Vasculitis reumatoidea: una manifestación poco habitual. Presentación de tres casos clínicos y revisión de la literatura

La vasculitis reumatoidea es una complicación sistémica y poco frecuente de la Artritis Reumatoidea. Si bien su incidencia ha descendido en los últimos años con el advenimiento de las nuevas terapias inmunosupresoras y biológicas, continua teniendo una alta morbimortalidad. Predomina en el sexo masculino, en pacientes seropositivos y con un largo período de la enfermedad establecida. Requiere de alta presunción diagnostica, siendo el compromiso cutáneo y nervioso periférico el más frecuente. La biopsia de nervio o piel es requerida habitualmente para su diagnóstico. El tratamiento se basa en corticoides e inmunosupresores. Presentamos tres casos clínicos y realizamos una revisión de la literatura.

Rheumatoid vasculitis is a rare systemic complication of rheumatoid arthritis. Although its incidence has decreased in recent years with the advent of new immunosuppressive and biological therapies, it continues to have a high morbidity and mortality. It predominates in males, in seropositive patients and with a long period of established disease. It requires high diagnostic presumption, with skin and peripheral nervous involvement being the most affected. Nerve or skin biopsy is usually required for diagnosis. Treatment is based on corticosteroids and immunosuppressants. We present three clinical cases and carry out a review of the literature.

A vasculite reumatóide é uma complicação sistêmica rara da artrite reumatóide. Embora sua incidência tenha diminuído nos últimos anos com o advento de novas terapias imunossupressoras e biológicas, continua apresentando elevada morbidade e mortalidade. Predomina no sexo masculino, em pacientes soropositivos e com longo período de doença estabelecida. Exige alta presunção diagnóstica, sendo o envolvimento cutâneo e nervoso periférico os mais afetados. A biópsia de nervo ou pele geralmente é necessária para o diagnóstico. O tratamento é baseado em corticosteroides e imunossupressores. Apresentamos três casos clínicos e realizamos uma revisão da literatura.

Effectiveness and safety of neoadjuvant therapy in triple-negative breast cancer in a real-world population. / [Artículo traducido] Efectividad y seguridad del tratamiento neoadyuvante del cáncer de mama triple negativo en la vida real.

OBJECTIVE: Triple-negative breast cancer is a subtype of aggressive breast cancer. Our aim is to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of neoadjuvant treatment in early-stage triple-negative breast cancer and to identify predictors of pathological complete response. METHODS: This is a single-center, retrospective study involving 79 patients with triple-negative breast cancer who initiated neoadjuvant treatment between January 2017 and October 2022. Descriptive analyses were performed as appropriate. Statistical analysis utilized bivariate logistic regression to explore the presence of factors related to pathological complete response, and the Kaplan-Meier method was employed for survival analysis. RESULTS: In the overall population, 27 patients (n = 78; 34.6%) achieved pathological complete response in the breast and axillary lymph nodes, and 31 (n = 73; 42.5%) achieved a grade 5 pathological complete response in the breast, according to the Miller and Payne classification. The addition of platinum to standard therapy improved both breast and axillary lymph node pathological complete response rates. Age less than 40 years was identified as a predictor of pathological complete response in our study population through bivariate analysis, while Ki67 levels lower than 70% were associated with a lower pathological complete response rate. Adverse events were reported in 72 patients (91.1%), with grade 3-5 adverse events observed in 33 (41.8%). There was a particularly notable increase in gastrointestinal and hematological adverse events when platinum was added. CONCLUSIONS: In this population, we observed moderate rates of pathological complete response with acceptable chemotherapy tolerance. Platinum-based chemotherapy appears to enhance the likelihood of achieving pathological complete response, albeit with a less favorable safety profile. Therefore, evaluating the benefit-risk balance is crucial when selecting the optimal chemotherapy regimen for individual patients.

A new paradigm in the management of scalp pruritus: findings from the SCALP-PR trial.

