Impaired bone mineral density and microarchitecture in female adolescents with IgE-mediated cow's milk allergy.

This study compared the bone parameters of adolescents with persistent cow's milk allergy (CMA) with those of healthy adolescents. Adolescents with CMA had compromised bone parameters (lower bone mineral density, impaired trabecular microarchitecture, and lower bone strength). Partial exclusion diet was associated with better bone parameters than total exclusion diet. BACKGROUND: Persistent immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated cow's milk allergy (CMA) may impair bone parameters and increase the risk of fractures. High-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) is a novel methodology that not only assesses trabecular and cortical bone compartments and volumetric density measurements, but also evaluates bone microarchitecture and estimates biomechanical properties through finite element analysis (FEA). Both HR-pQCT and bone strength parameters derived from FEA have shown a strong correlation with fracture risk. PURPOSE: To assess the bone density, microarchitecture, and bone strength of adolescents with persistent IgE-mediated CMA (IgE-CMA). METHODS: This was an observational, cross-sectional study with female adolescents with persistent IgE-CMA and healthy control participants matched by female sex and sexual maturation. Bone parameters were assessed by areal bone mineral density (aBMD) through dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), bone microarchitecture by HR-pQCT at the radius and tibia, and laboratory markers related to bone metabolism. RESULTS: The median age of adolescents with persistent IgE-CMA (n = 26) was 13.0 years (interquartile range (IQR) 11.4-14.7) and of healthy control participants (n = 28) was 13.6 years (IQR 11.9-14.9). Adolescents with IgE-CMA ingested 27.4% less calcium (p = 0.012) and 28.8% less phosphorus (p = 0.009) than controls. Adolescents with IgE-CMA had lower bone mineral content (BMC) (38.83 g vs. 44.50 g) and aBMD (0.796 g/cm2 vs. 0.872 g/cm2) at lumbar spine, and lower BMC (1.11 kg vs. 1.27 kg) and aBMD (0.823 g/cm2 vs. 0.877 g/cm2) at total body less head (TBLH) (p < 0.05). However, Z-scores BMC and Z-scores aBMD at lumbar spine and TBLH, when adjusted for Z-score height/age, were not significantly different between the groups. Moreover, CMA adolescents had lower bone strength at the distal tibia (S 169 kN/mm vs. 194 kN/mm; F Load 8030 N vs. 9223 N) (p < 0.05). Pairing of groups by the presence of menarche showed compromised parameters at the tibia-lower total volumetric BMD (Tt.vBMD) (293.9 mg HA/cm3 vs. 325.9 mg HA/cm3) and trabecular vBMD (Tb.vBMD) (170.8 mg HA/cm3 vs. 192.2 mg HA/cm3), along with lower cortical thickness (Ct.th) (1.02 mm vs. 1.16 mm) and bone strength (S 174 kN vs. 210 kN; F Load 8301 N vs. 9950 N)-and at the radius (S 61 kN/mm vs. 71 kN/mm; F Load 2920 N vs. 3398 N) (p < 0.05) among adolescents with IgE-CMA. Adolescents with IgE-CMA on a total exclusion diet (n = 12) showed greater impairment of bone features than those on a partial exclusion diet (n = 14), with lower lumbar spine Z-score BMC (- 0.65 vs. 0.18; p = 0.013), lumbar spine trabecular bone score (TBS) (1.268 vs. 1.383; p = 0.005), Z-score TBS (0.03 vs. 1.14; p = 0.020), TBLH Z-score BMC (- 1.17 vs. - 0.35; p = 0.012), TBLH Z-score aBMD (- 1.13 vs. - 0.33; p = 0.027), Tt.vBMD at the tibia (259.0 mg HA/cm3 vs. 298.7 mg HA/cm3; p = 0.021), Ct.th at the tibia (0.77 mm vs. 1.04 mm; p = 0.015) and Ct.th at the radius (0.16 mm vs. 0.56 mm; p = 0.033). CONCLUSION: Adolescents with persistent IgE-CMA had lower aBMD and compromised microarchitecture (impaired trabecular microarchitecture and lower bone strength). Adolescents on a partial exclusion diet had better bone parameters than those on a total exclusion diet.

IgE-mediated cow's milk allergy in Brazilian children: Outcomes of oral food challenge.

