Interferon-alpha-2a as a salvage treatment for hemorrhagic enteritis associated with Epstein-Barr Virus reactivation: a case report.

Epstein-Barr virus [EBV] is a virus that infects almost all humans worldwide. After the acute phase of the infection, it stays in a latent form in B lymphocytes. EBV reactivation tends to occur in immunosuppressed patients. EBV reactivation may involve the gastrointestinal tract ; it has been associated mainly with colitis, but hemorrhagic enteritis has been poorly reported. Treatment usually includes antivirals. However, our patient did not respond to conventional treatment, so interferon alpha-2a was given as a salvage treatment. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of hemorrhagic enteritis associated to EBV reactivation treated successfully with interferon alpha-2a.

Spirulina supplementation during the transition period by grazing dairy cattle at tropical highland conditions.

The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the effects of spirulina supplementation on oxidative stress, immunity, and productive performance during the transition period by grazing dairy cattle. Thirty multiparous gestating cows with an initial body weight (BW = 544 ± 57 kg) were enrolled in this experiment and were stratified by expected calving date. Cows were randomly assigned to one of the three experimental groups: (1) control, no supplementation of spirulina; (2) spirulina-15 (15 g/day of spirulina); and (3) spirulina-30 (30 g/day of spirulina). Body weight and body condition score (BCS) were recorded and blood samples were collected at - 21, 1, and 14 days, relative to calving. The day of parturition, colostrum and blood samples from calves were collected to measure IgG concentrations. After parturition milk yield, milk components and somatic cell count were monitored. Body weight, BW loss, BCS, and total antioxidant capacity were not affected by spirulina supplementation (P > 0.23) at any time point measured. Milk yield, milk components, and somatic cell count were not altered by treatment (P > 0.13). Results from this experiment suggest neither positive nor negative effects of spirulina supplementation on oxidative stress and productive performance during the transition period.

Comparison of efficacy of alternative medicine with allopathy in treatment of oral fungal infection.

This clinical study assessed and compared the efficacy of tea tree oil (TTO), an alternative form of medicine, with clotrimazole (i.e., allopathy) and a conservative form of management in the treatment of oral fungal infection. In this interventional, observational, and comparative study, we enrolled 36 medically fit individuals of both sexes who were aged 20-60 years old. The participants were randomly assigned to three groups. Group I was given TTO (0.25% rinse) as medicament, Group II was given clotrimazole, and Group III was managed with conservative treatment. The results were analyzed from the clinical evaluation of lesions, changes in four most common clinical parameters of lesions, and subjective symptoms on periodic follow-up. Based on the results, the percentage efficiency of the two groups were taken and compared through a bar graph on the scale of 1. No toxicity to TTO was reported. Group I (TTO) was found to be more efficient than the other two groups, as changes in four parameter indices of lesions were noted, and results for all three groups were compared on a percentage basis. The study concluded that TTO, being a natural product, is a better nontoxic modality compared to clotrimazole, in the treatment of oral fungal infection and has a promising future for its potential application in oral health products.

Prevalence of habits and oral mucosal lesions in Jaipur, Rajasthan.

INTRODUCTION: Dental health and oral health are used almost synonymously when stating the goals of oral health; such statements are only valid for dental health. This may lead to severe underestimation of the need of total oral health care. When planning measures of oral health care, the lack of data may lead to a risk of overlooking diseases of the soft tissue in, and adjacent to, the oral cavity. Prevalence data of oral mucosal lesions are available from many countries, but the information is usually restricted to very few lesions in each survey. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present study is an attempt to assess and compare the various deleterious habits and its associated oral mucosal lesions among patients visiting outpatient department of Jaipur Dental College, Jaipur, Rajasthan. RESULTS: It was found that the prevalence of habits was 51.4% including both the sexes and prevalence of oral mucosal lesions were 9.9%. DISCUSSION: The prevalence of habits and oral mucosal lesions is very high as compared with other studies. The habit of smoking was higher in males as compared to females.

Langerhans cell histiocytosis: an illusion of hope.

