Evaluation of photobiomodulation in the salivary production of patients with hyposalivation induced by antihypertensive drugs - A blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Arterial hypertension is a systemic condition that affects about 35% of the world population. The drugs that are used for its control can produce hyposalivation. This work evaluated the effect of photobiomodulation on salivary flow rate, salivary pH, total protein concentration, and calcium concentration in individuals using antihypertensive medications. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 41 subjects were randomly allocated in one of two groups: control (placebo) and photobiomodulation. The subjects had their salivary glands (20 sites) irradiated with a laser emitting at 808 nm, 4J/site once a week for 4 weeks and had their salivary flow measured before and after the whole treatment. RESULTS: The intragroup analysis (before and after treatment) shows a significant difference for both non-stimulated and stimulated salivary flow in the photobiomodulation group (p = 0.0007 and p = 0.0001, respectively). Comparing the placebo with the photobiomodulation group, significant differences were found for both non-stimulated (p = 0.0441) and stimulated salivary flow (p = 0.0441) after the treatment. No significant differences were found in pH, total protein concentration, calcium concentration. CONCLUSION: Despite the usage of drugs that influence the nervous system and typically result in a reduction of saliva production, photobiomodulation demonstrated a remarkable ability to enhance saliva production by a significant 75%.

Single and combination immunotherapy with chemotherapy and the risk of AKI in patients with solid cancer.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Acute kidney injury (AKI) has emerged as an important toxicity among patients with advanced cancer treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors. The aim of this study was to describe the incidence, risk factors and mortality of AKI in patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors alone or in combination with another form of immunotherapy or chemotherapy. DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: We included all patients who received immune checkpoint inhibitors alone or in combination with another form of immunotherapy or chemotherapy at AC Camargo Cancer Center from January 2015 to December 2019. AKI was defined as a ≥ 1.5 fold increase in creatinine from baseline within 12 months of immune checkpoint inhibitor initiation. We assessed the association between baseline demographics, comorbidities, medications and risk of AKI using a competing risk model, considering death as a competing event. RESULTS: We included 614 patients in the analysis. The mean age was 58.4 ± 13.5 years, and the mean baseline creatinine was 0.8 ± 0.18 mg/dL. AKI occurred in 144 (23.5%) of the patients. The most frequent AKI etiologies were multifactorial (10.1%), hemodynamic (8.8%) and possibly immunotherapy-related (3.6%). The likelihood of AKI was greater in patients with genitourinary cancer (sHR 2.47 95% CI 1.34-4.55 p < 0.01), with a prior AKI history (sHR 2.1 95% CI 1.30-3.39 p < 0.01) and taking antibiotics (sHR 2.85 95% CI 1.54-5.27 p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: In this study, genitourinary cancer, previous AKI and antibiotics use were associated with a higher likelihood of developing AKI.

Clinical study of complications of a peripherally inserted central catheter in cancer patients.

AIM: To evaluate complications after PICC use in cancer patients. DESIGN: This was a clinical and retrospective study in which the risk factors and complications of PICC use were evaluated. METHODS: This study was carried out in the patient, emergency room, and intensive care units through the evaluation of electronic medical records. To assess the association between qualitative variables, the chi-squared test or Fisher's exact test was used, and to compare the reason for withdrawal, the Kruskal-Wallis test was applied. RESULTS: A total of 359 patients (53.5% men) with 43.1 ± 14 years who had a PICC (88% with solid tumours) were evaluated. The most common complications were mechanical complications (61.2%), infection (38%), and thrombosis (57.1%). Patients with double-lumen catheters experienced thrombosis (85.7%). This study demonstrated the effectiveness of PICC and that patients with haematological cancer are more prone to multiple PICC passages and more mechanical complications and infections.

Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy in the Nasal Decolonization of Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients: A Pilot Randomized Trial.