Background: Oral food challenge (OFC) is useful for diagnosing food allergies and assessing tolerance, but severe reactions may occur during the procedure. Objective: To characterize the frequency and severity of reactions during cow's milk (CM) OFCs. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to analyze the outcome of cow's milk oral food challenges (CMOFCs) performed to confirm IgE-mediated CM allergy or to assess food tolerance. CM was given first as baked milk (BM), followed by whole CM if there was no prior reaction to BM. An OFC was considered positive if IgE-mediated symptoms developed up to 2 h after ingestion. Symptoms were described and variables including age at OFC, prior anaphylaxis, other atopic diseases, and skin test results were compared according to the OFC outcomes. Results: A total of 266 CMOFCs were performed, including 159 patients with a median age of 6.3 years old. One hundred thirty-six tests were positive and 62 resulted in anaphylaxis. Thirty-nine anaphylactic reactions were observed up to 30 min after the first dose. Severe anaphylaxis (cardiovascular and/or neurological involvement) was reported in 5 tests. A second dose of epinephrine was required in 3 tests, and 1 presented a biphasic response. Younger patients had a higher risk of anaphylaxis during baked milk oral food challenge (BMOFC) (p = 0.009). The frequency of anaphylaxis was higher in patients submitted to BM (p = 0.009). Conclusions: Anaphylaxis is a known complication of CMOFCs even when there is no prior anaphylaxis or when conducted with baked products. This study reinforces the importance of conducting OFC in appropriate settings with a well-trained team.

Anafilaxia durante o primeiro ano de vida em pacientes com alergia à proteína do leite de vaca / Anaphylaxis during the first year of life of infants with cow's milk protein allergy

Objetivo: Descrever as manifestações de anafilaxia precoce em lactentes com alergia à proteína do leite de vaca (APLV) e descrever as condutas terapêuticas utilizadas. Método: Estudo observacional transversal retrospectivo que analisou pacientes com APLV atendidos no Instituto da Criança e do Adolescente do Hospital das Clínicas da FMUSP, entre 1990-2015, que apresentaram sintomas de alergia no primeiro ano de vida, com diagnóstico de anafilaxia, comparados a pacientes alérgicos sem anafilaxia desencadeada por ingestão de leite de vaca. Os pacientes foram caracterizados de maneira epidemiológica, tipo de sintoma apresentado e tratamento realizado. Os dados foram analisados no programa estatístico GraphPad Software Inc. Para avaliar a associação entre categorias, foi utilizado o Teste Exato de Fisher, e para comparações entre grupos, o Teste de Mann Whitney. Os resultados de p < 0,05 foram considerados significativos. Resultados: De um total de 120 crianças avaliadas (68 M:52 F), 85 (70,83%) lactentes preencheram os critérios da World Allergy Organization (WAO) para anafilaxia. As manifestações de alergia IgE mediada foram prioritariamente cutâneas [102 (85%)]. Nos pacientes com diagnóstico de anafilaxia, as principais manifestações foram urticária [39 (45,8%)], vômito [36 (42,3%)] e dispneia [19 (22,3%)]. A recorrência do episódio de anafilaxia ocorreu em 41 (34,16%) pacientes. A adrenalina (45%) e o anti-histamínico (63,3%) foram os medicamentos mais utilizados. Observa-se também que 6 (7%) pacientes com diagnóstico de anafilaxia não receberam nenhum tratamento. Conclusão: Anafilaxia no primeiro ano de idade apresenta quadro clínico semelhante aos pacientes mais velhos, mas ainda há elevada taxa de recorrência de episódios e subtratamento. Mais estratégias de educação precisam ser desenvolvidas.

Objective: To describe the early manifestations of anaphylaxis in infants with cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA) and the therapeutic approach. Method: In this cross-sectional observational study, we retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients with CMPA treated at the Institute for Children and Adolescents of Hospital das Clínicas, University of São Paulo Medical School, from 1990 to 2015. Patients who developed allergic symptoms during the first year of life and had a diagnosis of anaphylaxis were compared with allergic patients without anaphylaxis triggered by cow's milk. Patients were characterized according to epidemiological features, type of symptoms, and treatment received. Data were analyzed using GraphPad software. Associations between categories were assessed by Fisher's exact test, and groups were compared by the Mann-Whitney test. Results with p<0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: Of 120 infants evaluated (68 male: 52 female), 85 (70.83%) met the World Allergy Organization criteria for anaphylaxis. Most infants had cutaneous manifestations of immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated allergy (n=102, 85%). In those with a diagnosis of anaphylaxis, the main manifestations were urticaria (n=39, 45.8%), vomiting (n=36, 42.3%), and dyspnea (n=19, 22.3%). Anaphylaxis recurred in 41 patients (34.16%). Epinephrine (45%) and antihistamines (63.3%) were the most used drugs. Six patients (7%) with a diagnosis of anaphylaxis received no treatment. Conclusion: Anaphylaxis during the first year of life showed clinical features similar to those of older pediatric patients, but the rates of episode recurrence and undertreatment are still high. More education strategies need to be developed.

