[Renal Transplantation in a patient with Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa: a case report] / Reporte de caso: Trasplante Renal en un paciente con Epidermolisis Bullosa.

Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) is a rare genodermatosis characterized by abnormalities in the anchoring fibrils which attach the basal cell layer of the epidermis to the underlying structures. A characteristic feature of this disorder is the presence of recurrent blistering or erosions, the result of even minor traction to these tissues. Patients with RDEB frequently develop chronic renal failure, and require renal replacement therapy being a major cause of morbidity and mortality. The role of renal transplantation in these patients is scarcely known. We present the case of an end-stage renal disease patient with RDEB treated by renal transplantation and his follow-up during a period of 83 months after the transplant. In this period, there were very low frequency of serious infections as well as the absence of skin tumors. Renal transplantation could be an alternative to renal replacement therapy in epidermolysis bullosa patients with end-stage renal disease, reducing the comorbidities associated with this treatment.

La epidermolisis bullosa distrófica recesiva (EBDR) es una genodermatosis extremadamente infrecuente, caracterizada por la existencia de alteraciones a nivel de las fibras de anclaje que unen la membrana basal de la epidermis a las estructuras subyacentes. Un elemento característico de esta entidad es la formación recurrente de ampollas en piel y mucosas ante traumatismos mínimos, con posterior cicatrización. Los pacientes con EBRD frecuentemente desarrollan enfermedad renal crónica y requieren de terapia de reemplazo renal, constituyendo una importante causa de morbilidad y mortalidad en estos pacientes. El rol del trasplante renal es poco conocido en este tipo de pacientes.Se presenta el caso de un paciente con enfermedad renal terminal y EBDR que es tratado con trasplante renal y su seguimiento a lo largo de un período de 83 meses luego del trasplante. Durante dicho período se observó una baja frecuencia de intercurrencias infecciosas, así como la ausencia de desarrollo de neoplasias cutáneas. El trasplante renal podría ser una alternativa a la terapia de reemplazo dialítica en los pacientes con epidermolisis bullosa asociada a enfermedad renal terminal, reduciendo las comorbilidades asociadas a las terapias dialíticas.

[The role of kidney transplantation in reducing mortality in a chronic dialysis program]. / Trasplante renal y disminución de la mortalidad en los programas de diálisis crónica.

For patients with chronic renal failure (CRF), kidney transplant (KT) is a better alternative to dialysis in terms of survival, life quality and costs. We studied the general characteristics, causes and survival rate of the dialysis population in 2010. We evaluated broader criteria for acceptance of transplants has affected the results of the procedure in that period. A total of 118 dialysis patients were included; mean age 56.9 ± 18.4 years, dialysis duration 45.5 ± 59.6 months, main cause of CRF was diabetes in 35 (30%), and 58 (49%) were included in waiting list for KT. Of the 34 patients who finished dialysis in 2010, 18 (53%) were KT, while 12 (35%) died (cardiovascular 50%, infectious 17%). Survival at 12 months was 85% for the total group, 98% on waiting list and 72% those who were not enrolled. During 2010 there were 88 KT, 62 with cadaveric donors (CD), 18 with living donors and 8 with double pancreas-kidney transplants. Recipients of CD were 50.7 years old, with 67 months on dialysis, 8 (13%) diabetics, and 12 (20%) with previous KT. Donors had a mean age of 45 years, 28 (45%) expanded criteria, and 27.7 hours of cold ischemia time. During an approximate follow-up of 11.4 months, 13 (21%) suffered acute graft rejection, survival was 88% for graft and 93% for patients. We emphasize KT as the main cause of success as regards dialysis. No differences in risk factors were found to significantly affect graft or patient survival.

Trasplante renal y disminución de la mortalidad en los programas de diálisis crónica / The role of kidney transplantation in reducing mortality in a chronic dialysis program

