High intensity resistance training causes muscle damage and increases biomarkers of acute kidney injury in healthy individuals.

PURPOSE: High-intensity interval resistance training (HIIRT) is an increasingly popular exercise program that provides positive results with short sessions. This study aimed to evaluate whether an HIIRT session causes muscle and kidney damage. METHODS: Fifty-eight healthy volunteers (median age 24 years, 50% women) participated in this study and performed a HIIRT session. The Borg CR10 scale for pain (CR10P) and blood and urine samples were collected before (baseline) and 2 and 24 hours after the HIIRT session. Blood samples were analyzed for serum creatinine (SCr), creatine kinase (CK) and myoglobin. Urine samples were assessed for creatinine, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, interleukin 18, calbindin, microalbuminuria, trefoil factor-3 and ß-2 microglobulin. RESULTS: CR10P had a significant increase at 2 and 24 hours post-workout, and CK increased significantly at 2 hours and increased further at 24 hours. Myoglobin increased significantly at 2 hours and remained elevated at 24 hours. SCr increased modestly but significantly at 24 hours only in men. Three men met the KDIGO diagnostic criteria for acute kidney injury. The urinary kidney injury biomarkers increased significantly at 2 hours and returned to the baseline values 24 hours after HIIRT. CONCLUSIONS: A single HIIRT session caused early and significant elevations in CK, myoglobin, SCr, microalbuminuria and urinary biomarkers indicative of kidney tubular injury, suggesting the occurrence of muscle and kidney damage.

Aging and decreased glomerular filtration rate: An elderly population-based study.

BACKGROUND: Although a reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in old people has been attributed to physiologic aging, it may be associated with kidney disease or superimposed comorbidities. This study aims to assess the prevalence of decreased GFR in a geriatric population in a developing country and its prevalence in the absence of simultaneous diseases. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study of data from the Saúde, Bem-Estar e Envelhecimento cohort study (SABE study[Health, Well-Being and Aging]), a multiple cohorts study. A multistage cluster sample composed of 1,253 individuals representative of 1,249,388 inhabitants of São Paulo city aged ≥60 years in 2010 was analyzed. The participants answered a survey on socio-demographic factors and health, had blood pressure measured and urine and blood samples collected. GFR was estimated and defined as decreased when <60 mL/min/1.73m2. Kidney damage was defined as dipstick-positive hematuria or urinary protein:creatinine > 0.20 g/g. RESULTS: The prevalence of GFR <60 mL/min/1.73m2 was 19.3%. Individuals with GFR <60 mL/min/1.73m2 were older (75±1 versus 69±1 years, p<0.001), had lower schooling (18 versus 30% with complete 8-year basic cycle, p = 0.010), and higher prevalence of hypertension (82 versus 63%, p<0.001), diabetes (34 versus 26%, p = 0.021), cardiovascular disease (43 versus 24%, p<0.001) and kidney damage (35% versus 15%, p<0.001). Only 0.7% of the entire studied population had GFR <60 mL/min/1.73m2 without simultaneous diseases or kidney damage. Among the individuals with GFR <60 mL/min/1.73m2, 3.5% had neither renal damage nor associated comorbidities, whereas among those with GFR ≥60 mL/min/1.73m2, 11.0% had none of these conditions. Logistic regression showed that older age, cardiovascular disease and hypertension were associated with GFR<60 mL/min/1.73m2. CONCLUSIONS: Decreased GFR was highly prevalent among the geriatric population in a megalopolis of a developing country. It was rarely present without simultaneous chronic comorbidities or kidney damage.

Incidence and mortality of acute kidney injury after myocardial infarction: a comparison between KDIGO and RIFLE criteria.

