Effect of age on human ACE2 and ACE2-expressing alveolar type II cells levels.

BACKGROUND: Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is the receptor for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) which causes COVID-19. Viral entry requires ACE2 and transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2). Transcriptomic studies showed that children display lower ACE2 than adults, though gene expression levels do not always correlate with protein levels. We investigated the effect of age on ACE2 and TMPRSS2 protein expression in alveolar type II (AT2) cells in the lungs of children compared to adults. We also analysed the ratio of Ang-(1-7) to Ang II as a surrogate marker of ACE2 activity in the subjects' lung parenchyma. METHODS: Ang II and Ang-(1-7) levels and ACE2 and TMPRSS2 protein expression were measured by radioimmunoassay and immunohistochemistry, respectively. RESULTS: The amount of ACE2-expressing AT2 cells and ACE2 protein content were lower in children than in adults. Ang II levels were higher in children compared to adults and inversely correlated with the amount of ACE2-expressing AT2 cells. Children presented lower Ang-(1-7)/Ang II ratio than adult suggesting lower ACE2 activity in children. TMPRSS2 protein expression was not influenced by age. CONCLUSIONS: These results expand on previous transcriptomic studies and may partially explain the low susceptibility of children to SARS-CoV-2 infection. CATEGORY OF STUDY: Clinical original research IMPACT: Children display lower ACE2 protein content and activity compared to adults. Ang II levels were higher in children compared to adults and inversely correlated with the amount of ACE2-expressing AT2 cells TMPRSS2 protein expression was not influenced by age. These results expand on previous transcriptomic studies and may partially explain the low susceptibility of children to SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Home monitoring in interstitial lung diseases.

The widespread use of smartphones and the internet has enabled self-monitoring and more hybrid-care models. The COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated remote monitoring, including in the heterogenous and often vulnerable group of patients with interstitial lung diseases (ILDs). Home monitoring in ILD has the potential to improve access to specialist care, reduce the burden on health-care systems, improve quality of life for patients, identify acute and chronic disease worsening, guide treatment decisions, and simplify clinical trials. Home spirometry has been used in ILD for several years and studies with other devices (such as pulse oximeters, activity trackers, and cough monitors) have emerged. At the same time, challenges have surfaced, including technical, analytical, and implementational issues. In this Series paper, we provide an overview of experiences with home monitoring in ILD, address the challenges and limitations for both care and research, and provide future perspectives. VIDEO ABSTRACT.

Latin American Registry of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (REFIPI): Clinical Characteristics, Evolution and Treatment.

INTRODUCTION: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive, irreversible and frequently fatal disease. Currently there are national and multinational registries in Europe, United States, Australia and China to better understand the magnitude of the problem and the characteristics of the IPF patients. However, there are no national or regional registries in Latin America, so the objective of this study was to carry out a Latin American registry that would allow the identification of IPF patients in our region. METHODOLOGY: A system consisting of 3 levels of control was designed, ensuring that patients met the diagnostic criteria for IPF according to international guidelines ATS/ERS/ALAT/JRS 2011. Demographic, clinical, serological, functional, tomographic, histological and treatment variables were recorded through a digital platform. RESULTS: 761 IPF patients from 14 Latin American countries were included for analysis, 74.7% were male, with a mean age of 71.9+8.3 years. In general there was a long period of symptoms before definitive diagnosis (median 1 year). In functional tests, an average reduction of FVC (70.9%) and DLCO (53.7%) was detected. 72% received at least one antifibrotic drug (pirfenidone or nintedanib) and 11.2% of the patients had an acute exacerbation, of which 38 (45.2%) died from this cause. CONCLUSIONS: Like other registries, we found that there is difficulty in the recognition and excessive delay in the diagnosis of IPF in Latin America. Most of the patients in REFIPI received antifibrotics; these were well tolerated and associated with fewer adverse events than those reported in clinical trials.

Renin-angiotensin system blockade on angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 and TMPRSS2 in human type II pneumocytes.

