Improvement of serum lipids concentration in a general population historical cohort. Why? / Mejora de la concentración de lípidos séricos en una cohorte histórica de población general. ¿Por qué?

Background: Knowledge about the harmful effects of high levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (cLDL) in adults increased after the publication of various guidelines, leading to closer control and more treatment. We hypothesized that these health care changes would result in an overall improvement in the lipid profile of the population. Objective: To determine the evolution of the lipid profile in the population of Spain from the Diet and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease in Spain cohort. Methods: A comparison was made between the baseline population-based probabilistically sampled DRECE cohort (DRECE 1 study, 1992-1994, n=4787) and its 13 years later revisit (DRECE 3 study, 2005-2007). A cross-sectional comparison was made of the overall population of DRECE1 and DRECE3, including only individuals aged 20 to 60 years (inter-individual variations). For subjects participating in both DRECE1 and DRECE3 (n=1039), individual variations over time (intra-individual analyses) were examined. Results: In the overall population, the prevalence of lipid-lowering therapy increased from 3.8% in DRECE1 to 10.7% in DRECE3. Comparing the lipid profile of the population aged 20-60 years in DRECE1 with the same age group in DRECE3, an overall decrease is observed in total cholesterol from a mean of 203.31mg/dl (SD 43.51) in 1992-1994 to 196.31mg/dl (SD 38.53) in 2005-2007, and in cLDL from a mean of 125.78mg/dl (SD 38.53) to 121.37mg/dl (SD 34.22). The proportion of the population with total cholesterol >200mg/dl decreased from 51% in DRECE1 to 47% in DRECE3, although this difference did not reach statistical significance (p=0.077). As regards the intra-individual analyses, total cholesterol increased from DRECE1 to DRECE3 in men and women younger than 40 years at baseline, but decreased in those who were older. Index of individuality for total cholesterol, cLDL, cHDL and triglycerides ranged from 0.53 to 0.87. Conclusions: The lipid profile of the Spanish population improved between 1992-1994 and 2005-2007. Within individuals, lipid concentrations, especially total cholesterol and cLDL have increased, although the trend is favorable in the middle-age group (40-59 years). These changes seem to be due to several causes, impacted by dietary and lifestyle factors, and also by a greater emphasis in lipid-lowering therapy in middle-aged people. Lipid parameters had a low index of individuality, which limits their usefulness as population reference values (AU)

Antecedentes: Los efectos nocivos de los altos niveles de colesterol ligado a lipoproteínas de baja densidad (cLDL) han sido ampliamente difundidos en la literatura científica y popular. Nuestra hipótesis es que estas recomendaciones han influido eficazmente en el perfil lípido de la población española. Objetivo: Determinar la evolución del perfil de lípidos en la población de España a partir de la cohorte Dieta y riesgo de enfermedad cardiovascular en España (DRECE). Métodos: Se comparó la cohorte de partida DRECE (estudio DRECE1, 1992-1994, n=4.787), procedente de muestreo probabilístico poblacional, con su reevaluación a los 13 años (estudio DRECE3, 2005-2007). Se compararon de modo transversal las muestras DRECE1 y DRECE3, incluyendo solo sujetos entre 20 y 60 años (variaciones interindividuales). De los sujetos que participaron en ambos estudios (n=1.039) se examinaron las variaciones interindividuales a lo largo del tiempo (análisis intraindividual). Resultados: En la población general, la prevalencia de la terapia hipolipidemiante aumentó de 3,8% en DRECE1 a 10,7% en DRECE3. Al comparar el perfil lipídico de la población de 20 a 60 años en DRECE1 con el mismo grupo de edad en DRECE3 disminuye la media del colesterol total de 203,31mg/dl (DS 43,51) en 1992-1994 a 196,31mg/dl (DS 38,53) en 2005-2007, la media del cLDL disminuye de 125,78mg/dl (DS 38,53) a 121,37mg/dl (DS 34,22). La proporción de la población con colesterol total>200mg/dl se redujo de 51% en DRECE1 al 47% en DRECE3, aunque esta diferencia no fue significativa (p=0,077). Respecto del análisis intraindividual el colesterol total aumentó de DRECE1 a DRECE3 en hombres y mujeres menores de 40 años al inicio de la cohorte, y descendió en los mayores de 40. El índice de individualidad del colesterol total, cLDL, cHDL y triglicéridos osciló entre 0,53 y 0,87. Conclusiones: El perfil lipídico de la población española mejoró entre 1992-1994 y 2005-2007. La concentración intraindividual de lípidos aumentó ligeramente, especialmente el colesterol total y cLDL, pero la tendencia fue más favorable en los sujetos de edad media (40-59 años). Estos cambios parecen ser multicausales, influidos por factores dietéticos y de estilo de vida, y también por un mayor énfasis en la terapia hipolipidemiante en sujetos en edad media. Los parámetros lipídicos tenían un bajo índice de individualidad, lo que limita su utilidad como valores de referencia poblacionales (AU)

Improvement of serum lipids concentration in a general population historical cohort. Why?

