Effect of Digital-Tool-Supported Basal Insulin Titration Algorithm in Reaching Glycemic Control in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes in Mexico.

BACKGROUND: My Dose Coach (MDC) is a mobile application combined with a web portal that can suggest optimized basal insulin (BI) injection doses using Self-Measured Plasma Glucose (SMPG) and hypoglycemia data. This study aimed to evaluate its efficacy on patients reaching SMPG and Fasting blood glucose (FBG) target range 90-130 mg/dl (5-7.2 mmol/L) goals without severe hypoglycemic episodes. We also addressed the mean reduction in glycated hemoglobin (A1C), FBG, and SMPG and the improvement in the WHO's Five Well Being Index (WBI). METHODS: This prospective pilot study involved the use of MDC in outpatients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) from a Hospital in Northern Mexico. Patients on treatment with any BI were included in the study. The follow-up was of 16 weeks. Student t-tests or McNemar test were used for effect comparisons. RESULTS: We included 158 patients (46.8% women), mean (SD) age 51 (10.3) years. We achieved SMPG target range in 58.9% [mean (95CI) reduction of 30.9 mg/dl (22.5-37.7; P < .001)] of the patients [66(28) days], with no severe hypoglycemia events. FBG goal was reached in 55.7% [mean (95CI) reduction of 63.4 mg/dl (49.6-77.2; P < .001)]. The mean (95CI) reduction of A1C was 1.78% (1.47-2, P < .01) with the last observation carried forward. There was a mean (95CI) increase of 2.23 (-3, -1.4, P < .01) points in WBI scale. CONCLUSIONS: MDC successfully helped to achieve FBG and SMPG goals, reduced A1C, and increased WBI with no severe hypoglycemia events.

Underutilization of insulin and better metabolic control. A NOVA clinic experience.

OBJECTIVE: To present the results of metabolic control in patients with type 2 Diabetes Mellitus from a private clinic in Northern Mexico. METHODS: This cross-sectional study used retrospective data obtained from electronic records from a private outpatient clinic at the end of 2018. Inclusion criteria were a diagnosis of T2DM and age ≥ 18 years. Baseline characteristics (age, gender, drug use) were reported. The achievement of glycated hemoglobin goals was established as <7%. RESULTS: A total of 3820 patients were evaluated. Their mean age was 59.86 years (+/-15.01). Of the population, 46.72% were men, and 53.28% were women. Glycated hemoglobin goals were adequate in 1872 (54%) patients. There were 3247 patients (85%) treated with oral medications, of which 1948 (60%) reported glycated hemoglobin less than 7%. Insulin use was reported in 573 (15%) patients, with 115 (20%) reporting glycated hemoglobin less than 7%. The most frequently used basal insulin was glargine in 401 (70%) patients. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings are clearly higher than the control rate reported by our national health surveys of 25% with glycated hemoglobin < 7%, but similar to that reported in other countries. The most commonly used therapeutic scheme was the combination of oral hypoglycemic agents. The percentage of cases that include insulin in their treatment was lower. Clinical inertia to insulin initiation and intensification has been defined as an important cause of this problem.

Underutilization of insulin and better metabolic control. A NOVA clinic experience

