"Comparison between high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) therapy and noninvasive ventilation (NIV) in children with acute respiratory failure by bronchiolitis: a randomized controlled trial".

BACKGROUND: The objective of this study was to compare HFNC therapy to noninvasive ventilation (NIV/BiPAP) in children with bronchiolitis who developed respiratory failure. We hypothesized that HFNC therapy would not be inferior to NIV. METHODS: This was a noninferiority open-label randomized single-center clinical trial conducted at a tertiary Brazilian hospital. Children under 2 years of age with no chronic conditions admitted for bronchiolitis that progressed to mild to moderate respiratory distress (Wood-Downes-Férres score < 8) were randomized to either the HFNC group or NIV (BiPAP) group through sealed envelopes. Vital signs, FiO2, Wood-Downes-Férres score and HFNC/NIV parameters were recorded up to 96 h after therapy initiation. Children who developed respiratory failure despite receiving initial therapy were intubated. Crossover was not allowed. The primary outcome analyzed was invasive mechanical ventilation requirement. The secondary outcomes were sedation usage, invasive mechanical ventilation duration, the PICU LOS, the hospital LOS, and mortality rate. RESULTS: A total of 126 patients were allocated to the NIV group (132 randomized and 6 excluded), and 126 were allocated to the HFNC group (136 randomized and 10 excluded). The median age was 2.5 (1-6) months in the NIV group and 3 (2-7) months in the HFNC group (p = 0,07). RSV was the most common virus isolated in both groups (72% vs. 71.4%, NIV and HFNC, respectively). Thirty-seven patients were intubated in the NIV group and 29 were intubated in the HFNC group (29% vs. 23%, p = 0.25). According to the Farrington-Manning test, with a noninferiority margin of 15%, the difference was 6.3% in favor of HFNC therapy (95% confidence interval: -4.5 to 17.1%, p < 0.0001). There was no significant difference in the PICU LOS or sedation duration. Sedation requirement, hospital LOS and invasive mechanical ventilation duration were lower in the HFNC group. CONCLUSION: HFNC therapy is noninferior to NIV in infants admitted with mild to moderate respiratory distress caused by bronchiolitis that progresses to respiratory failure. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBERS: U1111-1262-1740; RBR-104z966s. Registered 03/01/2023 (retrospectively registered). ReBEC: https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-104z966s .

Clinicai characteristics and mortality in mechanically ventilated COVID-19 patients: prospective cohort study / Características clínicas y mortalidad en pacientes COVID-19 ventilados mecánicamente: estudio de cohorte prospectivo

Abstract Introduction: Factors associated with mortality among mechanically ventilated COVID-19 patients have been scarcely studied in Latin America. Objective: To identify factors associated with mortality in mechanically ventilated COVID-19 patients. Methods: This prospective study was undertaken in a single center between April and October 2020, recruiting COVID-19 patients managed with mechanical ventilation. We excluded patients who died within the first 24 hours after endotracheal intubation. Clinical characteristics, laboratory results, ventilation interventions, and outcomes were collected and compared between the deceased and surviving groups. The association between these factors and hospital death was examined, and relevant covariates were included in a multivariate logistic regression model. Results: A total of 273 patients were included (72.5% male), the mortality rate was 37% (95% CI 31% - 43%), and the median age was 63 years (IQR 52-72). The most frequent comorbidity was hypertension (45%). Factors associated with mortality were: older age (OR 1.08; 95% CI 1.051.11), male gender (OR 2.79; 95% CI 1.30-6.01), immunosuppression (OR 3.98; 95% CI 1.57-10.06), thrombocytopenia (OR 3.84; CI 95% 1.47-10.01), driving pressure (OR 1.20; 95% CI 1.07-1.34) and the use of dialysis (OR 4.94; 95% CI 2.56-9.51). Chronic hypertension (OR 0.35; 95% CI 0.17-0.71) and fever on admission (OR 0.51; 95% CI 0.27-0.98) were found to have a protective effect. Conclusions: Older age, male sex, immunosuppression, thrombocytopenia, increased driving pressure, use of dialysis, absence of fever, or arterial hypertension were associated with an increased risk of mortality among mechanically ventilated COVID-19 patients.