BACKGROUND: Knowledge about the harmful effects of high levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (cLDL) in adults increased after the publication of various guidelines, leading to closer control and more treatment. We hypothesized that these health care changes would result in an overall improvement in the lipid profile of the population. OBJECTIVE: To determine the evolution of the lipid profile in the population of Spain from the Diet and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease in Spain cohort. METHODS: A comparison was made between the baseline population-based probabilistically sampled DRECE cohort (DRECE 1 study, 1992-1994, n=4787) and its 13 years later revisit (DRECE 3 study, 2005-2007). A cross-sectional comparison was made of the overall population of DRECE1 and DRECE3, including only individuals aged 20 to 60 years (inter-individual variations). For subjects participating in both DRECE1 and DRECE3 (n=1039), individual variations over time (intra-individual analyses) were examined. RESULTS: In the overall population, the prevalence of lipid-lowering therapy increased from 3.8% in DRECE1 to 10.7% in DRECE3. Comparing the lipid profile of the population aged 20-60 years in DRECE1 with the same age group in DRECE3, an overall decrease is observed in total cholesterol from a mean of 203.31mg/dl (SD 43.51) in 1992-1994 to 196.31mg/dl (SD 38.53) in 2005-2007, and in cLDL from a mean of 125.78mg/dl (SD 38.53) to 121.37mg/dl (SD 34.22). The proportion of the population with total cholesterol >200mg/dl decreased from 51% in DRECE1 to 47% in DRECE3, although this difference did not reach statistical significance (p=0.077). As regards the intra-individual analyses, total cholesterol increased from DRECE1 to DRECE3 in men and women younger than 40 years at baseline, but decreased in those who were older. Index of individuality for total cholesterol, cLDL, cHDL and triglycerides ranged from 0.53 to 0.87. CONCLUSIONS: The lipid profile of the Spanish population improved between 1992-1994 and 2005-2007. Within individuals, lipid concentrations, especially total cholesterol and cLDL have increased, although the trend is favorable in the middle-age group (40-59 years). These changes seem to be due to several causes, impacted by dietary and lifestyle factors, and also by a greater emphasis in lipid-lowering therapy in middle-aged people. Lipid parameters had a low index of individuality, which limits their usefulness as population reference values.

¿Podemos utilizar la apolipoproteína B en la toma de decisiones para la intervención en el riesgo cardiovascular de pacientes con triglicéridos elevados? / Can apolipoprotein B be used for making decisions on cardiovascular risk prevention in patients with raised triglycerides?

Objetivo. Analizar el valor predictivo de diversas aproximaciones: cuantificación de la concentración de apolipoproteína B (apoB), estimación del cLDLf y estimación del no-cHDL, como predictivos de elevaciones de la magnitud de la concentración de cLDL. Material y métodos. Estudio multicéntrico transversal en el que se han analizado las muestras rutinarias de 6.094 pacientes consecutivos. En cada paciente se ha cuantificado el cLDL mediante una técnica de ultracentrifugación de rutina (cLDLu) y la concentración de apoB por uno de los métodos inmunológicos estandarizados y se ha estimado el cLDLf y el no-cHDL. Las magnitudes obtenidas han sido utilizadas para analizar sus valores predictivos del cLDLu en función de tres grupos de concentración de Tg (<200, entre 200 y 400 y más de 400mg/dL) y los grupos de riesgo definidos por el ATPIII (cLDL>70, 100, 130 o 160mg/dL). Resultados y conclusiones. Con todas las magnitudes analizadas se obtiene un buen valor predictivo positivo, variable para las diferentes concentraciones de Tg y que es máximo para la apoB con puntos de corte de alta especificidad (AE). Las estimaciones con cLDLf infraestiman la situación de riesgo del paciente, mientras que las que utilizan el no-cHDL la sobreestiman. Conclusión. En pacientes con Tg<200mg/dL puede utilizarse prácticamente sin riesgo la fórmula de Friedewald; en pacientes con Tg elevados es recomendable la apoB (puntos de corte de AE) como predictor positivo y el no-cHDL como predictor negativo (AU)

Objective. To analyse the predictive value of several approaches to cardiovascular risk prevention: measuring apolipoprotein B concentrations (apoB), estimation of fractionated LDL cholesterol (cLDLf) and non-HDL cholesterol (HDLc), to predict increases in LDL cholesterol. Material and Methods. Cross-sectional multicentre study in which routine samples from 6094 consecutive patients were analysed. In each patient, LDLc was quantified by routine ultracentrifugation technique (LDLu) and apoB concentrations by a standard immunological method. We also estimated the LDLf and non-HDLc. The values obtained were used to analyse the predictive values of unfractionated LDL cholesterol (cLDLu) into three groups according to their triglyceride concentration (<200, between 200 and 400 and 400mg/dL) and risk groups as defined by the Adult Treatment Panel (ATP) III guidelines (LDL-C> 70, 100, 130 or 160mg/dL). Results and conclusions. With all the variables analysed we obtained a good positive predictive value, which varied according to the triglyceride concentrations, with the highest values being obtained for apoB with high specificity cut-off points (AE). Calculations with LDLf values underestimate the patient's risk, while those using non-HDLc overestimate it. Conclusion. The Friedewald formula can be used practically without risk in patients with triglycerides below 200mg/dL. In patients with elevated triglycerides, apoB (AE cut-off points) is recommended as a positive predictor, and non-HDLc as a negative predictor (AU)