AIMS: Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) 2 is the receptor for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 which causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Viral cellular entry requires ACE2 and transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2). ACE inhibitors (ACEIs) or angiotensin (Ang) receptor blockers (ARBs) influence ACE2 in animals, though evidence in human lungs is lacking. We investigated ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in type II pneumocytes, the key cells that maintain lung homeostasis, in lung parenchymal of ACEI/ARB-treated subjects compared to untreated control subjects. MAIN METHODS: Ang II and Ang-(1-7) levels and ACE2 and TMPRSS2 protein expression were measured by radioimmunoassay and immunohistochemistry, respectively. KEY FINDINGS: We found that the ratio Ang-(1-7)/Ang II, a surrogate marker of ACE2 activity, as well as the amount of ACE2-expressing type II pneumocytes were not different between ACEI/ARB-treated and untreated subjects. ACE2 protein content correlated positively with smoking habit and age. The percentage of TMPRSS2-expressing type II pneumocytes was higher in males than females and in subjects under 60 years of age but it was not different between ACEI/ARB-treated and untreated subjects. However, there was a positive association of TMPRSS2 protein content with age and smoking in ACEI/ARB-treated subjects, with high TMPRSS2 protein levels most evident in ACEI/ARB-treated older adults and smokers. SIGNIFICANCE: ACEI/ARB treatment influences human lung TMPRSS2 but not ACE2 protein content and this effect is dependent on age and smoking habit. This finding may help explain the increased susceptibility to COVID-19 seen in smokers and older patients with treated cardiovascular-related pathologies.

Pharmacological management of progressive-fibrosing interstitial lung diseases: a review of the current evidence.

A proportion of patients with interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) are at risk of developing a progressive-fibrosing phenotype, which is associated with a deterioration in lung function and early mortality. In addition to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), fibrosing ILDs that may present a progressive phenotype include idiopathic nonspecific interstitial pneumonia, connective tissue disease-associated ILDs, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, unclassifiable idiopathic interstitial pneumonia, ILDs related to other occupational exposures and sarcoidosis. Corticosteroids and/or immunosuppressive therapies are sometimes prescribed to patients with these diseases. However, this treatment regimen may not be effective, adequate on its own or well tolerated, suggesting that there is a pressing need for efficacious and better tolerated therapies. Currently, the only approved treatments to slow disease progression in patients with IPF are nintedanib and pirfenidone. Similarities in pathobiological mechanisms leading to fibrosis between IPF and other ILDs that may present a progressive-fibrosing phenotype provide a rationale to suggest that nintedanib and pirfenidone may be therapeutic options for patients with the latter diseases.This review provides an overview of the therapeutic options currently available for patients with fibrosing ILDs, including fibrosing ILDs that may present a progressive phenotype, and explores the status of the randomised controlled trials that are underway to determine the efficacy and safety of nintedanib and pirfenidone.

Experiencia en la Argentina del Programa de uso compasivo con nintedanib en el tratamiento de la Fibrosis Pulmonar Idiopática / Experience with the Compassionate Use Program of nintedanib for the treatment of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis in Argentina

Introducción: La Fibrosis Pulmonar Idiopática (FPI) es una enfermedad pulmonar difusa (EPD) de etiología desconocida, crónica y progresiva. Ocurre en adultos mayores, se encuentra limitada a los pulmones y se asocia con la patente anatomopatológica y/o tomográfica de neumonía intersticial usual (NIU). El curso de la enfermedad es progresivo y se asocia con una supervivencia media a 5 años del 20%. Objetivos: Conocer las características clínicas y de función pulmonar del grupo de pacientes con FPI ingresados al programa de uso compasivo (NPU); conocer el perfil de seguridad reportado con nintedanib. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo descriptivo transversal en donde se incluyeron 54 pacientes ingresados al programa de NPU desde el 1 de septiembre de 2015 hasta el 10 de agosto de 2016. Los datos se recolectaron de los registros del programa de NPU. Resultados: Cincuenta y cuatro pacientes con FPI fueron incluidos en el programa de NPU, de ellos 47 recibieron nintedanib y se analizaron los datos del total de estos últimos. Treinta y siete (78.72%) eran varones, la edad media al inicio del tratamiento era 67.47 ± 7.85 años y en 9 casos (19.14%) el diagnóstico se estableció mediante biopsia pulmonar. La capacidad vital forzada (CVF) media al inicio del tratamiento era de 65.87 ± 19.23 expresada en porcentaje del valor predictivo; la capacidad de difusión de dióxido de carbono media (DLCO) expresada en porcentaje del valor predictivo era de 38.74 ± 3.09. El tiempo de evolución desde el diagnóstico de FPI hasta el inicio del tratamiento con nintedanib era de 27.17± 27.9 meses (mediana 17). La exposición de la droga promedio hasta el corte era de 9.92 semanas ± 2.15 (mediana: 10 semanas). En 7 casos (31.91%) la CVF era mayor del 80%, en 22 (46.80%) casos entre 50 y 79% y en 10 casos (21.27%) era menor de 49%. En total 7 pacientes (14.89%) presentaron eventos adversos: 5 (10.6%) pacientes presentaron descenso ponderal, 4 (8.51%) diarrea, 2 pacientes presentaron náusea, 1 (2.12%) elevación de las enzimas hepáticas y 1 (2.12%) prurito. En la mayoría de los casos los eventos adversos aparecieron durante las 2 primeras semanas del inicio del tratamiento con nintedanib. En 3 (6.38%) casos fue mandatorio la suspensión del nintedanib definitivamente por eventos adversos y en 4 (8.51%) se debió titular la dosis a 100 mg cada 12 horas. Del total, 6 (12.76%) pacientes fallecieron por progresión de su enfermedad de base. Conclusiones: Al igual que lo reportado por otros grupos, el nintedanib presenta un perfil de seguridad manejable y tolerable. En nuestra serie de 47 pacientes con FPI que recibieron al menos una dosis de nintedanib, el 14.89% presentó algún evento adverso que solo en 3 pacientes (6.38%) motivó la suspensión definitiva del fármaco.