Resumen Introducción: Es poco lo que se han estudiado en América Latina los factores asociados con mortalidad en pacientes con COVID-19 ventilados mecánicamente. Objetivo: Identificar los factores asociados con mortalidad en pacientes con COVID-19 manejados con ventilación mecánica. Métodos: Este estudio prospectivo se adelantó en un solo centro entre los meses de abril y octubre de 2020 e incluyó pacientes con COVID-19 manejados con ventilación mecánica. Se excluyeron pacientes que fallecieron en las primeras 24 horas después de la intubación orotraqueal. Se recopilaron datos de las características clínicas, resultados de laboratorio, intervenciones ventilatorias y desenlaces, y se hizo una comparación entre el grupo de pacientes fallecidos y el grupo de sobrevivientes. Se examinó la asociación entre estos factores y la muerte intrahospitalaria, y las covariables relevantes se incluyeron en un modelo multivariable de regresión logística. Resultados: Se incluyó un total de 273 pacientes (72.5% hombres), la tasa de mortalidad fue del 37% (IC 95% 31% - 43%), la mediana de edad fue de 36 años (RIC 52-72) y la comorbilidad más frecuente fue la hipertensión (45%). Los factores asociados con mortalidad fueron: edad avanzada (OR 1.08; IC 95% 1.05-1.11), género masculino (OR 2.79; IC 95% 1.30-6.01), inmunosupresión (OR 3.98; IC 95% 1.57-10.06), trombocitopenia (OR 3.84; CI 95% 1.47-10.01), presión de distensión (OR 1.20; IC 95% 1.07-1.34) y el uso de diálisis (OR 4.94; IC 95% 2.56-9.51). La presencia de hipertensión (OR 0.35; IC 95% 0.17-0.71) y de fiebre (OR 0.51; IC 95% 0.27-0.98) al momento de la hospitalización demostraron tener un efecto protector. Conclusiones: Se encontró asociación entre la edad avanzada, el sexo masculino, la inmunosupresión, la trombocitopenia, una presión de distensión elevada, el uso de diálisis, la ausencia de fiebre o de hipertensión y un mayor riesgo de mortalidad en pacientes con COVID-19 ventilados mecánicamente.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on respiratory failure caused by respiratory viruses in children and adolescents.

Background: In addition to the direct impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on child/adolescent health, changes in infections caused by other viruses have been observed. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza are important agents of acute respiratory failure (ARF) in these age groups. This study presents an analysis of the influence of the pandemic on the seasonal and clinical patterns of ARF caused by RSV and influenza. Methods: A retrospective ecological study was performed. The data of individuals younger than 20 years who were hospitalized with ARF and who were diagnosed with RSV, influenza and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) between 2019 and 2022 were analysed. The data were collected from the governmental system. Results: Among 367,136 individuals, the incidence of ARF increased annually. During the pandemic, the number of infected schoolchildren, adolescents, and nonwhite people; intensive care admissions; and mortality rates increased. Older age, SARS-CoV-2 infection, and residence in North Brazil/Northeast Brazil were associated with lower odds of intensive care unit admission but greater odds of death. Comorbidities were important risk factors for severe disease. There was a drastic reduction in the number of RSV and influenza infections, with a resurgence in 2021. After the resurgence in 2021, the number of influenza-related deaths remained above the 2019 level, which did not occur in 2022. After 2021, RSV infection was associated with greater odds of intensive care admission but not death. Conclusions: During the pandemic, older children, adolescents, and individuals with comorbidities were more vulnerable to ARF. There was a reduction in the prevalence and severity of RSV and influenza infections. After this reduction, a resurgence with an out-of-season pattern, but without higher odds of death than in the prepandemic year, was observed for both in 2022.

Caracterización clínico-epidemiológica y agentes etiológicos de las infecciones respiratorias agudas graves en adultos en Paraguay

Introducción: La Vigilancia Centinela de las Infecciones Respiratorias Agudas Graves (IRAG) incluye el monitoreo y caracterización de casos hospitalizados. Objetivo: Describir las características clínico-epidemiológicas y agentes etiológicos de los adultos con IRAG en un hospital centinela en Paraguay. Metodología: Estudio observacional, descriptivo, de corte transversal, con recolección de datos retrospectivos de los pacientes adultos con IRAG hospitalizados en el Hospital Nacional de Itauguá entre junio de 2022 a agosto de 2023. La información se tomó de la base de datos del Sistema Nacional de Vigilancia Epidemiológica. Resultados: Se analizaron los datos de 1598 pacientes con IRAG, 820 varones (51,3%), 875 (54,8%) con 60 o más años, 1054 (66,0%) del departamento Central. El 79.2% (n=1265) de los pacientes presentaba algún factor de riesgo de gravedad o comorbilidad, 764 (47,8%) con hipertensión arterial. El 38.5% (n=632) fue admitido a UCI y la mortalidad fue de 34,7% (n=554). En el 13,8% (n=353) se confirmó SARSCoV-2, rhinovirus (1,7%), influenza A (1,5%), influenza B (0,6%), parainfluenza 3 (0,6%), VSR (0,2%), bocavirus (0,4%) e influenza AH1N1 (0,6%). Hubo significativamente mayor frecuencia de fallecidos en los de 60 años y más (40,7%), con algún factor de riesgo de gravedad (35,5% vs 25,9%) y en los confirmados con COVID-19 (38,2% vs 30,5%). Discusión: SARSCoV-2 sigue siendo el agente etiológico principal de las IRAG. El conocimiento de la epidemiología y los agentes virales es crucial para desarrollar estrategias de prevención y terapéuticas efectivas.