El trasplante renal (TR) presenta mejor supervivencia, calidad de vida y costos que la diálisis en la insuficiencia renal crónica (IRC). Estudiamos pacientes en diálisis que recibieron TR durante 2010, las causas de finalización del tratamiento y la supervivencia en diálisis. Evaluamos si criterios más amplios para la aceptación de trasplantes hubieran afectado los resultados del procedimiento en ese período. Incluimos 118 pacientes en diálisis, edad media 56.9 ± 18.4 años, tiempo en diálisis 45.5 ± 59.6 meses, 35 (30%) presentaban diabetes como causa de IRC, y 58 (49%) estaban en espera del TR. Treinta y cuatro finalizaron diálisis, 18 por TR y 12 por fallecimiento. Las principales causas de muerte fueron cardiovasculares, 6 (50%) e infecciones, 2 (17%). La supervivencia al año fue 85% para el grupo total, 98% para los pacientes inscriptos en lista de espera y 72% para no inscriptos. Durante 2010 se realizaron 88 TR (62 con donantes cadavéricos [DC], 18 donantes vivos y 8 dobles trasplantes páncreas-riñón). Los receptores de DC tenían en promedio 50.7 años, 67 meses en diálisis, 8 (13%) eran diabéticos, 12 (20%) con TR previos y 3 cross match contra panel de anticuerpos > 20%. Los donantes tenían edad media 45 años, 28 (45%) con criterios expandidos y 27.7 h de isquemia fría. A los 11.4 meses de seguimiento, 13 (21%) presentó rechazo agudo, la supervivencia para injerto fue de 88% y 93% para pacientes. La principal causa de finalización de diálisis fue TR, sin detectarse que el empleo de DC afectara la supervivencia del TR.

For patients with chronic renal failure (CRF), kidney transplant (KT) is a better alternative to dialysis in terms of survival, life quality and costs. We studied the general characteristics, causes and survival rate of the dialysis population in 2010. We evaluated broader criteria for acceptance of transplants has affected the results of the procedure in that period. A total of 118 dialysis patients were included; mean age 56.9 ± 18.4 years, dialysis duration 45.5 ± 59.6 months, main cause of CRF was diabetes in 35 (30%), and 58 (49%) were included in waiting list for KT. Of the 34 patients who finished dialysis in 2010, 18 (53%) were KT, while 12 (35%) died (cardiovascular 50%, infectious 17%). Survival at 12 months was 85% for the total group, 98% on waiting list and 72% those who were not enrolled. During 2010 there were 88 KT, 62 with cadaveric donors (CD), 18 with living donors and 8 with double pancreas-kidney transplants. Recipients of CD were 50.7 years old, with 67 months on dialysis, 8 (13%) diabetics, and 12 (20%) with previous KT. Donors had a mean age of 45 years, 28 (45%) expanded criteria, and 27.7 hours of cold ischemia time. During an approximate follow-up of 11.4 months, 13 (21%) suffered acute graft rejection, survival was 88% for graft and 93% for patients. We emphasize KT as the main cause of success as regards dialysis. No differences in risk factors were found to significantly affect graft or patient survival.

Trasplante renal y disminución de la mortalidad en los programas de diálisis crónica / The role of kidney transplantation in reducing mortality in a chronic dialysis program

El trasplante renal (TR) presenta mejor supervivencia, calidad de vida y costos que la diálisis en la insuficiencia renal crónica (IRC). Estudiamos pacientes en diálisis que recibieron TR durante 2010, las causas de finalización del tratamiento y la supervivencia en diálisis. Evaluamos si criterios más amplios para la aceptación de trasplantes hubieran afectado los resultados del procedimiento en ese período. Incluimos 118 pacientes en diálisis, edad media 56.9 ± 18.4 años, tiempo en diálisis 45.5 ± 59.6 meses, 35 (30%) presentaban diabetes como causa de IRC, y 58 (49%) estaban en espera del TR. Treinta y cuatro finalizaron diálisis, 18 por TR y 12 por fallecimiento. Las principales causas de muerte fueron cardiovasculares, 6 (50%) e infecciones, 2 (17%). La supervivencia al año fue 85% para el grupo total, 98% para los pacientes inscriptos en lista de espera y 72% para no inscriptos. Durante 2010 se realizaron 88 TR (62 con donantes cadavéricos [DC], 18 donantes vivos y 8 dobles trasplantes páncreas-riñón). Los receptores de DC tenían en promedio 50.7 años, 67 meses en diálisis, 8 (13%) eran diabéticos, 12 (20%) con TR previos y 3 cross match contra panel de anticuerpos > 20%. Los donantes tenían edad media 45 años, 28 (45%) con criterios expandidos y 27.7 h de isquemia fría. A los 11.4 meses de seguimiento, 13 (21%) presentó rechazo agudo, la supervivencia para injerto fue de 88% y 93% para pacientes. La principal causa de finalización de diálisis fue TR, sin detectarse que el empleo de DC afectara la supervivencia del TR.(AU)