PURPOSE: The "Impact of scalp pruritus in dermatological consultations in Spain: The SCALP-PR trial" was initiated to address the common yet often insufficiently examined issue of scalp pruritus in dermatology. This condition leads to an uncontrollable urge to scratch, affecting the patients' quality of life and potentially causing scalp damage. This study aimed to explore the prevalence, patient profile, underlying conditios, and therapeutic approaches for scalp pruritus in Spain, and to assess the safety and efficacy profile, as well as the tolerability of a non-pharmacologic treatment. METHODS: From 2021 through 2022, 75 dermatologists enrolled a total of 359 patients in a study on scalp pruritus, approved by the Bellvitge University Hospital Research Ethics Committee, Barcelona, Spain. This evidence-based research combined a meta-analysis with observational study techniques focused on real-world evidence to examine the therapeutic impact on quality of life (QoL). Utilizing the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) for QoL assessments, the study evaluated the effectiveness of the topical product over 15 days. Data collection was conducted via an eCRF and analyzed with statistical methods to provide reliable insights into the management of scalp pruritus. RESULTS: The prevalence of scalp pruritus in Spain was found to be 6.9%, predominantly among women with a mean age of 52.5 years. The leading causes identified were seborrheic dermatitis and pruritus of undetermined etiology or sensitive scalp. Stress was noted as a key factor, with corticosteroids and hygienic measures being common therapies. The topical product demonstrated significant reductions in pruritus and scratching in more than 90% of patients after 15 days. Improvements were also seen in dermatological quality of life, with 87.1% of patients showing enhancements in DLQI scores. The product was well-received thanksto its cosmetic properties, with high ratings in texture, ease of application, and fragrance. CONCLUSION: The topical product studied is a safe, effective, and cosmetically appealing treatment, improving scalp pruritus in various etiologies for most patients. The results highlight the need for patient-center treatments in dermatology, providing important insights for clinical practice and future research.

Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris: A Multicentric Case Series of 65 Spanish Patients.

INTRODUCTION: PRP is a rare entity of unknown etiopathogenesis. Lack of clinical practice guidelines makes management challenging for clinicians. OBJECTIVE: To add our experience to the corpus evidence on PRP. METHODS: This was a retrospective, descriptive, and multicentric study of 65 patients with PRP, the largest European case series of patients with PRP ever reported. RESULTS: PRP was more prevalent in men with a mean age of 51 years, yet erythrodermic forms presented in older patients (mean age, 61 years).Six (75%) pediatric patients and 10 (60%) non-erythrodermic adults controlled their disease with topical corticosteroids. However, 26 (68%) erythrodermic patients required biologic therapy as the last and effective therapy for a mean 6.5 months to achieve complete response. CONCLUSION: Our study showed a statistical difference in terms of outcome and response to treatment between children, or patients with limited disease and patients who develop erythroderma.

PSORIATIC PATIENT-REPORTED OUTCOMES, ADHERENCE, AND SATISFACTION. / RESULTADOS COMUNICADOS POR EL PACIENTE, ADHERENCIA Y SATISFACCIÓN EN PACIENTES CON PSORIASIS.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are outcomes evaluated by patients based on their perception of their disease and treatment. The objective of PROs is to determine antipsoriatic treatment-related adherence, quality of life (QoL) and satisfaction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted an observational cross-sectional, prospective, and single-center study in which PROs surveys were conducted on adherence (Morisky-Green [MG] test), treatment satisfaction (Spanish Questionnaire of Treatment Satisfaction in Psoriasis [CESTEP]) and QoL (Skindex-29 and DLQI). Additional variables include: PASI, BSA. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Jamovi®2.3.26. RESULTS: A total of 100 surveys were conducted. Based on the MG questionnaire, we found that 75% (75/100) of patients were adherent vs 94% (94/100) from the dispensation records. Regarding CESTEP, a mean score of 7.4 ± 7.7 (close to maximum satisfaction 0) was obtained, while DLQI yielded a score of 2.6 ± 4.6 (indicating a small effect on QoL), and SKINDEX-29 a score of 14.6 ± 15.4 (68% indicating mild (< 5) or very mild (6-17) impact according to Nijsten et al.). Based on CESTEP a p.Rho Spearman value of 0.338 (p = 0.004) was obtained in relation to PASI when the study was conducted with a BSA of 0.255 (p = 0.050), DLQI results of 0.508 (p < 0.001) and Skindex-29 results of 0.397(p < 0.001). At the time of the study, the correlation matrix between DLQI result and PASI was 0.365 (p = 0.002) with a BSA of 0.347 (p = 0.007). Skindex-29 results with PASI were 0.380 (p = 0.001) and with BSA, 0.295 (p = 0.022). CONCLUSIONS: Patients on therapy exhibit a good QoL, high adherence and satisfaction with their treatment. A significant correlation was seen among satisfaction, QoL, and PASI-BSA at the time of the study.