INTRODUCTION: Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare atypical cellular disorder characterized by clonal proliferation of Langerhans cells leading to myriad clinical presentations and variable outcomes. It usually occurs in children and young adults. It can be present with local and systemic manifestation involving skin, bone, mucosal tissues and internal organs. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: The stomatologist plays an important role in management of the disease by keeping in mind the various oral manifestations of the disease. CASE REPORT: Of a child with disseminated LCH with multiorgan involvement who presented with failure to thrive, osteolytic bony lesions and extensive cutaneous eruptions. CONCLUSION: Early diagnosis and awareness is necessary to treat the patients. How to cite this article: Desai VD, Priyadarshinni SR, Varma B, Sharma R. Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis: An Illusion of Hope. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2013;6(1):66-70.

Megauréter obstructivo primario. Tratamiento endoscópico con balón de dilatación: nuestros primeros resultados / Primary obstructive megaureter. Endoscopic treatment with balloon dilatation: our first results

Tras los grandes avances endourológicos producidos en los últimos años, ha surgido una alternativa mínimamente invasiva a la cirugía abierta en el tratamiento del megauréter obstructivo primario (MOP). Presentamos nuestra experiencia con la dilatación endoscópica de la estenosis uretero vesical durante los 4 últimos años. Material y métodos: Entre los años 2005 y 2009 se han tratado en nuestro servicio mediante esta técnica un total de 10 pacientes. Todos ellos cumplían los criterios diagnósticos de MOP sin reflujo asociado. El procedimiento consistió en la realización de cistoscopia, comprobación de la estenosis y dilatación endoscópica de ésta con balón. Se deja introducido un tutor ureteral doble J, que se retirará en el primer mes post operatorio. El seguimiento posterior se lleva a cabo mediante una ecografía y una cistografía al cabo de 1 mes, un renograma a los 3 y 9 meses, y ecografías posteriores de manera seriada. Resultados: El 60% de nuestros casos corresponden a niños y el 40% a niñas. La localización izquierda del MOP representa el 60% de los casos. En el 70% de los pacientes el diagnóstico se realizó bajo una sospecha prenatal, en el 30% se halló tras una infección del tracto urinario (ITU). La media de edad durante la intervención quirúrgica fue de 14,4 meses. El tiempo de seguimiento evolutivo fue de 29 meses. Todos los pacientes mejoraron su patrón obstructivo. Como complicaciones, un paciente precisó un cambio de doble J a las 12 horas por encontrarse éste en la vejiga, y dos pacientes presentaron una ITU durante el postoperatorio. Conclusiones: El manejo endoscópico del MOP sin reflujo vesicoureteral asociado es un nuevo planteamiento terapéutico que evita una cirugía agresiva en el niño para realizar la reimplantación ureteral. Se trata de una técnica factible y efectiva, que precisará estudios a más largo plazo para demostrar su eficacia (AU)

Introduction: With the great advances in the urological endoscopic surgery in the last years, a new minimal invasive alternative to open surgery in the treatment of primary obstructive megaureter has been used. We present the results of our experience in the endoscopic dilatation of the uretro vesiclestenosis during the last 4 years. Material and method: Between the years 2005 to 2009 we present a total of ten have been treated through this technique. All of them complied with the criteria of the POM without associated reflux. In all cases the procedure consisted in a cytoscopy and the verification of stenosis and endoscopic dilatation of the same with a balloon. A double-J catheter was positioned and then withdrawn 1 month after the procedure. As a followup, an ultrasound monitoring is done as well as a cystographya month after, a renography at 3 and 9 months and posterior ultrasound monitoring in a serial manner. Results: 60% of our patients were boys and 40% were girls. In 60% of them the primary obstructive megaureter was on the left side. 70% of the patients were diagnosed due to a prenatal suspicion and 30% after an ITU. The mean intervention age was of 14.4 months. The mean follow-up was of 29 months. All the patients improved their obstructive curves. As complications: one patient required the removal of the double-J catheter, 12 hours after, because it was located in the bladder, and two patients showed a ITU during the post operatory. Conclusions: The endoscopic management of primary obstructive megaureter without uretro vesicle reflux is a new therapeutic approach which avoids an aggressive surgery in a child to do a urethral reimplantation. It is a feasible and effective technique which will need studies to a long term to be able to demonstrate its effectiveness (AU)

Extensive Mucocutaneous Verruca Vulgaris in a Nonimmunocompromised Patient.

Papilloma virus infections of the oral cavity have been long recognized with various clinical expressions characterized as verruca vulgaris, Heck's disease, multiple papilloma and condyloma acuminata. In this paper, we are highlighting a case of verruca vulgaris involving the oral cavity with extensive skin lesions in a nonimmunocompromised 9-year-old boy. Different treatment modalities are discussed in this article.