For patients with chronic renal failure (CRF), kidney transplant (KT) is a better alternative to dialysis in terms of survival, life quality and costs. We studied the general characteristics, causes and survival rate of the dialysis population in 2010. We evaluated broader criteria for acceptance of transplants has affected the results of the procedure in that period. A total of 118 dialysis patients were included; mean age 56.9 ± 18.4 years, dialysis duration 45.5 ± 59.6 months, main cause of CRF was diabetes in 35 (30%), and 58 (49%) were included in waiting list for KT. Of the 34 patients who finished dialysis in 2010, 18 (53%) were KT, while 12 (35%) died (cardiovascular 50%, infectious 17%). Survival at 12 months was 85% for the total group, 98% on waiting list and 72% those who were not enrolled. During 2010 there were 88 KT, 62 with cadaveric donors (CD), 18 with living donors and 8 with double pancreas-kidney transplants. Recipients of CD were 50.7 years old, with 67 months on dialysis, 8 (13%) diabetics, and 12 (20%) with previous KT. Donors had a mean age of 45 years, 28 (45%) expanded criteria, and 27.7 hours of cold ischemia time. During an approximate follow-up of 11.4 months, 13 (21%) suffered acute graft rejection, survival was 88% for graft and 93% for patients. We emphasize KT as the main cause of success as regards dialysis. No differences in risk factors were found to significantly affect graft or patient survival.(AU)

Trasplante renal y disminución de la mortalidad en los programas de diálisis crónica. / [The role of kidney transplantation in reducing mortality in a chronic dialysis program].

For patients with chronic renal failure (CRF), kidney transplant (KT) is a better alternative to dialysis in terms of survival, life quality and costs. We studied the general characteristics, causes and survival rate of the dialysis population in 2010. We evaluated broader criteria for acceptance of transplants has affected the results of the procedure in that period. A total of 118 dialysis patients were included; mean age 56.9 ± 18.4 years, dialysis duration 45.5 ± 59.6 months, main cause of CRF was diabetes in 35 (30

), and 58 (49

) were included in waiting list for KT. Of the 34 patients who finished dialysis in 2010, 18 (53

) were KT, while 12 (35

) died (cardiovascular 50

, infectious 17

). Survival at 12 months was 85

for the total group, 98

on waiting list and 72

those who were not enrolled. During 2010 there were 88 KT, 62 with cadaveric donors (CD), 18 with living donors and 8 with double pancreas-kidney transplants. Recipients of CD were 50.7 years old, with 67 months on dialysis, 8 (13

) diabetics, and 12 (20

) with previous KT. Donors had a mean age of 45 years, 28 (45

) expanded criteria, and 27.7 hours of cold ischemia time. During an approximate follow-up of 11.4 months, 13 (21

) suffered acute graft rejection, survival was 88

for graft and 93

for patients. We emphasize KT as the main cause of success as regards dialysis. No differences in risk factors were found to significantly affect graft or patient survival.

High prevalence of secondary hyperparathyroidism in chronic kidney disease patients on dialysis in Argentina.

BACKGROUND: There are few data in Argentina on the prevalence and management of bone and mineral metabolism (BMM) in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). OBJECTIVES AND METHODS: A survey was carried out in dialysis units in 2010 to measure the prevalence of and types of treatments for BMM disorders in Argentina. The data obtained was then compared to the published results from other large population studies. We recorded characteristics of dialysis centres and participating patients, the frequency of measurements and individual results for BMM biochemical markers, as well as the type of management used to control hyperphosphataemia and secondary hyperparathyroidism. RESULTS: 1210 patients from 25 dialysis centres in Argentina participated in the study (representing 4.7% of the country's prevalent dialysis population in 2010). The mean patient age was 55.3±17.6 years, 60.8% were male, 3.3% were on peritoneal dialysis and 29.1% suffered diabetes. In all centres, phosphataemia and calcaemia were measured on a monthly basis, 60% of centres measured intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) every 6 months, 36% every 3 to 4 months, and 4% annually. As recommended by K/DOQI, 51.6% of patients had adequate levels of calcium (8.4-9.5 mg/dl), 51.6% had adequate phosphorus (3.5-5.5 mg/dl) and 21.1% displayed acceptable iPTH levels (150-300 pg/ml). 24% had iPTH <150 pg/ml and 54.5% >300 pg/ml. iPTH ≥600 pg/ml was present in 28.3%, and 13.3% had values ≥1000 pg/ml. These figures differed from those published by the DOPPS II study, in which 51.1% of patients had iPTH <150 pg/ml, and only 26.7% had iPTH ≥300 pg/ml. Calcium-based phosphate binders were used in 83.6% of the patients, 5.6% used sevelamer and 4.0% used aluminium-containing compounds. To achieve control of hyperparathyroidism, oral or intravenous calcitriol was predominantly used (50.5%) with a small percentage of patients receiving paricalcitol or doxercalciferol. CONCLUSIONS: The present study shows a high prevalence of secondary hyperparathyroidism, which differs from that published by other large population studies. There was a high proportion of patients with BMM markers outside the ranges suggested by K/DOQI. Mainly phosphate binders based on calcium and calcitriol continue to be used for the management of hyperphosphatemia and hyperparathyroidism respectively.