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

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

Cytogenomics Investigation of Infants with Congenital Heart Disease: Experience of a Brazilian Center. / Investigação Citogenômica de Crianças com Doença Cardíaca Congênita: Experiência de um Centro no Brasil.

BACKGROUND: Some syndromes have specific and easily recognizable features, while others may be more complex to identify and may present different phenotypic manifestations, for example. An etiological diagnosis is important to understand the nature of the disease, to establish the prognosis and to start the treatment, allowing the inclusion of patients in society and reducing the financial cost of such diseases. OBJECTIVE: The initial proposal of this study was cytogenetic screening for the detection of the 22q11.2 deletion syndrome in consecutive newborns and infants with congenital heart disease using the multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) technique. Therefore, throughout our research, other genomic alterations were identified in these cardiac patients. Thus, our objective was extended to investigate these other cytogenetic alterations. METHODS: We investigated 118 neonates with congenital heart diseases born consecutively during one year using the MLPA technique. RESULTS: The MLPA technique allowed the detection of 22q11.2DS in 10/118 patients (8.5%). Other genomic alterations were also identified in 6/118 patients (5%): 1p36 del, 8p23 del (2 cases), 7q dup, 12 dup and 8q24 dup. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the relevance of detecting genomic alterations that are present in newborns and infants with congenital cardiac diseases using cytogenomic tools.

FUNDAMENTO: Algumas síndromes têm características específicas e facilmente reconhecíveis, enquanto outras podem ser mais complexas de se identificar e podem apresentar diferentes manifestações fenotípicas, por exemplo. Um diagnóstico etiológico é importante para entender a natureza da doença, para estabelecer o prognóstico e para começar o tratamento, permitindo a inclusão de pacientes na sociedade e reduzindo o custo financeiro dessas doenças. OBJETIVO: A proposta inicial deste estudo foi a triagem citogenética para detectar a síndrome de deleção 22q11.2 (SD22q11.2) em recém-nascidos e crianças com doença cardíaca congênita utilizando a técnica da amplificação multiplex de sondas dependente de ligação (MLPA). Assim, por meio da pesquisa, outras mudanças genômicas foram identificadas nesses pacientes cardíacos. Nosso objetivo se estendeu a investigar essas outras mudanças citogenéticas. MÉTODOS: Investigamos 118 recém-nascidos com doenças cardíacas congênitas nascidos consecutivamente durante um ano, utilizando a técnica da MLPA. RESULTADOS: A técnica da MLPA permitiu a detecção da SD22q11.2 em 10/118 pacientes (8,5%). Outras alterações genômicas foram identificadas em 6/118 pacientes (5%): 1p36 del, 8p23 del (2 casos), 7q dup, 12 dup e 8q24 dup. CONCLUSÃO: Este estudo ressalta a relevância da detecção de alterações genômicas que estão presentes em recém-nascidos e crianças com doenças cardíacas congênitas por meio de ferramentas citogenômicas.

Investigação Citogenômica de Crianças com Doença Cardíaca Congênita: Experiência de um Centro no Brasil / Cytogenomics Investigation of Infants with Congenital Heart Disease: Experience of a Brazilian Center