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE To present the results of metabolic control in patients with type 2 Diabetes Mellitus from a private clinic in Northern Mexico, METHODS This cross-sectional study used retrospective data obtained from electronic records from a private outpatient clinic at the end of 2018. Inclusion criteria were a diagnosis of T2DM and age ≥ 18 years. Baseline characteristics (age, gender, drug use) were reported. The achievement of glycated hemoglobin goals was established as <7%. RESULTS A total of 3820 patients were evaluated. Their mean age was 59.86 years (+/-15.01). Of the population, 46.72% were men, and 53.28% were women. Glycated hemoglobin goals were adequate in 1872 (54%) patients. There were 3247 patients (85%) treated with oral medications, of which 1948 (60%) reported glycated hemoglobin less than 7%. Insulin use was reported in 573 (15%) patients, with 115 (20%) reporting glycated hemoglobin less than 7%. The most frequently used basal insulin was glargine in 401 (70%) patients. CONCLUSIONS Our findings are clearly higher than the control rate reported by our national health surveys of 25% with glycated hemoglobin < 7%, but similar to that reported in other countries. The most commonly used therapeutic scheme was the combination of oral hypoglycemic agents. The percentage of cases that include insulin in their treatment was lower. Clinical inertia to insulin initiation and intensification has been defined as an important cause of this problem.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Apresentar os resultados do controle metabólico de pacientes com Diabetes Mellitus tipo 2 em uma clínica privada no norte do México, MÉTODOS Este estudo transversal utilizou dados retrospectivos obtidos em prontuários eletrônicos de um ambulatório privado no final de 2018. Os critérios de inclusão foram o diagnóstico de DM2 e idade ≥ 18 anos. Características basais (idade, sexo, uso de drogas) foram relatadas. A realização de metas de hemoglobina glicada foi estabelecida como <7%. RESULTADOS Um total de 3820 pacientes foram avaliados. A média de idade foi de 59,86 anos (+/- 15,01). Da população, 46,72% eram homens e 53,28% eram mulheres. Objetivos de hemoglobina glicada foram adequados em 1872 (54%) pacientes. Havia 3247 pacientes (85%) tratados com medicamentos orais relatando em 1948 (60%) menos de 7%. O uso de insulina foi relatado em 573 (15%) pacientes, com 115 (20%) relatando menos de 7%. A insulina basal mais utilizada foi a glargina, em 401 (70%) pacientes. CONCLUSÕES Nossos resultados são claramente mais altos do que a taxa de controle relatada por nossos levantamentos nacionais de saúde de 25% com hemoglobina glicada <7%, mas semelhante à relatada em outros países. O esquema terapêutico mais utilizado foi a combinação de hipoglicemiantes orais. A porcentagem de casos que incluem insulina no tratamento foi menor. A inércia clínica à iniciação e intensificação da insulina tem sido definida como uma importante causa desse problema.

Adequate restitution in primary hypothyroidism depending on levothyroxine formulations / Restitución adecuada en hipotiroidismo primario según las presentaciones de levotirotiroxina

Background: The prevalence of primary hypothyroidism (PH) is around 3.8%-4.6% in general population. Out of patients under treatment with levothyroxine, approximately 40% show altered levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). Objective: To determine the prevalence of euthyroid sick syndrome in patients under treatment for PH in two local clinics, considering that the number of formulations of levothyroxine could be a contributing factor to the inadequate restitution. Methods: Descriptive, comparative cohort conducted with PH patients who were treated with a stable dose of levothyroxine for at least six months. Patients treated with mixtures of liothyronine/levothyroxine, with postsurgical hypothyroidism, pregnant, breastfeeding or mentally ill were discarded. Medical clinic 1 was a public center that had only access to levothyroxine of 100 µg, and medical clinic 2 was a private clinic with access to 25, 50, 75 and 100 µg levothyroxine formulations. Results: A total of 350 patients were evaluated. 190 patients were obtained at clinic 1, and 160 patients at clinic 2. At clinic 1, only 63% received the appropriate dose, while at clinic 2, 75% were medicated with the correct dose (p = 0.033). Conclusion: In the public center, 39% of patients did not receive appropriate dose of levothyroxine; however, in the private clinic, which had more drug formulations, the percentage of patients lowered to 25%. Therefore, the number of formulations could be a factor for the risk of inadequate restitution.

Introducción: La prevalencia de hipotiroidismo primario (HP) en la población general oscila entre 3.8 y 4.6%. De los pacientes que están bajo tratamiento con levotiroxina, aproximadamente 40% muestra una hormona estimulante de la tiroides (TSH) anormal. Objetivo: Conocer la prevalencia de eutiroidismo en pacientes tratados por HP en dos clínicas de nuestra localidad, considerando que las presentaciones de levotiroxina pudiesen ser un factor contribuyente. Métodos: Cohorte comparativa de pacientes con HP tratados con levotiroxina en dosis estable por más de seis meses. Se descartaron los pacientes tratados con mezclas de liotironina/levotiroxina, hipotiroidismo postquirúrgico, embarazadas o en lactancia e individuos con enfermedades mentales. La clínica 1 (entidad pública) contó con levotiroxina de 100 µg y la clínica 2 (entidad privada) con pastillas de 25, 50, 75 y 100 µg. Resultados: Evaluamos 350 pacientes. De la clínica 1 se obtuvieron 190 y de la clínica 2 fueron 160. En la clínica 1, el 63% recibió la dosis adecuada, mientras que en la clínica 2, el 75% eran medicados con la dosis correcta (p = 0.033). Conclusiones: En la entidad pública, 39% no recibió la dosis adecuada de levotiroxina; sin embargo, en la entidad privada, con más presentaciones del medicamento, el número disminuye a 25%. Por lo tanto el número de presentaciones podría ser un factor influyente para lograr el eutiroidismo.