Papel de los alfa-antagonistas en el síndrome de micción no coordinada en la infancia / Role of alpha antagonists in uncoordinated micturition syndrome in childhood

Introducción. El síndrome de micción no coordinada se caracteriza por un cuadro de disfunción de vaciado vesical debido a la contracción activa del esfínter externo durante el vaciado. Su diagnóstico se basa en los resultados flujoméricos y electromiográficos y el tratamiento está enfocado a mejorar la relajación del esfínter durante la micción, siendo el biofeedback el tratamiento de elección. Dado que aún existen centros sin esta posibilidad, la alternativa son los alfa-bloqueantes, sin mucha literatura al respecto. Objetivo. Determinar la eficacia de los alfa-bloqueantes como tratamiento alternativo al biofeedback en ausencia de este como posibilidad terapéutica. Material y métodos. Presentamos un total de 17 casos de síndrome de Hinman que se encuentran en seguimiento en la consulta de urología pediátrica. Realizamos un estudio retrospectivo. Valoramos la edad y sintomatología al diagnóstico, la presencia de patología urológica asociada, los resultados flujométricos pre y posttratamiento, el tipo (..) (AU)

Introduction. Dysfunctional voiding syndrome in children is characterized by a pattern of dysfunctional bladder emptying due to an active contraction of the external sphincter during micturition. Diagnosis is based on electromyographic and flow metry results. The treatment is focused on relaxing the external sphincter during micturition where biofeedback is the treatment of choice. By the moment there are still centres without this possibility, alpha blockers are an alternative. Objective: To determine the efficacy of alpha blockers as an alternative to biofeedback as a therapeutic possibility. Material and methods: We included a total of 17 children with dysfunctional voiding syndrome and carried out a retrospective study. We registered age, symptoms at diagnosis, presence of associated urologic problems, flow metry results pre and post-treatment, type of treatment used and its effectiveness comparing patients treated with alpha blockers and those who are starting to deal with biofeedback. Results. There were 12 girls and 5 boys. The mean age at diagnosis (..) (AU)

Tratamiento ortopédico de las malformaciones craneales posturales / Orthopedic treatment of the postural cranial malformations

Introducción: En 1992, la Academia Americana de Pediatría recomendó que los bebés durmieran boca arriba o de lado para reducir el riesgo de síndrome de muerte súbita del lactante. Desde entonces, la incidencia de las malformaciones craneales posturales ha aumentado de forma considerable y, con ello, sus consecuencias estéticas e incluso psicológicas. Gran parte de los niños afectados precisarán tratamiento ortopédico de su deformidad mediante ortesis craneal. Realizamos un estudio sobre la eficacia, las indicaciones y el resultado de dichas ortesis según la experiencia y el protocolo de tratamiento en la unidad de malformaciones craneales de nuestro hospital. Material y métodos: Analizamos los niños tratados por malformaciones craneales posturales durante 5 años. Recogemos los datos clínicos que nos han resultado más importantes para el diagnóstico diferencial con las sinostosis y la necesidad de pruebas complementarias. Valoramos la morfología de la lesión, su gravedad, los factores etiológicos asociados, la edad del niño en el momento del diagnóstico, la duración del tratamiento postural u ortésico y la eficacia de éste según nuestro registro fotográfico, así como la opinión subjetiva de los padres. Realizamos una revisión bibliográfica al respecto (AU)

