Vacunación antigripal en personal de salud que trabaja con niños en un prestador privado de salud: años 2019 y 2020 / Flu vaccine administered to health care personnel working with children at a private health provider (2019-2020) / Vacina contra influenza administrada a profissionais de saúde que trabalham com crianças numa operadora de saúde privada (2019-2020)

Introducción: la infección por el virus de la gripe genera morbimortalidad. El personal de salud es uno de los grupos prioritarios para ser vacunado. Objetivo: conocer cobertura vacunal contra la gripe del personal de salud que trabaja con niños en CASMU en 2019 y 2020, y las razones por las que se vacunaron o no. Material y método: estudio observacional, descriptivo, transversal. Recolección de datos en 2020 a través de un cuestionario anónimo. Se registraron las siguientes variables: edad, lugar de trabajo (urgencias, internación o policlínica), función, riesgo de enfermedad grave, aplicación o no de vacuna en 2019 y en 2020, y motivos de vacunación o de no vacunación. Resultados: completaron la encuesta 204 trabajadores. En 2019, se vacunó el 73 % y, en 2020, el 77,5 % (p >0,05). El personal de salud de urgencias de Montevideo presentó mayor vacunación (en 2019, el 90,7 %; en 2020, el 93 %), seguido por el personal de salud de urgencias de Ciudad de la Costa e internación. Según la ocupación, para los médicos se registró una vacunación mayor al 95 % (2019 y 2020); para las licenciadas y auxiliares de enfermería, el 68,6 % en 2019 y el 75,7 % en 2020; para el personal no clínico, el 33 % en 2019 y el 41 % en 2020. El aumento de vacunados en 2020 no fue significativo en ninguna de las ocupaciones. El 21 % de los encuestados presentaba riesgo de enfermedad grave; el 65 % de estos se vacunó en 2019 y el 74,4 % en 2020. La totalidad de las embarazadas de la muestra se vacunó. Motivos más frecuentes mencionados de vacunación (2019 y 2020): prevención (50,5 %) y ser personal de salud (36 %). El de quienes no se vacunaron fue "Nunca enfermo" (19 %). Quienes no se administraron la vacuna en 2019, pero sí en 2020, mencionaron más frecuentemente la pandemia como motivo. Conclusión: en CASMU, el porcentaje de trabajadores de la salud en contacto con niños que se adhirió a la vacunación antigripal en 2019 y 2020 fue mayor al 70 %. No se registró aumento significativo por la pandemia. Se debe mejorar la cobertura en policlínicas y del personal de salud no médico, en particular del personal de salud con factores de riesgo de enfermedad grave.

Introduction: the influenza virus infection causes morbidity and mortality. Health care personnel (HCP) is one of the priority groups to be vaccinated. Objective: to learn about HCP's vaccination coverage against influenza of those workers working with children at CASMU in 2019 and 2020, and the reasons why they received vaccination or did not. Material and Methods: observational, descriptive, crosssectional study. Data collection in 2020: anon ymous survey. Variables: age, place of work (emer gency, hospital or clinic), function, risk of serious illness, vaccination received (or not received) in 2019 and 2020 and reasons. Results: 204 workers completed the survey; influenza vaccination: 73% in 2019 and 77.5% in 2020 (p>0.05). Montevideo's Emergency Department presented the highest level of vaccination and hospitalization (2019-90.7%; 2020-93%) followed by the Ciudad de la Costa's Emergency Department. By occupational level: doctors: vaccination> 95% (2019 and 2020); graduates and nursing assistants: 2019-68.6%; 2020- 75.7%; administrative, kitchen, cleaning and gate house staff: 2019-33%, 2020-41%. The increase in vaccinated personnel in 2020 was not significant for any of the occupations. 21% of those surveyed had a risk of serious illness; 65% were vaccinated in 2019 and 74.4% in 2020. All the sampled pregnant women were vaccinated. The most frequent reasons mentioned for vaccination (2019 and 2020): "prevention" (50.5%), being PS (36%). Those who were not vaccinated stated that were "never ill" (19%). Those who had not received the vaccine in 2019, but received in 2020, mostly mentioned the "pandemic" as a reason. Conclusion: in CASMU, the percentage of health workers in contact with children who adhered to the flu vaccination in 2019 and 2020 was higher than 70%. There was no significant increase after to the pandemic. Coverage in polyclinics and nonmedical HCP, in particular those HCP with risk factors for serious diseases, should be improved.

Introdução: a infecção pelo vírus influenza gera morbimortalidade. O pessoal de saúde (PS) é um dos grupos prioritários a ser vacinado. Objetivo: conhecer a cobertura vacinal contra influenza do PS que atende crianças no CASMU em 2019 e 2020, e os motivos pelos quais foram vacinados ou não. Material e Métodos: estudo observacional, descritivo e transversal. Coleta de dados em 2020: questionário anônimo. Variáveis: idade, local de trabalho (emergência, internação ou policlínica), função, anos de trabalho, risco de doença grave, aplicação ou não da vacinação em 2019 e 2020 e motivos. Resultados: 204 trabalhadores responderam à pesquisa; vacinação contra influenza: 73% em 2019 e 77,5% em 2020 (p> 0,05). O pronto socorro de Montevidéu apresentou o maior nível de vacinação (2019-90,7%; 2020-93%) seguido pelo pronto socorro de Ciudad de la Costa e internação. Ocupação: médicos: vacinação> 95% (2019 e 2020); graduados e auxiliares de enfermagem: 2019-68,6%; 2020-75,7%; Pessoal administrativo, cozinha, limpeza e porteiros: 2019-33%, 2020-41%. O aumento de vacinados em 2020 não foi significativo em nenhuma das ocupações. 21% dos entrevistados corriam risco de doenças graves; 65% deles foram vacinados em 2019 e 74,4% em 2020. Todas as gestantes da amostra foram vacinadas. Motivos mais citados para a vacinação (2019 e 2020): "prevenção" (50,5%), sendo PS (36%). Aqueles que não foram vacinados disseram que eles "nunca ficavam doentes" (19%). Os que não receberam a vacina em 2019, mas sim em 2020, citaram com mais frequência a "pandemia" como motivo. Conclusão: no CASMU, a percentagem de profissionais de saúde em contato com crianças que aderiram à vacinação contra gripe em 2019 e 2020 foi superior a 70%. Não houve aumento significativo após a pandemia. A cobertura em policlínicas e profissionais de saúde não médicos e, em particular, profissionais de saúde com fatores de risco para doenças graves, deve ser melhorada.