[Efficacy and safety of initial treatment with glimpeiride versus sitagliptin in type 2 diabetes]. / Eficacia y seguridad de glimepirida frente a sitagliptina en el tratamiento inicial de la diabetes mellitus tipo 2.

BACKGROUND: Diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM2) is a multifactorial disease that can be treated with oral antiglycemic medication or with insulin. The antiglycemic drugs glimepiride and sitagliptin have different mechanisms of action, and have not been directly compared in a Latin-American population with recent DM2 diagnostic. METHODS: The primary objective in this randomized (1:1), multicentric, two arms, open study with adult patients, was to compare the efficacy of glimepiride with sitagliptin in a DM2 population naïve to treatment. Secondary objectives had been the effect on fasting and postprandial glycemia, hypoglycemia, weight modification, safety, percentage of patients quiting the trial, vital signs and laboratory results. RESULTS: Glimepiride and sitagliptin were equally effective in glycemic control and all other parameters, and the only difference found has been the frequency of hypoglycemic events reports, wich has been reported as higher and statistically significant in the in the glimepiride group. No fatalities where reported in either group. CONCLUSIONS: Glimepiride or sitagliptin monotherapy are equally effective in control of HbA1c.

Introducción: La diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DM2) es una enfermedad multifactorial que puede ser abordada tanto con antidiabéticos orales como con insulina. Los antidiabéticos orales glimepirida y sitagliptina poseen mecanismos de acción diferentes que no se han comparado directamente en pacientes con DM2 de reciente diagnóstico en Latinoamérica. El objetivo primario de este estudio multicéntrico de 24 semanas, de dos brazos, randomizado (1:1) y abierto, en pacientes adultos con DM2 y niveles de hemoglobina glucosilada (HbA1c) > 8.5 % < 11 %, fue comparar la eficacia de glimepirida con sitagliptina en pacientes adultos vírgenes de tratamiento. Como objetivos secundarios se compararon los efectos sobre la glucosa plasmática de ayuno y postprandial, hipoglucemia, cambio de peso, porcentaje de pacientes que se retiraron del protocolo, la seguridad de ambos tratamientos, signos vitales y resultados de laboratorio. Resultados: No se encontraron diferencias significativas en la eficacia de ambos medicamentos en el control de glucosa, ni en ningún otro parámetro, con la excepción de la incidencia de hipoglucemia, que se reportó con una frecuencia significativamente mayor en los pacientes del grupo de glimepirida. No existieron fatalidades en ningún grupo. Conclusiones: Se concluye que la monoterapia de glimepirida y sitagliptina reducen niveles de HbA1c con eficacia similar.

Acute Pancreatitis and Diabetic Ketoacidosis following L-Asparaginase/Prednisone Therapy in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

Acute pancreatitis and diabetic ketoacidosis are unusual adverse events following chemotherapy based on L-asparaginase and prednisone as support treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia. We present the case of a 16-year-old Hispanic male patient, in remission induction therapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia on treatment with mitoxantrone, vincristine, prednisone, and L-asparaginase. He was hospitalized complaining of abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Hyperglycemia, acidosis, ketonuria, low bicarbonate levels, hyperamylasemia, and hyperlipasemia were documented, and the diagnosis of diabetic ketoacidosis was made. Because of uncertainty of the additional diagnosis of acute pancreatitis as the cause of abdominal pain, a contrast-enhanced computed tomography was performed resulting in a Balthazar C pancreatitis classification.