Evaluación multicéntrica de distintos métodos para la determinación de colesterol HDL directo con respecto al colesterol HDL de precipitación / Multicentre evaluation of different methods for the determination of direct HDL-cholesterol compared to the precipitation method

Introducción. Los resultados de los programas de garantía de calidad indican que existen diferencias significativas entre los métodos homogéneos disponibles para la medición del colesterol HDL. Sin embargo, la posible influencia de efectos matriz en las muestras liofilizadas empleadas y la ausencia de un valor verdadero en estas muestras, hace difícil la valoración completa de estos métodos. En este estudio experimental multicéntrico hemos comparado los métodos homogéneos más utilizados en nuestro medio, con respecto al de precipitación de ácido fosfotúngstico-MgCl2. Material y métodos. Cada laboratorio procesó unas 100 muestras de suero de pacientes por uno o dos métodos homogéneos y envió alícuotas congeladas de las muestras analizadas al laboratorio central donde se procesaron por el método de precipitación. Resultados. Las imprecisiones de los métodos homogéneos fueron buenas e inferiores a las de precipitación, que cumplía las especificaciones de calidad para sesgo y error total (ET). Sin embargo, no todos los métodos homogéneos cumplían los objetivos de calidad mínimos, pues algunos procedimientos producían sesgos positivos muy altos (en relación al método de comparación) y uno un sesgo negativo muy bajo. El estudio de la concordancia, realizado estratificando a los pacientes según las concentraciones de colesterol HDL, mostró diferencias entre los métodos. Conclusiones. Estos resultados sugieren que existen discrepancias en la valoración de las magnitudes obtenidas con los métodos homogéneos, probablemente generada por una elevada inexactitud en algunos de ellos y que es conveniente que los laboratorios conozcan las caracteristicas de imprecisión y sesgo del metodo directo que utilizan con respecto al de referencia (AU)

Introduction. The results of quality assurance programs suggest that there are significant differences between the homogeneous methods available for the measurement of HDL cholesterol. However, the possible influence of matrix effects in the lyophilized samples used and the absence of a true value in these samples means that a full assessment of these methods cannot be made. In this multicentre pilot study we compared the most used homogeneous methods in our country with the phosphotungstic acid-MgCl2 method. Material and methods. Each laboratory processed about one hundred serum samples from patients with one or two homogeneous methods and sent frozen aliquots of the samples in special packaging with dry ice to the central laboratory where they were processed by the precipitation method. Results. The imprecision of homogeneous methods were good and lower than those of the precipitation method, and met the quality specifications for bias and total error (TE). However, not all homogeneous methods met the minimum quality objectives, as some procedures produced a very high positive bias (relative to the comparison method) and one, a low negative bias. In addition, the study of the agreement between methods, made by stratifying patients according to HDL cholesterol concentrations, showed differences. Conclusions. These results suggest that there are discrepancies in the assessment of the levels obtained with homogeneous methods, probably due to a high inaccuracy in some of them, and it is advised that the laboratories be aware of the characteristics of inaccuracy and bias of the direct method used compared to the reference method (AU)

Concentraciones séricas de marcadores bioquímicos en pacientes intervenidos de derivación biliopancreática / Serum biochemical markers in patients with biliopancreatic diversion

Introducción. La derivación biliopancreática (DBP) es una intervención malabsortiva por lo que es muy frecuente la aparición de deficiencias nutricionales, además suele ser necesaria la suplementación tras la cirugía. Material y Métodos. Se compararon las concentraciones de marcadores bioquímicos que reflejan el estado nutricional de 53 controles y 28 pacientes sometidos a DBP en distintos tiempos tras la intervención (seis meses, al año, cinco y siete años). Además, se evaluaron las principales comorbilidades asociadas a la obesidad. Resultados. La distribución por sexos del estudio fue del 86% y 72% de mujeres, para el grupo estudiado y controles, respectivamente. La edad media, para el grupo de sujetos intervenidos fue de 41±10 años, y de 57±16 años para el grupo control. Se observó el mayor porcentaje de pérdida de peso a los 6 primeros meses, la pérdida se estabilizó a los 5 años de la intervención. Las comorbilidades asociadas más frecuentes fueron hipertensión y diabetes. Se obtuvieron diferencias inter- e intragrupos para vitaminas A y E, ácido fólico, vitamina D y paratohotmona, zinc y calcio, prealbúmina, hierro y hemoglobina, y para colesterol y fibrinógeno. Sin embargo, no se encontraron para vitamina B12, magnesio, proteínas totales y albúmina, ferritina, transferrina y hematocrito, ni para homocisteina. Conclusión. Los pacientes intervenidos de DBP presentan déficits notables de nutrientes y estas carencias suelen persistir a lo largo del tiempo por lo que la suplementación y el seguimiento exhaustivo deberían realizarse a largo plazo (AU)