Identificación de hábitos, conductas y prácticas de niñas, niños y adolescentes de 5º y 6º año en instituciones educativas públicas y privadas / Identification of behaviours, habits and practices of 5th and 6th grade children and adolescents studying at private and public schools / Identificação de hábitos, comportamentos e práticas dos meninos, meninas e adolescêntes de 5to e 6to ano do ensino fundamental de instituçoes de ensino público e privado

Introducción: lograr la interacción entre los equipos de salud y la educación, es fundamental para generar futuras generaciones con conocimientos y destrezas que les permitan cuidar su salud, la de sus familias y comunidades. Durante la edad escolar se desarrollan gran parte de las preferencias, costumbres y estilos personales. Objetivo: conocer los hábitos, conductas y prácticas de las niñas, niños y adolescentes de quinto y sexto año de tres instituciones educativas públicas y tres privadas de Montevideo para realizar un diagnóstico de situación que permita planificar una intervención posterior. Material y método: estudio descriptivo, observacional y transversal entre octubre y diciembre 2017. Se aplicó una encuesta anónima a escolares de quinto y sexto año de tres instituciones públicas y tres privadas de los barrios Paso de la Arena, Prado y Colón. Se solicitó consentimiento informado y autorización al comité de investigación institucional. Se utilizaron frecuencias absolutas y porcentajes. Resultados: participaron 331 escolares, 73,1% del sector público y el 26,9% del privado. En la merienda escolar, 46% consume merienda casera y 75% comprada. El 53% no consume alimentos UP en el recreo. En el hogar un 50% come frutas y un 35% come verduras todos los días, un 64,3% consume carne UP hasta 3 veces por semana. Si bien un 48,3% refiere correr todos los días, casi cuatro de cada diez nunca bailan, patinan o andan en bicicleta y dos de cada diez nunca practican deportes. El 65% destina más de 2 horas a las pantallas, 2 de cada 10 duermen menos de 6 horas y más del 50% usan el celular o miran televisión antes de dormir. Se encontraron diferencias entre el sector público y privado en la merienda casera, consumo de UP, carne y agua. Conclusiones: se realizó un diagnóstico de los hábitos, conductas y prácticas de los escolares de esas 3 zonas que permitió elegir los temas prioritarios de salud para trabajar con esas escuelas. La situación es inquietante y debe trabajarse con celeridad a nivel interinstitucional generando cambios en los hábitos de vida de los escolares, sus familias y la comunidad. Se determinó un punto de partida para poder evaluar y medir el impacto de las acciones.

Introduction: promoting interaction between health and educational teams is essential to build the necessary skills and knowledge in future generations that would enable them to take care of their health, their families' and their communities'. Most preferences, habits and personal styles are developed at school age. Objective: to get to know the habits, behaviors and practices of children and adolescents of fifth and sixth grade attending three public and three private educational institutions in Montevideo and make a diagnosis of the situation to able to plan a subsequent intervention. Material and Methods: descriptive, observational and crosssectional study between October and December 2017. An anonymous survey was applied to fifth and sixth grade students from three public and three private institutions in the Paso de la Arena, Prado and Colón neighborhoods. Informed consent and authorization were obtained from the institutional research committee. Absolute frequencies and percentages were used. Results: 331 school children participated, 73.1% from the public sector and 26.9% from the private sector. Regarding school snacks, 46% of them consume homemade snacks and 75% consume processed snacks. 53% do not consume food during recess. At home 50% eat fruits and 35% eat vegetables every day, 64.3% consume UP meat up to 3 times a week. While 48.3% report running every day, almost four out of ten have never danced, skated or ridden a bike and two out of ten have never played sports. 65% spend more than 2 hours watching screens, 2 out of 10 sleep less than 6 hours and more than 50% use the cell phone or watch television before bed. We found significant differences between the public and private sectors regarding homemade snacking, meat and water consumption. Conclusions: we carried out a diagnosis of the habits, behaviors and practices of schoolchildren in these 3 areas, which enabled us to choose priority health topics to work with these schools. The situation is disturbing and it must be addressed quickly at interinstitutional level in order to generate changes in the schoolchildren habits, their families and their communities. We have set up a starting point in order be able to evaluate and measure the impact of actions taken.

Introdução: alcançar a interação entre as equipes de saúde e de educação é essencial para gerar conhecimentos e habilidades nas gerações futuras que lhes permitam cuidar de sua saúde, a de sua família e a de suas comunidades. A maior parte das preferências, costumes e estilos pessoais são desenvolvidos durante a idade escolar. Objetivo: conhecer os hábitos, comportamentos e práticas de crianças e adolescentes do quinto e sexto ano de ensino fundamental de três instituições de ensino público e três de ensino privado de Montevidéu para fazer um diagnóstico da situação que permita planejar uma intervenção posterior. Material e Métodos: estudo descritivo, observacional e transversal entre outubro e dezembro de 2017. Uma pesquisa anónima foi aplicada a alunos do quinto e sexto ano do ensino fundamental de três instituições públicas e três privadas dos bairros Paso de la Arena, Prado e Colón. Consentimento informado e autorização foram solicitados ao comitê de pesquisa da instituição. Foram utilizadas frequências absolutas e porcentagens. Resultados: participaram 331 escolares, sendo 73,1% do setor público e 26,9% do setor privado. Na merenda escolar, 46% consomem lanche caseiro e 75% compram. 53% não consomem alimentos UP no recreio. Em casa 50% comem frutas e 35% comem vegetais todos os dias, 64,3% consomem carne UP até 3 vezes por semana. Enquanto 48,3% relatam correr todos os dias, quase quatro em cada dez nunca dançam, patinam ou andam de bicicleta e dois em cada dez nunca praticam esportes. 65% passam mais de 2 horas assistindo a telas de computador ou telefones, 2 em cada 10 dormem menos de 6 horas e mais de 50% usam o celular ou assistem à televisão antes de dormir. Foram encontradas diferenças entre os setores público e privado no consumo de lanches caseiros, UP, carne e água. Conclusões: um diagnóstico dos hábitos, comportamentos e práticas dos escolares das 3 zonas que permitiram escolher os temas prioritários de saúde para trabalhar com estas escolas. A situação é preocupante e deve ser trabalhada rapidamente no nível interinstitucional, com o fim de gerar mudanças nos hábitos de vida dos escolares, de suas famílias e da comunidade. Determinouse um ponto de partida para poder avaliar e mensurar o impacto das ações realizadas.