Experience with the Compassionate Use Program of nintedanib for the treatment of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis in Argentina

Introduction: Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) is a diffuse lung disease (DLD) of unknown etiology that is chronic and progressive. It occurs in older adults; it is restricted to the lungs and it is associated with the anatomopathological and/or tomographic pattern of Usual Interstitial Pneumonia (UIP). The evolution of the disease is progressive and it is associated with a mean 5-year survival rate of 20%. Objectives: to identify the clinical and pulmonary function characteristics in the group of patients with IPF included in the Compassionate Use Program (NPU, Named Patient Use); to identify the safety profile reported with nintedanib. Materials and methods: a retrospective, descriptive and cross-sectional study including 54 patients enrolled in the NPU program from September 1st, 2015 to August 10th, 2016. Data were collected from the NPU program records. Results: fifty-four patients with IPF were included in the NPU program, of whom 47 received nintedanib; the data from the latter were analyzed. Thirty-seven (78.72%) were males, with a mean age at the beginning of treatment of 67.47 ± 7.85 years, and in 9 cases (19.14%) the diagnosis was confirmed by lung biopsy. The mean forced vital capacity (FVC) at the beginning of treatment was 65.87±19.23 and it is presented as the percentage of the predictive value; the mean carbon dioxide diffusing capacity (DLCO) presented as the percentage of the predictive value was 38.74 ± 3.09. The time of progression from the diagnosis of IPF to the beginning of the treatment with nintedanib was 27.17± 27.9 months (median 17). Average drug exposure to cut-off point was 9.92 weeks ± 2.15 (median: 10 weeks). In 7 cases (31.91%) the FVC was over 80%, in 22 (46.80%) cases it was between 50 and 79% and in 10 cases (21.27%) it was below 49%. In total, 7 patients (14.89%) exhibited adverse events: Five (10.6%) patients exhibited weight loss, 4 (8.51%) diarrhea, 2 patients had nausea, 1 (2.12%) an increase of the liver enzymes and 1 (2.12%) pruritus. In most cases, the adverse events appeared during the first 2 weeks after beginning the treatment with nintedanib. In 3 (6.38%) cases it was imperative to suspend nintedanib permanently due to the adverse effects and in 4 (8.51%) cases the dose had to be titrated to 100 mg every 12 hours. Out of the total of patients, 6 (12.76%) passed away due to the progression of their underlying disease. Conclusions: such as it was reported by other groups, nintedanib has a manageable and tolerable safety profile. In our series of 47 patients with IPF who received at least one dose of nintedanib, 14.89% had an adverse event that led to the permanent discontinuation of the drug in only 3 patients (6.38%).

[Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis: role of GM-CSF Antibodies]. / Proteinosis alveolar pulmonar: rol de los anticuerpo ANT-GM-CSF.

Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis is a rare illness characterized by alterations in the normal depuration of surfactants from the alveolar space in a process dependent of the granulocyte-monocyte colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF). The most of the patients develop antibodies that neutralize this factor, avoiding the normal homeostasis of surfactants. Therapeutic options include the total lung washes and administration of GM-CSF when the washes fail. Despite the contribution related with the knowledge about of the nature of the disease, the measurement of serum antibodies anti-GM-CSF is not a routine technique. We present a systematic review of this challenging disease.

Ateneo de un caso clínico: Mujer de 71 años con asma de difícil control / Atheneum of a clinical case: Woman of 71 years with asthma difficult to control

Se presenta el caso de una mujer de 71 años de edad, tabaquista pasiva, con historia de internaciones múltiples debido a episodios agudos de asma bronquial. Como antecedentes de relevancia, ella presentaba hipertensión arterial, hipotiroidismo y diagnóstico de asma con atopía y rinitis alérgica desde la adolescencia. Refería un franco empeoramiento de los síntomas desde hacía aproximadamente 24 meses. Para su asma estaba en tratamiento con budesonide 640 mcg diarios, formoterol 18 mcg diarios, montelukast 10 mg diarios, tiotropio 18 mcg diarios. Además recibía fluticasona nasal, omeprazol 40 mg, cinitaprida, levotiroxina y losartán. Pese a estar tratada con la medicación antes mencionada, persistía sintomática desde el punto de vista respiratorio con sibilancias audibles, disnea y tos requiriendo en varias oportunidades internación en sala general. Ella negaba exposición a hongos domésticos, ácaros, no tenía animales ni hobbies. Realizaba los quehaceres de su hogar, pero no mezclaba lavandina con detergentes ni otros productos irritantes

Manejo de las enfermedades intersticiales en Argentina: Una encuesta a neumonólogos / Management of Interstitial Lung Diseases in Argentina: a Survey to Pulmonologists

Introducción: Las enfermedades pulmonares intersticiales difusas (EPID) son un grupo de enfermedades raras que, si bien comparten ciertas características clínicas, tienen un pronóstico muy diferente. La fibrosis pulmonar idiopática (FPI) es la más prevalente en muchos países y su diagnóstico puede ser dificultoso. Luego de los resultados expuestos en el consenso sobre diagnóstico y manejo de la FPI, y la llegada de nuevas drogas como la pirfenidona, se ha modifcado el enfoque de esta enfermedad. Se realizó una encuesta a neumonólogos argentinos, con el fin de evaluar la aceptabilidad e implementación de estas guías en Argentina. Materiales y métodos: Se diseñó una encuesta con 24 preguntas. Entre los datos que se recolectaron en el cuestionario estaban demografía de los encuestados, lugar de trabajo (instituciones públicas, privadas, grandes o pequeños centros o instituciones), frecuencia con la que evaluaban pacientes con FPI, disponibilidad de pruebas diagnósticas y estrategias diagnósticas empleadas para pacientes con EPID. Por último, la encuesta se focalizó en las recomendaciones terapéuticas en los pacientes diagnosticados como FPI. Dicha encuesta fue completada durante el Congreso Argentino de Medicina Respiratoria que se realizó en el 2013 en la ciudad de Mendoza. La misma metodología y cuestionario fueron utilizados previamente en el Congreso Argentino de Medicina Respiratoria del 2011. Resultados: Un total de 252 médicos respondieron la encuesta en el 2013, lo que representó alrededor del 20% de los concurrentes al congreso. El método complementario de mayor disponibilidad fue la prueba de marcha de 6 minutos (PM6M). El método complementario más utilizado fue la tomografía computada de tórax (86.9% de los encuestados la realizaban ante la sospecha de EPID) y solo el 44.4% de los encuestados realizaban difusión de monóxido de carbono (DLCO) en todos sus pacientes. Cerca del 50% de los encuestados consultaban a centros de referencia en menos del 30% de sus casos con sospecha de EPID. Menos del 20% de los respondedores consideraban que llegaban a un diagnóstico defnitivo de EPID en más del 60% de sus pacientes. La distribución final de los diagnósticos fue heterogénea. Notablemente, casi el 50% de los encuestados consideraba que la FPI había sido el diagnóstico final en menos de 30% de sus pacientes. Solo el 30% de los encuestados prescribieron pirfenidona como tratamiento de elección en la FPI y más del 60% todavía continuaban prescribiendo tratamientos que incluían diferentes combinaciones de corticoides e inmunosupresores. Conclusiones: Nuestra encuesta sugiere que existen dificultades en el abordaje diagnóstico de estas entidades, que existe un bajo porcentaje de pacientes que son evaluados en centros de referencia y que hay una baja proporción de estos que reciben tratamiento específico.