Fractures of the peroneal malleolus: Current concepts. / Fracturas del maléolo peroneo: conceptos actuales.

Ankle fractures represent up to 9% of all fractures, with an increased incidence in the elderly population. Among these fractures, isolated fractures of the lateral malleolus are the most common, representing 65-70% of all cases. The therapeutic decision-making primarily relies on the stability of the ankle ring, considering it stable if affected at one point and unstable if two or more points are affected. Surgical treatment focuses on restoring the length of the fibula, joint reconstruction, stabilizing the syndesmosis, and providing a stable fixation. It is crucial to rule out associated injuries that may influence therapeutic management. This article reviews the evaluation and management of lateral malleolus fractures, proposes a decision-making algorithm, and examines several fibular fixation options.

Outcomes of patients with heart failure followed in units accredited by the SEC-Excelente-IC quality program according to the type of unit.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: The development of specific heart failure (HF) units has improved the management of patients with this disease due to improved organization and resource management. The Spanish Society of Cardiology (SEC) has defined 3 types of HF units (community, specialized, and advanced) based on their complexity and service portfolio. Our aim was to compare the characteristics, treatment, and outcomes of patients with HF according to the type of unit. METHODS: We analyzed data from the SEC-Excelente-IC quality accreditation program registry, with 1716 patients consecutively included in two 1-month cutoffs (March and October) from 2019 to 2021 by 45 SEC-accredited HF units. We compared the characteristics, treatment and 1-year outcomes between the 3 types of units. RESULTS: Of the 1716 patients, 13.2% were treated in community units, 65.9% in specialized units, and 20.9% in advanced units. The rates of mortality (27.5 vs 15.5/100 patients-year; P<.001), admissions for HF (39.7 vs 29.2/100 patients-year; P=.019), total decompensations (56.1 vs 40.5/100 patients-year; P=.003), and combined death/admission for HF (45.2 vs 31.4/100 patients-year; P=.005) were higher in community units than in specialized/advanced units. Follow-up in a community unit was an independent predictor of higher mortality and admissions at 1 year. CONCLUSIONS: Compared with follow-up by more specialized units, follow-up in a community unit was associated with a higher decompensation rate and increased 1-year mortality.

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension treatment and sex: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is a complication of pulmonary embolism and a major cause of chronic pulmonary hypertension leading to right heart failure and death. While pulmonary endarterectomy is the treatment of choice, some patients might benefit from medical therapy or balloon pulmonary angioplasty. Sex differences in outcomes of these therapies are not well characterized. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate sex differences in outcomes of various therapies for CTEPH. We searched MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL and the Cochrane Library databases between January 1, 2010 and April 30, 2021, published in English. We pooled incidence estimates using random-effects meta-analyses. We evaluated heterogeneity using the I2 statistic. We assessed publication bias using Begg's and Egger's tests. This study is registered in PROSPERO, CRD42021268504. RESULTS: A total of 19 studies met the eligibility criteria, but only 3 trials provided separate outcomes for women and men. Two studies evaluated the efficacy of BPA, and one study evaluated the efficacy of riociguat (129 patients). Overall, 57.3% of patients were women and 62.6% were in functional class III. Mean time of follow-up was 55.5 (SD 26.1) weeks. Women showed a significantly better response in cardiac index (mean difference [MD], 0.10L/min/m2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.04-0.16; I2=0%; P=0.001). Alternatively, the reduction of pulmonary vascular resistances was significantly higher for men than for women (MD, 161.17dynscm-5; 95% CI, 67.99-254.35; I2=0%; P=0.0007). CONCLUSIONS: Women and men might show different hemodynamic responses to riociguat or BPA for CTEPH.

The low-FODMAP diet.

In this article we present a protocol for the use of the low-FODMAP diet in paediatric patients and review of the current evidence on its efficacy. These short-chain carbohydrates, which can be fermented by the intestinal microbiota, are found in a wide variety of foods, mainly of plant origin. The low-FODMAP diet is a therapeutic tool used for the management of gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome. The sources we used were PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar and institutional websites. Following consumption of FODMAP-rich foods, a series of end products are generated that are not absorbed, giving rise to symptoms. Before starting a low-FODMAP diet, it is important to carry out a diagnostic evaluation including any applicable tests. Treatment is structured in 3 phases: elimination, reintroduction and personalization phase. In the first phase, FODMAP-rich foods are eliminated for 2-3 weeks. In the second phase, lasting 8 weeks, FODMAP-rich foods are gradually reintroduced. The last phase consists in customizing the diet according to individual tolerance. This article details which foods contain FODMAPs and possible substitutes. In addition, specific food diary/intake tracking and educational materials are provided in a series of appendices to facilitate adherence to the diet. Although most studies have been conducted in adults, there is also some evidence on the beneficial effects in the paediatric age group, with a reduction of symptoms, especially in patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders. Nevertheless, more research is required on the subject.