Infección por virus de epstein barr y debut de lupus eritematoso sistémico (LES) en un adolescente / Epstein barr virus infection and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) debut in an adolescent / Infecção pelo vírus Epstein Barr e início de lúpus eritematoso sistêmico (LES) em adolescente

Introducción: El lupus eritematoso sistémico (LES), prototipo de enfermedad autoinmune, cursa con empujes y remisiones. Dada la diversidad de presentaciones posibles, su diagnóstico y tratamiento son un reto para el clínico, y se requiere tener un alto índice de sospecha. Objetivo: presentar el caso clínico de un adolescente que debuta con LES a forma de anemia hemolítica, probablemente gatillado por infección por virus de Epstein Barr. Caso clínico: Varón de 14 años, sin antecedentes a destacar. Consulta por fiebre de 7 días de evolución de hasta 39º C, odinofagia, astenia y adinamia. Al examen físico se constata palidez cutáneo mucosa, ictericia, adenopatías cervicales y hepatoesplenomegalia. El laboratorio muestra anemia severa regenerativa con aumento de las bilirrubinas a expensas de la indirecta sin hepatitis. Prueba de Coombs positiva. Anticuerpos específicos para Epstein Barr positivos, con lo que se diagnostica anemia hemolítica secundaria a mononucleosis y se inicia tratamiento corticoideo. En la evolución agrega eritema malar y limitación en flexión de codos y rodillas. Se reciben anticuerpos antinucleares y anti ADN nativo positivos con hipocomplementemia severa. Con diagnóstico de LES se inicia hidroxicloroquina y azatioprina, manteniéndose la prednisona. Conclusiones: Muchos virus (hepatitis C, Parvovirus B19, Epstein Barr y Citomegalovirus) se han descrito como posibles inductores o simuladores de LES. Es necesario mantener un alto índice de sospecha para realizar un diagnóstico oportuno y tratamiento precoz.

Introduction: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), prototype of autoimmune disease, progresses with flares and remissions. Given the diversity of possible presentations, its diagnosis and treatment are a challenge for the clinician, and a high index of suspicion is required. Objective: To present the clinical case of an adolescent who debuted with SLE in the form of hemolytic anemia, probably triggered by Epstein Barr virus infection. Clinical case: 14 - year - old male, with no history to highlight. Consultation for fever of 7 days of evolution of up to 39º C, odynophagia, asthenia and adynamia. Physical examination revealed mucous skin pallor, jaundice, cervical lymphadenopathy, and hepatosplenomegaly. The laboratory shows severe regenerative anemia with increased bilirubin at the expense of indirect without hepatitis. Positive Coombs test. Specific antibodies for Epstein Barr were positive, with which hemolytic anemia secondary to mononucleosis was diagnosed and corticosteroid treatment was started. In the evolution, it adds malar erythema and limitation in flexion of the elbows and knees. Positive antinuclear and anti-native DNA antibodies are received with severe hypocomplementemia. With a diagnosis of SLE, hydroxychloroquine and azathioprine were started, maintaining prednisone. Conclusions: Many viruses (hepatitis C, Parvovirus B19, Epstein Barr and Cytomegalovirus) have been described as possible inducers or mimics of SLE. It is necessary to maintain a high index of suspicion for timely diagnosis and early treatment.

Introdução: O lúpus eritematoso sistêmico (LES), protótipo de doença autoimune, evolui com impulsos e remissões. Dada a diversidade de apresentações possíveis, seu diagnóstico e tratamento são um desafio para o clínico, sendo necessário um alto índice de suspeição. Objetivo: apresentar o caso clínico de uma adolescente que iniciou com LES na forma de anemia hemolítica, provavelmente desencadeada por infecção pelo vírus Epstein Barr. Caso clínico: Homem de 14 anos, sem antecedentes a destacar. Consulta por febre de 7 dias de evolução de até 39º C, odinofagia, astenia e adinamia. O exame físico revelou palidez cutânea mucosa, icterícia, linfadenopatia cervical e hepatoesplenomegalia. O laboratório mostra anemia regenerativa grave com aumento da bilirrubina em detrimento da indireta sem hepatite. Teste de Coombs positivo. Anticorpos específicos para Epstein Barr foram positivos, com o qual foi diagnosticada anemia hemolítica secundária à mononucleose e iniciado tratamento com corticosteróides. Na evolução, acrescenta eritema malar e limitação na flexão dos cotovelos e joelhos. Anticorpos antinucleares e anti-DNA nativos positivos são recebidos com hipocomplementemia grave. Com diagnóstico de LES, iniciou-se hidroxicloroquina e azatioprina, mantendo-se prednisona. Conclusões: Muitos vírus (hepatite C, Parvovírus B19, Epstein Barr e Citomegalovírus) têm sido descritos como possíveis indutores ou mimetizadores do LES. É necessário manter um alto índice de suspeição para diagnóstico oportuno e tratamento precoce.

Seguimiento ambulatorio de pacientes pediátricos con diagnóstico de COVID-19 en CASMU-IAMPP / Outpatient follow-up of pediatric patients diagnosed with COVID-19 at CASMU IAMPP Hospital / Acompanhamento ambulatorial de pacientes pediátricos diagnosticados com COVID-19 no Hospital CASMU IAMPP

Introducción: en marzo de 2020 la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS) declaró la pandemia de COVID-19. En Uruguay, más de 60.000 niños han cursado la enfermedad, requiriendo internación unos 500. Tres fallecieron. Objetivos: describir las características epidemiológicas de menores de 15 años con diagnóstico de COVID-19 controlados en un programa de seguimiento ambulatorio, su nexo epidemiológico y comparar los resultados de 2020 y 2021. Metodología: trabajo descriptivo de menores de 15 con confirmación etiológica de SARS-CoV-2 asistidos por el programa entre marzo de 2020 y junio de 2021. Variables: sexo, edad, procedencia, nexo epidemiológico y síntomas. Se compararon las variables entre los dos períodos de estudio. Resultados: se siguieron 1.328 pacientes, 663 (49,9%) sexo masculino. Menores de 6 años, 341 (25,6%); de 6 a 11, 608 (45,7%), y de 12 años o más, 379 (28,7%). El nexo epidemiológico fue mayoritariamente intrafamiliar (conviviente 867, no conviviente 144). En 2020 hubo 132 pacientes positivos, 35 (26,5%) menores de 6 (uno menor al año); 66 (50%) sintomáticos: 49 síntomas respiratorios altos (37,1%), 35 fiebre (26,5%), siete cefalea (5,3%), 60 asintomáticos. En 2021 hubo 1.196 pacientes positivos, 306 (25%) menores de 6 (dos recién nacidos y 43 menores de 1 año); 791 (66%) sintomáticos: 500 síntomas respiratorios altos (41,8%), 355 fiebre (29,7%), cefalea 212 (17,7%), 352 asintomáticos. En 2021 aumentaron los sintomáticos, la cefalea y las infecciones intrafamiliares (p <0,05). El porcentaje de contagios en centros educativos tuvo un descenso estadísticamente significativo. Conclusiones: en ambos periodos predominaron los escolares, con aparición de casos en niños menores de un año en 2021. Los niños se contagiaron en domicilio. Los pacientes sintomáticos predominaron en 2021, en particular aquellos con cefalea.