Background: Diffuse interstitial (or parenchymal) lung diseases (ILDs) are a very large group of diseases that although they share certain clinical features, have a very different prognosis. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is the most prevalent in many countries and its diagnosis can be difficult. After the results shown in the consensus on diagnosis and management of IPF, and the arrival of new drugs such as pirfenidone, the approach to this disease have changed. A survey was performed to argentine pulmonologists in order to evaluate the acceptability and implementation of these guidelines in Argentina. Material and Methods: A survey of 24 questions was designed. Among the data collected in the questionnaire were demographics of respondents, workplace (public or private healthcare facilities, referral center, large or small healthcare centers or institutions), frequency at which IPF patients were examined, availability of diagnostic tests, and diagnostic strategies used with ILD patients. Finally, the survey focused on therapeutic recommendations for patients diagnosed with IPF. The survey was completed during the Argentine Congress of Respiratory Medicine held in 2013 in the city of Mendoza. The same methodology and questionnaire were previously used in the Argentine Congress of Respiratory Medicine in 2011. Results: In 2013, a total of 252 physicians completed the survey, which represented approximately 20% of Congress attendees. The complementary test of higher availability was the the six minutes walk test (6MWT). The most widely used supplementary method was thoracic computed tomography (CT) as 86.9% of the responders used it if they suspected ILD, and only 44.4% of the responders used diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO) with all their patients. Almost 50% of the responders consulted referral centers for less than 30% of patients with suspected ILD. Less than 20% of the responders considered that they reached a final diagnosis of ILD in over 60% of their patients. Final distribution of diagnosis was heterogeneous. Interestingly, almost 50% of the responders considered IPF as the fnal diagnosis in less than 30% of their patients. Approximately 50% of the responders answered that less than 20% of their IPF patients received specifc treatment for the disease. Conclusions: Our survey suggests that there are difficulties in the diagnostic approach of ILDs, there is a low percentage of patients that are evaluated in referral centers and there is a low proportion of IPF patients receiving specific treatment

Síndrome de Hughes-Stovin / Hughes-Stovin Syndrome

El síndrome de Hughes-Stovin (SHS) es una enfermedad rara, caracterizada por la presencia de tromboflebitis y aneurismas de las arterias pulmonares y/o bronquiales. Si bien la etiología y patogénesis del SHS se desconoce, se han identificado asociaciones con ciertas infecciones y angiodisplasia. Pertenece al grupo de las vasculitis generalizadas, con un mecanismo patológico muy parecido al de la enfermedad de Behçet (EB), incluso considerándose como una variante de esta última. Las manifestaciones clínicas incluyen tos, disnea, fiebre, toracodinia y hemoptisis. Es fundamental realizar un diagnóstico y tratamiento de manera temprana debido a que estos pacientes presentan un alto riesgo de ruptura de los aneurismas de arteria pulmonar. El tratamiento se basa en el uso de agentes inmunosupresores.

The Hughes-Stovin Syndrome (HSS) is a very rare clinical disorder characterized by thrombophlebitis and multiple pulmonary and/or bronchial aneurysms. The exact etiology and pathogenesis of HSS is unknown; possible causes include infections and angiodysplasia. HSS has also been considered as a variant of Behcet's disease (BD). Patients with HSS usually present with cough, dyspnea, fever, chest pain and haemoptysis. Early diagnosis and treatment are important, because patients are at a high risk for devastating pulmonary artery aneurysm rupture. Treatment usually involves immunosuppressive agents.

Histopathology of the idiopathic interstitial pneumonias (IIP): A review.

The 2013 American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society consensus classification update of the idiopathic interstitial pneumonias (IIP) included several important modifications to the organization and spectrum of the diseases that were proposed in an earlier multidisciplinary consensus document in 2002. The histopathology of the now 'major' and 'rare' IIP is presented here with exposition of the newly included entity of a distinctive upper lobe fibrotic lung disease referred to as idiopathic pleuroparenchymal fibroelastosis. The 'rare histological patterns' of acute fibrinous and organizing pneumonia and bronchiolocentric patterns of interstitial pneumonia are illustrated and discussed.