Resultados: Hemos registrado un total de 105 niños con malformaciones craneales posturales, la gran mayoría con plagiocefalia. Entre los factores asociados podemos indicar que 12 pacientes estuvieron ingresados durante largo tiempo en la unidad de neonatos, 16 con una desproporción materno fetal, 8 niños padecían tortícolis congénita y, curiosamente, 12 niños eran de procedencia china por adopción, 8 con antecedente departo instrumental. La media de edad en el momento del diagnóstico en nuestra consulta fue de 6,3 meses, la misma media de edad en que se indicó una ortesis, ya que en general los pacientes acuden con un diagnóstico demasiado tardío como para poder instaurar el tratamiento postural, y sólo 16 niños acudieron o fueron diagnosticados antes de los 3 meses de edad. La ortesis se mantuvo durante una media de 4,5 meses. El porcentaje de malformación facial apreciable subjetivamente fue del 28%. El porcentaje de niños diagnosticados en nuestra consulta que no precisaron ortesis dentro del mismo tipo de deformidad fue nulo, dado el mencionado diagnóstico tardío. Ninguna malformación postural precisó cirugía. Se realizó una radiografía craneal al 20% de los niños, todas ellas solicitadas por médicos no especialistas. La cuantificación subjetiva de la mejoría fue mayor en los niños diagnosticados precozmente. El tiempo medio de resolución fue de 4,5 meses. Conclusiones: Las malformaciones craneales, dada su elevada incidencia actual, precisan un adecuado conocimiento, protocolo de tratamiento y diagnóstico precoz, ya que éste facilita la probabilidad de éxito con un tratamiento sencillo y corto; provocan una no despreciable incidencia de deformidad facial. El desconocimiento de esta patología conlleva la realización de pruebas complementarias innecesarias (AU)

Introduction: In 1992, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommended for babies to sleep face up or sideways to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome, since then, the incidence of cranial malformations has increased considerably and thus its esthetic and psychological consequences. Many affected children require orthopedic treatment of their cranial deformities through an orthosis helmet. We make a study of effectiveness, indications and results of these orthosis according to our experience and our treatment protocol in the unit of cranial malformations of our hospital. Material and methods: We studied children treated for postural cranial malformations during 5 years. We analyze the most important clinical data for differential diagnosis with synostosis and the need of additional studies. We appreciate themorphology of the lesion, severity, the associated etiological factors, child’s age at diagnosis, duration of conservative or orthotic treatment and their effectiveness in our photographic files and in the subjective opinion of the parents. We have made a bibliographic review on this matter (AU)

Results: We have registered a total of 105 children with positional cranial malformations, most of them with morphologically with plagiocephaly. The associated factors were: 12 patients stayed long time in our newborn unit, 16 had maternal fetal disproportion, 8 children suffered from congenital torticollis, oddly 12 children whom were adopted had a Chinese origin, 8 had history of instrumental delivery. The average age of diagnosis in our department was of 6.3 months, same mean age in which an orthosis was indicated, because they generally arrive with a late diagnosis to be able to establish the positional therapy, only 16 children attended or were diagnosed at ages younger than 3 months. The orthosis helmet was kept for an average of 4.5 months. The percentage of subjective facial malformation was of 28%. The number of children diagnosed in our department who did not require helmets within the same type of deformity was of zero because of such a late diagnosis. None of them needed surgery, skull radiography was performed in 20% of the children, all of them requested by a non-specialist doctors. The quantification of subjective improvement was greater in children with an early diagnosis. The mean time of resolution was of 4.5 months. Conclusions: Positional cranial malformations, because of their high incidence require a complete knowledge, treatment protocol and early diagnosis, as this provides higher probability of successful, simple a short treatment. They cause a non negligible incidence of facial deformity. The ignorance of this condition causes the consumption of unnecessary tests (AU)

[Quality of life in children operated on for anal atresia]. / Calidad de vida en los pacientes intervenidos de atresia de ano.

INTRODUCTION: Most children with anorectal malformations have some type of intestinal dysfunction. A correct follow up in this aspect after surgery affects their quality of life. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We gathered a sample of 20 children that were lost in their follow up after posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP). We got contact with them and they were interviewed and examined in our department. RESULTS: We collected 12 girls and 8 boys. Age range was between 3 and 14 years. 70% had good prognosis for continence (low fistula) and 30% poor prognosis (high fistula). 35% suffered from postoperative complications being the most frequent prolapse especially in high atresias. 85% had good rectal sensitivity, 15% had poor sensitivity that was directly related to incontinence. Anal tone was decreased in our exploration in 35% of patients which was not directly related to their continence. 65% suffered constipation with or without fecaloma. 5% of cases had intestinal hipermotility. The total incidence of fecal loose was 40%. More than a half (62,5%) kept on loosing stool despite treating their constipation or hipermotility, so we consider them true incontinents (no voluntary bowel movements). 67% of children with high fistula were true incontinents, just 7% of those with low fistula. Subjective quality of life in patients with soling was 6.4. In clean patients it was 9.3. Objective quality of life (Score/13) in dirty patients was 6.6. In Clean patients: 11.9. After our bowel management protocol we got 100% of patients clean during school time, thereby improving their quality of life. CONCLUSIONS: Incontinence determines the long-term quality of life in our patients in addition to the psycho-social consequences. They are clearly more frequent in patients with high fistula. Much assume incontinence as an unavoidable part of their disease so do not always demand treatment if they are not followed by a surgeon.