[Associated factors and clinical implications of post transplant renal anemia]. / Factores asociados y consecuencias clínicas de la anemia post trasplante renal.

A considerable percentage of patients exhibit anemia post kidney transplant. Its origin is multifactorial and the main causes involved depend on the post transplant period considered. We studied in a group of 134 consecutive patients the associated factors and the clinical implications of "late anemia" (6 months post transplant). Multiple regression analysis showed that post transplant oliguria and acute rejection episodes were significantly associated with anemia. Graft survival at 36 months was significantly reduced in the anemic group (83 % versus 96%, p < 0.01). No differences in patients survival or rate of cardiovascular events were observed. We concluded that anemia at 6 months post transplant is independently and significantly associated with events that reduced functioning renal mass and kidney survival.

Factores asociados y consecuencias clínicas de la anemia post trasplante renal / Associated factors and clinical implications of post transplant renal anemia

Un porcentaje considerable de pacientes presentan anemia post trasplante renal. Su origen es multifactorial y sus principales etiologías dependen de la etapa post trasplante que se considere. Estudiamos en un grupo de 134 pacientes los factores asociados con anemia tardía (6 meses post trasplante) y sus implicaciones clínicas a mediano plazo. En el análisis de regresión múltiple, la duración de la oliguria post trasplante y el número de episodios de rechazo fueron las variables significativamente asociadas con esta complicación. La supervivencia del órgano mostró una diferencia significativa a los 36 meses entre los grupos (83% en los anémicos versus 96% de los no anémicos p < 0.01). No observamos diferencias en mortalidad o eventos cardiovasculares. Concluimos que la presencia de anemia al sexto mes post trasplante renal está independiente y significativamente asociada con factores que condicionan la masa renal funcionante que explicarían además la menor supervivencia del injerto renal observada en estos pacientes.

A considerable percentage of patients exhibit anemia post kidney transplant. Its origin is multifactorial and the main causes involved depend on the post transplant period considered. We studied in a group of 134 consecutive patients the associated factors and the clinical implications of "late anemia" (6 months post transplant). Multiple regression analysis showed that post transplant oliguria and acute rejection episodes were significantly associated with anemia. Graft survival at 36 months was significantly reduced in the anemic group (83 % versus 96%, p < 0.01). No differences in patients survival or rate of cardiovascular events were observed. We concluded that anemia at 6 months post transplant is independently and significantly associated with events that reduced functioning renal mass and kidney survival.

Factores asociados y consecuencias clínicas de la anemia post trasplante renal / Associated factors and clinical implications of post transplant renal anemia

Un porcentaje considerable de pacientes presentan anemia post trasplante renal. Su origen es multifactorial y sus principales etiologías dependen de la etapa post trasplante que se considere. Estudiamos en un grupo de 134 pacientes los factores asociados con anemia tardía (6 meses post trasplante) y sus implicaciones clínicas a mediano plazo. En el análisis de regresión múltiple, la duración de la oliguria post trasplante y el número de episodios de rechazo fueron las variables significativamente asociadas con esta complicación. La supervivencia del órgano mostró una diferencia significativa a los 36 meses entre los grupos (83% en los anémicos versus 96% de los no anémicos p < 0.01). No observamos diferencias en mortalidad o eventos cardiovasculares. Concluimos que la presencia de anemia al sexto mes post trasplante renal está independiente y significativamente asociada con factores que condicionan la masa renal funcionante que explicarían además la menor supervivencia del injerto renal observada en estos pacientes.(AU)