Association between polymorphism c.1-765G>C of the COX2 gene and cognitive impairment in individuals 65 years or more with diabetes from a Geriatric Service in Monterrey, Mexico.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Cognitive impairment and dementia are common geriatric syndromes in diabetic patients. Inflammation plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease and cognitive impairment. Cyclooxygenases (COX) 1 and 2 participate in inflammation. The polymorphism c.1-765G>C of the COX2 gene might be protective against cognitive decline in Mexicans with diabetes mellitus through its reduced promotor activity. To determine the association between polymorphism c.1-765G>C of the COX2 gene and cognitive impairment in elderly adults with diabetes. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Case-control study. We included diabetic patients from the Geriatric Clinic of General Hospital No. 17 who were over 65 years and accepted to participate. Cases were patients with a score of 24 or less on the Mini Mental Status Examination (MMSE) and with DSM IV criteria for dementia. Controls were those with MMSE scores of 25 or greater. Results We included 97 patients (50 cases and 47 controls). There were no differences regarding clinical and laboratory characteristics between cases and controls. The frequency of the C allele and the CG genotype was higher in controls than in cases and this difference remained significant in a multivariate analysis with an odds ratio of 0.012 (95% CI 0.001-0.091) and 0.009 (95% CI 0.001-0.076) in the bivariate and multivariate analysis, respectively, using the GG genotype frequency as a reference. CONCLUSION: Cognitive impairment in Mexican patients with diabetes is associated with less exposure to the CG genotype of the c.1-765G>C polymorphism of COX2.

Continuous glucose monitoring in acute coronary syndrome / Monitoreo continuo de glucosa en pacientes con síndrome coronario agudo

Background: Diabetes mellitus is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Objective: To compare the efficacy of devices for continuous glucose monitoring and capillary glucose monitoring in hospitalized patients with acute coronary syndrome using the following parameters: time to achieve normoglycemia, period of time in normoglycemia, and episodes of hypoglycemia. Methods: We performed a pilot, non-randomized, unblinded clinical trial that included 16 patients with acute coronary artery syndrome, a capillary or venous blood glucose ≥ 140 mg/dl, and treatment with a continuous infusion of fast acting human insulin. These patients were randomized into 2 groups: a conventional group, in which capillary measurement and recording as well as insulin adjustment were made every 4h, and an intervention group, in which measurement and recording as well as insulin adjustment were made every hour with a subcutaneous continuous monitoring system. Student's t-test was applied for mean differences and the X² test for qualitative variables. Results: We observed a statistically significant difference in the mean time for achieving normoglycemia, favoring the conventional group with a P = 0.02. Conclusion: Continuous monitoring systems are as useful as capillary monitoring for achieving normoglycemia.

Antecedentes: La diabetes mellitus es un factor de riesgo independiente de enfermedad cardiovascular. Objetivo: Comparar la eficacia de los dispositivos de monitorización continua de glucosa y monitorización de glucosa capilar en pacientes hospitalizados con síndrome coronario agudo, mediante los siguientes parámetros: tiempo en lograr normoglucemia, periodo en normoglucemia y número de hipoglucemias. Métodos: Ensayo clínico no aleatorizado, no ciego, que incluyó a 16 pacientes con síndrome coronario agudo, glucosa capilar o venosa ≥ 140mg/dl, en tratamiento con infusión de insulina humana de acción rápida durante 48 h. Se distribuyeron en 2 grupos: convencional, con medición y registro de glucosa capilar, y ajuste de insulina cada 4h, y de intervención, con medición y registro de glucosa intersticial y ajuste de insulina cada hora a través de un dispositivo de monitorización continua colocado vía subcutánea. Se aplicaron pruebas t para diferencia de medias y prueba de X² para las variables cualitativas. Resultados: Se observó diferencia significativa en la media del tiempo para lograr normoglucemia a favor del grupo convencional, con un valor de p = 0.02. Conclusión: Los dispositivos de monitorización continua de glucosa son tan útiles como la monitorización de glucosa capilar para lograr normoglucemia.

Continuous glucose monitoring in acute coronary syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Diabetes mellitus is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy of devices for continuous glucose monitoring and capillary glucose monitoring in hospitalized patients with acute coronary syndrome using the following parameters: time to achieve normoglycemia, period of time in normoglycemia, and episodes of hypoglycemia. METHODS: We performed a pilot, non-randomized, unblinded clinical trial that included 16 patients with acute coronary artery syndrome, a capillary or venous blood glucose ≥ 140 mg/dl, and treatment with a continuous infusion of fast acting human insulin. These patients were randomized into 2 groups: a conventional group, in which capillary measurement and recording as well as insulin adjustment were made every 4h, and an intervention group, in which measurement and recording as well as insulin adjustment were made every hour with a subcutaneous continuous monitoring system. Student's t-test was applied for mean differences and the X(2) test for qualitative variables. RESULTS: We observed a statistically significant difference in the mean time for achieving normoglycemia, favoring the conventional group with a P = 0.02. CONCLUSION: Continuous monitoring systems are as useful as capillary monitoring for achieving normoglycemia.