Summary: Introduction: in March 2020, the WHO declared the COVID-19 pandemic. In Uruguay, more than 60,000 children have had the disease, 500 of them requiring hospitalization. Three died. Objectives: to describe the epidemiological characteristics of children under 15 years of age diagnosed with COVID-19 controlled in an outpatient follow-up program, their epidemiological trace, and to compare results for 2020 and 2021. Methodology: descriptive study of children under 15 years of age with etiological confirmation of SARS-CoV-2 assisted by the program between March 2020 and June 2021. Variables: sex, age, origin, epidemiological link and symptoms. Variables were compared between the 2 study periods. Results: 1,328 patients were followed up, 663 (49.9%) male. Under 6 years old, 341 (25.6%), from 6 to 11, 608 (45.7%) and 12 years or older, 379 (28.7%). The epidemiological trace was mainly within the family (867 living together, 144 not living together). In 2020 there were 132 positive patients, 35 (26.5%) under 6 (1 under a year); 66 (50%) symptomatic: 49 upper respiratory symptoms (37.1%), 35 fever (26.5%), 7 headache (5.3%), 60 asymptomatic. In 2021, there were 1,196 positive patients, 306 (25%) under 6 (2 newborns and 43 under 1 year); 791 (66%) symptomatic: 500 upper respiratory symptoms (41.8%), 355 fever (29.7%), headache 212 (17.7%), 352 asymptomatic. In 2021, symptoms, headache and intrafamily infections increased (p < 0.05). The percentage of infections taking place at schools had a statistically significant decrease. Conclusions: in both periods, schoolchildren predominated, with cases appearing in children under one year of age in 2021. The children were infected at home. Symptomatic patients predominated in 2021, particularly those with headache.

Introdução: em março de 2020, a OMS declarou a pandemia de COVID-19. No Uruguai, mais de 60.000 crianças tiveram a doença, 500 delas necessitaram de internação. Três morreram. Objetivos: descrever as características epidemiológicas de crianças menores de 15 anos diagnosticadas com COVID-19 controladas em programa de acompanhamento ambulatorial, seu vínculo epidemiológico e comparar os resultados de 2020 e 2021. Metodologia: trabalho descritivo de crianças menores de 15 anos com confirmação etiológica de SARS-CoV-2 atendidas pelo programa entre março de 2020 e junho de 2021. Variáveis: sexo, idade, procedência, vínculo epidemiológico e sintomas. As variáveis foram comparadas entre os 2 períodos de estudo. Resultados: 1.328 pacientes foram acompanhados, 663 (49,9%) do sexo masculino. Menores de 6 anos, 341 (25,6%), de 6 a 11, 608 (45,7%) e 12 anos ou mais, 379 (28,7%). O vínculo epidemiológico foi principalmente no âmbito familiar (867 moram juntos, 144 não moram juntos). Em 2020 houve 132 pacientes positivos, 35 (26,5%) menores de 6 anos (1 menor de um ano); 66 (50%) sintomáticos: 49 sintomas respiratórios superiores (37,1%), 35 febre (26,5%), 7 cefaleia (5,3%), 60 assintomáticos. Em 2021 houve 1.196 pacientes positivos, 306 (25%) menores de 6 anos (2 recém-nascidos e 43 menores de 1 ano); 791 (66%) sintomáticos: 500 sintomas respiratórios superiores (48,1%), 355 febre (29,7%), cefaleia 212 (17,7%), 352 assintomáticos. Em 2021, os sintomas, cefaleia e infecções intrafamiliares aumentaram (p < 0,05). A porcentagem de infecções em centros educacionais teve uma diminuição estatisticamente significativa. Conclusões: em ambos períodos predominaram os escolares, com aparecimento de casos em menores de um ano em 2021. As crianças foram infectadas em casa. Pacientes sintomáticos predominaram em 2021, particularmente aqueles com cefaleia.

Epidemiología de los niños, niñas y adolescentes derivados a un equipo de referencia en violencia basado en género y generaciones durante la pandemia por el COVID-19: diferencias con el año 2016: CASMU-IAMPP / Epidemiology of children and adolescents referred to a gender violence reference team during the COVID-19 pandemic as compared to 2016: CASMU-IAMPP / Epidemiologia de crianças e adolescentes referidos a uma equipe de referência em violência baseada em gênero durante a pandemia do COVID-19: diferenças com o ano de 2016: CASMU-IAMPP

El maltrato y el abuso sexual infantil constituyen una violación de los derechos humanos y un importante problema de salud mundial. La situación ya era grave y compleja previamente. El aislamiento social por el COVID-19 la volvió una crisis. En marzo de 2020 se tomaron medidas preventivas para mitigar los efectos de la enfermedad. El confinamiento fue una de ellas. El maltrato infantil durante 2020 ascendió de 20% a 32%. Objetivo: conocer las características epidemiológicas de los niños, niñas y adolescentes víctimas de situaciones de maltrato y de probable abuso sexual infantil, asistidos en el Equipo de Referencia en Violencia Basado en Género y Generaciones de una institución, entre el 1 abril de 2020 al 31 julio de 2020, en comparación con el mismo período en 2016. Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo, con los usuarios menores de 18 años derivados a dicho equipo. El total de consultas fue 28 en 2016, y 17 en 2020. Los motivos de consulta en 2016 fueron: 24,5% abuso sexual, 3,5% negligencia y 72% maltrato emocional en el contexto de violencia doméstica. En 2020 fueron 41%, 6% y 53%, respectivamente. En 2016 82% de los casos fueron derivados por el sector de salud, de ellos 36% por el pediatra tratante. En 2020 fueron 76% y 46%, respectivamente. A pesar de existir a nivel internacional múltiples reportes y publicaciones que apuntan a un estado de emergencia infantil por la pandemia del COVID-19, esto no se vio reflejado.

Summary: Child and sexual abuse involve a breach of human rights and a major global health problem. The situation was already serious and complex before the Covid 19 Pandemic, but it has turned it into a crisis. In March 2020, preventive measures were taken to mitigate the effects of the disease, the lockdown was one of them. Child abuse rose from 20% to 32% in 2020. Objective: learn about the epidemiological characteristics of children and adolescent victims of abuse and probable sexual abuse, assisted by the Gender Based Violence Reference Team at one institution, between April 1, 2020 and 31 July 2020, compared to the same period in 2016. An observational, descriptive study was carried out with users under 18 years of age referred to team mentioned above. The total number of consultations was 28 in 2016, and 17 in 2020. The reasons for consultation in 2016 were: 24.5% sexual abuse, 3.5% neglect and 72% emotional abuse within the framework of domestic violence. In 2020 they were 41%, 6% and 53%, respectively. In 2016, 82% of the cases were referred by the health sector, 36% of them by the treating pediatrician. In 2020 76% and 46%, respectively. Despite the multiple global reports and publications that suggest a state of emergency for the case of children and adolescents due to the Covid-19 pandemic, this was not reflected in our figures.