BACKGROUND: Acute kidney injury (AKI) increases the risk of death after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Recently, a new AKI definition was proposed by the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) organization. The aim of the current study was to compare the incidence and the early and late mortality of AKI diagnosed by RIFLE and KDIGO criteria in the first 7 days of hospitalization due to an AMI. METHODS AND RESULTS: In total, 1,050 AMI patients were prospectively studied. AKI defined by RIFLE and KDIGO occurred in 14.8% and 36.6% of patients, respectively. By applying multivariate Cox analysis, AKI was associated with an increased adjusted hazard ratio (AHR) for 30-day death of 3.51 (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.35-5.25, p<0.001) by RIFLE and 3.99 (CI 2.59-6.15, p<0.001) by KDIGO and with an AHR for 1-year mortality of 1.84 (CI 1.12-3.01, p=0.016) by RIFLE and 2.43 (CI 1.62-3.62, p<0.001) by KDIGO. The subgroup of patients diagnosed as non-AKI by RIFLE but as AKI by KDIGO criteria had also an increased AHR for death of 2.55 (1.52-4.28) at 30 days and 2.28 (CI 1.46-3.54) at 1 year (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: KDIGO criteria detected substantially more AKI patients than RIFLE among AMI patients. Patients diagnosed as AKI by KDIGO but not RIFLE criteria had a significantly higher early and late mortality. In this study KDIGO criteria were more suitable for AKI diagnosis in AMI patients than RIFLE criteria.

The real importance of pre-existing comorbidities on long-term mortality after acute kidney injury.

BACKGROUND: The causes of death on long-term mortality after acute kidney injury (AKI) have not been well studied. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the role of comorbidities and the causes of death on the long-term mortality after AKI. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: We retrospectively studied 507 patients who experienced AKI in 2005-2006 and were discharged free from dialysis. In June 2008 (median: 21 months after AKI), we found that 193 (38%) patients had died. This mortality is much higher than the mortality of the population of São Paulo City, even after adjustment for age. A multiple survival analysis was performed using Cox proportional hazards regression model and showed that death was associated with Khan's index indicating high risk [adjusted hazard ratio 2.54 (1.38-4.66)], chronic liver disease [1.93 (1.15-3.22)], admission to non-surgical ward [1.85 (1.30-2.61)] and a second AKI episode during the same hospitalization [1.74 (1.12-2.71)]. The AKI severity evaluated either by the worst stage reached during AKI (P=0.20) or by the need for dialysis (P=0.12) was not associated with death. The causes of death were identified by a death certificate in 85% of the non-survivors. Among those who died from circulatory system diseases (the main cause of death), 59% had already suffered from hypertension, 34% from diabetes, 47% from heart failure, 38% from coronary disease, and 66% had a glomerular filtration rate <60 previous to the AKI episode. Among those who died from neoplasms, 79% already had the disease previously. CONCLUSIONS: Among AKI survivors who were discharged free from dialysis the increased long-term mortality was associated with their pre-existing chronic conditions and not with the severity of the AKI episode. These findings suggest that these survivors should have a medical follow-up after hospital discharge and that all efforts should be made to control their comorbidities.

Long-term follow-up of patients after acute kidney injury: patterns of renal functional recovery.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Patients who survive acute kidney injury (AKI), especially those with partial renal recovery, present a higher long-term mortality risk. However, there is no consensus on the best time to assess renal function after an episode of acute kidney injury or agreement on the definition of renal recovery. In addition, only limited data regarding predictors of recovery are available. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS: From 1984 to 2009, 84 adult survivors of acute kidney injury were followed by the same nephrologist (RCRMA) for a median time of 4.1 years. Patients were seen at least once each year after discharge until end stage renal disease (ESRD) or death. In each consultation serum creatinine was measured and glomerular filtration rate estimated. Renal recovery was defined as a glomerular filtration rate value ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2. A multiple logistic regression was performed to evaluate factors independently associated with renal recovery. RESULTS: The median length of follow-up was 50 months (30-90 months). All patients had stabilized their glomerular filtration rates by 18 months and 83% of them stabilized earlier: up to 12 months. Renal recovery occurred in 16 patients (19%) at discharge and in 54 (64%) by 18 months. Six patients died and four patients progressed to ESRD during the follow up period. Age (OR 1.09, p<0.0001) and serum creatinine at hospital discharge (OR 2.48, p = 0.007) were independent factors associated with non renal recovery. The acute kidney injury severity, evaluated by peak serum creatinine and need for dialysis, was not associated with non renal recovery. CONCLUSIONS: Renal recovery must be evaluated no earlier than one year after an acute kidney injury episode. Nephrology referral should be considered mainly for older patients and those with elevated serum creatinine at hospital discharge.