Toracoscopia en niños con empiema pleural en fase II. ¿Lavado y desbridamiento de tabiques de fibrina o decorticación? / Thorascoscopy in children with pleural empyema in 2nd stage, breaking and washing fibrinous loculations or decortication?

Introducción: Ante el aumento de incidencia de derrames pleurales paraneumónicos complicados en niños, ha aumentado considerablemente el número de toracoscopias realizadas, ya sea para el lavado y el desbridamiento de los tabiques de fibrina para liberar el líquido acumulado, o completando la intervención con decorticación completa de la fibrina aún no organizada adherida a la pared pulmonar. Material y métodos: Estudiamos una muestra de 31 niños tratados toracoscópicamente por un derrame pleural complicado en fase II. Estudiamos diversas variables: edad, tiempo de clínica y de tratamiento antibiótico preoperatorios, composición del líquido pleural, germen, opción quirúrgica, tiempo operatorio, días con drenaje pleural mayor de 20 mL/día o fiebre y complicaciones. Resultados: De 31 toracoscopias, el 52% son descorticaciones pulmonares y el 48% desbridamientos y lavados. Mediante el test de la t de Student comprobamos que el tiempo de drenaje pleural en los pacientes con desbridamiento simple es estadísticamente superior, al igual que los días de fiebre (sin diferencias significativas), y se requieren más fibrinolíticos y reintervención. No observamos una mayor incidencia de fuga aérea en la decorticación, aunque sí de íleo paralítico posquirúrgico. Conclusiones: La decorticación pulmonar en los derrames pleurales complicados en fase II conlleva un menor tiempo de drenaje torácico y clínica febril. En manos entrenadas no aumenta el tiempo operatorio ni el número de complicaciones graves (AU)

Introduction: Before the increase of incidence of complicated pleural parapneumonic effusion in children, has increased the number of Video Assisted Thoracoscopy (VATS) considerably. Whether it is for the washing or breaking of the nasal bone fibrin to liberate the accumulated liquid, or complete the intervention with complete decortication of a non-organized fibrin wall attached to the lung. Material and methods: We study a sample of 31 children whounder went VATS for complicated pleural effusion in 2nd stage. We study: age, clinical time and pre-surgical symptoms and antibiotics, composition of the pleural liquid, infectious agent, surgical option, operative time, days with fever and pleural drainage more than 20 cc/day or fever and complications. Results: From 31 VATS, 52 % were pulmonary decortications and 48 % debridement and wash. Using the t-student we get statistically significative difference in time of pleural drainage, longer in patients with simple debridement, as in days with fever, not being this difference significant. There is more need of fibrinolysis and reintervention in this group. We do not see more incidence of air leak in the decortication group, but there is more post surgery paralytic ileus. Conclusions: Lung decortication in pleural complicated effusions2nd stage entails less time with thoracic drainage and fever. In trained hands it does not increase neither the operative time nor the number of serious complications (AU)

Calidad de vida en los pacientes intervenidos de atresia de ano / Quality of life in children operated on for anal atresia

Introducción. El utrículo prostático consiste en una regresión incompleta de las estructuras Müllerianas. Puede presentar varios signos y síntomas, como incontinencia e infecciones del tracto urinario. Presentamos nuestra experiencia personal en la extirpación laparoscópica de lutrículo prostático en pacientes con sintomatología de ITU e incontinencia. Material y Métodos. La cirugía consiste en una cistouretroscopia y canalización del utrículo con colocación de sonda de Fogarty nº4 o del cistoscopio en el interior, si este atraviesa el orificio. Esta maniobra ayuda a la localización. La laparoscopia se lleva a cabo con un trocar de 10 mm y dos de 5 mm. Gracias a la tras iluminación, la localización es más sencilla. La resección se realiza con electrocoagulación y extirpación tras puntos transfixivos. Resultados. Se operaron cinco varones con una media de edad de7 (2-11) años. En todos la laparoscopia fue satisfactoria excepto en uno, que necesitó la reconversión a cirugía abierta. La media de duración fue de 110 (90-210) min. Conclusión. La exéresis laparoscópica del utrículo prostático es una vía segura y sencilla de tratamiento. La iluminación directa con el cistoscopio ayuda a la visualización y disección del mismo (AU)