O abuso infantil e o abuso sexual constituem uma violação dos direitos humanos e um grande problema de saúde global. A situação já era grave e complexa antes da pandemia do Covid-19 e o isolamento social transformou ela em uma crise. Em março de 2020, foram tomadas medidas preventivas para mitigar os efeitos da doença. O confinamento foi um deles. O abuso infantil em 2020 aumentou de 20% para 32%. Objetivo: conhecer as características epidemiológicas de crianças e adolescentes vítimas de abuso e provável abuso sexual infantil, atendidos pela Equipe de Referência em Violência Baseada no Gênero numa instituição de saúde entre 1º de abril de 2020 a 31 de julho de 2020, em comparação para o mesmo período de 2016. Foi realizado um estudo observacional, descritivo com usuários menores de 18 anos de idade que tinham sido encaminhados à referida equipe. O número total de consultas foi de 28 em 2016 e 17 em 2020. Os motivos de consulta em 2016 foram: 24,5% abuso sexual, 3,5% negligência e 72% abuso emocional em contexto de violência doméstica. Em 2020 foram 41%, 6% e 53%, respectivamente. Em 2016, 82% dos casos foram referudis pelo setor de saúde, 36% deles pelo pediatra responsável. Em 2020 foram 76% e 46%, respectivamente. Apesar da existência de vários papers e publicações a nível gobal que sugerem um estado de emergência para as crianças devido à pandemia de Covid-19, isso não se refletiu nos nossos dados.

Ingresos pediátricos asociados a infección por SARS-CoV-2 en un prestador de salud / Pediatric admissions associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection in a health provider / Admissões pediátricas associadas à infecção por SARS-CoV-2 em um profissional de saúde

Introducción: en enero de 2020 se identificó un nuevo coronavirus como etiología de un síndrome respiratorio agudo severo, que se denominó coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). A la enfermedad asociada se conoce como enfermedad por coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). El SARS-CoV-2 se expandió rápidamente a nivel mundial, decretándose en marzo de 2020 estado de pandemia. La población pediátrica constituyó el 1%-2% del total de casos confirmados, con una tasa de mortalidad menor al 0,2%. En concordancia con lo que sucedía a nivel internacional, se registró en Uruguay un número de ingresos hospitalarios por COVID-19 en menores de 19 años muy inferior al resto de los grupos etarios, así como un menor número de ingresos a unidades de cuidados intensivos (UCI) y de defunciones. El objetivo de esta revisión fue describir los ingresos pediátricos con infección por SARS-CoV-2 en un prestador de salud privado, de la ciudad de Montevideo. Metodología: se incluyeron todos los pacientes menores de 15 años con identificación de infección viral por COVID-19 que requirieron hospitalización en cuidados moderados en el período comprendido entre abril de 2020 a febrero de 2022. Se utilizó reacción en cadena de polimerasa y detección antigénica para COVID-19 para el diagnóstico de infección aguda. Serología para el diagnóstico de infección previa. Resultados: de los 1.164 pacientes ingresados en dicho periodo, en 2% se identificó infección por COVID-19. 80% tenían un nexo epidemiológico, 69% era intradomiciliario. 8% menor de 1 año, 69% entre 1-11 años, 23% mayores de 11 años. 27% presentaban comorbilidad: asma y encefalopatía, un 57% de ellos presentaban toracopatia concomitante. Los motivos de ingreso más frecuentes fueron síntomas respiratorios, con fiebre y lesiones en piel, patología quirúrgica, síntomas neurológicos. Dos requirieron ingreso a CTI. No se reportaron fallecimientos. La mediana de días de hospitalización fue 4 días (1-18 días). Conclusiones: si bien el porcentaje de niños ingresados con infección por SARS-CoV-2 fue pequeño la expresión clínica fue variada, mayoría presentó infección respiratoria leve. Los pacientes con comorbilidades presentaron mayor probabilidad de desarrollar enfermedad aguda moderada a grave. Se debe tener en cuenta la probabilidad de infección por SARS-CoV-2 ante la aparición de otros síntomas, en el curso de infecciones virales.

Summary: Introduction: in January 2020, a new coronavirus was identified as the etiology of a severe acute respiratory syndrome, which was called coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The associated illness is known as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). SARS-CoV-2 spread rapidly worldwide, becoming a pandemic in March 2020. The pediatric population involved 1-2% of the total confirmed cases, with a mortality rate of less than 0.2%. In line with the global trend, children under 19 years of age showed a much lower number of hospital admissions for COVID-19 in Uruguay compared to the remaining age groups, as well as lower number of ICU admissions and deaths. The objective of this paper is to describe pediatric admissions with SARS-Cov-2 infection at a private health provider in Montevideo city. Methodology: we included all patients under 15 years of age with a diagnosis of viral infection by Covid-19 who required hospitalization in moderate care, between 04/20 and 02/22. We used polymerase chain reaction and antigen detection for Covid-19 for the diagnosis of acute infections and serology tests for the diagnosis of a previous infection. Results: of the 1,164 patients admitted in that period, 2% were diagnosed with Covid 19 infection. 80% had an epidemiological link, 69% had home infections. 8% under 1 year of age, 69% between 1-11, 23% over 11 years of age. 27% had comorbidities: asthma and encephalopathy, 57% of them had concomitant thorax pathologies. The most frequent reasons for admission were respiratory symptoms, with fever and skin lesions, surgical pathologies, and neurological symptoms. 2 required ICU admission. No deaths were reported. The median number hospitalization days was 4 days (1-18 days). Conclusions: although the percentage of children admitted with SARS-CoV-2 infections was low, the clinical manifestation was varied, most presented mild respiratory infections. Patients with comorbidities were more likely to develop moderate to severe acute illness. The probability of SARS-CoV-2 infection should be taken into account when other symptoms appear during the course of viral infections.