RATIONALE & OBJECTIVE: Infections are an important cause of mortality among patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis. Staphylococcus aureus is a frequent etiological agent, and previous nasal colonization is a risk factor for infection. Repeated antimicrobial decolonization reduces infection in this population but can induce antibiotic resistance. We compared photodynamic therapy, a promising bactericidal treatment that does not induce resistance, to mupirocin treatment among nasal carriers of S aureus. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized controlled pilot study. SETTING & PARTICIPANTS: 34 patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis who had nasal carriage of S aureus. INTERVENTIONS: Patients were randomly assigned to decolonization with a single application of photodynamic therapy (wavelength of 660nm, 400mW/cm2, 300 seconds, methylene blue 0.01%) or with a topical mupirocin regimen (twice a day for 5 days). OUTCOME: Nasal swabs were collected at time 0 (when the carrier state was identified), directly after treatment completion, 1 month after treatment, and 3 months after treatment. Bacterial isolates were subjected to proteomic analysis to identify the species present, and antimicrobial susceptibility was characterized. RESULTS: All 17 participants randomized to photodynamic therapy and 13 of 17 (77%) randomized to mupirocin were adherent to treatment. Directly after treatment was completed, 12 participants receiving photodynamic therapy (71%) and 13 participants treated with mupirocin (77%) had cultures that were negative for S aureus (risk ratio, 0.92 [95% CI, 0.61-1.38]; P=0.9). Of the patients who had negative cultures directly after completion of photodynamic therapy, 67% were recolonized within 3 months. There were no adverse events in the photodynamic therapy group. LIMITATIONS: Testing was restricted to assessing nasal colonization; infectious complications were not assessed. CONCLUSIONS: Photodynamic therapy is a feasible approach to treating nasal carriage of S aureus. Future larger studies should be conducted to determine whether photodynamic therapy is equivalent to the standard of care with mupirocin. FUNDING: Government grant (National Council for Scientific and Technological Development process 3146682020-9). TRIAL REGISTRATION: Registered at ClinicalTrials.gov with study number NCT04047914.

Acute Kidney Injury after Bone Marrow Transplantation in Patients with Lymphomas and Leukemias / Lesão Renal Aguda após Transplante de Medula Óssea em Pacientes com Linfomas e Leucemias Insuficiencia Renal Aguda tras / Trasplante de Médula Ósea en Pacientes con Linfomas y Leucemias

Introduction: Hematologic malignancies, including lymphomas and leukemias, may be treated with autologous or allogeneic bone marrow transplantation. However, these approaches can increase the risk of infection, sepsis, graft-versus-host disease, and nephrotoxicity, possibly resulting in acute kidney injury (AKI). Objective: To evaluate AKI in patients with lymphomas or leukemia submitted to bone marrow transplantation (BMT). Method: Retrospective, observational cohort study of cases from a database of 256 patients (53.9% males) hospitalized for BMT between 2012 and 2014 at a cancer hospital in São Paulo, Brazil. Of these, 79 were selected randomly for analysis. Demographic data, length of hospitalization, and associated morbidities were recorded. AKI was identified according to Kidney Diseases Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria. Results: The most frequent diagnoses for the 79 cases were non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (30.4%), acute myeloid leukemia (26.6%), and Hodgkin's lymphoma (24.1%). The probability of 100 days-survival after BMT was 81%, and three years after BMT was 61%. In-hospital mortality was significantly higher among patients who presented AKI during hospitalization (p<0.001). However, there was no difference in overall life expectancy (p=0.770). Conclusion: A significant prevalence of AKI was found in patients with leukemia or lymphoma while they were hospitalized for BMT, resulting in significantly increased rates of in-hospital mortality. The presence of AKI during hospitalization was not associated with a subsequent reduction in life expectancy.

Introdução: As neoplasias hematológicas, incluindo linfomas e leucemias, podem ser tratadas com transplante autólogo ou halogênico de medula óssea. No entanto, essas abordagens podem aumentar o risco de infecção, sepse, doença do enxerto contra o hospedeiro e nefrotoxicidade, possivelmente resultando em lesão renal aguda (LRA). Objetivo: Avaliar LRA em pacientes com linfomas ou leucemia submetidos a transplante de medula óssea (TMO). Método: Estudo de coorte observacional retrospectivo de casos de um banco de dados de 256 pacientes (53,9% do sexo masculino) internados por TMO entre 2012 e 2014 em um hospital oncológico de São Paulo, Brasil. Destes, 79 prontuários foram selecionados aleatoriamente para análise. Dados demográficos, tempo de internação e morbidades associadas foram registrados. A LRA foi identificada de acordo com os critérios de Kidney Diseases Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO). Resultados: Os diagnósticos mais frequentes da amostra de 79 casos foram linfoma não Hodgkin (30,4%), leucemia mieloide aguda (26,6%) e linfoma de Hodgkin (24,1%). A probabilidade de sobrevivência em 100 dias após o TMO foi de 81% e, em três anos após o TMO, foi de 61%. A mortalidade intra-hospitalar foi significativamente maior entre os pacientes que apresentaram LRA durante a internação (p<0,001). No entanto, não houve diferença na expectativa de vida geral (p=0,770). Conclusão: Neste estudo, observou-se prevalência significativa de LRA em pacientes com leucemia ou linfoma durante a internação por TMO, resultando em aumento significativo das taxas de mortalidade intra-hospitalar. A presença de LRA durante a hospitalização não se associou a uma subsequente redução da expectativa de vida