Introduction: Sentinel Surveillance of Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI) includes the monitoring and characterization of hospitalized cases. Objective: To describe the clinical-epidemiological characteristics and etiological agents of adults with SARI in a sentinel hospital in Paraguay. Methodology: Observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study, with retrospective data collection, of adult patients with SARI hospitalized at the National Hospital of Itauguá between June 2022 and August 2023. The information was taken from the database of the National System of Epidemiological surveillance. Results: The data of 1598 patients with SARI were analyzed, 820 men (51.3%), 875 (54.8%) aged 60 or older, 1054 (66.0%) from the Central department. 79.2% (n=1265) of patients had some risk factor or comorbidity, 764 with hypertension (47.8%). 38.5% (n=632) were admitted to the ICU and mortality was 34.7% (n=554). SARSCoV-2 was confirmed in 13.8% (n=353), rhinovirus (1.7%), influenza A (1.5%), influenza B (0.6%), parainfluenza 3 (0.6%), RSV (0.2%), bocavirus (0.4%) and Influenza AH1N1 (0.6%). There was a significantly higher frequency of deaths in those aged 60 years and over (40.7%), with some risk factor (35.5% vs 25.9%), and in those confirmed with covid-19 (38.2% % vs 30.5%). Discussion: SARSCoV-2 continues to be the main etiological agent of SARI in a sentinel hospital in Paraguay. Continued knowledge of the epidemiology and viral agents involved is crucial to developing effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Rare manifestation of pulmonary benign metastasizing leiomyoma: Respiratory failure.

We report a case of a 42-year-old woman diagnosed with pulmonary benign metastasizing leiomyomatosis with a random nodular pattern on image and with a rare clinical condition progressing with respiratory failure and severe hypoxemia. This study is relevant due to the rarity of the tomographic pattern and the patient's clinical presentation. There is no treatment guideline for this comorbidity, which further increases the importance of publishing case reports in the literature.

Severity and mortality of acute respiratory failure in pediatrics: A prospective multicenter cohort in Bogotá, Colombia.

Background and Aims: Acute respiratory failure (ARF) is the most frequent cause of cardiorespiratory arrest and subsequent death in children worldwide. There have been limited studies regarding ARF in high altitude settings. The aim of this study was to calculate mortality and describe associated factors for severity and mortality in children with ARF. Methods: The study was conducted within a prospective multicentric cohort that evaluated the natural history of pediatric ARF. For this analysis three primary outcomes were studied: mortality, invasive mechanical ventilation, and pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) length of stay. Eligible patients were children older than 1 month and younger than 18 years of age with respiratory difficulty at the time of admission. Patients who developed ARF were followed at the time of ARF, 48 h later, at the time of discharge, and at 30 and 60 days after discharge. It was conducted in the pediatric emergency, in-hospital, and critical-care services in three hospitals in Bogotá, Colombia, from April 2020 to June 2021. Results: Out of a total of 685 eligible patients, 296 developed ARF for a calculated incidence of ARF of 43.2%. Of the ARF group, 90 patients (30.4%) needed orotracheal intubation, for a mean of 9.57 days of ventilation (interquartile range = 3.00-11.5). Incidence of mortality was 6.1% (n = 18). The associated factors for mortality in ARF were a history of a neurologic comorbidity and a higher fraction of inspired oxygen at ARF diagnosis. For PICU length of stay, the associated factors were age between 2 and 5 years of age, exposure to smokers, and respiratory comorbidity. Finally, for mechanical ventilation, the risk factors were obesity and being unstable at admission. Conclusions: ARF is a common cause of morbidity and mortality in children. Understanding the factors associated with greater mortality and severity of ARF might allow earlier recognition and initiation of prompt treatment strategies.

ROX Index Variation as a Predictor of Outcomes in COVID-19 Patients.