Introduction. Biliopancreatic diversion (BPD) is a malabsorptive procedure which often leads to nutritional deficiencies and supplements should be given after surgery. Material and methods. We compared the concentrations of biochemical markers that reflect the nutritional status of 53 controls and 28 patients submitted to BPD at different times after the intervention (six months, one year, five, and seven years). Results. There were 86% and 72% women in the study and control groups, respectively. The mean age of the study subjects was 41±10 years, and 57±16 years for the control group. We observed the highest percentage of weight loss in the 6 first months. The weight loss became stable 5 years after the intervention. The most frequent associated comorbidities were hypertension and diabetes. Within and between group differences were obtained for vitamins A and E, folic acid, vitamin D and parathormone, zinc and calcium, prealbumin, iron and haemoglobin, and for total cholesterol and fibrinogen. Nevertheless, we did not found any differences for vitamin B12, magnesium, total proteins and albumin, ferritin, transferrin and haematocrit or for homocysteine. Conclusion. The patients operated on by BPD showed notable deficiencies of nutrients and these deficiencies often persist over time; for this reason the supplementation and the exhaustive follow-up should be long-term (AU)

Concentraciones séricas de vitaminas liposolubles y de zinc en pacientes sometidos a cirugía bariátrica / Serum concentrations of fat-soluble vitamins, zinc and other biochemical markers in patients after gastric or biliopancreatic bypass

Las vitaminas liposolubles y el zinc son micronutrientes que deben ser aportados con la dieta. Los bypass gástricos y biliopancreáticos son considerados intervenciones malabsortivas, pudiendo provocar importantes déficits carenciales. Material y métodos. Se compararon las concentraciones de vitaminas A y E, zinc y otros marcadores bioquímicos de 35 controles y 32 pacientes sometidos a cirugía bariátrica en distintos tiempos tras la intervención (tras seis meses, al año y transcurridos más de cinco años). Las determinaciones de las vitaminas y del zinc se realizaron mediante HPLC y por espectroscopia de absorción atómica por llama de aire-acetileno, respectivamente. Resultados. Para la vitamina A se obtuvieron medias de 2,15μmol/L en los controles. Los pacientes en los distintos tiempos tras la intervención mostraron valores decrecientes de vitamina A hasta alcanzar concentraciones de 0,63μmol/L tras más de cinco años de la cirugía (p<0,002). En el caso de la vitamina E se encontraron medias de 28,6 nmol/L para los controles y valores entre 11,7-15,6 nmol/L para los pacientes en las distintas etapas (p<0,001). En el caso del zinc se observaron medias de 11,6, 10,7 y 9,94μmol/L para los pacientes en los distintos tiempos, encontrándose diferencias significativas con los controles (p<0,001). Además, se observó significación estadística en las concentraciones de calcio, hierro y folato. Conclusiones. Los pacientes intervenidos de cirugía bariátrica presentan problemas absortivos con déficits notables de nutrientes por lo que este hecho debería ser considerado a efectos de evitar posibles patologías derivadas de estas carencias (AU)

Introduction: Fat-soluble vitamins and zinc are substances not synthesized in the body. Consequently intake of those micronutrients is required. Gastric and biliopancreatic bypass considered malabsorption interventions that can lead to nutritional deficiencies. Material and methods: We compared levels of vitamins A and E, zinc and others biochemical markers of 35 controls and 32 patients submitted to bariatric surgery at different times after the operation (after six months, after one year and after more than five years). Vitamins and zinc were determined by HPLC and air-acetylene flame atomic absorption, respectively. Results: A mean of 2.15 mol/L was obtained for controls. In the different times after the surgery, the patients showed decreasing values of vitamin A up to concentrations of 0.63 mol/L after more than five years after the intervention (P < .002). For vitamin E, a mean 28.6 nmol/L was obtained for controls, and values between 11.7-15.6 nmol/L for patients at the different times after the surgery (P < -001). Means of 11.6, 10.7 and 9.9 mol/L of zinc were observed in patients at the different times, being significantly different from the control group (P < .001). In addition, we found statistical significance in the concentration of calcium, iron and folic acid. Conclusions: Patients after bariatric surgery show absorption problems with a marked lack of nutrients. This fact should be taken into consideration to reduce effects of possible pathologies derived from these deficiencies (AU)

Evaluación de la capacidad diagnóstica y pronóstica de procalcitonina, proteína C reactiva, interleucina-6 y proteína ligadora del lipopolisacárido en pacientes con sospecha de sepsis / Evaluation of the diagnostic and prognostic capacity of procalcitonin, C reactive protein, interleukin-6 and lipopolysaccharide binding protein in patients suspected of having sepsis