Introduction. The prostatic utricle is an embryological remnantfrom Müllerian duct tissue. Most prostatic utricles are asympomatic, but they may manifest as a urinary tract infection or an incontinence. Material and method. Surgery consists in a cysto-urethroscopy and cannulation of the prostatic utricle with a ureteral catheter (Fogarty ner 4) and the cystoscopy left in situ to facilitate identification and mobilization. A 10 mm port through a umbilical incision and two more5 mm working ports were inserted. After mobilization, the ureteral defect was closed by an absorbable suture and ultrasonic coagulation. Results. Five boys with symptomatic prostatic utricles underwent surgery at a mean (range) age of 7 (2-11) years. The laparoscopic escisión was successful in all but one due to a bleeding. The mean (range) operative duration was 165 (120-240) min. Conclusion. Laparoscopic escision under cystoscopic guidance offers a good surgical view and allowing easy dissection (AU)

[Role of alpha antagonists in uncoordinated micturition syndrome in childhood]. / Papel de los alfa-antagonistas en el síndrome de micción no coordinada en la infancia.

INTRODUCTION: Dysfunctional voiding syndrome in children is characterized by a pattern of dysfunctional bladder emptying due to an active contraction of the external sphincter during micturition. Diagnosis is based on electromyographic and flowmetry results. The treatment is focused on relaxing the external sphincter during micturition where biofeedback is the treatment of choice. By the moment there are still centres without this possibility, alpha blockers are an alternative. OBJECTIVE: To determine the efficacy of alpha blockers as an alternative to biofeedback as a therapeutic possibility. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We included a total of 17 children with dysfunctional voiding syndrome and carried out a retrospective study. We registered age, symptoms at diagnosis, presence of associated urologic problems, flowmetry results pre and post-treatment, type of treatment used and its effectiveness comparing patients treated with alpha blockers and those who are starting to deal with biofeedback. RESULTS: There were 12 girls and 5 boys. The mean age at diagnosis was 4.9 years old, 88% of these children related enuresis, diurnal urinary incontinence and urgency, 57% of them had also urinary infections, 63% constipation, 36% had psychosocial problems. Ten patients were treated with alpha-antagonists: 6 with Tamsulosin and 4 with Doxazosin. They followed this treatment an average of 5.8 months, range between 2 and 12 months. Five patients were treated with biofeedback. All cases had an abnormal pelvic electromyography. Patients treated with alpha-blockers achieved a 70% of electromyographic improvement with a 70% of recurrence. In children treated with biofeedback we got improvement in 80% with no recurrence. After alpha blocker therapy, maximum flow rates and average flow values were better but not statistically significant, this difference was significant with biofeedback. A patient treated with Tamsulosin left treatment due to hypotension, 2 patients left Doxazosin because of dizziness. CONCLUSIONS: Alpha-blockers are effective in the treatment of dysfunctional voiding syndrome with a high percentage of recurrence. They can be an alternative to biofeedback but this one is the effective and definitive treatment.

[Correction of lop ear using minimally invasive approach]. / Corrección de las orejas procidentes mediante un abordaje mínimamente invasivo.

INTRODUCTION: Helix valgus or procident ears is a common problem that affects about 5% of the population. The folds of the antehelix and the overdevelopment of the concha are the most commonly found anatomic alterations of the ear pavilion. In children this pathology usually causes anxiety and an emotional trauma that may interfere in their normal development. MATERIALS AND METHODS: There are a few tipes of techniques to correct helix valgus. We present the application of the technique in our service. We conduct the otoplastia with an outer puntiform technique which allows us to cut the cartilage partially from the outside. Next we fold from the rear the antehelix and hide the concha. RESULTS: We analysed 7 years of the application of this technique and we now present 87 otoplastias conducted to 44 children. The 97% of them were bilateral. No precocious complications have been observed after the surgery. All cases except for one of them have been bilateral. All the patients were satisfied with the aesthetic results. None of them showed relapse. In one case there was a hypertrophic scar that required cutting and in 2 of the cases there was a slight hypercorrection. CONCLUSIONS: Procident ears may occasion a psychological trauma in children. We believe that this technique, which is minimally invasive, provides very satisfactory aesthetic results, the puntiform scar being hardly noticed fifteen days before surgery. The patients need to stay in hospital for a short period, 24-48 hours, and complications are very rare, recidiva has not been described. We strongly recommend this technique for the correction of procident ears.