Hemoglobin A1c: a reliable and accurate test for diabetes care? A prospective study in Mexico / Hemoglobina A1c: ¿una prueba precisa y confiable para el cuidado de la diabetes ? Estudio prospectivo en México

Objective. To compare the concordance correlation coefficient for HbA1c results in an in-field experience. Materials and methods. A prospective study in Monterrey, Mexico from April to August 2012 was conducted to evaluate the day-to-day clinical situation when measuring HbA1c. Blood samples from 38 consecutive patients were sent to seven local laboratories and one international reference laboratory. Results. Poor concordance was found in 4 out of 7 laboratories, moderate in 2 out of 7, and significant in just one. HbA1c values from three laboratories fluctuated more than 1% above or below the reference laboratory in more than 30% of cases, and more than 2% in 10%-20% of subjects. Conclusions. Standardized HbA1c measurement has not occurred worldwide. Physicians should be aware of this issue and be cautious of HbA1c guidelines on diabetes diagnosis or management until proper standardization programs are implemented.

Objetivo. Comparar el coeficiente de correlación de concordancia de HbA1c. Material y métodos. Estudio prospectivo en Monterrey, México, de abril a agosto de 2012 para evaluar la medición de la HbA1c. Participaron 38 individuos y se envió la muestra a 7 laboratorios locales y a uno internacional de referencia. Resultados. Se encontró pobre concordancia en 4 de 7 laboratorios, moderada en 2 y una concordancia significativa en uno. Los valores de HbA1c de tres laboratorios fluctuaron más de 1% del laboratorio de referencia en más de 30% de los casos y más de 2% en 10 a 20%. Conclusiones. La estandarización de la HbA1c no está concluida. Los médicos deberían tomar con cautela las recomendaciones de las guías para HbA1c en el diagnóstico o manejo de la diabetes hasta que se implementen los programas de estandarización.

[Clinical characteristics of the thyroid follicular carcinoma]. / Características clínicas del carcinoma folicular de tiroides.

BACKGROUND: the prevalence of thyroid follicular carcinoma (TFC) is 39 % in patients with an undetermined histological diagnosis. The aim was to know the prevalence of TFC in a hospital with high population concentration. METHODS: surgical reports with a final diagnosis of TFC were reviewed. The size of the tumor, age, gender, pre- and post-surgical diagnosis and comorbidities were retrieved. RESULTS: a total of 35 reports with a diagnosis of TFC were found: 30 (85 %) were females with a mean age 44 ± 16.9 years. The mean age was 57 ± 6.6 in males. The diagnoses before surgery were follicular carcinoma 14 (40 %), thyroid cancer 6 (17.1 %), thyroid adenoma 4 (11.4 %), goiter 3 (8.5 %), thyroid nodule 3 (8.5 %), one papillary carcinoma (2.8 %), one thyroid neoplasm (2.8 %), one poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma (2.8 %), one well differentiated follicular adenocarcinoma (2.8 %), and one medullary thyroid cancer (2.8 %). The comorbidities found were Hashimoto disease 2 (5.6 %) and papillary contralateral carcinoma 2 patients (5.6 %). CONCLUSIONS: follicular carcinomas of the thyroid of our population differ in clinical presentation compared with previous reports.

Introducción: se ha identificado carcinoma folicular en 39 % de los pacientes con nódulos tiroideos cuya citología prequirúrgica ha indicado resultados indeterminados. El propósito de esta investigación fue conocer la prevalencia de esta entidad en un hospital de concentración. Métodos: se buscaron los reportes quirúrgicos con diagnóstico de carcinoma folicular. Se registró tamaño del tumor, sexo y edad del paciente, diagnósticos pre y posquirúrgico y patologías asociadas. Resultados: se diagnosticó carcinoma folicular en 35 pacientes: 30 mujeres (85 %) y cinco hombres (15 %). La edad en los hombres fue de 57 ± 6.6 y de 44 ± 16.9 en las mujeres. Los diagnósticos preoperatorios fueron carcinoma folicular en 14 (40 %), cáncer tiroideo en seis (17.1 %), adenoma folicular en cuatro (11.4 %), bocio en tres (8.5 %), nódulo tiroideo en tres (8.5 %); carcinoma papilar, tumor de tiroides, carcinoma poco diferenciado de tiroides, adenocarcinoma folicular bien diferenciado, cáncer medular en un paciente (2.8 %) cada uno. Las patologías asociadas fueron tiroiditis de Hashimoto y carcinoma papilar contralateral, con dos pacientes cada uno (5.6 %). Conclusiones: la edad de los pacientes y la presentación clínica del carcinoma folicular difirieron de las informadas en otras investigaciones.