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, emergency departments were overcrowded with critically ill patients, and many providers were confronted with ethical dilemmas in assigning respiratory support to them due to scarce resources. Quick tools for evaluating patients upon admission were necessary, as many existing scores proved inaccurate in predicting outcomes. The ROX Index (RI), a rapid and straightforward scoring system reflecting respiratory status in acute respiratory failure patients, has shown promise in predicting outcomes for COVID-19 patients. The 24 h difference in the RI accurately gauges mortality and the need for invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) among patients with COVID-19. Methods: Study design: Prospective cohort study. A total of 204 patients were admitted to the emergency department from May to August 2020. Data were collected from the clinical records. The RI was calculated at admission and 24 h later, and the difference was used to predict the association with mortality and the need for IMV, a logistic regression model was used to adjust for age, sex, presence of comorbidities, and disease severity. Finally, the data were analyzed using ROC. Results: The difference in respiratory RI between admission and 24 h is a good predictor for death (AUC 0.92) and for mechanic ventilation (AUC: 0.75). Each one-unit decrease in the RI difference at 24 h was associated with an odds ratio of 1.48 for the risk of death (95%CI: 1.31-1.67) and an odds ratio of 1.16 for IMV (95% IC: 1.1-1.23). Conclusions: The 24 h variation of RI is a good prediction tool to allow healthcare professionals to identify the patients who will benefit from invasive treatment, especially in low-resource settings.

Effect of high-flow nasal cannula at different flow rates on diaphragmatic function in subjects recovering from an acute exacerbation of COPD: a physiological prospective pilot study.

BACKGROUND: Noninvasive ventilation (NIV) is widely employed as the initial treatment for patients with chronic acute exacerbation of obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD). Nevertheless, high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) has been increasingly utilized and investigated to mitigate the issues associated with NIV. Flow rate may play a significant role in diaphragmatic function among subjects recovering from AECOPD. Based on these observations, we conducted a physiological study to assess the impact of HFNC therapy on diaphragmatic function, as measured by US, respiratory rate (RR), gas exchange, and patient comfort at various flow rates. METHODS: A prospective physiological pilot study enrolled subjects with a diagnosis of AECOPD who required NIV for more than 24 h. After stabilization, these subjects underwent a 30-min trial using NIV and HFNC at different sequential flow rates (30-60 L/min). At the end of each trial, diaphragmatic displacement (DD, cm) and diaphragmatic thickness fraction (DTF, %) were measured using ultrasound. Additionally, other physiological variables, such as RR, gas exchange, and patient comfort, were recorded. RESULTS: A total of 20 patients were included in the study. DD was no different among trials (p = 0.753). DTF (%) was significantly lower with HFNC-30 L/min compared to HFNC-50 and 60 L/min (p < 0.001 for all comparisons). No significant differences were found in arterial pH and PaCO2 at discontinuation of NIV and at the end of HFNC trials (p > 0.050). During HFNC trials, RR remained unchanged without statistically significant differences (p = 0.611). However, we observed that HFNC improved comfort compared to NIV (p < 0.001 for all comparisons). Interestingly, HFNC at 30 and 40 L/min showed greater comfort during trials. CONCLUSIONS: In subjects recovering from AECOPD and receiving HFNC, flows above 40 L/min may not offer additional benefits in terms of comfort and decreased respiratory effort. HFNC could be a suitable alternative to COT during breaks off NIV.

Defining the Typical Course of Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn: When to Think Beyond Reversible Causes.

OBJECTIVES: To describe the typical clinical course of reversible persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) from perinatal etiologies and compare that with the clinical course of PPHN due to underlying fetal developmental etiologies. STUDY DESIGN: This was a single-center, retrospective cohort study of liveborn newborns either born or transferred to our facility for higher level of care between 2015 and 2020 with gestational age ≥35 weeks and a clinical diagnosis of PPHN in the electronic health record. Newborns with complex congenital heart disease and congenital diaphragmatic hernia were excluded. Using all data available at time of collection, newborns were stratified into 2 groups by PPHN etiology - perinatal and fetal developmental causes. Primary outcomes were age at initiation, discontinuation, and total duration of extracorporeal life support, mechanical ventilation, supplemental oxygen, inhaled nitric oxide, inotropic support, and prostaglandin E1. Our secondary outcome was age at echocardiographic resolution of pulmonary hypertension. Groups were compared by t-test. Time-to-event Kaplan Meier curves described and compared (log-rank test) discontinuation of each therapy. RESULTS: Sixty-four (72%) newborns had perinatal etiologies whereas 24 (28%) had fetal developmental etiologies. The resolution of perinatal PPHN was more rapid compared with fetal developmental PPHN. By 10 days of age, more neonates were off inotropes (98% vs 29%, P < .01), decannulated from extracorporeal life support (100% vs 0%, P < .01), extubated (75% vs 37%, P < .01), and had echocardiographic resolution of PH (35% vs 7%, P = .02). CONCLUSIONS: An atypical PPHN course, characterized by persistent targeted therapies in the second week of life, warrants further work-up for fetal developmental causes.

Clinical predictors for mechanical ventilation assistance in Guillain-Barré syndrome.