Introducción: Las neoplasias malignas hematológicas, incluidos los linfomas y las leucemias, pueden tratarse con trasplante autólogo o alogénico de médula ósea. Sin embargo, estos enfoques pueden aumentar el riesgo de infección, sepsis, enfermedad de injerto contra huésped y nefrotoxicidad, lo que posiblemente provoque lesión renal aguda (IRA). Objetivo: Evaluar el FRA en pacientes con linfomas o leucemias sometidos a trasplante de médula ósea (TMO). Método: Se realizó un estudio de cohorte observacional retrospectivo de casos de una base de datos de 256 pacientes (53,9% hombres) hospitalizados por TMO entre 2012 y 2014 en un hospital de cáncer en São Paulo, Brasil. De estos, 79 registros fueron seleccionados aleatoriamente para su análisis. Se registraron los datos demográficos, la duración de la hospitalización y las morbilidades asociadas. La IRA se identificó según los criterios de Kidney Diseases Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO). Resultados: Los diagnósticos más frecuentes en la muestra de 79 casos fueron linfoma no Hodgkin (30,4%), leucemia mieloide aguda (26,6%) y linfoma de Hodgkin (24,1%). La probabilidad de supervivencia 100 días después del BMT fue del 81% y tres años después del BMT fue del 61%. La mortalidad hospitalaria fue significativamente mayor entre los pacientes que presentaron FRA durante la hospitalización (p<0,001). Sin embargo, no hubo diferencia en la esperanza de vida global (p=0,770). Conclusión: En este estudio, se observó una prevalencia significativa de LRA en pacientes con leucemia o linfoma mientras estaban hospitalizados por TMO, lo que resultó en un aumento significativo de las tasas de mortalidad hospitalaria. La presencia de FRA durante la hospitalización no se asoció con una reducción posterior de la esperanza de vida.

A feasibility study of avoiding positive calcium balance and parathyroid hormone increase in patients on peritoneal dialysis.

Background: The effect of the dialysate calcium concentration (D[Ca]) on mineral and bone metabolism in patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD) is overlooked. D[Ca] of 1.75 mmol/L is still prescribed to many patients on PD around the world. Previous studies on the effects of reducing D[Ca] have been carried out before the incorporation of calcimimetics in clinical practice. We hypothesized that a reduction in D[Ca] is safe and without the risk of a rise in serum parathyroid hormone (PTH). Methods: In this non-randomized clinical trial, the D[Ca] was reduced from 1.75 mmol/L to 1.25 mmol/L for one year in prevalent patients on PD. Demographic, clinical, and CKD-MBD-related biomarkers were evaluated at baseline, 3, 6, and 12 months of follow-up. Results: 20 patients completed 1-year follow-up (56 ± 16 years, 50 % male, 25 % diabetic, 55 % with baseline parathyroid hormone - PTH >300 pg/mL). Over time, there was no significant change in calcium, phosphate, total alkaline phosphatase, 25(OH)-vitamin D or PTH, although adjustments in calcitriol and sevelamer prescription were required. After 1 year, absolute and percentual change in PTH levels were 36 (-58, 139) pg/mL, and 20 % (-28, 45) respectively. The proportion of patients with PTH > 300 pg/mL did not change during the follow-up (p = 0.173). Conclusion: Knowing the risk of a positive calcium balance in patients on PD, reducing the D[Ca] concentration is a safe and valuable option, although medication adjustments are needed to detain PTH rising.

Nephrotic syndrome associated with metastatic melanoma: a case report.

Nephrotic syndrome (NS) may occur after or concomitantly with malignancy. The use of immunosuppressive approaches in patients with cancer and NS is controversial, especially when the association between the pathologies is unclear. The aim of this study was to report the case of a patient with metastatic melanoma who developed NS and to examine the association between NS and neoplasia. A 56-year-old woman diagnosed with right hallux melanoma, removed by marginal resection with no sign of metastasis, developed NS after 6 months without the detection of another associated disease. The histological diagnosis was focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). The patient was older than most patients with FSGS and was treated with immunosuppressive agents (prednisone and cyclosporine) concomitantly with melanoma treatment. Nephrotic syndrome was the first manifestation of metastatic melanoma recurrence in this patient. Proteinuria was controlled adequately after immunosuppression and melanoma treatment. Although NS has been associated with cancer, laboratory and histological markers correlating it with melanoma are needed.