Hyperglycemia related to high-dose glucocorticoid use in noncritically ill patients.

BACKGROUND: Glucocorticoids commonly cause drug-induced diabetes. This association is well recognized but available evidence does not answer clinically relevant issues in subjects without diabetes. METHODS: Thirty-five individuals without diabetes with a recent diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma on high-dose glucocorticoid therapy were studied. Close systematic monitoring of fasting and postprandial glycemia and fasting insulin determinations, HOMA-insulin resistance and HOMA ß-cell function were performed. The primary objective was to define the incidence of secondary diabetes in patients treated with high-dose glucocorticoids. Secondary objectives were to specify the intensity, the moment it appears and the evolution of hyperglycemia, in addition to the risk factors, mechanisms and impact of continuous and cyclical glucocorticoids on the development of hyperglycemia. RESULTS: Mean age of patients was 38.4 ± 18.7 years. The incidence of diabetes was 40.6% and was found after the first week; half the time it occurred between the second and fourth. Two-thirds spontaneously normalized by eight weeks. Continuous glucocorticoid administration had a higher incidence of fasting hyperglycemia (P = 0.003). Mean peak insulin levels were significantly higher in cases of diabetes. CONCLUSIONS: High-dose prednisone for 2 to 3 months produced an elevated incidence of diabetes, usually with mild hyperglycemia occurring between the second and fourth week, normalizing spontaneously in all cases. Hyperglycemia was more frequent with continuous doses and occurred in cases with increased insulin resistance. The clinical and therapeutic characteristics of our participants, who were otherwise healthy, could represent the clinical setting of many patients with illness from other medical areas that might require high doses of GC for six to twelve weeks.

Hemoglobin A1c: a reliable and accurate test for diabetes care? A prospective study in Mexico.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the concordance correlation coefficient for HbA1c results in an in-field experience. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective study in Monterrey, Mexico from April to August 2012 was conducted to evaluate the day-to-day clinical situation when measuring HbA1c. Blood samples from 38 consecutive patients were sent to seven local laboratories and one international reference laboratory. RESULTS: Poor concordance was found in 4 out of 7 laboratories, moderate in 2 out of 7, and significant in just one. HbA1c values from three laboratories fluctuated more than 1% above or below the reference laboratory in more than 30% of cases, and more than 2% in 10%-20% of subjects. CONCLUSIONS: Standardized HbA1c measurement has not occurred worldwide. Physicians should be aware of this issue and be cautious of HbA1c guidelines on diabetes diagnosis or management until proper standardization programs are implemented.

Galectin labeling of cells from paraffinized tissues may serve as a diagnostic tool in the detection and classification of thyroid carcinomas.

This study seeks to determine whether the relative levels of attachment to galectins 1 and 3 of cells from thyroid tissues embedded in paraffin blocks can differentiate thyroid tumors from normal tissues. A total of 48 thyroid paraffin sample blocks from 4 groups of patients were analyzed: 12 samples served as controls, 12 samples were from patients with thyroid adenoma, 12 samples were from patients with thyroid follicular carcinoma, and 12 samples were from patients with thyroid papillary carcinoma. The relative attachment of cells to galectins 1 and 3 antigens was determined using the InnoCyte™ ECM Cell Adhesion kit at different cell sample concentrations. All of the samples from thyroid tissue preparations showed attachment to galectins 1 and 3. The samples from tissues with a diagnosis of adenoma, follicular and papillary carcinoma showed an increased adherence to galectins 1 and 3 relative to the controls. Significant differences were found between the means of the adherent cells from the adenomas compared with the follicular and papillary carcinoma samples. When the outcomes from the galectins 1 and 3 cell surface binding were compared, no statistical differences were found. The cells from adenoma and carcinoma samples show more adhesion to galectins 1 and 3 than cells from the control samples. The samples prepared from follicular and papillary carcinomas show more cells adherent to galectins 1 and 3 than those from the adenomas.

Glucose disturbances in non-diabetic patients receiving acute treatment with methylprednisolone pulses.