[Non-palpable testes: laparoscopic or inguinal approach?]. / Testes no palpables: abordaje laparoscópico o inguinal?

INTRODUCTION: Twenty per cent of the operated patients suffering from cryptorchidisim show no palpable testis in the physical check-up. The use of a non-palpable testis in the initial stages is considered to be controversial when deciding between a laparascopic or an inguinal approach. Our aim is to compare the results obtained with these two approaches and evaluate which one of them would be the most relevant as an initial option. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We examined the patients who have been subjected to surgical intervention for non-palpable testis in the last three years. We had a sample of 53 patients. Bilateral non-palpable testes were disregarded. In the case of 35 patients the initial approach was through the groins while in 18 of them the approach was laparascopic. Relevant data were recorded, such as the age of the patient, right or left side, surgical findings, need for a laparascopic or groin approach and associated hernia. RESULTS: The average age of the patients at the time of the surgical treatment was 3.7 years R (1-13 years). 42% of the testes were on the right side and 58% on the left. In an initial stage the inguinal approach was used with 35 patients, 2 of these requiring laparascopic exploration due to a non-concluding check-up; it was concluded that they were 2 cases of anorchia. An initial laparoscopic approach was used with 18 patients. Internal vessels in the canal were found which required an inguinal approach. In 12 patients normal or atrophic testes were observed. Testicular descent was achieved through the groin in 10 of them while in the remaining 2 a combined approach was adopted. CONCLUSIONS: 80% of the patients subjected to a first laparoscopic approach needed a groin approach later on. 11% of the patients subjected to a first inguinal approach required laparascopic examination. In view of the results obtained, we conclude that inguinal exploration diminishes the need for second procedures.

[Therapeutic approach of enuresis based on the differentiation of the enuretic syndrome and monosymptomatic enuresis]. / Enfoque terapéutico de la enuresis basándose en la diferenciación del síndrome enurético y la enuresis monosintomática.

INTRODUCTION: Enuresis affects 15% of the children under 5. Possible etiopatogeny explaining the mechanism of production of nocturnal enuresis has been described, resulting in different terapeutical approaches; however, we cannot speak up to now of general guidelines for its treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: On the basis of 544 children who were treated in our hospital in the last 12 years, we analysed a sample of 124 patients corresponding to the last two years. We now present the therapeutical protocol used and analyse the results. In the initial therapeutical approach a distinction is made between monosymptomatic enuresis and eneuretic syndrome. RESULTS: We studied a total of 120 patients (89 boys and 31 girls). 63% of them showed monosymptomatic enuresis while 37% suffered from enuretic syndrome. In the case of 15% of them, this was associated with heavy sleep and difficulties to wake up. 92% was the general percentage of recovery. In the patients suffering from nonosymptomatic eneuresis, the problem was solved with desmopressin in 87% of them (demospressin on its own in 65% or in combination with oxibutine in the remaining 35%). In the group of enereutic symdrome, the problem was solved with oxibutine in 71% (on its own in 40% or in combination with desmopressin in 54%. CONCLUSIONS: The treatment and solution of enuresis improve the child's self-esteem and the anxiety caused in the family. A good medical history with a clear distinction between enuretic syndrome and monosyntomatic enuresis leads us to a suitable therapeutical approach for every patient, allowing us to find earlier the right treatment for every individual.

Corrección de las orejas procidentes mediante un abordaje mínimamente invasivo / Correction of lop ear using minimally invasive approach

Introducción. El hélix valgus u orejas procidentes es un problema común que afecta a un 5% de la población. Las alteraciones anatómicas del pabellón que más frecuentemente se encuentran son el defecto en el desarrollo de los pliegues de antehélix y el sobre desarrollo dela concha. Esta patología en los niños suele causar ansiedad y un trauma emocional que puede interferir en su desarrollo. Material y métodos. Existen múltiples técnicas descritas para la corrección del hélix valgus. Describimos la técnica realizada en nuestro servicio durante los últimos siete años analizando los resultados. Realizamos la otoplastia mediante un abordaje anterior puntiforme que nos permite realizar de una manera poco agresiva varios cortes parciales del cartílago por vía anterior. Por vía posterior realizamos la (..) (AU)

Introduction. Helix valgus or procident ears is a common problem that affects about 5% of the population. The folds of the antehelix and the overdevelopment of the concha are the most commonly found anatomic alterations of the ear pavilion. In children this pathology usually causes anxiety and an emotional trauma that may interfere in their normal development. Materials and methods. There are a few tipes of techniques to correct helix valgus. We present the application of the technique in our (..) (AU)

Testes no palpables: ¿abordaje laparoscópico o inguinal? / Non-Palpable testes: Laparoscopic or inguinal approach?