Objetivo. Evaluar la capacidad de procalcitonina (PCT), proteína C reactiva (PCR), interleucina-6 (IL-6) y proteína ligadora del lipopolisacárido (LBP), para discriminar entre sepsis y síndrome de respuesta inflamatoria sistémica (SIRS) de origen no infeccioso, y para predecir el riesgo de desarrollar shock séptico o muerte. Material y métodos. Estudio prospectivo de cohortes observacional. Población de 191 pacientes con SIRS (115 varones y 76 mujeres; edad media: 62±19). En todos ellos se analizó la concentración de PCR, PCT, IL-6 y LBP. Resultados. Sólo IL-6 y PCT son capaces de diferenciar entre SIRS y sepsis. El análisis de las curvas ROC (Receiver Operating Characteristic) nos muestra que las áreas bajo la curva (AUC) más significativas fueron las de la PCT, con valores de 0,703 para sepsis (p=0,0001), de 0,707 para shock séptico (p=0,0001) y de 0,682 para muerte (p=0,0001), seguidas de las AUC de la IL-6 para sepsis, shock séptico y muerte, con valores de 0,692 (p=0,0001), 0,617 (p=0,0155) y 0,613 (p=0,022), respectivamente. Las AUC de PCR fueron de 0,631 (p=0,014) para sepsis, de 0,574 (p=0,127) para shock séptico y de 0,576 (p=0,123) en el caso de muerte. La LBP presenta una AUC de 0,612 (p=0,03) para sepsis. Los puntos de corte obtenidos para cada biomarcador a partir de las curvas ROC fueron de 109pg/ml, 584pg/ml y 1.769pg/ml en el caso de IL-6; de 17mg/ml, 56,8mg/ml y 54,1mg/ml para LBP; de 17,4mg/dl, 11mg/dl y 10,7mg/dl para PCR, y de 0,55ng/ml, 0,98ng/ml y 2,36ng/ml en el caso de la PCT para sepsis, shock séptico y muerte, respectivamente. Conclusiones. Tanto la PCT como la IL-6 fueron marcadores biológicos fiables en la detección de sepsis en nuestra población de pacientes con SIRS. La PCT resultó ser el mejor marcador de mala evolución (shock séptico o muerte) (AU)

Objective. To analyze the capacity of procalcitonin (PCT), C reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LBP) to discriminate between sepsis and systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) of non- infectious origin, and to predict the risk of developing septic shock or death. Material And Methods. Prospective cohorts observational study. Population of 191 patients with SIRS (115 men and 76 women; mean age 62±19). Blood levels of CRP, PCT, IL-6 and LBP were measured in all patients. Results. Only PCT and IL-6 were able to discriminate between SIRS and sepsis. The analysis of ROC (Receiver Operating Characteristic) curves show that the areas under the curve (AUC) were more significant in procalcitonin with values of 0.703 in the case of sepsis (P=0.0001), 0.707 for septic shock (P=0.0001) and 0.682 in case of death (P=0.0001), followed by the AUC of IL-6 for sepsis, septic shock and death with a value of 0.692 (P=0.0001), 0.617 (P=0.0155) and 0,613(P=0.022), respectively. The AUC of CRP were 0.631 (P=0.014) for sepsis, 0.574 (P=0.127) for septic shock and 0.576 with P=0.123 for death. LBP has an AUC of 0.612 (P=0.03) for sepsis. The cut points of each biomarker from the ROC curves were: 109pg/ml, 584pg/ml and 1769pg/ml for IL-6; 17mg/ml, 56.8mm/ml and 54.1mg/ml for LBP; 17.4mg/dl, 11mg/dl and 10.7mg/dl for CRP and 0.55ng/ml, 0.98ng/ml and 2.36ng/ml for PCT in the cases of sepsis, septic shock and death, respectively. Conclusion. Procalcitonin and interleukin 6 were good biological markers for the detection of sepsis in our population of patients with SIRS. PCT was the best biomarker of poor outcome (septic shock or death) (AU)

Evaluación de la troponina I en el analizador Pathfast(R) / Evaluation of the troponin I on the Pathfast(R) analyzer

Introducción. El Pathfast(R) (Mitsubishi Kagaku Iatron) es un analizador compacto de quimioinmunoluminiscencia que puede procesar indistintamente muestras de plasma y de sangre. Objetivos. En este estudio se han evaluado algunas características del procedimiento: repetibilidad, reproducibilidad, comparación con otro procedimiento (Dimension(R) RxL, Dade Behring), límite de detección, límite de cuantificación, interferentes endógenos por triglicérido, hemoglobina y bilirrubina, y tambien se ha estudiado la presencia de falsos positivos presentes en enfermedades sin isquemia miocárdica. Material y métodos. El diseño ha sido de un estudio multicéntrico en el que han participado los laboratorios de urgencias de 4 hospitales españoles. La magnitud biológica elegida para llevar a cabo esta evaluación ha sido la troponina I (TnI). Resultados. Los coeficientes de variación (CV) intradía fueron inferiores al 5%, mientras que los CV interdía no superaron el 10%. El límite de detección se situó entre 0,003 y 0,008ng/ml para los laboratorios participantes. El límite de cuantificación obtenido fue de 0,025ng/ml. La regresión obtenida entre suero y plasma fue de TnI (plasma)=−0,0008+0,9499×TnI (sangre), y la regresión obtenida con el método de comparación fue de TnI (Pathfast(R))=−0,0019+0,2903×TnI (Dimension(R) RxL). El estudio de interferencias endógenas muestra que los resultados no se alteran significativamente en presencia de triglicérido, bilirrubina o hemoglobina libre. El estudio de otras entidades clínicas (insuficiencia renal, accidente cerebrovascular y politraumatismo) no ha mostrado diferencias con el procedimiento de comparación. Discusión. En resumen, el analizador Pathfast® resulta un equipo fiable, preciso y fácil de manejar, útil para laboratorios de tamaño pequeño y medio, o para laboratorios de urgencias (AU)