Dalbavancin as sequential therapy in infective endocarditis: Real-life experience in elder and comorbid patients.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of dalbavancin as sequential therapy in patients with infective endocarditis (IE) due to gram positive bacteria (GPB) in a real-life heterogenous cohort with comorbid patients. METHODS: A single center retrospective cohort study including all patients with definite IE treated with dalbavancin between January 2017 and February 2022 was developed. A 6-month follow-up was performed. The main outcomes were clinical cure rate, clinical and microbiological relapse, 6-month mortality, and adverse effects (AEs) rate. RESULTS: The study included 61 IE episodes. The median age was 78.5 years (interquartile range [IQR] 63.2-85.2), 78.7% were male, with a median Charlson comorbidity index of 7 (IQR 4-9) points. Overall, 49.2% suffered native valve IE. The most common microorganism was Staphylococcus aureus (26.3%) followed by Enterococcus faecalis (21.3%). The median duration of initial antimicrobial therapy and dalbavancin therapy were 27 (IQR 20-34) and 14 days (IQR 14-28) respectively. The total reduction of hospitalization was 1090 days. The most frequent dosage was 1500mg of dalbavancin every 14 days (96.7%). An AE was detected in 8.2% of patients, only one (1.6%) was attributed to dalbavancin (infusion reaction). Clinical cure was achieved in 86.9% of patients. One patient (1.6%) with Enterococcus faecalis IE suffered relapse. The 6-month mortality was 11.5%, with only one IE-related death (1.6%). CONCLUSION: This study shows a high efficacy of dalbavancin in a heterogeneous real-world cohort of IE patients, with an excellent safety profile. Dalbavancin allowed a substantial reduction of in-hospital length of stay.

Outpatient parenteral antibiotic therapy (OPAT) through elastomeric continuous infusion pumps in a real-life observational study: Characteristics, safety, and efficacy analysis.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to present real-life data on the use, efficacy, and safety of administering antibiotic therapy through portable elastomeric pumps (pEP) in the outpatient setting. METHODS: This retrospective observational cohort study was conducted from January 2020 to May 2023 in a large academic hospital in Rome, Italy. All patients receiving antibiotic therapy via pEP were included up to a follow-up period of 90 days after the end of antibiotic therapy. The primary outcome was the treatment response. Secondary endpoints were adverse events attributable to the drug administered, the vascular catheter, or the infection itself. RESULTS: Of the 490 patients referred to our outpatient parenteral antibiotic therapy (OPAT) unit, 94 (19.2%) received antibiotic therapy via pEP and were included in the final analysis. The most frequently treated infections were those involving bone and prosthetics, including spondylodiscitis (n=27; 28.8%). Most infections were due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa (n=55; 48.3%). Cefepime (n=32; 34.0%), piperacillin/tazobactam (n=29; 30.9%), ceftolozane/tazobactam (n=7; 7.5%), and oxacillin (n=7; 7.5%) were the most frequently administered antibiotics. The infection cure rate reached 88.3% (n=83). 12 patients (12.8%) reported adverse events, of which half (6.4%) were drug-related and half (6.4%) were line-related. CONCLUSIONS: OPAT through portable elastomeric infusion pumps proved to be safe and effective. It also contributed to the reduction of healthcare costs, fully respecting the principles of personalized medicine. This strategy has emerged as a promising tool for antibiotic stewardship and infection control.

The medical treatment of cardiogenic shock.

Cardiogenic shock is characterized by tissue hypoperfusion due to the inadequate cardiac output to maintain the tissue oxygen demand. Despite some advances in cardiogenic shock management, extremely high mortality is still associated with this clinical syndrome. Its management is based on the immediate stabilization of hemodynamic parameters through medical care and the use of mechanical circulatory supports in specialized centers. This review aims to understand the cardiogenic shock current medical treatment, consisting mainly of inotropic drugs, vasopressors and coronary revascularization. In addition, we highlight the relevance of applying measures to other organ levels based on the optimization of mechanical ventilation and the appropriate initiation of renal replacement therapy.