Introducción: El 20% de los pacientes intervenidos por criptorquidia presentan teste no palpable en la exploración física. El manejo inicial de estos pacientes sigue siendo controvertido. Nuestro objetivo es comparar el abordaje inguinal y el laparoscópico y valorar cuál de ellos es el más resolutivo como opción inicial. Material y métodos: Revisamos los pacientes intervenidos por teste no palpable unilateral en los últimos tres años en nuestro servicio. Tras descartar los testes no palpables bilaterales entramos en el estudio53 pacientes. En 35 el abordaje inicial realizado fue por vía inguinal y en 18 laparoscópico. Los datos recogidos para el estudio son la edad del paciente en el momento de la intervención, lado del teste no palpable, hallazgos quirúrgicos, necesidad de abordaje combinado laparoscópico o inguinaly presencia o no de hernia asociada. Resultados: La edad media de los pacientes en el momento de la intervención quirúrgica fue de 3,7 años (R: 1-13 años). El 42% de los testes no palpables correspondían al lado derecho y el 58% al izquierdo. El 65 % de los pacientes se abordaron inicialmente por vía inquinal. En tan sólo el 11% debido a una exploración no concluyente se necesitó realizar una exploración laparoscópica que concluyó en todos los casos anorquia. En el 33% el abordaje inicial fue laparoscópico. En (..) (AU)

Introduction: Twenty per cent of the operated patients suffering from cryptorchidisim show no palpable testis in the physical check-up. The use of a non-palpable testis in the initial stages is considered to be controversial when deciding between a laparascopic or an inguinal approach. Our aim is to compare the results obtained with these two approaches and evaluate which one of them would be the most relevant as an initial option. Materials and methods: We examined the patients who have been subjected to surgical intervention for non-palpable testis in the last three years. We had a sample of 53 patients. Bilateral non-palpable testes were disregarded. In the case of 35patients the initial approach was through the groins while in 18 of them the approach was laparascopic. Relevant data were recorded, such as the age of the patient, right or left side, surgical findings, need for alaparascopic or groin approach and associated hernia. Results: The average age of the patients at the time of the surgical treatment was 3.7 years R ( 1-13 years). 42% of the testes were on the right side and 58% on the left. In an initial stage the inguinal approach was used with 35 patients, 2 of these requiring laparascopic exploration due to a non-concluding check-up; it was concluded that they were 2 cases of anorchia. An initial laparoscopic approach (..) (AU)

Scurvy extinct? Think again!

Scurvy is still seen sporadically in the developed world. Scurvy, a dietary disease due to the deficient intake of vitamin C, is uncommon in the pediatric population. Scurvy occurs as a result of decreased vitamin C consumption or absorption. We present the case of a 6-year-old boy visiting our department with bleeding gums, musculoskeletal pain, and weakness. Four days after starting oral vitamin C supplementation, there was significant improvement in the patient's gingival appearance and general health. The clinical presentation and laboratory investigation (Hemoglobin %, total blood picture) , together with the dramatic therapeutic response to ascorbic acid administration, confirmed the diagnosis of scurvy. Scurvy can be missed unless oral and general physicians maintain a high index of suspicion. Therefore it is time to wonder if scurvy is extinct yet.

[Papilledema as an indicator of POEMS syndrome]. / Papiledema asociado a síndrome de POEMS.

CASE REPORT: We present the case of a 54-year-old woman with papilledema associated to POEMS syndrome. The presence of intracranial hypertension was detected and treatment started with acetazolamide. DISCUSSION: The most common ophthalmological pathology in POEMS syndrome is papilledema, the etiology of which could be infiltrative, intracranial hypertension, inflammation or an increase of the vascular permeability. The correct diagnosis and treatment of papilledema, depending on its etiology, should permit an acceptable visual outcome to be achieved.