Resumo Fundamento Algumas síndromes têm características específicas e facilmente reconhecíveis, enquanto outras podem ser mais complexas de se identificar e podem apresentar diferentes manifestações fenotípicas, por exemplo. Um diagnóstico etiológico é importante para entender a natureza da doença, para estabelecer o prognóstico e para começar o tratamento, permitindo a inclusão de pacientes na sociedade e reduzindo o custo financeiro dessas doenças. Objetivo A proposta inicial deste estudo foi a triagem citogenética para detectar a síndrome de deleção 22q11.2 (SD22q11.2) em recém-nascidos e crianças com doença cardíaca congênita utilizando a técnica da amplificação multiplex de sondas dependente de ligação (MLPA). Assim, por meio da pesquisa, outras mudanças genômicas foram identificadas nesses pacientes cardíacos. Nosso objetivo se estendeu a investigar essas outras mudanças citogenéticas. Métodos Investigamos 118 recém-nascidos com doenças cardíacas congênitas nascidos consecutivamente durante um ano, utilizando a técnica da MLPA. Resultados A técnica da MLPA permitiu a detecção da SD22q11.2 em 10/118 pacientes (8,5%). Outras alterações genômicas foram identificadas em 6/118 pacientes (5%): 1p36 del, 8p23 del (2 casos), 7q dup, 12 dup e 8q24 dup. Conclusão Este estudo ressalta a relevância da detecção de alterações genômicas que estão presentes em recém-nascidos e crianças com doenças cardíacas congênitas por meio de ferramentas citogenômicas.

Abstract Background Some syndromes have specific and easily recognizable features, while others may be more complex to identify and may present different phenotypic manifestations, for example. An etiological diagnosis is important to understand the nature of the disease, to establish the prognosis and to start the treatment, allowing the inclusion of patients in society and reducing the financial cost of such diseases. Objective The initial proposal of this study was cytogenetic screening for the detection of the 22q11.2 deletion syndrome in consecutive newborns and infants with congenital heart disease using the multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) technique. Therefore, throughout our research, other genomic alterations were identified in these cardiac patients. Thus, our objective was extended to investigate these other cytogenetic alterations. Methods We investigated 118 neonates with congenital heart diseases born consecutively during one year using the MLPA technique. Results The MLPA technique allowed the detection of 22q11.2DS in 10/118 patients (8.5%). Other genomic alterations were also identified in 6/118 patients (5%): 1p36 del, 8p23 del (2 cases), 7q dup, 12 dup and 8q24 dup. Conclusion This study highlights the relevance of detecting genomic alterations that are present in newborns and infants with congenital cardiac diseases using cytogenomic tools.

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

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

Guia Prático de Atualização no tratamento da exacerbação de asma na criança e no adolescente ­ Posicionamento conjunto da Associação Brasileira de Alergia e Imunologia e Sociedade Brasileira de Pediatria / Practical Update Guide on the treatment of asthma exacerbation in children and adolescents ­ Joint position of the Brazilian Association of Allergy and Immunology and the Brazilian Society of Pediatrics

Exacerbação aguda de asma é uma condição frequente na criança e no adolescente e uma das causas mais comuns de procura aos pronto atendimentos e de internações. Pode ocorrer em pacientes que ainda não foram diagnosticados como asmáticos, e mesmo naqueles cujo controle da doença não se encontre adequado. Reconhecer a exacerbação e iniciar seu tratamento desde o domicílio até o adequado manejo inicial em ambiente hospitalar é fundamental para evitar sua evolução para complicações que coloquem o paciente em risco de vida. O tratamento compreende o reconhecimento e tratamento da hipoxemia, da obstrução e do processo inflamatório, além de fornecer orientações na alta hospitalar e encaminhamentos para continuidade do tratamento.

Acute exacerbation of asthma is a frequent condition in children and adolescents and one of the most common causes of seeking emergency care and hospitalization. It can occur in patients who have not yet been diagnosed with asthma, and even in those whose disease control is not adequate. Recognizing the exacerbation and starting its treatment from home until proper initial management in a hospital environment is essential to avoid its evolution to complications that put the patient at risk of life. Treatment comprises the recognition and treatment of hypoxemia, obstruction, and the inflammatory process, in addition to providing guidance at hospital discharge and referrals for continued treatment.

Laboratory screening test with inhalant and food allergens in atopic Brazilian children and adolescents: a performance.