A considerable percentage of patients exhibit anemia post kidney transplant. Its origin is multifactorial and the main causes involved depend on the post transplant period considered. We studied in a group of 134 consecutive patients the associated factors and the clinical implications of "late anemia" (6 months post transplant). Multiple regression analysis showed that post transplant oliguria and acute rejection episodes were significantly associated with anemia. Graft survival at 36 months was significantly reduced in the anemic group (83 % versus 96%, p < 0.01). No differences in patients survival or rate of cardiovascular events were observed. We concluded that anemia at 6 months post transplant is independently and significantly associated with events that reduced functioning renal mass and kidney survival.(AU)

Factores asociados y consecuencias clínicas de la anemia post trasplante renal. / [Associated factors and clinical implications of post transplant renal anemia].

A considerable percentage of patients exhibit anemia post kidney transplant. Its origin is multifactorial and the main causes involved depend on the post transplant period considered. We studied in a group of 134 consecutive patients the associated factors and the clinical implications of "late anemia" (6 months post transplant). Multiple regression analysis showed that post transplant oliguria and acute rejection episodes were significantly associated with anemia. Graft survival at 36 months was significantly reduced in the anemic group (83

versus 96

, p < 0.01). No differences in patients survival or rate of cardiovascular events were observed. We concluded that anemia at 6 months post transplant is independently and significantly associated with events that reduced functioning renal mass and kidney survival.

CKD-EPI instead of MDRD for candidates to kidney donation.

BACKGROUND: The determination of the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is critical for the selection of a potential kidney donor. The complex and impractical techniques for the measurement of GFR have led to the development of equations to estimate GFR. Modification of diet in renal disease (MDRD) formula is the most widely used but its performance is poor because it systematically underestimates GFR above 60 mL/min. A new formula called the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) seems to overcome this limitation but needs to be tested in healthy potential kidney donors. METHODS: From 2007 to 2011, a cross-sectional study was performed on 85 adults who were candidates for living-related kidney donation. GFR was measured by nonradiolabeled iothalamate clearance determined by high-performance liquid chromatography, and renal function was estimated by using CKD-EPI and MDRD equations. The overall performance of the equations was analyzed, and the estimation for GFR above 90 mL/min was studied by means of receiver operating characteristic curves. RESULTS: The mean (SD) (range) of the measured GFR was 116 (24) (64-160) mL/min per 1.73 m(2), estimated GFR with CKD-EPI was 108 (22) (64-153) mL/min per 1.73 m(2), and MDRD was 99 (28) (46-157) mL/min per 1.73 m(2). CKD-EPI presented lower bias (3.3 vs. 10.2 mL/min/1.73 m(2)), higher precision [interquartile range (minimum value-maximum value), 25 (53-140) vs. 32 (43-161) ml/min] and higher accuracy (100% vs. 89%) compared with MDRD. CONCLUSION: The CKD-EPI equation showed a higher performance than the MDRD equation in the GFR estimation of healthy population. CKD-EPI is applicable instead of MDRD, to subjects or candidates for kidney donation to avoid wrong GFR underestimates, which may lead to an inappropriate exclusion of candidates.

New options for the management of hyperparathyroidism after renal transplantation.

The persistence and severity of hyperparathyroidism (HPT) post-renal transplantation is relatively frequent and primarily associated with the timing and its magnitude in the pre-transplant period and with the presence of parathyroid adenomas. HPT after renal transplantation is clinically manifested with hypercalcemia, hypophosphatemia, bone pain, fractures, and in more serious cases with cardiovascular calcifications that affect the survival. The primary clinical objective for patients with secondary HPT after renal transplantation is to obtain a level of parathyroid hormone (PTH) adequate to the renal transplanted function and to normalize levels of calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D. In many cases during this period, the development of hypercalcemia and/or hypophosphatemia makes it necessary to take different therapeutic measures. The use of vitamin D or its analogues has been extrapolated from the management of pre-transplant HPT obtaining variable outcomes, although its use is limited by its capacity to produce hypercalcemia. Calcimimetics are drugs that have proven be effective in reducing PTH levels in patients with HPT on dialysis and has been effective in reducing up to 50% PTH levels in moderate to severe HPT in post-renal transplantation.When HPT persists after renal transplantation and does not respond to medical treatment, invasive management by percutaneous ethanol injection therapy of parathyroid glands or parathyroidectomy should be considered. The emergence of new methods for the management of HPT expands the availability of therapeutic tools for transplant patients.