Clinical response to prednisone in a severe case of infant-juvenile paracoccidioidomycosis.

BACKGROUND: Paracoccidioidomycosis is a neglected tropical disease caused by fungi of the genus Paracoccidioides. A wide range of symptoms is related to the disease; however, lungs and skin are the sites predominantly affected. The disease is mostly seen in people living in rural areas in Latin America. CASE REPORT: We present a pediatric case of severe disseminated paracoccidioidomycosis that slowly responded to the antifungal treatment. Within three months, symptoms evolved into hepatosplenomegaly, necrotic cervical and abdominal lymph nodes, and splenic abscess. Clinical response to amphotericin B deoxycholate and itraconazole was slow, resulting in pleural and peritoneal cavity effusions, heart failure and shock. Amphotericin B deoxycholate was replaced by the liposomal formulation, with no response. Subsequently, prednisone was added to the treatment, which led to improvement in the clinical response. Serological Paracoccidioides antibody titers were atypical, with very low titers in the critical phase and significant increase during the convalescence phase. The infection was finally cleared up with amphotericin B deoxycholate, liposomal amphotericin B and the use of corticosteroids. Paracoccidioidomycosis serology was non-reactive two years post-discharge. CONCLUSIONS: Due to the intense inflammatory response triggered by Paracoccidioides cells, giving low-dose prednisone for a short period of time modulated the inflammatory response and supported antifungal treatment.

Stronger together: the longitudinal relations between partner responsiveness, dyadic coping and PTSD recovery.

Background: Past research has primarily focused on negative associations between PTSD and relationships. Therefore, this investigation delves into the potential positive role of these relational aspects in aiding PTSD recovery during treatment.Objective: This study aimed to examine the impact of dyadic coping and perceived partner responsiveness on treatment trajectories of PTSD patients.Method: The study included 90 participants, who were requested to complete online questionnaires twice, with a six-month gap between the measures.Results: The results from linear regression analyses indicated that perceived partner responsiveness had a positive effect on PTSD recovery, whereas dyadic coping had the opposite effect: higher levels of dyadic coping were associated with an increase in posttraumatic stress symptoms over time. Additional examination of the subscales indicated that heightened communication between clients and partners regarding stress was related with increased posttraumatic stress symptoms.Conclusions: These findings underscore the importance and complexity of effective and supportive communication between patients with PTSD and their partners. While existing literature supports both perceived partner responsiveness and dyadic coping as beneficial, this study indicates that only perceived partner responsiveness positively impacted PTSD recovery.

Perceived Partner Responsiveness and PTSD Recovery: the study reveals a significant positive impact of perceived partner responsiveness on PTSD recovery. Patients perceiving higher levels of understanding from their romantic partners experience enhanced recovery, possibly through increased social support and the development of new self-narratives.Dyadic Coping and PTSD Recovery: contrary to expectations, aspects of dyadic coping, particularly stress communication, were found to hinder PTSD recovery. Unhelpful disclosure and problematic interpersonal dynamics in discussing trauma within the relationship seemed to limit recovery, indicating the nuanced nature of communication's role in PTSD recovery.

Evaluation, differential diagnosis and treatment of vertebral osteoporosis: how to avoid the occurrence of new fractures. / Evaluación, diagnóstico diferencial y tratamiento de la osteoporosis vertebral: cómo evitar la aparición de nuevas fracturas.

Osteoporosis is a highly prevalent and multifactorial disease whose main manifestation is the appearance of fragility or low-impact fractures. The most frequent locations of osteoporotic fractures occur at the vertebrae, femoral, distal end of the radius and humerus. Osteoporotic vertebral fracture deserves special mention among them due to its prevalence, importance as it often goes unnoticed and medium-long term consequences are: pain, deformity, disability and deterioration in quality of life. In this review we will focus on the classification and initial evaluation of the patient with osteoporosis, estimation of risk factors, laboratory and imaging studies for an adequate assessment using simple radiography, dual densitometry and magnetic resonance imaging. We will also address the main aspects of the differential diagnosis, treatment and prevention of vertebral fragility fracture, briefly reviewing the main therapeutic agents currently used for its prevention and treatment.