The Phadiatop Infant® (PhInf) is a panel developed to assess allergic sensitization (immunoglobulin E [IgE]) in children aged <5 years and combines inhalant and food allergens. The test has not been evaluated outside Europe. This is a cross-sectional study conducted at 11 pediatric allergy centers to evaluate PhInf as an allergic disease screening method in Brazilian children. Children as controls and patients (aged 6 months-18 years) were grouped according to their primary disease and age group. PhInf and specific serum IgE (sIgE) screening was performed for Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (DP), cat and dog epithelia, a mix of grasses and pollens, eggs, cow's milk, peanuts, and shrimp. Values ≥ 0.35 kUA/L (or PAU/L) were considered positive. A total of 470 children and adolescents, which included 385 patients and 85 controls, participated in the study (47.7% boys, average age: 6.3 years). In all, 72.6% of the participants had positive PhInf test (n = 341), with a higher proportion of those having food allergy (92.6%), atopic dermatitis (91.9%), and those aged >13 years having allergy (95%). The PhInf and sIgE agreement between patients (Kappa = 0.94, P < 0.001) and controls (Kappa = 0.84, P < 0.001) was high. PhInf and DP agreement in patients aged >13 years was excellent (Kappa = 0.936, P < 0.001). Compared with sIgE dosage, PhInf had high sensitivity (97%) and specificity (93%). Positivity of PhInf test in this population was high and had an excellent correlation with the allergens comprising the panel. It is a useful method for screening children suspected of having allergic diseases in a non-European country.

Microbiological profile in chronic granulomatous disease patients in a single Brazilian primary immunodeficiencies center

Background: Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is a rare primary immunodeficiency. Infections of the lungs, skin, lymph nodes, and liver are the hallmark of CGD with frequent initial manifestations of the disease. The aim of the present study was to describe the sites of infections and their causative agents in 38 CGD pediatric patients. Methods: This was a retrospective single-center cohort study comprising CGD patients, and followed for over last 40 years at the Allergy and Immunology Unit of a tertiary hospital in São Paulo, Brazil. Sites of infections and their causative agents were described. Results: A total of 38 patients were included (36 males and 2 females). Median age at the onset of symptoms was 45 days (7 days–7 years) and that at the time of diagnosis was 23 months (1 month–12 years); 31.6% of the parents reported death of relatives during childhood and 21% (8 cases) had another male family member with CDG. The most common infections were pneumonia (81.6%), skin infections (50.0%), adenitis (42.1%), and liver abscess (23.7%). In all, 188 cultures were positive (85.6% for bacteria and 14.4% for fungi). The most prevalent bacterial agents were Staphylococcus sp. (12.4%), Staphylococcus aureus (11.2%), and Klebsiella pneumoniae (9.3%). Aspergillus sp. and Candida sp. were 56% and 22.2% of the isolated fungi, respectively. Mycobacterium tuberculosis was isolated in 5.6% and Mycobacterium bovis in 0.9% (only in 1 patient) of cultures. Conclusion: Staphylococcus sp., Staphylococcus aureus, and Aspergillus sp. were the most frequent agents in this cohort. M. tuberculosis should be considered in endemic areas. Detection of infectious agents drives to find adequate treatment and benefits the evolution of patients with CGD (AU)

Cerebellofaciodental syndrome in an adult patient: Expanding the phenotypic and natural history characteristics.

Cerebellofaciodental syndrome is characterized by facial dysmorphisms, intellectual disability, cerebellar hypoplasia, and dental anomalies. It is an autosomal-recessive condition described in 2015 caused by pathogenic variants in BRF1. Here, we report a Brazilian patient who faced a diagnostic challenge beginning at 11 months of age. Fortunately, whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed, detecting the BRF1 variants NM_001519.3:c.1649delG:p.(Gly550Alafs*36) and c.421C>T:p.(Arg141Cys) in compound heterozygosity, thus finally achieving a diagnosis of cerebellofaciodental syndrome. The patient is currently 25 years old and is the oldest patient yet reported. The clinical report and a review of published cases are presented. Atlanto-occipital fusion, a reduced foramen magnum and basilar invagination leading to compression of the medulla-spinal cord transition are skeletal findings not reported in previous cases. The description of syndromes with dental findings shows that such anomalies can be an important clue to relevant differential diagnoses. The cooperation of groups from different international centers made possible the resolution of this and other cases and is one of the strategies to bring medical advances to developing countries, where many patients with rare diseases are difficult to diagnose definitively.