High-dose steroid treatment increases free water transport in peritoneal dialysis patients.

The water channel aquaporin-1 (AQP1) is the molecular counterpart of the ultrasmall pore that mediates free water transport during peritoneal dialysis (PD). Proof-of-principle studies performed in rats have shown that treatment with corticosteroids upregulates the expression of AQP1 in the peritoneal capillaries, causing a significant increase in free water transport. Whether such a beneficial effect could be observed in end-stage renal disease patients treated by PD remains unknown. Peritoneal transport parameters were evaluated in three patients on PD, shortly before and after living-donor renal transplantation and treatment with high-dose methylprednisolone (1.0-1.2 g/m(2)). As compared with pre-transplantation values, the post-transplantation test revealed an ∼2-fold increase in the sodium sieving and ultrasmall pore ultrafiltration volume, suggesting an effect on AQP1 water channels. In contrast, there was no change in the parameters of small solute transport. The direct involvement of AQP1 in these changes is suggested by the expression of glucocorticoid receptors in the human peritoneum and the presence of conserved glucocorticoid response elements in the promoter of the human AQP1 gene.

Use of percutaneous ethanol injection therapy for recurrent secondary hyperparathyroidism after subtotal parathyroidectomy.

We evaluated the efficacy of percutaneous ethanol injection therapy (PEIT) as a therapeutic option for recurrence of secondary hyperparathyroidism after subtotal parathyroidectomy in ESRD patients. Six patients underwent PEIT. A mean of 1.3 ± 0.8 ethanol injections was performed. Nodular volume was 1.5 ± 1.7 cm(3), and 2.8 ± 2.8 cm(3) of ethanol was injected per patient. After ethanol injection PTH decreased significantly (1897 ± 754 to 549 ± 863 pg/mL (P < .01)). There was also a reduction in serum calcium, phosphorus and calcium-phosphorus product. A positive and significant correlation was found between nodular volume with ethanol injected and time from parathyroidectomy. Only one patient required hospitalization due to severe hypocalcaemia. In other two cases, local discomfort and temporary mild dysphonia were registered. PEIT is an effective treatment to control recurrences of secondary hyperparathyroidism postsubtotal parathyroidectomy.

Evidence of closely related picobirnavirus strains circulating in humans and pigs in Argentina.

BACKGROUND: On the basis of the published literature, it is still difficult to draw conclusions as to whether picobirnavirus (PBV) circulation is influenced by host species restriction. OBJECTIVE: To provide data regarding the genetic relatedness between porcine and human PBV strains present in Argentina as a means of defining the host range and epidemiology of these viruses. METHODS: Fecal specimens (n = 74) collected from kidney transplant patients (n = 55) and piglets (n = 19) were analyzed by RT-PCR using primers designed to amplify the porcine PBV genomic segment 2. Amplified sequences were further examined phylogenetically. RESULTS: By RT-PCR amplification 14 of 74 samples rendered amplicons of the expected 282 base pair size (8 detected from humans and 6 from pigs). Eleven amplicons (5 from humans and 6 from pigs) were selected for sequencing and subjected to phylogenetic analysis. The eleven amplicons revealed similarities between human and porcine viral sequences that ranged between 94.7 and 100% in identity. Phylogenetic analysis identified these 11 strains as PBV genogroup I-related strains and showed that they grouped as a single separate clade distinct from other PBV strains detected in humans and porcine from other countries. CONCLUSIONS: The present study suggests that closely related PBV strains infect both pigs and humans in Argentina and that the epidemiology of PBVs is not species restricted.

[Renal abnormalities in HIV infected patients]. / Compromiso renal en pacientes HIV(+).