Background: Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) frequently leads to respiratory failure and autonomic dysfunction, resulting in approximately one-third of patients requiring mechanical ventilation. Objective: This study aimed to identify clinical predictors for mechanical ventilation in patients with GBS. Methods: This research was conducted from 2010 to 2021 using registries from a tertiary hospital in an upper middle-income Latin American country. Participants were categorized into two groups based on their ventilation status. Demographic data were collected, and independent predictors of the need for mechanical ventilation were determined through multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results: Dysautonomic events occurred in 36% of the patients, with 17% requiring mechanical ventilation; the average duration of intubation was 1.16 ± 3.18 days. The multivariate analysis indicated that bulbar dysfunction significantly increased the likelihood of requiring mechanical ventilation by 19-fold (OR 18.67, 95% CI 5.85-59.42), followed by ophthalmoplegia, which increased the likelihood by sixfold (OR 5.68, 95% CI 1.28-25.19). Conclusion: Bulbar dysfunction, dysautonomia, and lower Medical Research Council (MRC) scores were significant predictors of the need for mechanical ventilation in hospitalized GBS patients. These findings support the need for close monitoring and early admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) admission for at-risk patients.

The development and implementation of a low-cost mechanical ventilator in a low-middle-income country during the COVID-19 pandemic: The Unisabana-HERONS.

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic in Latin America generated the need to develop low-cost, fast-manufacturing mechanical ventilators. The Universidad de La Sabana and the Fundacion Neumologica Colombiana designed and manufactured the Unisabana-HERONS (USH) ventilator. Here, we present the preclinical and clinical study results to evaluate its effectiveness and safety characteristics in an animal model (Yorkshire Sow) and five patients with acute respiratory failure receiving mechanical ventilatory support for 24 h. Methods: The effectiveness and safety outcomes included maintaining arterial blood gases and pulse oximetry saturation (SpO2), respiratory pressures and volumes (during continuous monitoring) in the range of ARDS and lung-protective strategy goals, and the occurrence of barotrauma. A significance level of 0.05 was used for statistical tests. This clinical trial was registered on Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04497623) and approved by the ethics committee. Results: Among patients treated with the Unisabana-HERONS, the most frequent causes of acute respiratory failure were pneumonia in 3/5 (60 %) and ARDS in 2/5 (40 %). During the treatment, the ventilatory parameters related to lung protection protocols were kept within the safety range, and vital signs and blood gas were stable. The percentage of time that the respiratory pressures or volumes were out of safety range were plateau pressure >30 cm H2O: 0.00 %; driving pressure >15 cm H2O: 0.06 %; mechanical power >15 J/min: 0.00 %; and Tidal volume >8 mL/kg: 0.00 %. There were no adverse events related to the ventilator. The usability questionnaire retrieved a median score for all items between 9 and 10 (best score: 10), indicating great ease of use. Conclusion: The Unisabana-HERONS ventilator effectively provided adequate gas exchange and maintained the ventilatory parameters in the range of lung protection strategies in humans and an animal model. Furthermore, it is straightforward to use and is a low-cost medical device.

Laryngotracheomalacia in a Patient with Mosaic Trisomy 8.

Mosaic trisomy 8 is a condition characterized by a great phenotypic and cytogenetic variability whose incidence ranges around 1 in 25,000 to 50,000 live births. Here, we report a mosaic trisomy 8 patient presenting laryngotracheomalacia, an uncommon finding, analyzing its possible role over morbidity, and mortality. The patient was a boy who, after birth, had tachypnea and paleness. He presented periods of respiratory dysfunction with need of ventilatory support. Respiratory syncytial virus test was positive. Naso fibrobronchoscopy showed moderate laryngotracheomalacia. He also had recurrent episodes of pneumonia and difficulty in withdrawing continuous positive airway pressure. The patient also presented leucoma, abnormal and low-set ears, pectus excavatum, clenched fists with overlapping fingers, cryptorchidism, clubfeet, and deep longitudinal plantar creases. G-bands by Trypsin using giemsa (GTG-banding) karyotype from a peripheral blood sample revealed a mosaic trisomy 8: mos 47,XY, + 8[15]/46,XY[7]. At 4 months, the patient developed respiratory failure, and a chest computed tomography scan showed areas of atelectasis and gross fibroatelectatic striae. He ended up presenting clinical worsening and died at 4 months and 8 days. In our literature review, we found some reports describing patients with mosaic trisomy 8 and laryngotracheomalacia. However, we cannot rule out the possibility that this association could be casual, since laryngotracheomalacia is a relatively common finding in children. Therefore, more studies are still necessary to understand the possible relation between both conditions and the role of laryngotracheomalacia over morbidity and prognosis of mosaic trisomy 8 patients.