OBJECTIVE: Methylprednisolone pulses are used in a variety of disease conditions, both for acute and chronic therapy. Although well tolerated, they increase glucose levels in both non-diabetic and diabetic patients. They may also be considered a significant risk for acute metabolic alterations. The purpose of this report is to determine the metabolic changes in blood glucose levels in non-diabetic patients receiving methylprednisolone pulses and identify the presence of predictive factors for its development. METHODS: Observational, prospective study in 50 non-diabetic patients receiving 1 g intravenous methylprednisolone pulses for three consecutive days as an indication for diverse autoimmune disorders. Demographic, anthropometric, and metabolic variables were analyzed, and glucose, insulin and C-peptide levels after each steroid pulse were identified. Different variables and the magnitude of hyperglycemia were analyzed using Pearson's correlation. RESULTS: 50 patients were included, predominantly women (66%, n = 33). The average age was 41 ± 14 years with a BMI of 26 ± 3 kg/m². Baseline glucose was 83 ± 10 mg/dL. After each steroid pulse, glucose increased to 140 ± 28, 160 ± 38 and 183 ± 44, respectively (p < 0.001). C-peptide and insulin concentrations increased significantly (p < 0.001). The prevalence of fasting hyperglycemia after each pulse was 68%, 94% and 98%, respectively. We found no correlation between the magnitude of hyperglycemia and the studied variables. CONCLUSION: Methylprednisolone pulses produced significant increases in fasting glucose in most patients without diabetes. Further studies are needed to define its role in long-term consequences.

Glucose disturbances in non-diabetic patients receiving acute treatment with methylprednisolone pulses / Distúrbios de glicose em pacientes não diabéticos que recebem tratamento agudo com pulsos de metilprednisolona

OBJECTIVE: Methylprednisolone pulses are used in a variety of disease conditions, both for acute and chronic therapy. Although well tolerated, they increase glucose levels in both non-diabetic and diabetic patients. They may also be considered a significant risk for acute metabolic alterations. The purpose of this report is to determine the metabolic changes in blood glucose levels in non-diabetic patients receiving methylprednisolone pulses and identify the presence of predictive factors for its development. METHODS: Observational, prospective study in 50 non-diabetic patients receiving 1 g intravenous methylprednisolone pulses for three consecutive days as an indication for diverse autoimmune disorders. Demographic, anthropometric, and metabolic variables were analyzed, and glucose, insulin and C-peptide levels after each steroid pulse were identified. Different variables and the magnitude of hyperglycemia were analyzed using Pearson's correlation. RESULTS: 50 patients were included, predominantly women (66 percent, n = 33). The average age was 41 ± 14 years with a BMI of 26 ± 3 kg/m². Baseline glucose was 83 ± 10 mg/dL. After each steroid pulse, glucose increased to 140 ± 28, 160 ± 38 and 183 ± 44, respectively (p < 0.001). C-peptide and insulin concentrations increased significantly (p < 0.001). The prevalence of fasting hyperglycemia after each pulse was 68 percent, 94 percent and 98 percent, respectively. We found no correlation between the magnitude of hyperglycemia and the studied variables. CONCLUSION: Methylprednisolone pulses produced significant increases in fasting glucose in most patients without diabetes. Further studies are needed to define its role in long-term consequences.

OBJETIVO: Pulsos de metilprednisolona são usados em diversas doenças, tanto para tratamento agudo quanto crônico. Embora bem tolerados, eles aumentam os níveis de glicose em ambos os pacientes, não diabéticos e diabéticos. Eles também podem ser considerados um risco significativo para alterações metabólicas agudas. O propósito deste estudo é determinar as alterações metabólicas nos níveis de glicose no sangue de pacientes não diabéticos que recebem pulsos de metilprednisolona e identificar a presença de fatores preditivos para seu desenvolvimento. MÉTODOS: Estudo observacional prospectivo em 50 pacientes não diabéticos que recebem pulsoterapia com 1 g de metilprednisolona intravenosa por três dias consecutivos como tratamento para diversas doenças autoimunes. Variáveis demográficas, antropométricas e metabólicas foram analisadas, e glicose, insulina e níveis de peptídeo C foram identificados após cada pulso de esteroide. Diferentes variáveis e a magnitude da hiperglicemia foram analisadas utilizando a correlação de Pearson. RESULTADOS: 50 pacientes foram incluídos, predominantemente mulheres (66 por cento, n = 33). A idade média foi de 41 ± 14 anos com um IMC de 26 ± 3 kg/m². A glicose de base foi de 83 ± 10 mg/dL. Após cada pulso de esteroide, a glicose aumentou para 140 ± 28, 160 ± 38 e 183 ± 44, respectivamente (p < 0,001). Peptídeo C e concentrações de insulina aumentaram significativamente (p < 0,001). A prevalência de hiperglicemia em jejum após cada pulso foi de 68 por cento, 94 por cento e 98 por cento, respectivamente. Não encontramos nenhuma correlação entre a magnitude da hiperglicemia e as variáveis estudadas. CONCLUSÃO: Os pulsos de metilprednisolona produziram aumentos significativos na glicemia de jejum na maioria dos pacientes sem diabetes. Mais estudos são necessários para definir o seu papel nas consequências em longo prazo.