Supervivencia en pacientes con neumonía intersticial usual en contexto de fibrosis pulmonar idiopática y enfermedad del tejido conectivo / Survival in Patients with Usual Interstitial Pneumonia Secondary to Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis and Connective Tissue Disease

Introducción: La neumonía intersticial usual (NIU) es un patrón histológico que conlleva mal pronóstico. Sin embargo, en los últimos años se ha sugerido que la NIU asociada a las enfermedades del tejido conectivo (NIU-ETC) puede tener un comportamiento diferente a la asociada a la fibrosis pulmonar idiopática (FPI). Objetivos: Conocer si existen diferencias en la severidad y supervivencia entre los pacientes con NIU asociada a FPI y los pacientes con NIU en contexto de ETC, incluyendo esclerosis sistémica, artritis reumatoidea, polidermatomiositis y enfermedad mixta del tejido conectivo. Materiales y métodos: Fueron evaluadas las características clínicas y la supervivencia de 102 pacientes (81 con FPI y 21 con NIU-ETC) diagnosticados en base a biopsia quirúrgica o una tomografía computada de alta resolución (TCAR) con NIU definida. Resultados: La media de seguimiento fue de 24 meses (0 a 146 meses). Cuarenta y cuatro pacientes murieron durante el seguimiento, una proporción significativamente mayor entre los pacientes con FPI que entre los pacientes con NIU-ETC (49.4 vs 19.0%, p = 0.014) y la supervivencia a 3 y 5 años fue mayor en pacientes con NIU asociada a ETC que en pacientes con FPI. Los pacientes con NIU-ETC tuvieron una tasa de mortalidad a los 3 y 5 años de 19.5% y 20.0%, respectivamente, comparado con pacientes con FPI que tuvieron una tasa de mortalidad a 3 y 5 años de 35.0%, y 65.9% respectivamente (p = 0,014). Los pacientes con FPI fueron mayores que los pacientes con NIU-ETC (edad 67.95 ± 9.4 vs 57.78 ± 14.5, p = 0.021), con una proporción mayor de pacientes de sexo masculino (67.9% vs 33.3%, p = 0.006). No hubo diferencias significativas en la función pulmonar basal, la cantidad de pacientes con disnea en el momento del diagnóstico, el tiempo de inicio de síntomas al diagnóstico o en número de pacientes biopsiados entre ambos grupos. En el análisis multivariado, la DLCO y el diagnóstico de FPI fueron los únicos factores pronósticos independientes. Conclusiones: Nuestro estudio sugiere que los pacientes con NIU-ETC se asocian con una mejor supervivencia que aquellos pacientes con FPI, a pesar de presentar la misma severidad de enfermedad al momento del diagnóstico.

Background: Usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) is a histologic pattern that implies poor prognosis. However, some studies have suggested that UIP associated to connective tissue diseases (CTD-UIP) may have a different outcome than that associated with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Objectives: To compare disease severity and survival between IPF and UIP associated to connective tissue diseases including scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis, polymyositis and mixed CTD. Methods: The study included the analysis of clinical features and survival of 102 patients (81 with IPF and 21with CTD-UIP) diagnosed through surgical biopsy or high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) in patients with definitive UIP. Results: Median follow-up was 24 months (0 to 146 months). Forty-four patients died during the follow-up; the proportion of deaths was significantly higher amongst patients with IPF than amongst patients with CTD-UIP (49.4 vs 19.0%, p = 0.014). The 3 and 5 year survival was higher in patients with UIP secondary to CTD than in patients with IPF. Patients with CTD-UIP showed 3 and 5-year case fatality rate of 19.5% and 20.0% respectively, compared to 3 and 5-year case fatality rate of 35.0%, and 65.9% respectively in patients with IPF (p = 0.014). Patients with IPF were older than patients with CTD-UIP (age 67.95 ±9.4 vs 57.78 ±14.5, p = 0.021) and were more likely to be male (67.9% vs 33.3%, p = 0.006). There were no significant differences among baseline lung function, time between onset of symptoms and diagnosis, number of patients biopsied and the proportion of patients with dyspnea at the time of diagnosis between IPF and CTD-UIP patients. By multivariate analysis, the diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO) and the presence of IPF were independent prognostic factors. Conclusions: Our data suggest that patients with UIP associated to CTD have a better survival than patients with IPF related UIP despite similar disease severity at the time of the diagnosis.