Renal function at hospital admission and mortality due to acute kidney injury after myocardial infarction.

BACKGROUND: The role of an impaired estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at hospital admission in the outcome of acute kidney injury (AKI) after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) has been underreported. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of an admission eGFR<60 mL/min/1.73 m(2) on the incidence and early and late mortality of AMI-associated AKI. METHODS: A prospective study of 828 AMI patients was performed. AKI was defined as a serum creatinine increase of ≥ 50% from the time of admission (RIFLE criteria) in the first 7 days of hospitalization. Patients were divided into subgroups according to their eGFR upon hospital admission (MDRD formula, mL/min/1.73 m(2)) and the development of AKI: eGFR ≥ 60 without AKI, eGFR<60 without AKI, eGFR ≥ 60 with AKI and eGFR<60 with AKI. RESULTS: Overall, 14.6% of the patients in this study developed AKI. The admission eGFR had no impact on the incidence of AKI. However, the admission eGFR was associated with the outcome of AMI-associated AKI. The adjusted hazard ratios (AHR, Cox multivariate analysis) for 30-day mortality were 2.00 (95% CI 1.11-3.61) for eGFR<60 without AKI, 4.76 (95% CI 2.45-9.26) for eGFR ≥ 60 with AKI and 6.27 (95% CI 3.20-12.29) for eGFR<60 with AKI. Only an admission eGFR of <60 with AKI was significantly associated with a 30-day to 1-year mortality hazard (AHR 3.05, 95% CI 1.50-6.19). CONCLUSIONS: AKI development was associated with an increased early mortality hazard in AMI patients with either preserved or impaired admission eGFR. Only the association of impaired admission eGFR and AKI was associated with an increased hazard for late mortality among these patients.

Vírus respiratório sincicial humano em crianças hospitalizadas por infecções agudas das vias aéreas inferiores / Human respiratory syncytial virus in children hospitalized for acute lower respiratory infection

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a prevalência e a sazonalidade do vírus respiratório sincicial humano (VRSH) em crianças de 0 a 6 anos hospitalizadas por infecção aguda das vias aéreas inferiores (IVAI) em São José do Rio Preto (SP) e a associação entre faixa etária, diagnóstico e VRSH. MÉTODOS: Entre maio de 2004 e setembro de 2005, foram estudados 290 episódios consecutivos de IVAI adquiridos na comunidade em crianças de 0 a 6 anos internadas no Hospital de Base de São José do Rio Preto. Para identificação do VRSH, foram coletadas amostras de secreção de nasofaringe e realizou-se análise molecular por meio da técnica de RT-PCR. RESULTADOS: A prevalência de VRSH foi de 29,3 por cento nos episódios de IVAI hospitalizados. A IVAI foi frequente em lactentes (mediana de idade = 13,5 meses). O VRSH foi mais frequente nos casos de bronquiolite (64 por cento) e no primeiro ano de vida (35 por cento). Os episódios de infecção por VRSH ocorreram entre o outono e a primavera, com frequência maior em 2004 do que em 2005. Os critérios clínicos e radiológicos não foram suficientes para o diagnóstico de infecção pelo VRSH. Em 78,8 por cento dos episódios de VRSH, houve tratamento com antibiótico. CONCLUSÕES: A prevalência do VRSH em crianças de 0 a 6 anos hospitalizadas por IVAI foi elevada, com predomínio nas mais jovens ou com bronquiolite. A circulação do vírus variou nos dois anos estudados. Os resultados sugerem necessidade de diagnóstico laboratorial do VRSR na prática clínica.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the prevalence and seasonality of human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) in children aged 0 to 6 years, hospitalized with acute lower respiratory infection (ALRI) in São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil, and the association between age, diagnosis, and HRSV. METHODS: Between May 2004 and September 2005, we studied 290 consecutive episodes of community-acquired ALRI in children aged 0 to 6 years admitted to the Hospital de Base of São José do Rio Preto. In order to detect HRSV, nasopharyngeal secretion samples were collected and RT-PCR molecular analysis was performed. RESULTS: The HRSV prevalence was 29.3 percent for the cases of hospitalized patients with ALRI. ALRI was common in infants (median age = 13.5 months). HRSV was more frequent in cases of bronchiolitis (64 percent) and during the first year of life (35 percent). Episodes of HRSV infection occurred between fall and spring, showing higher frequency in 2004 than in 2005. Clinical and radiological criteria were not sufficient to establish the diagnosis of infection with HRSV. Antibiotic therapy was used in 78.8 percent of episodes of HRSV. CONCLUSIONS: There was a high prevalence of HRSV in children aged 0 to 6 years who were hospitalized for ALRI, predominantly in younger patients or those with bronchiolitis. The circulation of the virus varied in the two years studied. Our results suggest the need for laboratory diagnosis of HRSV in the clinical practice.