The influence of acute kidney disease on the clinical outcomes of patients who received cisplatin, carboplatin, and oxaliplatin.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Cisplatin (CDDP) is used as the first line of treatment for some tumors, but its use may be restricted due to its nephrotoxicity. Carboplatin (CARBO) and oxaliplatin (OXA) are less nephrotoxic alternatives to CDDP. This study has the objective to determine the incidence of acute kidney disease after chemotherapy with CDDP, CARBO, or OXA. METHODS: A clinical study of a retrospective cohort of patients who underwent treatment with CDDP, CARBO, or OXA from January-December 2016. Acute kidney Disease (AKD) was defined as elevated serum creatinine (sCR) levels before and up to 3 months after chemotherapy. Morbidities, type of tumor, and treatment data were recorded. RESULTS: A total of 212 patients aged 55.5 ± 14.0 years were evaluated. Among the comorbidities, 30% had arterial hypertension (AH) and 11% had diabetes, and 18% were treated with CDDP, 41% with CARBO, and 41% with OXA. There was no difference in sCR levels before and after chemotherapy regardless of the chemotherapy used. The prevalence of eGFRs <60 mL/min after chemotherapy was higher in patients with AH and cardiovascular disease (CVD). The incidence of post-chemotherapy AKD was 7.0% (n = 13) and the mortality rate was 38.2%. Survival was lower in patients with AKD (P = .012). CONCLUSIONS: There was a low incidence of AKD among the patients regardless of the chemotherapy used, but the patients with AKD had shorter survival. In addition, the reduction in eGFR after chemotherapy was greater in patients with AH and CVD.

Effects of photobiomodulation in salivary glands of chronic kidney disease patients on hemodialysis.

This randomized placebo-controlled trial evaluates the impact of photobiomodulation (PBMT) on the salivary flow and biochemistry of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on hemodialysis. Forty-four patients on hemodialysis self-responded two questionnaires for oral health and salivary gland function perception. The subjects were evaluated for function of salivary glands and randomly allocated to two groups: PBMT group (three irradiations at 808 nm, 100 mW, 142 J/cm2, and 4 J per site); and placebo group. Patients were submitted to non-stimulated and stimulated sialometry and after the treatment at baseline and 14 days. Salivary volume and biochemical of the saliva were analyzed. At baseline, most subjects had self-perception of poor oral health (52.6%) and salivary dysfunction (63.1%). Clinical exam revealed that 47.3% of subjects presented dry mucosa. PBMT promoted increase of the non-stimulated (p = 0.027) and stimulated saliva (p = 0.014) and decrease of urea levels in both non-stimulated (p = 0.0001) and stimulated saliva (p = 0.0001). No alteration was detected in total proteins and calcium analysis. Patients with kidney disease can present alteration in flow, concentrations, and composition of saliva, affecting oral health, but our findings suggest that PBMT is effective to improve hyposalivation and urea levels in saliva of patients with CKD.

Efficacy and Safety of Regional Anticoagulation with 4% Trisodium Citrate Versus Heparin in Extended Hemodialysis among Critical Patients with Cancer and Acute Kidney Injury.

INTRODUCTION: Patients with cancer admitted to critical care units are at increased risk of being affected with acute kidney injury (AKI) and mortality. Sustained low-efficiency dialysis (SLED) combines the cardiovascular stability of continuous therapy with the operational facility of conventional hemodialysis (HD). Citrate has become an alternative to heparin in anticoagulation because it favors the maintenance of filter patency and reduces bleeding. We analyzed the efficacy and safety of citrate versus heparin use in extended HD for patients with cancer and AKI. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study evaluated patients with cancer and dialytic AKI who received SLED with anticoagulation using citrate versus heparin from January 2014 to June 2017. After stratifying patients by the type of anticoagulation received, we evaluated demographic and clinical data, plus SLED session characteristics. We also analyzed dialysis outcomes, including insufficient session time, hypotension, poor catheter flow, line inversion, and dialysis system coagulation. RESULTS: We identified 423 SLED sessions among 124 patients (41 patients in the heparin group and 83 patients in the citrate group). More sessions with citrate (26.6 vs. 40.9%, p < 0.001) had serum platelet concentrations <50,000/mm3 or <100,000/m3 and ionic calcium (Ca++) values <1.16 mmol/L (33.2 vs. 18.5%, p < 0.001). Dialysis intercurrence occurred in 27% of sessions. The highest odds were associated with heparin sessions (OR 2.88). Compared with the citrate group, the heparin group was subject to more dialysis system coagulation (12.3%), the need for line reversal (9.8%), and insufficient session time (23.9%). CONCLUSION: Citrate represents a safe and effective anticoagulant for SLED for cancer patients with AKI undergoing treatment in the intensive care unit.