Angioedema hereditário com deficiência do Inibidor de C1 ­ Armadilhas no diagnóstico, tratamento e compreensão / Hereditary angioedema with C1 inhibitor deficiency: traps in the diagnosis, treatment, and understanding

Angioedema hereditário (AEH) é uma condição rara, subdiagnosticada e de elevada morbimortalidade, devido ao caráter de suas manifestações clínicas. O AEH se diferencia do angioedema histaminérgico por não responder aos anti-histamínicos, corticosteroides ou epinefrina. Por esse motivo, é extremamente importante o diagnóstico dessa situação, a fim de instituir a terapia adequada. Tal afecção deve ser suspeitada a partir da história clínica de episódios imprevisíveis e recorrentes de edema que quando se manifesta sob a forma de edema laríngeo, pode levar a óbito por asfixia, se não for adequadamente tratado. Relatamos o caso de uma paciente de 18 anos que, apesar de previamente diagnosticada com AEH tipo 1, ao procurar um serviço de emergência devido a crise de angioedema, não dispunha de medicação específica nem apresentou plano de ação com as opções possíveis para crises. Este caso reforça a necessidade de maior divulgação da doença, além da conscientização de pacientes e familiares sobre a doença e eventuais crises, assim como o acesso as medicações.

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare, underdiagnosed condition with high morbidity and mortality due to the characteristics of its clinical presentation. HAE differs from histaminergic angioedema by not responding to antihistamines, corticosteroids, or epinephrine. Therefore, early diagnose is crucial to initiate adequate therapy. HAE is suspected in patients with a clinical history of unpredictable and recurrent episodes of edema. When laryngeal edema occurs, it can lead to death from asphyxiation if not treated properly. We report the case of an 18-year-old patient previously diagnosed with HAE type 1 who sought emergency care during an angioedema attack. However, the patient was not taking any specific medication and did not have an action plan to manage attacks. This case highlights the importance of increasing awareness about the disease, educating patients and their families about the disease and potential attacks, and ensuring access to medications.

Psychological care in ICU focused on health providers and family members of patients in the COVID 19 pandemic / Atención psicológica en unidad de cuidado crítico durante la pandemia por Covid 19

ABSTRACT Currently, research emphasizes psychological support for families and health care providers in the critical care unit, rather than patient care in each of the phases associated with the disease. In this article, we use the clinical case of a patient with COVID-19, critically ill, with multiple complications that lead to the discussion and proposal of protocols for comprehensive psychological care to patients, their families, and health care providers in critical care units. It is crucial, in the efforts required to achieve patient's recovery and medical discharge, to integrate the patient into psychological care programs. Many of the sensations and emotions experienced in the ICU could produce physical reactions that hinder the patient's hemodynamic stability and recovery process. Few studies have been found on the usefulness of psychological or psychiatric care for patients with severe or critical COVID-19. Most of the recently reported studies are focused on psychological care for families and health care providers.

RESUMEN Actualmente, las investigaciones hacen énfasis en el apoyo psicológico a las familias y proveedores de salud en la unidad de cuidados críticos, más que la atención al paciente en cada una de las fases asociadas a la enfermedad. En este artículo, utilizamos un caso clínico de un paciente con COVID-19 que se encontraba en estado crítico con múltiples complicaciones para discutir y proponer protocolos de atención psicológica integral a pacientes, sus familias y proveedores de salud en unidades de cuidados intensivos. Se evidenció que, para lograr la recuperación y el alta médica del paciente, es de mucha utilizad la atención psicológica para él, los proveedores de salud y sus familiares. Muchas de las sensaciones y emociones vividas en la UCI pueden producir reacciones físicas que dificulten la estabilidad hemodinámica y el proceso de recuperación del paciente. Se han encontrado pocos estudios sobre la utilidad de la atención psicológica o psiquiátrica a pacientes con COVID-19 grave o crítico. La mayoría de los estudios informados recientemente se centran en la atención psicológica para familias y proveedores de atención médica.

Challenges for a broad international implementation of the current severe community-acquired pneumonia guidelines.

Severe community-acquired pneumonia (sCAP) remains one of the leading causes of admission to the intensive care unit, thus consuming a large share of resources and is associated with high mortality rates worldwide. The evidence generated by clinical studies in the last decade was translated into recommendations according to the first published guidelines focusing on severe community-acquired pneumonia. Despite the advances proposed by the present guidelines, several challenges preclude the prompt implementation of these diagnostic and therapeutic measures. The present article discusses the challenges for the broad implementation of the sCAP guidelines and proposes solutions when applicable.