Human respiratory syncytial virus in children hospitalized for acute lower respiratory infection.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the prevalence and seasonality of human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) in children aged 0 to 6 years, hospitalized with acute lower respiratory infection (ALRI) in São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil, and the association between age, diagnosis, and HRSV. METHODS: Between May 2004 and September 2005, we studied 290 consecutive episodes of community-acquired ALRI in children aged 0 to 6 years admitted to the Hospital de Base of São José do Rio Preto. In order to detect HRSV, nasopharyngeal secretion samples were collected and RT-PCR molecular analysis was performed. RESULTS: The HRSV prevalence was 29.3% for the cases of hospitalized patients with ALRI. ALRI was common in infants (median age = 13.5 months). HRSV was more frequent in cases of bronchiolitis (64%) and during the first year of life (35%). Episodes of HRSV infection occurred between fall and spring, showing higher frequency in 2004 than in 2005. Clinical and radiological criteria were not sufficient to establish the diagnosis of infection with HRSV. Antibiotic therapy was used in 78.8% of episodes of HRSV. CONCLUSIONS: There was a high prevalence of HRSV in children aged 0 to 6 years who were hospitalized for ALRI, predominantly in younger patients or those with bronchiolitis. The circulation of the virus varied in the two years studied. Our results suggest the need for laboratory diagnosis of HRSV in the clinical practice.

Effect of kidney disease on acute coronary syndrome.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is highly prevalent worldwide and is associated with an increased risk for adverse outcomes in patients hospitalized with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). In studies including thousands of patients admitted with myocardial infarction, CKD consistently determines a poorer prognosis for ACS patients. In contrast with CKD, information about the effect of acute kidney injury (AKI) on clinical outcomes after ACS is limited. Most data come from retrospective registry databank studies of nonconsecutive patients with a significant number of patients excluded from analyses. There are no prospective studies designed to determine whether AKI strictly diagnosed by the new the Acute Kidney Injury Network (AKIN) or RIFLE (Risk, Injury, Failure, Loss, and End-stage kidney disease) criteria is a risk factor for death after ACS, and there are no data comparing the RIFLE and AKIN criteria for AKI diagnosis after myocardial infarction. This article reviews the most important data on CKD and ACS and the available data on AKI and ACS. The importance of obtaining an early serum creatinine level after admission for ACS and the importance of renal function monitoring during hospitalization are stressed.

Urine volume in acute kidney injury: how much is enough?

Eight hundred and seventy-nine patients with acute kidney injury were retrospectively studied over year and eleven months for evaluation of urine volume as a risk factor for death. They were divided into five groups, according to the 24 h urine volume (UV): anuric (UV 50 mL/24 h and < 400 mL/24 h, group 2), and non-oliguric (UV >or= 400 mL/24 h). Nonoliguric group was subdivided in three subgroups: UV > 400 mL/24 h and 1000 mL/24 h and 2000 mL/24 h (group 5). Linear tendency test (Mantel extension) pointed out a significant increase in mortality with UV decrease (p < 0.001), confirmed by multivariate analysis. Anuric and oliguric patients had increased risk of respectively 95% and 76% times for death compared to controls (p < 0.05). Patients from groups 4 and 5 presented a reduced risk for death of 50% and 70%, respectively, p = 0.004 and p = 0.001. In conclusion, urine volume was a strong independent factor for mortality in this cohort of AKI patients.