Risk factors for the progression of chronic kidney disease after acute kidney injury.

INTRODUCTION: The incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is increasing with the increasing age of the population and the increasing number of elderly survivors of acute kidney injury (AKI). The risk factors for the progression of CKD after AKI are unclear. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the association between AKI and its progression to CKD and the risk factors involved. METHODS: An observational, retrospective study of AKI patients followed from 2009 to 2012 was carried out. We evaluated the etiology of AKI, the use of vasoactive drugs and mechanical ventilation, the need for dialysis, the presence of comorbidities, the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), the length of stay and the progression of CKD. Statistical analyses, including the Chi-square test and Pearson's correlation, were performed using SPSS. RESULTS: The 207 patients analyzed had a mean age of 70.1 ± 13.1, and 84.6% of the male patients exhibited decreased renal function and CKD (vs. 60.4% of the female patients). The progression of AKI to CKD was more frequent in patients admitted to wards (63.8%), cancer patients (74.19%), patients with sepsis (67.18%) and patients with obstruction (91.66%). Dialyses were performed in 16.4% of the patients, but this was not correlated with the progression of CKD. CONCLUSIONS: Being an elderly male patient with AKI due to sepsis and obstruction was correlated with progression to CKD following discharge.

Risk factors for the progression of chronic kidney disease after acute kidney injury / Fatores de risco para a progressão da doença renal crônica após a lesão renal aguda

Abstract Introduction: The incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is increasing with the increasing age of the population and the increasing number of elderly survivors of acute kidney injury (AKI). The risk factors for the progression of CKD after AKI are unclear. Objective: To investigate the association between AKI and its progression to CKD and the risk factors involved. Methods: An observational, retrospective study of AKI patients followed from 2009 to 2012 was carried out. We evaluated the etiology of AKI, the use of vasoactive drugs and mechanical ventilation, the need for dialysis, the presence of comorbidities, the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), the length of stay and the progression of CKD. Statistical analyses, including the Chi-square test and Pearson's correlation, were performed using SPSS. Results: The 207 patients analyzed had a mean age of 70.1 ± 13.1, and 84.6% of the male patients exhibited decreased renal function and CKD (vs. 60.4% of the female patients). The progression of AKI to CKD was more frequent in patients admitted to wards (63.8%), cancer patients (74.19%), patients with sepsis (67.18%) and patients with obstruction (91.66%). Dialyses were performed in 16.4% of the patients, but this was not correlated with the progression of CKD. Conclusions: Being an elderly male patient with AKI due to sepsis and obstruction was correlated with progression to CKD following discharge.

Resumo Introdução: A incidência da doença renal crônica (DRC) está aumentando com o aumento da idade da população e o número crescente de idosos sobreviventes da lesão renal aguda (LRA). Os fatores de risco para a progressão da DRC após a lesão renal aguda (LRA) não são claros. Objetivos: Investigar a associação entre a LRA e sua progressão para a DRC e os fatores de risco envolvidos. Métodos: Foi realizado estudo observacional, retrospectivo de pacientes com LRA acompanhados de 2009 a 2012. Foram avaliados a etiologia da LRA, o uso de drogas vasoativas, ventilação mecânica, necessidade de diálise, presença de morbidades associadas, ritmo de filtração glomerular estimado (eGFR), duração da internação e a progressão da DRC. As análises estatísticas incluíram o teste Qui-quadrado e a correlação de Pearson utilizando o programa do SPSS. Resultados: Os 207 pacientes analisados apresentaram idade de 70,1 ± 13,1 anos, 84,6% eram do sexo masculino e que apresentaram redução da função renal e DRC (vs. 60,4% dos pacientes do sexo feminino). A progressão da LRA para DRC foi mais frequente em pacientes internados em enfermarias (63,8%), pacientes com câncer (74,19%), com sepse (67,18%) e com obstrução do trato urinário (91,66%). As dialises foram realizadas em 16,4% dos pacientes, mas isso não foi correlacionado com a progressão da DRC. Conclusões: Pacientes idosos com LRA devido à sepse e obstrução do trato urinário foram correlacionados com a progressão para DRC após a alta.