Several renal complications may occur during HIV infection, especially in advanced stages related to HIV, to other infectious agents and/or drugs. Little is known about the prevalence of renal diseases that may occur as a complication of or related to HIV infection in asymptomatic patients. This is a single center cross-sectional study of asymptomatic HIV(+) patients referred to a nefrology care service at an Argentine hospital to look for the presence of renal abnormalities. Fifty two consecutive patients were studied between April and November 2008. Patients underwent plasma and urine analysis, ultrasound, and kidney biopsy as needed. Mean age was 39.9 +/- 10.6 years, 88% were male, time from HIV diagnosis 53.2 +/- 41.2 months (2-127); 71% had HIV-disease and 77% were on antiretroviral therapy. Mean plasma HIV-RNA copies number was 7.043 +/- 3.322 and CD4+ cell count: 484 +/- 39. Pathologic findings in urine analysis were present in 30.7% of patients: albuminuria 16.6%, microscopic hematuria 11.5%, hypercalciuria 10.8% and crystalluria 6%. Mean glomerular filtration rate was 102.2 +/- 22.95 ml/min (34-149) and 41% of patients could be classified in stages 1 to 3 of chronic kidney disease. Renal abnormalities prevaled in older patients without relationship with presence of HIV-disease. Two patients were biopsied and the findings included: tubulointerstitial nephritis with presence of crystal deposition in one and IgA nephropathy in the other. No HIV-associated nephropathy was detected. The broad spectrum and the high prevalence of lesions found in this series suggest that asymptomatic HIV-infected patients should routinely undergo renal evaluation.

Compromiso renal en pacientes HIV+ / Renal abnormalities in HIV infected patients

Varias complicaciones nefrológicas pueden ocurrir durante la infección por el virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana (HIV) especialmente en estadios avanzados de la enfermedad o relacionadas con otras infecciones o drogas. Poco conocida es la prevalencia de alteraciones renales subclínicas de pacientes HIV+ surgidas como complicación o relacionadas a la infección y/o tratamiento. Realizamos un corte transversal de pacientes asintomáticos HIV+ referidos en forma consecutiva al consultorio de nefrología para la detección de alteraciones nefrológicas. Se estudiaron 52 pacientes adultos mediante exámenes de sangre y orina, ultrasonido y biopsia renal. Edad media 39.9 ± 10.6 años, 88% varones, tiempo de diagnóstico de la infección: 53.2 ± 41.2 (2-127) meses. El 71% tenían síndrome de inmunodeficiencia adquirida (HIV-sida) y el 77% recibían con antirretrovirales. La carga viral al momento del estudio fue 7043 ± 3322 copias y el recuento de CD4+ 484 ± 39 cel/mm³. El 30.7% presentó alteraciones del sedimento urinario: albuminuria: 16.6%, hematuria microscópica: 11.5%, hipercalciuria: 10.8% y cristaluria 6%. La media del filtrado glomerular fue 102.2 ± 22.9 ml/min (rango: 34-149). El 41% presentó anormalidades que corresponderían a enfermedad renal crónica (estadios 1 a 3). Los pacientes con alteraciones tenían mayor edad, con duración más prolongada de la infección. Las anomalías renales no se asociaron con mayor prevalencia de HIV-sida. Dos pacientes fueron biopsiados, con hallazgos de nefritis túbulo-intersticial crónica con cristales y glomerulonefritis por IgA. No hubo hallazgos de nefropatía por HIV. El amplio espectro y la alta prevalencia de anormalidades nefrológicas subclínicas encontradas sugieren que los pacientes asintomáticos HIV+ deberían realizar evaluaciones nefrológicas de rutina.

Several renal complications may occur during HIV infection, especially in advanced stages related to HIV, to other infectious agents and/or drugs. Little is known about the prevalence of renal diseases that may occur as a complication of or related to HIV infection in asymptomatic patients. This is a single center cross-sectional study of asymptomatic HIV+ patients referred to a nefrology care service at an Argentine hospital to look for the presence of renal abnormalities. Fifty two consecutive patients were studied between April and November 2008. Patients underwent plasma and urine analysis, ultrasound, and kidney biopsy as needed. Mean age was 39.9 ± 10.6 years, 88% were male, time from HIV diagnosis 53.2 ± 41.2 months (2-127); 71% had HIV-disease and 77% were on antiretroviral therapy. Mean plasma HIV-RNA copies number was 7.043 ± 3.322 and CD4+ cell count: 484 ± 39. Pathologic findings in urine analysis were present in 30.7% of patients: albuminuria 16.6%, microscopic hematuria 11.5%, hypercalciuria 10.8% and crystalluria 6%. Mean glomerular filtration rate was 102.2 ± 22.95 ml/min (34-149) and 41% of patients could be classified in stages 1 to 3 of chronic kidney disease. Renal abnormalities prevaled in older patients without relationship with presence of HIV-disease. Two patients were biopsied and the findings included: tubulointerstitial nephritis with presence of crystal deposition in one and IgA nephropathy in the other. No HIV-associated nephropathy was detected. The broad spectrum and the high prevalence of lesions found in this series suggest that asymptomatic HIV-infected patients should routinely undergo renal evaluation.

