the biologically plausible variables of interest. For the final model, variables that obtained p-values of < 0.05 were maintained. The prevalence of bullying was found to be 7.4%. The results of the multivariate analysis showed that boys aged 13 years studying in public schools who worked and whose mother did not have any schooling were more likely to be bullied, as were schoolchildren who felt lonely, had no friends, suffered from insomnia, skipped lessons without parental permission, and who smoked. Victims of bullying were predominantly 13-year-olds from an unfavorable social and family background, painting a picture of vulnerability that calls for support from social protection networks, schools and families alike .

O estudo analisou a prevalência de sofrer bullying e fatores associados em escolares brasileiros. Trata-se de análise da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde do Escolar (PeNSE) 2015 em amostra nacional com 102.301 alunos do 9º ano. Foi calculada a prevalência de sofrer bullying e foi feita inicialmente análise bivariada com estimativas de razões de chance (OR) e IC95% para estimar as associações entre vitimização e variáveis sociodemográficas, contexto familiar, violência familiar, saúde mental e comportamentos de risco. Posteriormente, procedeu-se ao modelo de regressão logística múltipla, inserindo as variáveis de interesse com (p < 0,20). No modelo final ajustado (ORa) permaneceram variáveis com p < 0,05. A prevalência de bullying foi de 7,4%. A análise multivariada mostrou que quem tem maior chance de sofrer bullying são os escolares do sexo masculino, com 13 anos, da escola pública, filhos de mães sem escolaridade, que trabalham, com relato de solidão, sem amigos, com insônia; que sofreram agressão física dos familiares, faltaram as aulas sem avisar aos pais, usaram tabaco. Predominaram vítimas de 13 anos, com contexto social e familiar desfavorável, mostrando cenário de vulnerabilidades, demandando apoio de redes de proteção social, escolar e famíliar.