Microbiological profile in chronic granulomatous disease patients in a single Brazilian primary immunodeficiency center

Background Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is a rare primary immunodeficiency. Infections of lung, skin, lymph nodes, and liver are the hallmark of CGD and frequently the initial manifestation of the disease. The aim of the present paper is to describe the sites of infections and their causative agents in 38 pediatric patients with CGD Methods This retrospective, single-center cohort study included CGD patients followed at the allergy and immunology unit of a tertiary hospital in São Paulo, Brazil over the last 40 years. Sites of infections and their causative agents were described. Results Thirty-eight patients were included (36 males). The median age of onset of symptoms was 45 days (ranging from 7 days–7 years), and the median age at diagnosis was 23 months (ranging from 1 month–12 years). In all, 31.6% of the patients reported a family history of child deaths and 21% (eight cases) had another male family member with CGD. The most common infections were pneumonia (81.6%), skin infections (50.0%), adenitis (42.1%), and liver abscess (23.7%); 188 cultures were positive (85.6% bacteria; 14.4% fungi). The most prevalent bacterial agents were Staphylococcus sp. (12.4%), Staphylococcus aureus (11.2%), and Klebsiella pneumoniae (9.3%). Aspergillus sp. and Candida sp. were 56% and 22.2% of the isolated fungi, respectively. Mycobacterium tuberculosis was isolated in 5.6% and Mycobacterium bovis in one patient (0.9%). Conclusion Staphylococcus sp., Staphylococcus aureus, and Aspergillus sp. were the most frequent agents found in this cohort. M. tuberculosis should be considered in endemic area. Detection of infectious agents drives to the adequate treatment and benefits the evolution of patients with CGD (AU)

Microbiological profile in chronic granulomatous disease patients in a single Brazilian primary immunodeficiency center.

BACKGROUND: Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is a rare primary immunodeficiency. Infections of lung, skin, lymph nodes, and liver are the hallmark of CGD and frequently the initial manifestation of the disease. The aim of the present paper is to describe the sites of infections and their causative agents in 38 pediatric patients with CGD. METHODS: This retrospective, single-center cohort study included CGD patients followed at the allergy and immunology unit of a tertiary hospital in São Paulo, Brazil over the last 40 years. Sites of infections and their causative agents were described. RESULTS: Thirty-eight patients were included (36 males). The median age of onset of symptoms was 45 days (ranging from 7 days-7 years), and the median age at diagnosis was 23 months (ranging from 1 month-12 years). In all, 31.6% of the patients reported a family history of child deaths and 21% (eight cases) had another male family member with CGD. The most common infections were pneumonia (81.6%), skin infections (50.0%), adenitis (42.1%), and liver abscess (23.7%); 188 cultures were positive (85.6% bacteria; 14.4% fungi). The most prevalent bacterial agents were Staphylococcus sp. (12.4%), Staphylococcus aureus (11.2%), and Klebsiella pneumoniae (9.3%). Aspergillus sp. and Candida sp. were 56% and 22.2% of the isolated fungi, respectively. Mycobacterium tuberculosis was isolated in 5.6% and Mycobacterium bovis in one patient (0.9%). CONCLUSION: Staphylococcus sp., Staphylococcus aureus, and Aspergillus sp. were the most frequent agents found in this cohort. M. tuberculosis should be considered in endemic area. Detection of infectious agents drives to the adequate treatment and benefits the evolution of patients with CGD.

Transfusion-related acute lung injury associated to intravenous immunoglobulin infusion in a pediatric patient.

Case report of a patient with an immunodeficiency who demands regular replacement of intravenous immunoglobulin. She presented an episode of transfusion-related acute lung injury shortly after using an immunoglobulin product different than the one she usually received. The patient evolved with respiratory changes (hypoxia, dyspnea, change in pulmonary auscultation) minutes after the end of the infusion, and received non-invasive respiratory support. She was discharged after 36 hours with good outcome. The patient achieved full recovery, showing no further reactions in subsequent immunoglobulin infusions (no longer receiving the product that was used when she had the episode of transfusion-related acute lung injury). Although rare, this reaction is potentially serious and has no specific treatment other than supportive therapy. The literature is scarce regarding the risk of recurrence. The decision on whether to proceed with immunoglobulin therapy after this adverse effect should be analyzed individually, assessing the possible risks and benefits for the patient.