Superior versus anteroinferior plating for mid-shaft clavicle fractures: a randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Clavicle fractures represent 2.5-4% of all fractures observed in emergency services. 80% occurs in the middle third. Treatment by plating requires a higher level of evidence. OBJECTIVE: To compare the functional outcomes of mid-shaft clavicle fractures managed with superior plating compared to anteroinferior plating. TRIAL DESIGN: A randomized, double-blind, parallel, superiority clinical trial. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patients with fractures of the clavicles AO15B1 and AO15B2 were studied. Patients were randomized to be treated with either 3.5 mm superior or anteroinferior plating. A rehabilitation program was designed for both groups. The primary outcome measure was the Disability of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score; secondary outcomes included pain, union rate, and complication rates. RESULTS: Twenty-eight patients were studied and were eligible for analysis. Significant differences were found in the function assessed with the DASH score at 30 days for the superior plating compared with anteroinferior (43.74 vs. 29.26, respectively, p = 0.027), 60 days (23.97 vs. 11.18, p = 0.021), and 90 days (9.52 vs. 3.5, p = 0.016). One loosening with superficial infection was found with superior plating. CONCLUSIONS: Using an anteroinferior reconstruction plate in diaphyseal fractures offers better functional results than the upper plate in patients with fractures of the middle third of the clavicle.

ANTECEDENTES: Las fracturas de clavícula comprenden el 2.5-4% de todas las fracturas observadas en los servicios de emergencia. El 80% se presentan en el tercio medio. La posición de la placa como tratamiento requiere mayor nivel de evidencia. OBJETIVO: Comparar los resultados funcionales de las fracturas diafisarias de clavícula manejadas con placa superior versus placa anteroinferior. MÉTODO: Ensayo clínico aleatorizado, doble ciego, paralelo, de superioridad. Se estudiaron pacientes con fractura diafisaria de clavícula AO15B1 y AO15B2. Se manejaron con placa de reconstrucción de 3.5 mm colocada en forma superior o anteroinferior. Se diseñó un programa de rehabilitación para ambos grupos. El resultado primario fue medido con el cuestionario DASH y los resultados secundarios incluyeron dolor, presencia de consolidación y complicaciones. RESULTADOS: Fueron elegibles para análisis 28 pacientes. Se encontraron diferencias significativas de la escala DASH a los 30 días para la maniobra superior comparada con la inferior (43.74 vs. 29.26, respectivamente; p = 0.027), a los 60 días (23.97 vs. 11.18; p = 0.021) y a los 90 días (9.52 vs. 3.5; p = 0.016). CONCLUSIONES: El uso de placa de reconstrucción anteroinferior en las fracturas diafisarias ofrece mejores resultados funcionales en comparación con la placa superior en pacientes con fracturas de tercio medio de clavícula.

Efficacy and safety of biological treatment for inflammatory bowel disease in elderly patients: Results from a GETECCU cohort.

INTRODUCTION: Biological therapies used for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have shown to be effective and safe, although these results were obtained from studies involving mostly a young population, who are generally included in clinical trials. The aim of our study was to determine the efficacy and safety of the different biological treatments in the elderly population. METHODS: Multicenter study was carried out in the GETECCU group. Patients diagnosed with IBD and aged over 65 years at the time of initiating biological therapy (infliximab, adalimumab, golimumab, ustekinumab or vedolizumab) were retrospectively included. Among the patients included, clinical response was assessed after drug induction (12 weeks of treatment) and at 52 weeks. Patients' colonoscopy data in week 52 were assessment, where available. Regarding complications, development of oncological events during follow-up and infectious processes occurring during biological treatment were collected (excluding bowel infection by cytomegalovirus). RESULTS: A total of 1090 patients were included. After induction, at approximately 12-14 weeks of treatment, 419 patients (39.6%) were in clinical remission, 502 patients (47.4%) had responded without remission and 137 patients (12.9%) had no response. At 52 weeks of treatment 442 patients (57.1%) had achieved clinical remission, 249 patients had responded without remission (32.2%) and 53 patients had no response to the treatment (6.8%). Before 52 weeks, 129 patients (14.8%) had discontinued treatment due to inefficacy, this being significantly higher (p<0.0001) for Golimumab - 9 patients (37.5%) - compared to the other biological treatments analyzed. With respect to tumor development, an oncological event was observed in 74 patients (6.9%): 30 patients (8%) on infliximab, 23 (7.14%) on adalimumab, 3 (11.1%) on golimumab, 10 (6.4%) on ustekinumab, and 8 (3.8%) on vedolizumab. The incidence was significantly lower (p=0.04) for the vedolizumab group compared to other treatments. As regards infections, these occurred in 160 patients during treatment (14.9%), with no differences between the different biologicals used (p=0.61): 61 patients (19.4%) on infliximab, 39 (12.5%) on adalimumab, 5 (17.8%) on golimumab, 22 (14.1%) on ustekinumab, and 34 (16.5%) on vedolizumab. CONCLUSIONS: Biological drug therapies have response rates in elderly patients similar to those described in the general population, Golimumab was the drug that was discontinued most frequently due to inefficacy. In our experience, tumor development was more frequent in patients who used anti-TNF therapies compared to other targets, although its incidence was generally low and that this is in line with younger patients based on previous literature.