Características Clínicas dos Pacientes Submetidos à Nefrectomia Parcial e Presença de Carcinoma Renal / Clinical Characteristics of Patients Undergoing Partial Nephrectomy and the Occurrence of Renal Carcinoma / Características Clínicas de Pacientes con Nefrectomía Parcial y Presencia de Renal Carcinoma

Introdução: Existem poucos relatos correlacionando dados clínicos com a presença de carcinoma renal após o diagnóstico do tumor no exame de imagem. Objetivos: Analisar as características clínicas de pacientes submetidos à nefrectomia parcial (NP); correlacionar dados clínicos e da evolução no pós-operatório com a presença de carcinomas renais. Método: Estudo clínico observacional, retrospectivo, com 178 pacientes submetidos à NP entre 2009 a 2013. Foram avaliadas as características demográficas; morbidades: diabetes mellitus, hipertensão, doença cardiovascular; complicações do intra e pós-operatório e evolução. Os dados foram descritos em porcentagens, médias e desvio-padrão e significância estatística se p<0,05. Resultados: Foram analisados 178 pacientes de 54,0±13,4 anos, 61,2% do sexo masculino, 18,6% com tumores benignos e 81,4% com carcinomas renais. Entre os carcinomas, 69,7% foram de células claras e, entre os tumores benignos, 72,7% eram oncocitomas. A NP aberta foi realizada em 55,9% das vezes e em 44,1% por via laparoscópica. Após a cirurgia, 31,4 % necessitaram de unidade de terapia intensiva; 13,4 % apresentaram lesão renal aguda; 2,3 % alguma infecção; e 1,8% (n=3) foram a óbito após a alta. Entre as características, somente a obesidade e a redução do ritmo de filtração glomerular estimado (eRFG) em sete dias foi significativamente maior nos pacientes com carcinomas. Conclusões: Pacientes submetidos à NP eram predominantemente do sexo masculino e portadores de carcinomas de células claras. Pacientes com carcinomas eram mais obesos e tiveram maior redução do eRFG em sete dias do pós-operatório

Introduction: There are few reports correlating clinical data with renal carcinoma after the diagnosis of the tumor in the imaging examination. Objectives: To analyze the clinical characteristics of patients submitted to partial nephrectomy (PN); to correlate clinical and evolution data in the postoperative period with the presence of renal carcinomas. Method: A retrospective, observational clinical study, with 178 patients undergoing to PN between 2009 and 2013. Demographic characteristics were assessed; Morbidities: diabetes mellitus, hypertension, cardiovascular disease; intra and postoperative period complications and evolution. Data were described in percentages, means and standard deviation, and statistical significante if p<0.05. Results: 178 patients, 54.0 ± 13.4 years old, 61.2% male, 18.6% with benign tumors and 81.4% with renal carcinomas were analyzed. Among the carcinomas, 69.7% were Clear Cells and among the benign tumors 72.7% were oncocytomas. Open PN was performed in 55.9% and 44.1 laparoscopy. After surgery: 31.4% needed intensive care unit, 13.4% presented acute renal injury; 2.3% some infection and 1.8% (n=3) died after discharge. Among the characteristics only obesity and reduction of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eRFG) in seven days was significantly higher in patients with carcinomas. Conclusion: Patients submitted to PN were predominantly male and had clear cell carcinomas. Patients with carcinomas were more obese and had greater reduction of eRFG within seven days of postoperative period.

Introducción: Hay pocos informes que correlacionan los datos clínicos con la presencia de un carcinoma renal después del diagnóstico de imágenes de tumores. Objetivos: Analizar las características clínicas de los pacientes sometidos a nefrectomía parcial (NP); correlacionar datos clínicos y de la evolución en el postoperatorio con la presencia de carcinomas renales. Método: Estudio observacional clínico, retrospectivo, con 178 pacientes sometidos a NP entre 2009 y 2013. Fueran evaluadas las características demográficas; morbilidades: diabetes mellitus, la hipertensión, enfermedades cardiovasculares; complicaciones de intraoperatorio y postoperatorio. Los datos se presentan en porcentajes, medias y desviaciones estándar, y significancia estadística si p<0,05. Resultados: 178 pacientes analizadas con respecto a 54,0 ± 13,4 años 61,2% varones, 18,6% con tumores benignos y 81,4% con carcinomas renales. Entre los carcinomas, 69,7% eran células claras y entre tumores benignos 72,7% eran oncocitomas. NP abierta se realizó en 55,9% y 44,1% laparoscópica. Después de la cirugía: 31,4% unidad de terapia intensiva es necesario, 13,4% tenían una lesión renal aguda; 2,3% una infección y 1,8% (n=3) murieron después de la descarga. Entre las características, la obesidad y la reducción del ritmo de filtración glomerular estimado (eRFG) en siete días fue mayor significativamente en los pacientes con carcinoma. Conclusión: Los pacientes sometidos a NP, principalmente varones, los pacientes con carcinomas de células claras. Los pacientes con carcinomas eran más obesos y tenían una mayor reducción en eRFG siete días apartado de correos.