Guia prático de aerossolterapia na criança e no adolescente: Documento conjunto da Associação Brasileira de Alergia e Imunologia e Sociedade Brasileira de Pediatria / Practical guide to aerosol therapy in children and adolescents: Joint document from the Brazilian Association of Allergy and Immunology and the Brazilian Society of Pediatrics

A via inalatória é a mais adequada para o tratamento das doenças respiratórias. Muitos fatores influenciam na deposição pulmonar do fármaco inalado, e, consequentemente, no sucesso terapêutico, desde fatores relacionados ao indivíduo, como questões anatômicas das vias aéreas, dinâmica respiratória, doença de base e técnica correta, até situações relacionadas às questões aerodinâmicas das partículas que compõem o aerossol, como o tamanho (diâmetro aerodinâmico mediano de massa) e a homogeneidade das partículas (desvio padrão geométrico). Nos últimos anos os dispositivos inalatórios se aperfeiçoaram, buscando atender às características necessárias que garantam uma deposição pulmonar satisfatória dos fármacos. A escolha do dispositivo inalatório deve ser individualizada, e o conhecimento das particularidades de cada dispositivo e das vantagens e desvantagens instrumentaliza o profissional na decisão, e impacta diretamente no sucesso terapêutico da medicação utilizada.

The inhalation route is the most adequate for the treatment of respiratory diseases. Many factors influence pulmonary deposition of the inhaled drug and, consequently, therapeutic success. They include individual factors such as airway anatomy, respiratory dynamics, underlying disease, and correct technique, as well as factors related to the aerodynamics of aerosol particles such as size (mass median aerodynamic diameter) and homogeneity of the particles (geometric standard deviation). In recent years, inhalation devices have improved to comply with the necessary characteristics that guarantee a satisfactory pulmonary deposition of drugs. The choice of the inhalation device must be individualized, and the knowledge about the features of each device and their advantages and disadvantages instrumentalizes health professionals in the decision and impacts directly the therapeutic success of the medication used.

Safety of yellow fever vaccine administration in confirmed egg-allergic patients.

Yellow fever vaccine (YFV) is recommended in endemic areas but represents a risk for egg-allergic patients, as it is cultivated in embryonated eggs. This study aims to describe the outcomes of yellow fever vaccination in patients with confirmed egg allergy (EA). Methods:A prospective study was conducted from January 2018 to September 2019. EA was diagnosed through positive oral food challenge (OFC), recent history of anaphylaxis following egg contact (anaphylaxis in the last 6 months) or immediate allergic reaction in the last 2 months with positive specific IgE. A skinprick test (SPT) with YFV was performed. If the SPT was negative, an intradermal test (ID) was performed at a 1:100 dilution. If the ID was negative, a full dose of YFV was administered. If the skin prick test or ID were positive, the YFV was administered using a graded dosing protocol. Results: It was included 58 patients with confirmed egg allergy (36 M:22F), with a median age of 2.3 years (0.7-13.9 y/o). Forty-two patients had a positive OFC. Nine reported recent anaphylaxis. The other 7 had reactions in the last 2 months with positive specific IgE. During OFC, 15 presented anaphylaxis, while the other 27 presented hives and/or angioedema or vomiting. SPT with YFV was negative in all patients. ID was negative in 48 patients who uneventfully received a full dose of YFV. Ten patients had a positive ID and received YFV in graded doses. Six patients presented a mild reaction controlled with antihistamines, and 4 patients received the vaccine without reactions. Positive ID was significantly related to the vaccine reaction (p < 0.0001). Administration of YFV using a specific protocol was safe even in anaphylactic patients. However, we recommend performing the ID, which can help predict a higher risk of vaccine reaction. An appropriate setting is required to control adverse events.

Phadiatop, Phadiatop Infant and total IgE evaluated in allergic Brazilian children and adolescents

The clinical history is of importance in the investigation of allergic diseases but does have limitations. Many allergic conditions will be over-diagnosed if anamnesis alone is used for diagnostic criteria. Serum total immunoglobulin E (TIgE) quantification, as well as panels containing allergens prevalent in the studied population, may serve as screening tests and facilitate the diagnosis of allergic disease or its exclusion. We assessed the positivity of two versions of these tests, Phadiatop Europe® (PhEU) and Phadiatop Infant® (PhInf), as well as total IgE (TigE) values in patients with a medical diagnosis of allergic disease and non-allergic individuals. METHODS: A cross-sectional study performed in eleven Brazilian pediatric allergy centers with patients divided into groups according to the primary condition and a group of assessed control subjects. They were submitted to TIgE measurement and screening tests (PhEu and PhInf). RESULTS: TIgE mean serum levels were significantly higher among allergic patients, especially those with asthma/rhinitis or atopic dermatitis. The positivity of the screening tests, considering the total population, was 63.8% for PhEU and 72.6% for PhInf. These increased when we evaluated only the allergic subjects. The concordance index of the two tests was Kappa = 0.7 and higher among those of greater age. CONCLUSIONS: In the assessed population, there were significantly higher levels among those with positive screening tests and PhInf showed better performance in the identification of sensitized individuals, regardless of age. This is the first study to evaluate Phadiatop and Phadiatop Infant in the same population