Lung ultrasound score predicts outcomes in patients with acute respiratory failure secondary to COVID-19 treated with non-invasive respiratory support: a prospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Lung ultrasound has demonstrated its usefulness in several respiratory diseases management. One derived score, the Lung Ultrasound (LUS) score, is considered a good outcome predictor in patients with Acute Respiratory Failure (ARF). Nevertheless, it has not been tested in patients undergoing non-invasive respiratory support (NIRS). Taking this into account, the aim of this study is to evaluate LUS score as a predictor of 90-day mortality, ETI (Endotracheal intubation) and HFNC (High Flow Nasal Cannula) failure in patients with ARF due to COVID-19 admitted to a Respiratory Intermediate Care Unit (RICU) for NIRS management. RESULTS: One hundred one patients were admitted to the RICU during the study period. Among these 76% were males and the median age was 55 (45-64) years. Initial ARF management started with HFNC, the next step was the use of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) devices and the last intervention was ETI and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission. Of the total study population, CPAP was required in 40%, ETI in 26%, while 15% died. By means of a ROC analysis, a LUS ≥ 25 points was identified as the cut-off point for mortality(AUC 0.81, OR 1.40, 95% CI 1.14 to 1.71; p < 0.001), ETI (AUC 0.83, OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.20 to 1.70; p < 0.001) and HFNC failure (AUC 0.75, OR 1.25, 95% CI 1.12 to 1.41; p < 0.001). Kaplan-Meier survival curves also identified LUS ≥ 25 as a predictor of 90-days mortality (HR 4.16, 95% CI 1.27-13.6) and 30 days ETI as well. CONCLUSION: In our study, a ≥ 25 point cut-off of the Lung Ultrasound Score was identified as a good outcome prediction factor for 90-days mortality, ETI and HFNC failure in a COVID-19 ARF patients cohort treated in a RICU. Considering that LUS score is easy to calculate, a multicenter study to confirm our findings should be performed.

Efficacy of oral 20-hydroxyecdysone (BIO101), a MAS receptor activator, in adults with severe COVID-19 (COVA): a randomized, placebo-controlled, phase 2/3 trial.

Background: SARS-CoV-2 binding to ACE2 is potentially associated with severe pneumonia due to COVID-19. The aim of the study was to test whether Mas-receptor activation by 20-hydroxyecdysone (BIO101) could restore the Renin-Angiotensin System equilibrium and limit the frequency of respiratory failure and mortality in adults hospitalized with severe COVID-19. Methods: Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled phase 2/3 trial. Randomization: 1:1 oral BIO101 (350 mg BID) or placebo, up to 28 days or until an endpoint was reached. Primary endpoint: mortality or respiratory failure requiring high-flow oxygen, mechanical ventilation, or extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation. Key secondary endpoint: hospital discharge following recovery (ClinicalTrials.gov Number, NCT04472728). Findings: Due to low recruitment the planned sample size of 310 was not reached and 238 patients were randomized between August 26, 2020 and March 8, 2022. In the modified ITT population (233 patients; 126 BIO101 and 107 placebo), respiratory failure or early death by day 28 was 11.4% lower in the BIO101 (13.5%) than in the placebo (24.3%) group, (p = 0.0426). At day 28, proportions of patients discharged following recovery were 80.1%, and 70.9% in the BIO101 and placebo group respectively, (adjusted difference 11.0%, 95% CI [-0.4%, 22.4%], p = 0.0586). Hazard Ratio for time to death over 90 days: 0.554 (95% CI [0.285, 1.077]), a 44.6% mortality reduction in the BIO101 group (not statistically significant). Treatment emergent adverse events of respiratory failure were more frequent in the placebo group. Interpretation: BIO101 significantly reduced the risk of death or respiratory failure supporting its use in adults hospitalized with severe respiratory symptoms due to COVID-19. Funding: Biophytis.

Association between mechanical ventilation parameters and mortality in children with respiratory failure on ECMO: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: In refractory respiratory failure (RF), extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a salvage therapy that seeks to reduce lung injury induced by mechanical ventilation. The parameters of optimal mechanical ventilation in children during ECMO are not known. Pulmonary ventilatory management during this therapy may impact mortality. The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between ventilatory parameters in children during ECMO therapy and in-hospital mortality. Methods: A systematic search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, and Google Scholar from January 2013 until May 2022 (PROSPERO 450744), including studies in children with ECMO-supported RF assessing mechanical ventilation parameters, was conducted. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale; heterogeneity, with absence <25% and high >75%, was assessed using I2. Sensitivity and subgroup analyses using the Mantel-Haenszel random-effects model were performed to explore the impact of methodological quality on effect size. Results: Six studies were included. The median age was 3.4 years (IQR: 3.2-4.2). Survival in the 28-day studies was 69%. Mechanical ventilation parameters associated with higher mortality were a very low tidal volume ventilation (<4 ml/kg; OR: 4.70; 95% CI: 2.91-7.59; p < 0.01; I2: 38%), high plateau pressure (mean Dif: -0.70 95% CI: -0.18, -0.22; p < 0.01), and high driving pressure (mean Dif: -0.96 95% CI: -1.83, -0.09: p = 0.03). The inspired fraction of oxygen (p = 0.09) and end-expiratory pressure (p = 0.69) were not associated with higher mortality. Patients who survived had less multiple organ failure (p < 0.01). Conclusion: The mechanical ventilation variables associated with higher mortality in children with ECMO-supported respiratory failure are high plateau pressures, high driving pressure and very low tidal volume ventilation. No association between mortality and other parameters of the mechanical ventilator, such as the inspired fraction of oxygen or end-expiratory pressure, was found. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023450744, PROSPERO 2023 (CRD42023450744).