Introduction. The Pathfast(R) (Mitsubishi Kagaku Iatron) is a compact chemiluminescent immunoassay analyser that is capable of processing either plasma or blood samples. Objectives. In this study we have evaluated some operational characteristics such as within assay variability, between-day variability, reference values, comparison with another method (Dimension® RxL, Dade Behring), analytical sensitivity, quantitation limits, endogenous interferences by triglycerides, haemoglobin and bilirubin, and false positives in other diseases. Materials and Methods. The evaluation of Troponin l was designed as a multicentre study in which the emergency laboratories of four Spanish Hospitals took part. Results. The within assay coefficient of variation (CV) was lower than 5% whereas the between-day CV did not exceed 10%. The overall analytical sensitivity for the four laboratories was between 0.003 and 0.008ng/ml. The quantitation limit was 0.025ng/ml. The regression obtained between plasma and blood was Troponin I (plasma)=−0.0008+0.9499×Troponin I (blood), and between Pathfast (R) and the comparison method was Troponin I (Pathfast)=−0.0019+0.2903×Troponin I (Dimension RxL). Tests of endogenous interferences showed that the results are not altered significantly in the presence of triglyceride, bilirubin or free haemoglobin. The study of other clinical diseases (Renal Impairment, Stroke, Multiple trauma) did not show any differences in the method comparison. Discussion. In summary, the Pathfast(R) analyser is reliable, precise and easy to handle, useful for laboratories of small and average size, or for emergency laboratories (AU)

[1991-2004 follow-up of a Spanish general population cohort. Mortality and raising risk factors in the DRECE III Study (Diet and Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases in Spain)]. / Seguimiento de 1991 a 2004 de la mortalidad y los factores de riesgo emergentes en una cohorte de población general española. Estudio Drece III (Dieta y Riesgo de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares en España).

BACKGROUND: The DRECE III study is based on the follow up of a cohort representative of the Spanish general population. The mortality, its main causes and relevant risk factors have been analyzed. METHODS: The DRECE cohort is composed of 4783 subjects followed since 1991 to 2004 (70930 person-years). In 1991 a general medical exam including blood analysis and nutritional questionnaire was undertaken. Currently the age spam is from 18 to 73 years. Vital status and mortality causes were provided by the National Institute of Statistics. RESULTS: In this period, 125 deaths were registered: 53 persons (42.4%) due to cancer; 31 persons (24.8%) due to circulatory causes, of which 24 were due to cardiovascular origin. The remaining 41 (32.8%) deaths were included under the ICD 10 "Other chapters". For the all causes mortality the independent associated variables were: creatinina 1.5 mgr/dl, HR 3.78 (95% CI: 1.52-9.40); diabetes, HR 2.80 (95% CI: 1.74-4.46); male sex, HR 2.39 (I95% CI: 1.61-3.55); age, HR 1.08 (I95% CI: 1.07-1.10); and gammaglutamil transpeptidasa, HR 1.001 (I95% CI: 1.000-1.003). In the case of cancer mortality the risk factors founded were: age, HR 1.12 (I95% CI: 1.09-1.16); and tobacco, HR 1.33 (I95% CI: 1.14-1.54). For cardiovascular mortality were creatinina 1.5 mg/dl, HR 19.40 (I95% CI: 5.45-69.12); diabetes, HR 9.82 (I95% CI: 4.19-23.04); and age, HR 1.10 (I95% CI: 1.05-1.15). CONCLUSIONS: We obtain a mortality pattern where cancer is the most frequent cause. Classic risk factors appear associated to main death causes. Diabetes mellitus has an outstanding role as risk factor associated to early mortality. No specific diet data was associated neither to all causes mortality, nor to cardiovascular or cancer.

Seguimiento de 1991 a 2004 de la mortalidad y los factores de riesgo emergentes en una cohorte de población general española. Estudio DRECE III (dieta y riesgo de enfermedades cardiovasculares en España) / 1991-2004 follow up of an spanish general population cohort. Mortality and raising risk factors in the DRECE III study. (Diet and risk of cardiovascular diseases in Spain)