Ateneo de la sección de patología difusa y/o intersticial AAMR: Paciente de 61 años con síndrome de Sjögren y compromiso pulmonar / Athenaeum of the pathology section diffuse and / or interstitial AAMR: Patient 61 years with Sjögren's syndrome and lung involvement

Dra. Tabaj: Se trata de una mujer de 61 años que consulta en junio de 2014 para evaluación de estudios en busca de una segunda opinión. Refiere diagnóstico de síndrome de Sjögren (SS) en el año 2012 con compromiso ocular en tratamiento con hidroxicloroquina e hipotiroidismo en tratamiento con levotiroxina. Consulta a neumonología por disnea de más de 6 meses de evolución hasta mMRC 2-3 y tos seca. Trae como estudios complementarios una tomografía computada de tórax de alta resolución (TCAR) (figura 1) realizada en agosto de 2013 y estudio funcional respiratorio (EFR)

Proteinosis alveolar pulmonar: Una puesta al día / Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis: Up to Date

La Proteinosis Alveolar Pulmonar (PAP) es una enfermedad rara, caracterizada por la acumulación de surfactante en el interior del espacio alveolar, resultando en una alteración del intercambio gaseoso. El curso clínico es variable, abarcando desde la resolución espontánea hasta el fallo respiratorio y muerte. Se han descripto tres formas de PAP: genética, secundaria y primaria o idiopática, siendo esta última la más frecuente en la población adulta. Avances en el conocimiento de la fisiopatología de la PAP han demostrado que la forma idiopática es el resultado de la generación de autoanticuerpos anti factor estimulante de colonias granulocito-macrófago (GM-CSF). Todas las formas de PAP resultan en disfunción macrofágica con la acumulación del material lipoproteináceo en el espacio alveolar. La PAP se caracteriza por disnea progresiva, tos seca e hipoxemia. Se encuentran opacidades bilaterales en la radiografía de tórax y la tomografía computada de alta resolución pone de manifiesto vidrio esmerilado con engrosamiento de los septos inter e intralobulillar, conformando el patrón típico en empedrado. Si bien la biopsia quirúrgica es el método de referencia para el diagnóstico definitivo, la combinación de las manifestaciones clínicas características y el lavado broncoalveolar (LBA) con material PAS positivo a menudo son suficientes para establecer el diagnóstico. El tratamiento de elección en primera medida sigue siendo el lavado pulmonar total bajo anestesia general con el objeto de remover el material proteináceo del espacio alveolar y mejorar el intercambio gaseoso. Recientemente, estudios han demostrado que el tratamiento inhalatorio o subcutáneo con GM-CSF podría beneficiar a algunos pacientes con formas idiopáticas de PAP.

Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) is a rare disorder characterized by the accumulation of surfactant lipids and protein in the alveolar spaces, resulting in impairment in gas exchange. The clinical course can be variable, ranging from spontaneous resolution to respiratory failure and death. There are three forms of PAP: congenital, acquired and idiopathic, being the latter the most prevalent form in the adult population. Advances in the understanding of the pathophysiology of PAP demonstrate that the idiopathic form is due to antigranulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) antibodies. All the forms of PAP cause macrophage dysfunction leading to accumulation of the proteinaceous material. PAP is characterized by progressive exertional dyspnea and nonproductive cough with hypoxemia. Bilateral infiltrates are typically present on chest radiograph; high-resolution computed tomography reveals diffuse ground-glass opacities and airspace consolidation with interlobular septal thickening in a characteristic “crazy paving” pattern. Although surgical lung biopsy will provide a definitive diagnosis, a combination of typical clinical and imaging features with periodic acid-Schiff (PAS)-positive material on bronchoalveolar lavage and transbronchial biopsies is usually sufficient. The current standard of care is to perform whole lung lavage under anesthesia on these patients to clear the alveolar space to help improving respiratory physiology. Recent studies have demonstrated that GM-CSF (inhalation or subcutaneous) can result in improvement in some patients with idiopathic PAP.