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Phadiatop, Phadiatop Infant and total IgE evaluated in allergic Brazilian children and adolescents.

The clinical history is of importance in the investigation of allergic diseases but does have limitations. Many allergic conditions will be over-diagnosed if anamnesis alone is used for diagnostic criteria. Serum total immunoglobulin E (TIgE) quantification, as well as panels containing allergens prevalent in the studied population, may serve as screening tests and facilitate the diagnosis of allergic disease or its exclusion. We assessed the positivity of two versions of these tests, Phadiatop Europe® (PhEU) and Phadiatop Infant® (PhInf), as well as total IgE (TigE) values in patients with a medical diagnosis of allergic disease and non-allergic individuals. METHODS: A cross-sectional study performed in eleven Brazilian pediatric allergy centers with patients divided into groups according to the primary condition and a group of assessed control subjects. They were submitted to TIgE measurement and screening tests (PhEu and PhInf). RESULTS: TIgE mean serum levels were significantly higher among allergic patients, especially those with asthma/rhinitis or atopic dermatitis. The positivity of the screening tests, considering the total population, was 63.8% for PhEU and 72.6% for PhInf. These increased when we evaluated only the allergic subjects. The concordance index of the two tests was Kappa=0.7 and higher among those of greater age. CONCLUSIONS: In the assessed population, there were significantly higher levels among those with positive screening tests and PhInf showed better performance in the identification of sensitized individuals, regardless of age. This is the first study to evaluate Phadiatop and Phadiatop Infant in the same population.

COMPLEXITY OF PEDIATRIC CHRONIC DISEASE: CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY WITH 16,237 PATIENTS FOLLOWED BY MULTIPLE MEDICAL SPECIALTIES.

OBJECTIVE: To assess demographic data and characteristics of children and adolescents with pediatric chronic diseases (PCD), according to the number of specialties/patient. METHODS: We performed a cross-sectional study with 16,237 PCD patients at outpatient clinics in one year. Data were analyzed by an electronic data system, according to the number of physician appointments for PCD. This study assessed: demographic data, follow-up characteristics, types of medical specialty, diagnosis (International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems - ICD-10), number of day hospital clinic visits, and acute complications. RESULTS: Patients followed by ≥3 specialties simultaneously showed a significantly higher duration of follow-up compared to those followed by ≤2 specialties [2.1 (0.4-16.4) vs. 1.4 (0.1-16.2) years; p<0.001] and a higher number of appointments in all specialties. The most prevalent medical areas in patients followed by ≥3 specialties were: Psychiatry (Odds Ratio - OR=8.0; confidence interval of 95% - 95%CI 6-10.7; p<0.001), Palliative/Pain Care (OR=7.4; 95%CI 5.7-9.7; p<0.001), Infectious Disease (OR=7.0; 95%CI 6.4-7.8; p<0.001) and Nutrology (OR=6.9; 95%CI 5.6-8.4; p<0.001). Logistic regressions demonstrated that PCD patients followed by ≥3 specialties were associated with high risk for: number of appointments/patient (OR=9.2; 95%CI 8.0-10.5; p<0.001), day hospital clinic visits (OR=4.8; 95%CI 3.8-5.9; p<0.001), emergency department visits (OR=3.2; 95%CI 2.9-3.5; p<0.001), hospitalizations (OR=3.0; 95%CI 2.7-3.3; p<0.001), intensive care admissions (OR=2.5; 95%CI 2.1-3.0; p<0.001), and deaths (OR=2.8; 95%CI 1.9-4.0; p<0.001). The diagnosis of asthma, obesity, chronic pain, and transplant was significantly higher in patients followed by ≥3 specialties. CONCLUSIONS: The present study showed that PCD patients who required simultaneous care from multiple medical specialties had complex and severe diseases, with specific diagnoses.