Abordaje respiratorio no invasivo en un niño con diagnóstico de atrofia muscular espinal tipo II y atelectasia masiva: reporte de un caso / Non-invasive respiratory approach in a child diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy type II and massive atelectasis: a case report

RESUMEN Introducción: Existe evidencia sobre los beneficios del tratamiento no invasivo en la insuficiencia respiratoria aguda (IRA) asociada a la atrofia muscular espinal (AME). Sin embargo, hasta la fecha, no hemos encontrado reportes de casos en nuestro país que describan el manejo no invasivo en la IRA causada por atelectasias masivas en pacientes con AME. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir el abordaje respiratorio no invasivo en un niño con AME tipo II que ingresó con IRA y atelectasia masiva, a un hospital público pediátrico. Presentación del caso: Un niño de 10 años con diagnóstico de AME II ingresó con dificultad respiratoria en el contexto de una atelectasia masiva izquierda. Se implementaron medidas no invasivas, que incluyeron el posicionamiento adecuado, la intensificación de la terapia de higiene bronquial, el aumento del tiempo de ventilación no invasiva y la optimización del equipo de soporte ventilatorio y de la interfaz. Luego de cinco días de tratamiento, se observó una resolución significativa de la atelectasia. Al octavo día, se le otorgó el egreso hospitalario. Conclusión: Se describió el abordaje respiratorio no invasivo en un niño con AME tipo II, el cual resultó favorable para la IRA y la resolución de una atelectasia masiva. Los cuidados respiratorios no invasivos son fundamentales para mejorar la sobrevida y calidad de vida de estos pacientes.

ABSTRACT Introduction: There is evidence supporting the benefits of non-invasive treatment for acute respiratory failure (ARF) associated with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). However, to date, no case reports describing the non-invasive management of ARF due to massive atelectasis in patients with SMA are available in our country. The aim of this study was to describe the non-invasive respiratory approach in a child with SMA type II who was admitted with ARF and massive atelectasis to a public pediatric hospital. Case presentation: A 10-year-old child diagnosed with SMA type II was admitted with respiratory failure due to massive atelectasis of the left lung. Non-invasive measures, including proper positioning, enhanced use of airway clearance techniques, prolonged non-invasive ventilation, and optimization of ventilatory support equipment and interface, were implemented. After five days of treatment, a significant improvement in atelectasis was observed. On the eighth day, the patient was discharged. Conclusion: We described the non-invasive respiratory approach in a child with SMA type II, which proved to be beneficial in addressing ARF and massive atelectasis. Non-invasive respiratory care is essential for improving both the survival and quality of life of these patients.

Noninvasive mechanical ventilation assistance in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a systematic review

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Respiratory failure is the most common cause of death in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and morbidity is related to poor quality of life (QOL). Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) may be associated with prolonged survival and QOL in patients with ALS. OBJECTIVES: To assess whether NIV is effective and safe for patients with ALS in terms of survival and QOL, alerting the health system. DESIGN AND SETTING: Systematic review was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses reporting standards using population, intervention, comparison, and outcome strategies. METHODS: The Cochrane Library, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, LILACS, EMBASE, and CRD databases were searched based on the eligibility criteria for all types of studies on NIV use in patients with ALS published up to January 2022. Data were extracted from the included studies, and the findings were presented using a narrative synthesis. RESULTS: Of the 120 papers identified, only 14 were related to systematic reviews. After thorough reading, only one meta-analysis was considered eligible. In the second stage, 248 studies were included; however, only one systematic review was included. The results demonstrated that NIV provided relief from the symptoms of chronic hypoventilation, increased survival, and improved QOL compared to standard care. These results varied according to clinical phenotype. CONCLUSIONS: NIV in patients with ALS improves the outcome and can delay the indication for tracheostomy, reducing expenditure on hospitalization and occupancy of intensive care unit beds. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO database: CRD42021279910 — https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=279910.