Proteinosis alveolar pulmonar: Una puesta al día

La Proteinosis Alveolar Pulmonar (PAP) es una enfermedad rara, caracterizada por la acumulación de surfactante en el interior del espacio alveolar, resultando en una alteración del intercambio gaseoso. El curso clínico es variable, abarcando desde la resolución espontánea hasta el fallo respiratorio y muerte. Se han descripto tres formas de PAP: genética, secundaria y primaria o idiopática, siendo esta última la más frecuente en la población adulta. Avances en el conocimiento de la fisiopatología de la PAP han demostrado que la forma idiopática es el resultado de la generación de autoanticuerpos anti factor estimulante de colonias granulocito-macrófago (GM-CSF). Todas las formas de PAP resultan en disfunción macrofágica con la acumulación del material lipoproteináceo en el espacio alveolar. La PAP se caracteriza por disnea progresiva, tos seca e hipoxemia. Se encuentran opacidades bilaterales en la radiografía de tórax y la tomografía computada de alta resolución pone de manifiesto vidrio esmerilado con engrosamiento de los septos inter e intralobulillar, conformando el patrón típico en empedrado. Si bien la biopsia quirúrgica es el método de referencia para el diagnóstico definitivo, la combinación de las manifestaciones clínicas características y el lavado broncoalveolar (LBA) con material PAS positivo a menudo son suficientes para establecer el diagnóstico. El tratamiento de elección en primera medida sigue siendo el lavado pulmonar total bajo anestesia general con el objeto de remover el material proteináceo del espacio alveolar y mejorar el intercambio gaseoso. Recientemente, estudios han demostrado que el tratamiento inhalatorio o subcutáneo con GM-CSF podría beneficiar a algunos pacientes con formas idiopáticas de PAP.(AU)

Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) is a rare disorder characterized by the accumulation of surfactant lipids and protein in the alveolar spaces, resulting in impairment in gas exchange. The clinical course can be variable, ranging from spontaneous resolution to respiratory failure and death. There are three forms of PAP: congenital, acquired and idiopathic, being the latter the most prevalent form in the adult population. Advances in the understanding of the pathophysiology of PAP demonstrate that the idiopathic form is due to antigranulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) antibodies. All the forms of PAP cause macrophage dysfunction leading to accumulation of the proteinaceous material. PAP is characterized by progressive exertional dyspnea and nonproductive cough with hypoxemia. Bilateral infiltrates are typically present on chest radiograph; high-resolution computed tomography reveals diffuse ground-glass opacities and airspace consolidation with interlobular septal thickening in a characteristic “crazy paving” pattern. Although surgical lung biopsy will provide a definitive diagnosis, a combination of typical clinical and imaging features with periodic acid-Schiff (PAS)-positive material on bronchoalveolar lavage and transbronchial biopsies is usually sufficient. The current standard of care is to perform whole lung lavage under anesthesia on these patients to clear the alveolar space to help improving respiratory physiology. Recent studies have demonstrated that GM-CSF (inhalation or subcutaneous) can result in improvement in some patients with idiopathic PAP.(AU)

Diagnóstico de secuestro pulmonar mediante tomografía computada / Diagnosis of lung sequestration by computed tomography

Hombre de 45 años que consulta derivado por su médico de cabecera para evaluación de radiografía de tórax de catastro (Fig. 1) donde se pone en evidencia una opacidad redondeada en base izquierda que no hace signo de la silueta con el corazón. Se solicita tomografía computada (TC) de tórax helicoidal con contraste endovenso que pone de manifiesto una hiperdensidad de bordes lobulados en el segmento posterobasal del lóbulo inferior izquierdo, que presenta sutiles imágenes aéreas en su interior. Se identifica un nivel hidroaéreo en su porción cefálica. Se encuentra irrigada por una arteria que emerge de la pared izquierda del tercio inferior de la aorta torácica descendente y su drenaje venoso es a través de una rama de la vena pulmonar inferior izquierda. Se encuentra rodeada por un área de disminución de la densidad del parénquima pulmonar. Las imágenes descritas impresionan en relación a un secuestro pulmonar intraloba

Enfermedad intersticial grave de difícil caracterización / Severe difficult interstitial disease characterization

Se presenta una mujer de 62 años de edad, comienza un mes previo al ingreso con progresión de su disnea habitual de grado 3 a 4 MRC. Una semana previa agrega tos, inicialmente seca y luego productiva, motivo por el cual asiste a nuestro hospital (FSG) donde se detecta hipoxemia marcada e infiltrados bilaterales en radiografía de tórax y se decide su internación. No presentó fiebre ni otra sintomatología asociada