The rate of primary hypothyroidism in diabetic patients is greater than in the non-diabetic population. An observational study.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The aim of our study was to identify the rate of diabetic patients treated for hypothyroidism and compare them with a group without type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). PATIENTS AND METHODS: We reviewed the computerized clinical records of 5161 patients. We identified diabetic patients treated with l-thyroxine. We compared the prevalence of PH with those patients under treatment with levothyroxine without T2DM. We excluded patients with a thyroid neoplasia, thyroid surgery, panhypopituitarism, or surgical complications of multinodular goiter or a thyroid nodule. Subclinical hypothyroidism was not considered. RESULTS: We included 1848 adult patients with T2DM in the study group, 58% women and 42% men. For the control group, we included 3313 non-diabetic patients, 55% women and 45% men. The mean age in the study group was 52±7 years, and 47±4 years in the control group (p<.001). The rate of hypothyroidism in the study group was 5.7%, and in the control group 1.8% (odds ratio of 3.45; 95% confidence interval 2.51-4.79) (p<.001). CONCLUSION: A strong association between T2DM and hypothyroidism was found. We recommend a thyroid profile in all patients with T2DM, similar to the recommendation in type 1 diabetes mellitus.

[Frailty and its association with mortality, hospitalization and functional dependence in Mexicans aged 60-years or older]. / Fragilidad y su asociación con mortalidad, hospitalizaciones y dependencia funcional en mexicanos de 60 años o más.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: To determine the association between frailty and mortality, dysfunctionality, falls and hospitalizations in the Mexican Health and Aging Study. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Prospective, population study in Mexico, that included subjects of 60 years and older who were evaluated for the variables of frailty during the year 2001 (first wave of the study) which included: difficulty to rise from a chair after being seated during long time, weight loss of 5 kilograms or more in the last two years, and absence of energy. Frail subjects were considered when they had at least two conditions. The robust group was considered when they had zero conditions. Pre-frail or intermediate were those with one condition. Mortality, hospitalizations, falls, and functional dependency were evaluated during 2003 (second wave of the study). Relative risk was calculated for each complication, as well as hazard ratio and odds ratio through Cox Regression Model (for mortality) and logistic regression (for the rest of the complications) respectively, adjusted for covariates. RESULTS: The states of frailty and pre-frailty were independently associated with mortality, hazard ratio of 1.61 (CI 95% 1.01-2.55) and 1.94 (CI 95% 1.20-3.13), respectively. Only the state of frailty was independently associated with hospitalization and functional dependence, odds ratio of 1.53 (CI 95% 1.13-2.07) and 3.07 (CI 95% 1.76-5.34). There was no association between pre-frailty or frailty with falls. CONCLUSION: Frailty is associated with an increase in the rate of mortality, hospitalizations and dependence in basic activities of daily life.

[Recombinant human TSH in pediatric thyroid cancer]. / Tirotropina recombinante humana para cáncer tiroideo en niños.

The treatment of pediatric thyroid cancer usually includes thyroid surgery, therapeutic radioactive iodine ablation, and TSH suppression with levotiroxine. Thyroid hormone withdrawal in the usual follow-up of thyroid cancer has adverse effects on patients. Recominant human (Rh) TSH has the advantage of avoiding both hypothyroidism, with a major impact on the patient's quality of life, and the side effects on tumor growth related to the long-lasting TSH increase. Rh TSH has proven to be effective and safe, but the majority of publications are based on adult population. In this report we present our experience with the administration of Rh TSH in the diagnostic evaluation for treatment in a series of four cases of thyroid cancer in children. In all cases we observed clinical benefits without secondary effects. In conclusion Rh TSH is an appropriate treatment option for the disease and represents a valuable alternative to thyroxin withdrawal.