Prevalence and risk factors for aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity in intensive care units.

In order to assess the prevalence of and risk factors for aminoglycoside-associated nephrotoxicity in intensive care units (ICUs), we evaluated 360 consecutive patients starting aminoglycoside therapy in an ICU. The patients had a baseline calculated glomerular filtration rate (cGFR) of > or =30 ml/min/1.73 m(2). Among these patients, 209 (58%) developed aminoglycoside-associated nephrotoxicity (the acute kidney injury [AKI] group, which consisted of individuals with a decrease in cGFR of >20% from the baseline cGFR), while 151 did not (non-AKI group). Both groups had similar baseline cGFRs. The AKI group developed a lower cGFR nadir (45 +/- 27 versus 79 +/- 39 ml/min/1.73 m(2) for the non-AKI group; P < 0.001); was older (56 +/- 18 years versus 52 +/- 19 years for the non-AKI group; P = 0.033); had a higher prevalence of diabetes (19.6% versus 9.3% for the non-AKI group; P = 0.007); was more frequently treated with other nephrotoxic drugs (51% versus 38% for the non-AKI group; P = 0.024); used iodinated contrast more frequently (18% versus 8% for the non-AKI group; P = 0.0054); and showed a higher prevalence of hypotension (63% versus 44% for the non-AKI group; P = 0.0003), shock (56% versus 31% for the non-AKI group; P < 0.0001), and jaundice (19% versus 8% for the non-AKI group; P = 0.0036). The mortality rate was 44.5% for the AKI group and 29.1% for the non-AKI group (P = 0.0031). A logistic regression model identified as significant (P < 0.05) the following independent factors that affected aminoglycoside-associated nephrotoxicity: a baseline cGFR of <60 ml/min/1.73 m(2) (odds ratio [OR], 0.42), diabetes (OR, 2.13), treatment with other nephrotoxins (OR, 1.61) or iodinated contrast (OR, 2.13), and hypotension (OR, 1.83). In conclusion, AKI was frequent among ICU patients receiving an aminoglycoside, and it was associated with a high rate of mortality. The presence of diabetes or hypotension and the use of other nephrotoxic drugs and iodinated contrast were independent risk factors for the development of aminoglycoside-associated nephrotoxicity.

A fuzzy reed-frost model for epidemic spreading.

In this paper, we present a fuzzy approach to the Reed-Frost model for epidemic spreading taking into account uncertainties in the diagnostic of the infection. The heterogeneities in the infected group is based on the clinical signals of the individuals (symptoms, laboratorial exams, medical findings, etc.), which are incorporated into the dynamic of the epidemic. The infectivity level is time-varying and the classification of the individuals is performed through fuzzy relations. Simulations considering a real problem with data of the viral epidemic in a children daycare are performed and the results are compared with a stochastic Reed-Frost generalization.

Perfil de mães adolescentes de São José do Rio Preto/Brasil e cuidados na assistência pré-natal / Profile of adolescent mothers in São José do Rio Preto/Brazil and prenatal care