Lesão renal aguda no pós-operatório de cirurgias não cardíacas em pacientes com recuperação na unidade de terapia intensiva / Non-cardiac postoperative acute kidney injuryin patients requiring intensive care

Objetivo: Caracterizar os fatores de risco para lesão renal aguda em pacientes submetidos a cirurgias não cardíacas na unidade de terapia intensiva e sua influência na evolução clínica no pós-operatório. Métodos: Estudo clínico, prospectivo, observacional com 98 pacientes na unidade de terapia intensiva de pós-operatório do Hospital Servidor Público Estadual entre novembro de 2012 e fevereiro de 2013. As variáveis estudadas foram idade, sexo, risco pré-operatório, tipo de cirurgia e anestesia, comorbidades, necessidade de ventilação mecânica, drogas vasoativas, transfusão, diálise e sobrevida em 30 dias. O diagnóstico da lesão renal aguda foi estabelecido pelos critérios Acute Kidney Injury Network (AKIN). Na análise estatística, variáveis categóricas foram avaliadas pelo teste qui quadrado e níveis de p<0,05 foram considerados significantes. Resultados: Os pacientes apresentavam idade de 70,7±13,8 anos, 57,1% eram do sexo masculino e 88,8% estavam em pós-operatório de cirurgia eletiva. Desenvolveram lesão renal aguda 35 (35,7%) pacientes e, destes, 20 (59,2%) eram AKIN 1, (3) 8,6% AKIN 2 e 12 (34,2%) AKIN 3. Necessitaram de diálise 24 (68,57%) pacientes. Risco anestésico elevado nas cirurgias eletivas, intercorrências no intraoperatório e presença da doença renal crônica foram fatores que influenciaram no aparecimento da lesão renal aguda especialmente nos idosos. A mortalidade nos pacientes com lesão renal aguda foi 46% vs. 11% daqueles sem lesão renal aguda. Conclusão: A lesão renal aguda apresentou alta mortalidade em idosos submetidos à cirurgia eletiva com risco pré-operatório elevado e doença renal crônica prévia. É importante a identificação precoce destes fatores de risco e da lesão renal aguda nesses pacientes.

Objectives: To characterize risk factors for acute kidney injury in patients undergoing non-cardiac surgeries in Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and their influence on clinical outcomes postoperatively. Methods: Clinical, prospective, observational study of 98 patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit after surgery at Hospital do Servidor Público Estadual from November/2012 to February/2013. The variables studied were: age, gender, preoperative anesthetic risk, type of surgery and anesthesia, comorbidities, need for mechanical ventilation, use of vasoactive drugs, need for blood transfusion, renal replacement therapy (RRT) and survival at 30 days. The diagnosis of acute kidney injury has been established through the Acute Kidney Injury Network (AKIN) criteria. At statistical analysis, categorical variables were analyzed using the chi-square test and p levels <0.05 were considered significant. Results: Patients were 70.7 ± 13.8 years old; 57.1% were male, and 88.8% were in postoperative period of elective surgery. Thirty-five patients (35.7%) had an acute kidney injury, with 20 (59.2%) being AKIN1, 8.6% AKIN2 (3), and 12 (34.2%) AKIN3. High anesthetic risk in elective surgeries, complications during surgery, and the presence of chronic kidney disease were factors that influenced the onset of acute kidney injury, especially in the elderly. Mortality in patients with acute kidney injury was of 46%, versus 11% of those without acute kidney injury. Conclusion: Acute kidney injury showed high mortality in the elderly patients undergoing elective surgery with a high preoperative risk and previous chronic kidney disease. The early identification of these risk factors, as well as the early diagnosis of acute kidney injury in these patients is important.

[Star fruit as a cause of acute kidney injury]. / Carambola como causa de lesão renal aguda.