Introdução: em janeiro de 2020, um novo coronavírus foi identificado como a etiologia de uma síndrome respiratória aguda grave, que recebeu o nome de coronavírus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). A doença associada é conhecida como doença de coronavírus 2019 (COVID-19). O SARS-CoV-2 se espalhou rapidamente em todo o mundo, e virou-se pandemia em março de 2020. A população pediátrica constituiu 1-2% do total de casos confirmados, com uma taxa de mortalidade inferior a 0,2%. De acordo com as tendencias globais, registrou-se no Uruguai um número muito menor de internações por COVID-19 em menores de 19 anos do que no restante das faixas etárias, bem como um número menor de internações em unidades de terapia intensiva (UTI) e óbitos. O objetivo deste estudo é descrever as internações pediátricas com infecção por SARS-Cov-2 numa Assistência Privada de saúde na cidade de Montevidéu. Metodologia: foram incluídos todos os pacientes menores de 15 anos com diagnóstico de infecção viral por Covid-19 que necessitaram de internação em cuidados moderados, entre 20/04 a 22/02. Utilizou-se a reação em cadeia da polimerase e a detecção de antígeno para Covid-19 para o diagnóstico de infecção aguda e estudo sorológico para o diagnóstico de infecção prévia. Resultados: dos 1.164 pacientes internados nesse período, 2% foram diagnosticados com infecção por Covid 19. 80% tinham vínculo epidemiológico, 69% tiveram infecção domiciliar. 8% tinham menos de 1 ano de idade, 69% entre 1-11, 23% com mais de 11 anos. 27% tinham comorbidades: asma e encefalopatia, 57% deles tinham patologias torácicas concomitantes. Os motivos de admissão mais frequentes foram sintomas respiratórios com febre e lesões cutâneas, patologias cirúrgicas e sintomas neurológicos. 2 necessitaram de internação na UTI. Nenhuma morte foi relatada. A mediana do número de dias de internação foi de 4 dias (1-18 dias). Conclusões: embora a porcentagem de crianças admitidas com infecção por SARS-CoV-2 fosse baixa, a manifestação clínica foi variada, a maioria apresentou infecção respiratória leve. Pacientes com comorbidades foram mais propensos a desenvolver doença aguda moderada a grave. A probabilidade de infecção por SARS-CoV-2 deve ser levada em consideração quando outros sintomas aparecem no curso de infecções virais.

PTEN and FOXO3 expression in the prenatal and postnatal human ovary.

PURPOSE: The objective of this study was to analyse the expression and cellular localization of FOXO3, pFOXO3 and PTEN throughout human ovary development both before and after birth. METHODS: Foetal, pubertal and adult paraffin-embedded ovarian samples were analysed by immunohistochemistry for cellular localization of FOXO3, pFOXO3 and PTEN proteins. Protein and mRNA expression were analysed by western blot and real time PCR, respectively, from fresh biopsies. RESULTS: PTEN was not detected by immunohistochemistry in germ cells and follicles of foetal, pubertal and adult ovaries. Occasional PTEN immunoreactive granulosa cells were found in atretic antral follicles in the adult ovary. Western blot analysis showed low levels of PTEN protein. Nuclear FOXO3-expressing primordial follicles represented a variable proportion of the ovarian reserve. The presence of FOXO3-expressing primordial follicles was very low in foetal ovary; although always represented in a low proportion, prevalence increased during pubertal and adult life. CONCLUSION: Our results seem to indicate that two subpopulations of primordial follicles, i.e. nuclear FOXO3-expressing and no FOXO3-expressing primordial follicles are found in the postnatal human ovary. This scenario suggests that FOXO3 could be acting as in the mouse model, preventing primordial follicle activation. However, the strategy would not be an "all or nothing" system as in mouse ovary but rather a selected subpopulation of primordial follicles preserved to ensure long-term fertility.

Protein A Modulates Neutrophil and Keratinocyte Signaling and Survival in Response to Staphylococcus aureus.

The type 1 TNF-α receptor (TNFR1) has a central role in initiating both pro-inflammatory and pro-apoptotic signaling cascades in neutrophils. Considering that TNFR1 signals Staphylococcus aureus protein A (SpA), the aim of this study was to explore the interaction of this bacterial surface protein with neutrophils and keratinocytes to underscore the signaling pathways that may determine the fate of these innate immune cells in the infected tissue during staphylococcal skin infections. Using human neutrophils cultured in vitro and isogenic staphylococcal strains expressing or not protein A, we demonstrated that SpA is a potent inducer of IL-8 in neutrophils and that the induction of this chemokine is dependent on the SpA-TNFR1 interaction and p38 activation. In addition to IL-8, protein A induced the expression of TNF-α and MIP-1α highlighting the importance of SpA in the amplification of the inflammatory response. Protein A contributed to reduce neutrophil mortality prolonging their lifespan upon the encounter with S. aureus. Signaling initiated by SpA modulated the type of neutrophil cell death in vitro and during skin and soft tissue infections (SSTI) in vivo triggering the apoptotic pathway instead of necrosis. Moreover, SpA induced pro-inflammatory cytokines in keratinocytes, modulating their survival in vitro and preventing the exacerbated necrosis and ulceration of the epithelium during SSTI in vivo. Taken together, these results highlight the importance of the inflammatory signaling induced by protein A in neutrophils and skin epithelial cells. The ability of protein A to modulate the neutrophil/epithelial cell death program in the skin is of clinical relevance considering that lysis of neutrophils and epithelial cells will promote an intense inflammatory response and contribute to tissue damage, a non-desirable feature of complicated SSTI.

The good side of inflammation: Staphylococcus aureus proteins SpA and Sbi contribute to proper abscess formation and wound healing during skin and soft tissue infections.

Staphylococcus aureus is the most prominent cause of skin and soft tissue infections (SSTI) worldwide. Mortality associated with invasive SSTI is a major threat to public health considering the incidence of antibiotic resistant isolates in particular methicillin resistant S. aureus both in the hospital (HA-MRSA) and in the community (CA-MRSA). To overcome the increasing difficulties in the clinical management of SSTI due to MRSA, new prophylactic and therapeutic approaches are urgently needed and a preventive vaccine would be welcome. The rational design of an anti-S. aureus vaccine requires a deep knowledge of the role that the different bacterial virulence factors play according to the type of infection. In the present study, using a set of isogenic deficient mutants and their complemented strains we determined that the staphylococcal surface proteins SpA and Sbi play an important role in the induction of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in the skin during SSTI. SpA and Sbi initiate signaling cascades that lead to the early recruitment of neutrophils, modulate their lifespan in the skin milieu and contribute to proper abscess formation and bacterial eradication. Moreover, the expression of SpA and Sbi appear critical for skin repair and wound healing. Thus, these results indicate that SpA and Sbi can promote immune responses in the skin that are beneficial for the host and therefore, should not be neutralized with vaccine formulations designed to prevent SSTI.

Transmisión vertical del virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana en mujeres usuarias del Centro Hospitalario Pereira Rossell; Uruguay, 2012-2014. Resultados de la aplicación del protocolo zidovudina - nevirapina en niños uruguayos / Vertical transmission of the HIV in women who are users of the Pereira Rossell Hospital Center, Uruguay 2012-2014. Results of the application of the Zidovudine ­ Nevirapine combined protocol in Uruguayan children / Transmissão vertical do Vírus da Imunodeficiência Humana em mulheres usuárias do Centro Hospitalário Pereira Roussel; Uruguai 2012-2014. Resultados da aplicação do protocolo Zidovudina - Nevirapina em crianças uruguaias