Objetivos: Identificar o perfil sócio-demográfico; características da vida sexual e reprodutiva; características do pré-natal, intercorrências e tipo de parto; tipo de orientações recebidas no pré-natal; freqüência de baixo peso, prematuridade e Apgar. Método: Estudo descritivo, de 84 mães adolescentes com parto entre 01/10/2004 a 01/12/2004. Resultados: Das adolescentes estudadas, 96,4% tinham entre 15 a 19 anos; 73,8% viviam com o companheiro; 65% recebiam até três salários mínimos; 79,3% nunca tinham trabalhado; 52,4% freqüentavam a escola quando engravidaram. A média de idade da primeira relação sexual foi de 15 anos; 64,3% faziam uso de contraceptivo; apenas 9,5% usavam-no quando engravidaram; 100% das adolescentes fizeram pré-natal; 58,5% iniciaram no primeiro trimestre de gravidez; 84,6% fizeram de seis a doze consultas; 83,3% eram primíparas e 83,3% não planejaram a gravidez. As complicações maternas foram: 44% anemia; 35,7% infecção urinária; 14,3% sangramento vaginal; 14,2% pressão alta; 2,4% diabetes gestacional e 1,2% eclampsia. Parto cesárea foi feito em 61,9%. Receberam orientação para não fazer uso de medicação sem ordem médica 85,7% das adolescentes; para não usar drogas 73,8%; quanto aos prejuízos do fumo e bebida alcoólica 72,6%; em relação ao tipo de alimentação na gestação 70,2%; sobre os cuidados com os dentes 54,8%; sobre os sinais do início do trabalho de parto 72,6%; quanto aos tipos de parto 60,7%; sobre a importância do aleitamento materno 76,2%; quanto ao banho do bebê 17,9% e 18,3% sobre o curativo doumbigo. Encontrou-se 6% de recém-nascidos de baixo peso e prematuros; o Apgar foi superior a 8 em 86,9%dos casos no primeiro minuto e 95,1 % no quinto minuto. Neste grupo de adolescentes, a assistência pré-natal adequada (início no primeiro trimestre e número mínimo de seis consultas) permitiu bons resultados, apesar da idade das mães estar associada com gravidezes de risco.

Objectives: To describe the socio demographic profile; sexual and reproductive life; prenatal care, event and labor type; kind of orientations received in the prenatal period; low weight frequency, pre-term and Apgar..Methods: Descriptive study of 84 adolescent mothers with childbirth between the 1st October 2004 to the 1st December 2004. Results: Of the studied adolescents, 96.5% were aged between 15 to 19 years; 73.8% lived with their partner; 65% earned up to three minimum wages; 79.3% have never worked; 52.4% were attending school when they have got pregnant. The mean age at the first sexual intercourse was 15 years; 64.3% have been using contraceptive; only 9.5% were using it when got pregnant; 100% made prenatal visits; 58.5% initiated them in the first quarter of gestation; 84.6% had six to twelve consultations; 83.3% were primiparas and 83.3% have not planned their pregnancy. Maternal complications were: 44% anemia; 35.7% urinary tractinfection; 14.3% vaginal bleeding; 14.2% high blood pressure; 2.4% gestational diabetes and 1.2% eclampsia. Caesarian labor was performed in 61.9%. A total of 85.7% of adolescents have received orientations for not using any medication without medical prescription; 73.8% for not using drugs; 72.6% in relation to smokingand alcoholic drink damages; 70.2%, in relation to the kind of diet during gestation; 54.8% on dental care;72.6% on signals of the labor starting; 60.7% the labor types; 76.2% on the importance of maternal breastfeeding; 17.9% on the baby’s bath and 18.3% on the umbilicus dressing. Six percent of newborns werelow birth weight and preterm; Apgar was superior to 8 in 86% of the cases in the first minute, and 95.1% in thefifth minute. In this group of adolescents, the proper prenatal assistance( beginning in the first quarter and six consultation at least) has allowed good results, although, the association of the mothers´age with risks in the pregnancy.

Demonstration Project on Epilepsy in Brazil: situation assessment.