Fundamento: El estudio DRECE III se basa en el seguimiento de una cohorte de población general representativa de la sociedad española. El objetivo de este trabajo es analizar, tras 13 años de seguimiento, la mortalidad general, la distribución de la mortalidad por causas y los principales factores de riesgo asociados. Métodos: La cohorte DRECE se compone de 4.783 sujetos seguidos desde 1991 hasta 2004, el rango de edad al final se extiende desde los 18 a 73 años. Las personas participantes fueron seleccionadas mediante muestreo estratificado polietápico. Las causas de mortalidad han sido proporcionados por el Instituto nacional de Estadística. Las tasas se calcularon mediante regresión de Poisson y la identificación de factores de riesgo mediante la regresión de riesgos proporcionales de Cox. Resultados: En el periodo 1991-2004 fallecieron 125 sujetos, lo que se corresponde con una tasa de mortalidad total de 1.76 por 1000 habitantes. La distribución por causa de muerte fue: 53 personas por cáncer (42,4%) y 31 por causas circulatorias (24,8%) (24 por causa cardiovascular). Las 41 defunciones restantes (32,8%) se englobaron dentro de la categoría CIE 10 de "Otras". Para la mortalidad total las variables independientes asociadas fueron: creatinina1,5 mgr/dl, hazard ratio (HR) 3.78(IC 95%: 1,52-9,40); diabetes, HR 2,80; sexo masculino, HR 2,39 (I C95%: 1,61-3,55) ; edad, HR 1,08 (IC95%: 1,07-1,10); gammaglutamil transpeptidasa, HR 1,001 (IC95%: 1,000-1,003). Factores de riesgo asociados a cáncer fueron: edad, HR 1,12 (IC95%: 1,09-1,16); y tabaco, HR 1,33 (IC 95%: 1,14-1,54). Para la mortalidad cardiovascular fueron: creatinina 1.5 mg/dl, HR 19,40 (IC 95%: 5,45-69,12); diabetes, HR 9,82 (IC 95%: 4,19-23,04); y edad, HR 1,10 (IC 95%: 1,05-1,15). Conclusión: Se obtuvo un patrón de mortalidad en el que predomina el cáncer como causa más frecuente. Aparecen factores de riesgo clásicos asociados a las principales causas. La diabetes emerge como un factor muy llamativo asociado a mortalidad precoz. La dieta no se asoció a la mortalidad total (AU)

Background: The DRECE III study is based on the follow up of a cohort representative of the Spanish general population. The mortality, its main causes and relevant risk factors have been analyzed. Methods: The DRECE cohort is composed of 4783 subjects followed since 1991 to 2004 (70930 person-years). In 1991 a general medical exam including blood analysis and nutritional questionnaire was undertaken. Currently the age spam is from 18 to 73 years. Vital status and mortality causes were provided by the National Institute of Statistics. Results: In this period, 125 deaths were registered: 53 persons (42.4%) due to cancer; 31 persons (24.8%) due to circulatory causes, of which 24 were due to cardiovascular origin. The remaining 41 (32.8%) deaths were included under the ICD 10 "Other chapters". For the all causes mortality the independent associated variables were: creatinina 1.5 mgr/dl, HR 3.78 (95% CI: 1.52-9.40); diabetes, HR 2.80 (95% CI: 1.74-4.46); male sex, HR 2.39 (I95% CI: 1.61-3.55); age, HR 1.08 (I95% CI: 1.07-1.10); and gammaglutamil transpeptidasa, HR 1.001 (I95% CI: 1.000-1.003). In the case of cancer mortality the risk factors founded were: age, HR 1.12 (I95% CI: 1.09-1.16); and tobacco, HR 1.33 (I95% CI: 1.14-1.54). For cardiovascular mortality were creatinina 1.5 mg/dl, HR 19.40 (I95% CI: 5.45-69.12); diabetes, HR 9.82 (I95% CI: 4.19-23.04); and age, HR 1.10 (I95% CI: 1.05-1.15). Conclusions: We obtain a mortality pattern where cancer is the most frequent cause. Classic risk factors appear associated to main death causes. Diabetes mellitus has an outstanding role as risk factor associated to early mortality. No specific diet data was associated neither to all causes mortality, nor to cardiovascular or cancer (AU)

La proteína C reactiva. Policía, agresor o simple testigo / C-reactive protein. Policeman, aggressor or simple witness?

No disponible

Licofelone, a balanced inhibitor of cyclooxygenase and 5-lipoxygenase, reduces inflammation in a rabbit model of atherosclerosis.

Licofelone, a dual anti-inflammatory drug that inhibits 5-lipoxygenase (LOX) and cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, may have a better cardiovascular profile that cycloxygenase-2 inhibitors due to cycloxygenase-1 blockade-mediated antithrombotic effect and a better gastrointestinal tolerability. We examined the anti-inflammatory effect of licofelone on atherosclerotic lesions as well as in isolated neutrophils from whole blood of rabbits compared with a selective inhibitor of COX-2, rofecoxib. We also assessed the antithrombotic effect of licofelone in rabbit platelet-rich plasma. For this purpose, 30 rabbits underwent injury of femoral arteries, and they were randomized to receive 10 mg/kg/day licofelone or 5 mg/kg/day rofecoxib or no treatment during 4 weeks with atherogenic diet in all cases. Ten healthy rabbits were used as controls. Neutrophils and platelets were isolated from peripheral blood of rabbits for ex vivo studies. Licofelone reduced intima/media ratio in injured arteries, the macrophages infiltration in the neointimal area, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) gene expression, and the activation of nuclear factor-kappaB in rabbit atheroma. Moreover, licofelone inhibited COX-2 and 5-LOX protein expression in vascular lesions. Rofecoxib only diminished COX-2 protein expression and MCP-1 gene expression in vascular atheroma. Prostaglandin E(2) in rabbit plasma was attenuated by both drugs. Licofelone almost abolished 5-LOX activity by inhibiting leukotriene B4 generation in rabbit neutrophils and prevented platelet thromboxane B2 production from whole blood. Licofelone reduces neointimal formation and inflammation in an atherosclerotic rabbit model more markedly than rofecoxib. This effect, together with the antiplatelet activity of licofelone, suggests that this drug may have a favorable cardiovascular profile.