The star fruit belongs to the family Oxalidacea, species Averrhoa carambola. It is rich in minerals, vitamin A, C, B complex vitamins and oxalic acid. Recent studies show that the toxicity of the fruit differs between the patients and may be explained by single biological responses, age, and the intake quantity of the neurotoxin in each fruit in addition to glomerular filtration rate given by each patient. Additionally, the nephrotoxicity caused by the fruit is dose-dependent and may lead to the deposition of crystals of calcium oxalate intratubular, as well as by direct injury to the renal tubular epithelium, leading to apoptosis of the same. We report the case of a patient who after ingestion of the juice and fresh fruit, developed acute renal failure requiring dialysis, evolving with favourable outcome and recovery of renal function.

Carambola como causa de lesão renal aguda / Star fruit as a cause of acute kidney injury

A carambola pertence à família das Oxalidáceas, espécie Averrhoa carambola. É rica em sais minerais, vitaminas A, C, complexo B e ácido oxálico. Estudos recentes demonstram que a toxicidade da fruta difere entre os indivíduos e pode ser explicada pelas respostas biológicas individuais como idade, quantidade da ingestão, neurotoxinas em cada tipo de fruta. Adicionalmente, a nefrotoxicidade causada pela fruta é dose dependente, podendo levar ao desenvolvimento de lesão renal aguda pela deposição de cristais de oxalato de cálcio intratubular, assim como por lesão direta das células epiteliais tubulares, levando à apoptose das mesmas. Relatamos o caso de uma paciente que, após a ingestão do suco da fruta e fruta in natura, desenvolveu lesão renal aguda, necessitando de terapia dialítica, evoluindo com desfecho favorável e recuperação da função renal.

The star fruit belongs to the family Oxalidacea, species Averrhoa carambola. It is rich in minerals, vitamin A, C, B complex vitamins and oxalic acid. Recent studies show that the toxicity of the fruit differs between the patients and may be explained by single biological responses, age, and the intake quantity of the neurotoxin in each fruit in addition to glomerular filtration rate given by each patient. Additionally, the nephrotoxicity caused by the fruit is dose-dependent and may lead to the deposition of crystals of calcium oxalate intratubular, as well as by direct injury to the renal tubular epithelium, leading to apoptosis of the same. We report the case of a patient who after ingestion of the juice and fresh fruit, developed acute renal failure requiring dialysis, evolving with favourable outcome and recovery of renal function.

Ankle-brachial index: a simple way to predict mortality among patients on hemodialysis--a prospective study.

BACKGROUND: Ankle-brachial index (ABI) can access peripheral artery disease and predict mortality in prevalent patients on hemodialysis. However, ABI has not yet been tested in incident patients, who present significant mortality. Typically, ABI is measured by Doppler, which is not always available, limiting its use in most patients. We therefore hypothesized that ABI, evaluated by a simplified method, can predict mortality in an incident hemodialysis population. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: We studied 119 patients with ESRD who had started hemodialysis three times weekly. ABI was calculated by using two oscillometric blood pressure devices simultaneously. Patients were followed until death or the end of the study. ABI was categorized in two groups normal (0.9-1.3) or abnormal (<0.9 and >1.3). There were 33 deaths during a median follow-up of 12 months (from 3 to 24 months). Age (1 year) (hazard of ratio, 1.026; p = 0.014) and ABI abnormal (hazard ratio, 3.664; p = 0.001) were independently related to mortality in a multiple regression analysis. CONCLUSIONS: An easy and inexpensive technique to measure ABI was tested and showed to be significant in predicting mortality. Both low and high ABI were associated to mortality in incident patients on hemodialysis. This technique allows nephrologists to identify high-risk patients and gives the opportunity of early intervention that could alter the natural progression of this population.

When is the best moment to assess the ankle brachial index: pre- or post-hemodialysis?

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular disease is an important cause of death in patients on dialysis. Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a prognostic factor for cardiovascular disease. The ankle brachial index (ABI) is a noninvasive method used for the diagnosis of PAD. The difference between ABI pre- and post-dialysis had not yet been formally tested, and it was the main objective of this study. METHODS: The ABI was assessed using an automated oscillometric device in incident patients on hemodialysis. All blood pressure readings were taken in triplicate pre- and post-dialysis in three consecutive dialysis sessions (times 1, 2, and 3). RESULTS: One hundred and twenty-three patients (85 men) aged 53 ± 19 years were enrolled. We found no difference in ABI pre- and post-dialysis on the right or left side, and there was no difference in times 1, 2, and 3. In patients with a history of PAD, the ABI pre- versus post-dialysis were of borderline significance on the right side (p = 0.088). CONCLUSION: ABI measured pre- and post-dialysis presented low variability. The ABI in patients with a history of PAD should be evaluated with caution. The applicability of the current method in predicting mortality among patients on hemodialysis therefore needs further investigation.