Introducción: el embarazo controlado y la supresión del amamantamiento son estrategias para disminuir la transmisión vertical (TMI) del virus de inmunodeficiencia humana (VIH). La profilaxis al neonato con zidovudina o zidovudina con nevirapina se utiliza según el riesgo de TMI. Objetivo: describir la TMI entre los años 2012 y 2014 en el Centro Hospitalario Pereira Rossell (CHPR), su relación con la carga viral materna y el cumplimiento de la recomendación AZT-NVP al neonato. Material y método: estudio descriptivo en el Centro de Referencia Obstétrico - Pediátrico VIH-Sida desde 1° de setiembre de 2012 al 31de diciembre 2014. Se incluyeron los recién nacidos de mujeres con carga viral detectable o indetectable al momento del parto. Se registró la administración de zidovudina-nevirapina. Se determinó la transmisión vertical. Resultados: se incluyeron 162 mujeres, 86 con carga viral detectable o desconocida y 76 indetectable. Las primeras tuvieron 88 hijos y las segundas 76. La TMI global fue de 4,9%; 9% en el primer grupo y 0% en el segundo. Se registró asociación entre TMI y CV materna (p <0,05). La administración de AZT-NVP se indicó en 46,5% de los niños. De los ocho niños infectados, la TMI fue intraútero en cinco. En los tres restantes, dos recibieron AZT y otro ninguna profilaxis. Discusión y conclusiones: la mitad de las mujeres no controló bien su embarazo. La TMI promedio fue de 4,9%. De los ocho infectados, cinco fueron intraútero; solo un diagnóstico y tratamiento precoces lo hubiesen evitado. El protocolo AZT-NVP no se utiliza en forma adecuada. Quizá su aplicación en los tres niños restantes hubiera evitado la infección.

Introduction: controlled pregnancy and interruption of breastfeeding are strategies used to reduce vertical transmission of the immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Neonates are subject to prophylactic treatment of zidovudine or combination therapy with zidovudine and nevirapine based on the mother-to-child transmission risk. Objective: to describe mother-to-child transmission from 2012 to 2014 at the Pereira Rossell Hospital Center, its relationship with the maternal viral load and the observation of the AZT-NVP prophylactic treatment recommended for neonates. Method: descriptive study, at the Obstetric Pediatrix HIV-Aids Reference Center from September 1, 2012 until December, 31, 2014. The newborns to mother with detectable or undetectable viral loads at the time of delivery. Administration of zidovudine-nevirapine was recorded. Vertical transmission was defined. Results: 162 women were included in the study, 86 of them with a detectable or unknown viral load and 76 women with a detectable load. The first group gave birth to 88 children and the second one to 76. Global mother-to-child transmission rate was 4.9%, 9% in the first group and 0% in the second one. The association between mother-to-child transmission and maternal load was recorded (P<0.05). Administration of AZT-NVP was indicated in 45.5% of children. Intrauterine mother-to child transmission was 5 for the 8 infected children. As to the other three children: 2 received AZT and another one received no prophylactic therapy. Discussion and conclusions: fifty per cent of the women's pregnancies were not dully controlled. Average mother-to-child transmission was 4.9%. Out of the 8 infected cases, 5 happened in the uterus, only an early diagnosis and treatment would have prevented it from happening. The AZT-NVP protocol is not applied in the right way. Its application on the other 3 children may have avoided the infection.

Introdução: o controle da gravidez e a supressão do aleitamento materno são estratégias para diminuir a transmissão vertical (TMI) do Vírus da Imunodeficiência Humana (VIH). No neonato, a profilaxia com zidovudina ou zidovudina com nevirapina é utilizada de acordo com o risco de TMI. Objetivo: descrever a TMI no período 2012-2014 no CHPR, sua relação com a carga viral materna e o cumprimento da recomendação AZT-NVP no neonato. Material e métodos: estudo descritivo, realizado no Centro de Referencia Obstétrico- Pediátrico VIH-Sida no período 1° de setembro de 2012 ­ 31 de dezembro de 2014. Foram incluídos os recém-nascidos de mulheres com carga viral (CV) detectável ou indetectável no momento do parto. A administração de zidovudina ­ nevirapina e a transmissão vertical foram registradas. Resultados: foram incluídas 162 mulheres, 86 com carga viral detectável ou desconhecida e 76 indetectável. As primeiras tiveram 88 filhos e as segundas 76. A TMI global foi de 4,9%, 9% no primeiro grupo e 0% no segundo. A associação entre TMI e CV materna (P<0.05) foi registrada. A administração de AZT-NVP foi indicada em 46.5% das crianças. Nas 8 crianças infectadas, a TMI foi intrauterina em 5 . Nas 3 restantes, duas receberam AZT e a restante não recebeu nenhum tipo de profilaxia. Discussão e conclusões: a metade das mulheres não controlou sua gravidez adequadamente. A TMI média foi de 4.9%. Das 8 infectadas, 5 foram intrauterinas; somente o diagnóstico e tratamento precoces poderiam ter evitado. O protocolo AZT-NVP, não foi utilizado de forma adequada. É possível que sua aplicação nas 3 crianças restantes tivesse evitado a infecção.

Anetodermia primaria asociada a lupus eritematoso sistémico. A propósito de un caso / Associated primary anemia to systemic lupus erythematosus About a case

La anetodermia es un trastorno elastolítico infrecuente, caracterizado clínicamente por áreas de piel laxa y pérdida o disminución de las fibras elásticas en la histología. Este hallazgo sin enfermedad cutánea previa es conocido como anetodermia primaria y se suele asociar a enfermedades autoinmunes; dentro de éstas el lupus eritematoso sistémico (LES), con anticuerpos antifosfolipídicos, y el síndrome antifosfolipídico (SAF) son las más frecuentes. Presentamos una paciente con anetodermia primaria, LES y anticuerpos antifosfolipídicos positivos sin clínica de SAF (AU)

Anetoderma is an infrequent elastolytic disorder, clinically characterized by areas with lack of the skin and decreased elastic fibers at histology. This finding without previous skin disease is known as primary anetoderma and is often associated with autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), with antiphospholipid antibodies, and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). A female patient with primary anetoderma, SLE and positive antiphospholipid antibodies without clinical APS is reported (AU)

Identification of germ cell-specific VASA and IFITM3 proteins in human ovarian endometriosis.

BACKGROUND: Endometriosis is a gynaecological disorder that affects 6-10 % of female population. It is characterized by the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterus, most often in the pelvic peritoneum or ovaries. Recent studies have indicated that mesenchymal endometrial stem cells might get involved in endometriosis progression. Although germ line stem cells have been proved to exist in the ovary, their involvement in ovarian endometriosis has not been investigated. In this preliminary report we aimed to identify germinal stem cell markers in ovarian endometriosis. FINDINGS: Ten paraffin-embedded ovarian endometriosis samples were screened for germ cell-specific proteins DDX4 (VASA) and IFITM3, and its relation with stem cell marker OCT4, proliferation marker PCNA and estrogen receptor alpha (ESR1), by immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and PCR. DDX4 and IFITM3 proteins were expressed in isolated cells and clusters of cells in the cortical region of ovarian endometriotic cysts. DDX4 and IFITM3 co-localized in cells from endometriotic stroma, and DDX4/IFITM3-expressing cells were positive for ESR1, OCT4 and PCNA. No cells expressing neither DDX4 nor IFITM3 were detected in normal endometrial tissue. CONCLUSION: The identification of germ cell-specific proteins DDX4 and IFITM3 provides the first evidence of ovarian-sourced cells in ovarian endometriotic lesions and opens up new directions towards understanding the still confusing pathogenesis of endometriosis.