PURPOSE: To provide a situation assessment of services for people with epilepsy in the context of primary health care, as part of the Demonstration Project on Epilepsy in Brazil, part of the WHO/ILAE/IBE Global Campaign 'Epilepsy out of the shadows'. METHODS: We performed a door-to-door epidemiological survey in three areas to assess the prevalence of epilepsy and its treatment gap. We surveyed a sample of 598 primary health care workers from different regions of Brazil to assess their perceptions of the management of people with epilepsy in the primary care setting. RESULTS: The lifetime prevalence of epilepsy was 9.2/1,000 people [95% CI 8.4-10.0] and the estimated prevalence of active epilepsy was 5.4/1,000 people. Thirty-eight percent of patients with active epilepsy were on inadequate treatment, including 19% who were taking no medication. The survey of health workers showed that they estimated that 60% of patients under their care were seizure-free. They estimated that 55% of patients were on monotherapy and that 59% had been referred to neurologists. The estimated mean percentage of patients who were working or studying was 56%. Most of the physicians (73%) did not feel confident in managing people with epilepsy. DISCUSSION: The epidemiological survey in the areas of the Demonstration Project showed that the prevalence of epilepsy is similar to that in other resource-poor countries, and that the treatment gap is high. One factor contributing to the treatment gap is inadequacy of health care delivery. The situation could readily be improved in Brazil, as the primary health care system has the key elements required for epilepsy management. To make this effective and efficient requires: i) an established referral network, ii) continuous provision of AEDs, iii) close monitoring of epilepsy management via the notification system (Sistema de Informação da Atenção Básica - SIAB) and iv) continuous education of health professionals. The educational program should be broad spectrum and include not only medical management, but also psycho-social aspects of epilepsy.

Demonstration project on epilepsy in Brazil: outcome assessment.

PURPOSE: To assess the outcome of patients with epilepsy treated at primary care health units under the framework of the demonstration project on epilepsy in Brazil, part of the WHO/ILAE/IBE Global Campaign Against Epilepsy. METHOD: We assessed the outcome of patients treated at four primary health units. The staff of the health units underwent information training in epilepsy. The outcome assessment was based on: 1) reduction of seizure frequency, 2) subjective perception from the patients and the physicians point of view, 3) reduction of absenteeism, 4) social integration (school and work), and 5) sense of independence. RESULTS: A total of 181 patients (93 women - 51%) with a mean age of 38 (range from 2 to 86) years were studied. The mean follow-up was 26 months (range from 1 to 38 months, 11 patients had follow-up of less than 12 months). Seizure frequency was assessed based on a score system, ranging from 0 (no seizure in the previous 24 months) to 7 (>10 seizure/day). The baseline median seizure-frequency score was 3 (one to three seizures per month). At the end of the study the median seizure-frequency score was 1 (one to three seizures per year). The patients and relatives opinions were that in the majority (59%) the health status had improved a lot, some (19%) had improved a little, 20% experienced no change and in 2% the health status was worse. With regard to absenteeism, social integration and sense of independence, there were some modest improvements only. DISCUSSION: The development of a model of epilepsy treatment at primary health level based on the existing health system, with strategic measures centred on the health care providers and the community, has proved to be effective providing important reductions in seizure frequency, as well as in general well being. This model can be applied nationwide, as the key elements already exist provided that strategic measures are put forward in accordance with local health providers and managers.

Demonstration project on epilepsy in Brazil: situation assessment

PURPOSE: To provide a situation assessment of services for people with epilepsy in the context of primary health care, as part of the Demonstration Project on Epilepsy in Brazil, part of the WHO/ILAE/IBE Global Campaign 'Epilepsy out of the shadows'. METHODS: We performed a door-to-door epidemiological survey in three areas to assess the prevalence of epilepsy and its treatment gap. We surveyed a sample of 598 primary health care workers from different regions of Brazil to assess their perceptions of the management of people with epilepsy in the primary care setting. RESULTS: The lifetime prevalence of epilepsy was 9.2/1,000 people [95 percent CI 8.4-10.0] and the estimated prevalence of active epilepsy was 5.4/1,000 people. Thirty-eight percent of patients with active epilepsy were on inadequate treatment, including 19 percent who were taking no medication. The survey of health workers showed that they estimated that 60 percent of patients under their care were seizure-free. They estimated that 55 percent of patients were on monotherapy and that 59 percent had been referred to neurologists. The estimated mean percentage of patients who were working or studying was 56 percent. Most of the physicians (73 percent) did not feel confident in managing people with epilepsy. DISCUSSION: The epidemiological survey in the areas of the Demonstration Project showed that the prevalence of epilepsy is similar to that in other resource-poor countries, and that the treatment gap is high. One factor contributing to the treatment gap is inadequacy of health care delivery. The situation could readily be improved in Brazil, as the primary health care system has the key elements required for epilepsy management. To make this effective and efficient requires: i) an established referral network, ii) continuous provision of AEDs, iii) close monitoring of epilepsy management via the notification system (Sistema de Informação da Atenção Básica - SIAB) and iv)...