Renal transplantation in high cardiovascular risk patients.

Current transplant success allows recipients with previous contraindications to transplant to have access to this procedure with more frequency and safety. The concept of high-risk patient has changed since the first stages of transplantation. In the first studies, the high-risk concept was based on probability of early graft failure or on a patient's clinical condition to cope with high perioperatory morbimortality. Later on, this concept implied immunological factors that were crucial to ensure transplant success because hypersensitized or polytransfused patients experienced a higher risk of acute rejection and subsequent graft loss. Afterward, the presence of various comorbidities would redefine the high-risk concept for renal transplant mainly considering recipient's clinical aspects. Currently, the change in epidemiological characteristics of patients starting dialysis causes that we now deal with a greater increase of elderly patients, diabetic patients, and patients with history of cardiovascular disease. Today, high-risk patients are those with clinical features that predict an increase in the risk of perioperative morbimortality or death with functioning graft. In this review, we will attempted to analyze currents results of renal transplant outcomes in terms of patients and graft survival in elderly patients, diabetic patients, and patients with previous cardiovascular disease from the most recent experiences in the literature and from experiences in our center. In any of the groups previously analyzed, survival offered by renal transplant is significantly higher compared to dialysis. Besides, these patients are the recipient group that benefit the most with the transplant because their mortality while remaining on dialysis is extremely high. Hence, renal transplantation should be offered more frequently to older patients, diabetic patients, and patients with pretransplant cardiac and peripheral vascular disease. A positive attitude toward renal transplantation is needed by physicians taking care of these patients from predialysis stages of chronic renal failure.

Percutaneous ethanol injection therapy in post-transplant patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism.

Persistent hyperparathyroidism is frequent in postrenal transplant patients. Percutaneous ethanol injection therapy (PEIT) is an alternative for treatment of patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism but it was not described in postrenal transplant patients. We report our experience with PEIT to control hyperparathyroidism in the post-transplant period. We performed PEIT under ultrasonographic guidance and local anesthesia in eight patients because of persistent secondary hyperparathyroidism after renal transplantation. Indications for PEIT were: high intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) levels with hypercalcemia, hypophosphatemia, osteopenia and/or bone pain. All patients had at least one visible parathyroid nodule by ultrasonography. Biochemical assays were performed immediately before PEIT, between 1 and 7 days after last PEIT, and a mean of 8.0 +/- 2.8 months after PEIT. Serum iPTH and calcium levels decreased significantly after treatment and remained unchanged until final control. Serum iPTH decreased from 286.9 +/- 107.2 to 154.6 +/- 42.2 pg/ml (P < 0.01) after PEIT (percentual reduction 36.5 +/- 9.5%). This response was significantly correlated to total ethanol volume used (r: 0.94, P < 0.0001). Hypercalcemia disappeared in six of eight patients treated. Only minor complications were registered. There were no changes in renal function related to the treatment. Our findings show that PEIT is a useful and safe alternative for patients with persistent post-transplant secondary hyperparathyroidism.

[Usefulness of equations based on serum cystatin C concentration in the study of renal function]. / Utilidad de las ecuaciones basadas en la concentracion serica de cistatina C en el estudio de la funcion renal.

Serum creatinine is an insensitive marker to identify early changes in glomerular filtration rate (GFR), for this reason alternative methods to estimate renal function result of great clinical importance. Forty-one patients were studied using creatinine clearance modified with cimetidina (Clcrc) as surrogate of GFR, cystatin C-based equations (i.e. Larsson and Hoek formulas), Cockroft-Gault and MDRD abbreviated equations. In the whole group, as well as in those patients with serum creatinine < or =1.2 mg/dl--but reduced renal function: Clcrc 62.01 +/- 17.33 ml/ min/1.73 m(2)-, Larsson and Hoek equations showed higher correlations and lower bias than creatinine-based formulas. Abbreviated MDRD equation showed good performance just in those patients with evident alteration of renal function (serum creatinine > 1.2 mg/dl). We concluded that in patients with different stages of renal function, cystatin C-based equations detect reduction of renal function earlier than the serum creatinine-based formulas.