Siringomas: presentación de casosclínicos y revisión de la bibliografía / Syringomas: a clinical cases series and literature review

Los Siringomas son tumoraciones benignas que comprometen el epitelio ductal de la glándula sudorípara ecrina.La etiología es desconocida. El motivo de consulta suele ser por razones estéticas, sin embargo la afección en genitales genera cancerofobia o venerofobia. En la clasificación se incluyen variantes clínicas y asociación a diferentes enfermedades y síndromes.El diagnóstico es clínico e histopatológico. Existen múltiples opciones terapéuticas pero ninguna óptima.En este trabajo presentamos cuatro pacientes con manifestaciones clínicas diferentes y revisión de la literatura.

Syringomas are benign tumors of unknown etiology where the ductal epithelium from sudoriparous eccrine gland is compromised. Main complaint is due to the aesthetic nature, however the genital condition creates fear of cancer or venereal diseases. Classification includes clinical variants and association with different diseases and syndromes. Diagnosis is made by clinical and histopathological examination. Multiple treatment options are proposed with no effective outcome. Four cases with different clinical manifestations are reported and literature review is performed.

Dermal papilla cells improve the wound healing process and generate hair bud-like structures in grafted skin substitutes using hair follicle stem cells.

Tissue-engineered skin represents a useful strategy for the treatment of deep skin injuries and might contribute to the understanding of skin regeneration. The use of dermal papilla cells (DPCs) as a dermal component in a permanent composite skin with human hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs) was evaluated by studying the tissue-engineered skin architecture, stem cell persistence, hair regeneration, and graft-take in nude mice. A porcine acellular dermal matrix was seeded with HFSCs alone and with HFSCs plus human DPCs or dermal fibroblasts (DFs). In vitro, the presence of DPCs induced a more regular and multilayered stratified epidermis with more basal p63-positive cells and invaginations. The DPC-containing constructs more accurately mimicked the skin architecture by properly stratifying the differentiating HFSCs and developing a well-ordered epithelia that contributed to more closely recapitulate an artificial human skin. This acellular dermal matrix previously repopulated in vitro with HFSCs and DFs or DPCs as the dermal component was grafted in nude mice. The presence of DPCs in the composite substitute not only favored early neovascularization, good assimilation and remodeling after grafting but also contributed to the neovascular network maturation, which might reduce the inflammation process, resulting in a better healing process, with less scarring and wound contraction. Interestingly, only DPC-containing constructs showed embryonic hair bud-like structures with cells of human origin, presence of precursor epithelial cells, and expression of a hair differentiation marker. Although preliminary, these findings have demonstrated the importance of the presence of DPCs for proper skin repair.

The infant and pubertal human ovary: Balbiani's body-associated VASA expression, immunohistochemical detection of apoptosis-related BCL2 and BAX proteins, and DNA fragmentation.

STUDY QUESTION: How do apoptosis-related BCL2 and BAX genes, known to regulate death or survival of germ cells in fetal and adult life, and germ-cell-specific VASA protein behave from birth to puberty in the human ovary? SUMMARY ANSWER: In resting primordial follicles in both infant and pubertal ovaries, BCL2 family members and germ-cell-specific VASA behave as in fetal life. After birth, once follicles leave the resting reserve to enter the growing follicular pool, detection of apoptosis-related genes moves from the germ cell to granulosa cells and VASA expression is lost. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY: In the human ovary, around 85% of the 7 × 106 potential oocytes produced at mid-gestation are lost before birth, an extra 10% before puberty, and loss continues throughout reproductive life until germinal exhaustion of the ovary. Oocyte loss is mainly driven through a balanced expression of BCL2 gene family members. Apoptosis-inducing BAX gene shows a sustained expression throughout fetal and adult life, whereas apoptosis-inhibiting BCL2 is detectable during the proliferative stage of primordial germ cells and oogonia in the fetal ovary and proliferation of granulosa cells in growing follicles in the adult ovary. The germ-cell marker VASA is detectable in the fetal ovary from early oogenesis and is conspicuously expressed in primordial follicles, where in late pregnancy it is associated with the Balbiani's vitelline space. VASA expression is not detectable in the adult ovary. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION: This is a qualitative analysis involving infant/pubertal paraffin-embedded human ovaries screened for apoptosis-related proteins, DNA fragmentation and germ-cell identity. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS: Ovaries from 13 patients ranging in age from 4 to 16 years, undergoing gynaecological surgical procedures due to benign pathology, were studied. Tissues were fixed in 10% formalin, paraffin-embedded and processed for immunohistochemistry to screen the temporal and cellular localization of germ-cell-specific VASA protein and BCL2 and BAX apoptosis-related proteins. In addition, a terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxiuridinetriphosphate nick-end labelling (TUNEL) assay was performed to detect DNA fragmentation. General histology and tissue integrity were assessed by haematoxylin-eosin staining. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE: VASA showed a differential pattern of expression; in the resting primordial follicle reserve in infant and pubertal ovaries, it was associated with the Balbiani's body space in the germ cell. VASA remained detectable in primary follicles leaving the resting reserve, but once follicles entered the growing pool it became undetectable. This pattern of VASA expression is the same as in the fetal ovary. BAX was expressed both in the resting primordial reserve and in the pool of growing follicles, whereas BCL2 was detected only in granulosa cells in antral follicles in the growing pool. Apoptosis-related protein expression moved from the germ cell to the somatic stratum when primordial follicles left the resting reserve to enter the pool of growing follicles, irrespective of female age. Most TUNEL-positive cells were detected in the granulosa cells of antral follicles. No TUNEL-positive cells were found in resting primordial follicles. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION: The study was limited by the qualitative nature of the immuno-histochemical analysis and the TUNEL assay. The results neither quantify the levels of germ-cell death nor exclude other concurrent cell death mechanisms that could act in the regulation of female germ-cell number. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDING: This study provides missing knowledge about apoptosis and germ-cell-specific VASA expression in the human ovary between birth and puberty and the participation of BCL2 and BAX genes in the balance between death and survival throughout female germ-line development. Intracellular localization of VASA in resting follicles emerges as a possible marker with prognostic value that needs further investigation, especially in infant patients entering ovarian cryo-preservation programmes. This knowledge will be valuable in optimizing the rescue and clinical use of germ cells to restore fertility in women. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S): No external funding was obtained for this study. The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.