[Epidemiology of lipid profile of the Spanish elderly population: the EPICARDIAN study]. / Epidemiología del perfil lipídico de la población anciana española: el estudio EPICARDIAN.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to describe the lipid profile, the levels of serum total cholesterol (TC), LDL cholesterol (C-LDL), HDL cholesterol (C-HDL) and triglyceride (TG), to compare these levels between geographical areas and to estimate the prevalence of dyslipidemia in elderly residents (65 years and older) from urban and rural areas of Spain. PATIENTS AND METHOD: Epidemiological, observational, multicentre study of Spanish elderly people residents (>or= 65 years old) of 3 communities in 3 Spanish regions: Arévalo (Avila) and Begonte (Lugo) as rural areas and Lista (Central Madrid) as urban area. Stratified randomized sample by age and sex from population census of each area. The participation rate was: 84.6%. At-home interviews (phase 1) (n = 4522): with determination of capillary blood cholesterol levels (Reflotron) and clinical visit (phase 2) (1/3 selected randomly, n = 1907): determination of serum TC levels (enzymatic colorimetric method CHOP-PAD), C-HDL, C-LDL (Friedewald equation) and TG (Trinder Method). RESULTS: Mean concentrations of TC was 230.3 (46.8) mg/dl. These levels decreased significantly with increasing age (p < 0.001), higher in women (p = 0.001); lower in Lugo (226.4 [49.7] mg/dl) than in Madrid (233.2 [42.3] mg/dl) and Arévalo (236.5 [43] mg/dl) (p = 0.002). Global prevalence of hypercholesterolemia by SEA simplified criteria was: 68.9% (95% confidence interval, 66.8-71). Mean concentrations of C-LDL was: 159.4 (37.9) mg/dl; C-HDL: 48.2 (15) mg/dl, and TG: 119.7 (63.85) mg/dl. 31% of cases were awarded about the hypercholesterolemia. Only 30% of them were under treatment with lipid lowering drugs; and 30% of the subjects showed CT concentrations < 200 mg/dl, with no differences by sex, age, study area or education level. Female sex, urban habitat and hypertension were the only variables independently associated to hypercholesterolemia in the logistic model. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of dyslipidemia is slightly higher to SEA estimation for the European elderly population (50%), greater in women and in younger groups. The awareness, treatment and control of hypercholesterolemia are low among the Spanish elderly population.

A pharmacoeconomic evaluation of the effects of atorvastatin on early recurrent ischemic events in acute coronary syndromes in Spain.

To determine the 16-week health economic outcomes of short-term, intensive lipid-lowering therapy with atorvastatin in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) using unit costs from Spain. The total expected cost per patient and the cost per inpatient event avoided were compared for patients on atorvastatin 80 mg daily versus placebo. The analysis was based on clinical outcome data from the MIRACL study. Clinical outcomes measured in this analysis included: death, cardiac arrest, nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI), fatal MI, angina pectoris, stroke, congestive heart failure (CHF), and surgical or percutaneous coronary revascularizations. Unit costs for outcomes were values using 2001 Diagnosis Related Group (DRG) costs in Spain. The cost of a follow-up visit was added to the cost of each outcome in both groups. In the atorvastatin group, monitoring costs were also added. All direct medical costs were taken from the perspective of the Spanish National Health System during a 16-week period. The hospital cost in the atorvastatin group was 1,921 per patient, compared to 1,853 in the placebo group. The incremental cost per patient in the atorvastatin group was 67.47, corresponding to a cost per inpatient event avoided of 1,760. The cost of atorvastatin for 16 weeks was 128. Forty-seven percent of this cost of atorvastatin was offset by the cost savings obtained through the reduction of number of events in the atorvastatin group. In Spain, the intensive short-term use of atorvastatin in patients with ACS has a favorable cost-effectiveness. The direct cost of the drug was largely offset by the associated reduction in costs for treating fewer cardiovascular events.

Expresión fenotípica de la Lp(a) en niños y adolescentes españoles / Phenotypic expressión of Lp(a) in Spanish children and adolescents

Fundamento: Conocer la distribución de los fenotipos de Lp(a) en una población infantojuvenil. Métodos: Se determinó el perfil lipoproteico, lipoproteína(a), apolipoproteínas y fenotipos de Lp(a) en 105 niños, seleccionados según sus concentraciones de colesterol. Resultados: Las concentraciones medias de Lp(a) eran significativamente mayores en el grupo con isoformas de bajo peso molecular respecto a los de alto peso molecular. La isoforma más frecuente fue S3. Conclusiones: Las concentraciones de Lp(a) se correlaccionaron inversamente con el peso molecular de las isoformas de Apo(a) (AU)

Background: To know the distribution of phenotypes Lp(a) in an young population. Methods: Lipoprotein levels, lipoprotein(a), apolipoproteins and the Lp(a) phenotypes were determinated in 105 children, selected according to their cholesterol concentrations. Results: The Lp(a) concentrations were significantly higher in group with low molecular weight respect to group with high molecular weight. The most frequent isoform was S3. Conclusions: The Lp(a) concentrations correlate inversely with the molecular weight of Apo(a) isoforms (AU)