Antiviral treatment for SARS-CoV-2 infection in the current situation: a position paper of the Spanish Society of Emergency Medicine (SEMES). / Posicionamiento de la Sociedad Española de Medicina de Urgencias y Emergencias (SEMES) ante el tratamiento antiviral frente al SARS-CoV-2 en la situación epidemiológica actual.

SUMMARY: COVID-19 continues to pose a significant threat: mortality stands at nearly twice that of influenza, and the incidence rate is growing as the population's vaccination rate decreases, particularly in Spain and other areas of Europe. Given this situation, it is vitally important know whether medical protocols are consistent and appropriately implemented by health care staff in the interest of preventing possible inefficiency or inequity. Physicians from hospital emergency departments met to study their hospitals' usual clinical practices for managing SARS-CoV-2 infection and to determine their expert opinions on the use of antiviral agents. The participating physicians then reached consensus on evidencebased recommendations for strategies that would optimize emergency treatment.

RESUMEN: Actualmente, la COVID-19 sigue representando una amenaza significativa, con una mortalidad cercana al doble de la ocasionada por la gripe y con una incidencia variable debido a una disminución en la tasa de vacunación de la población, especialmente en el contexto europeo y español. Ante este panorama, es de vital importancia comprobar que los protocolos médicos están consolidados y son debidamente implementados por los profesionales sanitarios, con la finalidad de evitar posibles ineficiencias o inequidades. A través de reuniones con profesionales de urgencias se han observado las prácticas clínicas habituales en los servicios de urgencias hospitalarios para pacientes con infección por SARS-CoV-2, con la finalidad de comprender la perspectiva de estos profesionales acerca del uso de antivirales y, tras un consenso de expertos basados en la evidencia actual, se han generado estas de recomendaciones para poder enfocar estrategias que optimicen el tratamiento de los pacientes en estos servicios.

Characteristics and type of strabismus associated to macular diplopia. Treatment outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: To study the clinical characteristics of macular diplopia, treatment, and outcome. METHODS: Retrospective descriptive study of cases referred to the ocular motility section of a tertiary hospital with diplopia, diagnosed with macular diplopia between 2022-23. The etiology of the macular pathology and the type of associated strabismus were recorded. The result was considered good if the diplopia improved or was eliminated with the medical or surgical treatment. Follow-up time from the onset of diplopia until data collection was recorded. RESULTS: a total of 19 cases comprised the sample (63.2% women), mean age: 67.16 years. Amblyopia (21.1%), high myopia (47.4%), epirretinal membrane (ERM) (36.8%), neovascular membrane (26.3%), macular hole (10.5%), and lamellar (15.8%), and age macular degeneration (5.3%) were registered. The 47.4% had vertical diplopia, horizontal: 5.3 and 47.4% mixed. The mean horizontal deviation was: 7.3 PD (prism diopters) and vertical: 6.22 PD. Ocular extorsion was observed in 26.3%, and intorsion: 5.3%. Torticollis was present in 15.8%. The treatment consisted of strabismus surgery + Botox (15.8%), strabismus surgery (47.4%), medical treatment with Fresnel prims or Scotch cellophane (36.8%). A 68.4% presented a good result at the end of the study. The mean follow-up was 55.58 months. CONCLUSIONS: Misregistration of macular photoreceptors is the most common cause of binocular diplopia in patients with ERM or other macular pathologies. Most complains of vertical or mixed diplopia. Sensorimotor evaluation of these patients should be thorough. Early diagnosis prevents unnecessary prescription of prism glasses. Surgical and/or medical treatment achieves good results in most cases.