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a situação da assistência à epilepsia no contexto da atenção primária sob o Projeto Demonstrativo em epilepsia no Brasil, parte da Campanha Global Epilepsia Fora das Sombras da WHO/ILAE/IBE. MÉTODO: Fizemos um levantamento epidemiológico para definir a prevalência e lacuna de tratamento em epilepsia. Avaliamos a percepção de 598 profissionais de saúde da atenção básica de diferentes regiões do Brasil sobre epilepsia e seu manejo na rede básica de saúde. RESULTADOS: A prevalência acumulada de epilepsia foi de 9,2/1000 pessoas (95 por centoIC= 8,4-10) e a prevalência estimada de epilepsia ativa foi de 5,4/1000 pessoas. Trinta e oito porcento dos pacientes com epilepsia ativa estavam sendo tratados inadequadamente, incluindo 19 por cento que estavam sem medicação. A enquete com os profissionais de saúde mostrou que a média estimada de pacientes livre de crises sob os cuidados dos mesmos era de 60 por cento. A média estimada de porcentagem em monoterapia era de 55 por cento. A média estimada de porcentagem de referência para neurologistas era de 59 por cento. A média estimada de porcentagem de pacientes que estavam trabalhando ou estudando era de 56 por cento. A maioria dos médicos não se sente confiante em atender uma pessoa com epilepsia. DISCUSSÃO: A análise situacional da Fase I - estudo epidemiológico nas áreas de interesse do PD mostrou que a prevalência da epilepsia é similar a outros países em desenvolvimento e a lacuna de tratamento é grande. Um dos fatores importantes para a lacuna de tratamento é a falta de adequação à assistência na atenção básica. Essa situação pode ser revertida no Brasil, pois os elementos chaves existem na rede básica para o manejo de pessoas com epilepsia. Entretanto, para torna efetivo e eficiente é preciso i) estabelecimento de um sistema de referência e contra-referência, ii) fornecimento contínuo de medicação anti-epiléptica, iii) monitorização de manejo de pessoas com epilepsia através...

Demonstration project on epilepsy in Brazil: outcome assessment

PURPOSE: To assess the outcome of patients with epilepsy treated at primary care health units under the framework of the demonstration project on epilepsy in Brazil, part of the WHO/ILAE/IBE Global Campaign Against Epilepsy. METHOD: We assessed the outcome of patients treated at four primary health units. The staff of the health units underwent information training in epilepsy. The outcome assessment was based on: 1) reduction of seizure frequency, 2) subjective perception from the patients and the physicians point of view, 3) reduction of absenteeism, 4) social integration (school and work), and 5) sense of independence. RESULTS: A total of 181 patients (93 women - 51 percent) with a mean age of 38 (range from 2 to 86) years were studied. The mean follow-up was 26 months (range from 1 to 38 months, 11 patients had follow-up of less than 12 months). Seizure frequency was assessed based on a score system, ranging from 0 (no seizure in the previous 24 months) to 7 (>10 seizure/day). The baseline median seizure-frequency score was 3 (one to three seizures per month). At the end of the study the median seizure-frequency score was 1 (one to three seizures per year). The patients and relatives opinions were that in the majority (59 percent) the health status had improved a lot, some (19 percent) had improved a little, 20 percent experienced no change and in 2 percent the health status was worse. With regard to absenteeism, social integration and sense of independence, there were some modest improvements only. DISCUSSION: The development of a model of epilepsy treatment at primary health level based on the existing health system, with strategic measures centred on the health care providers and the community, has proved to be effective providing important reductions in seizure frequency, as well as in general well being. This model can be applied nationwide, as the key elements already exist provided that strategic measures are put forward...

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o resultado do tratamento de pacientes com epilepsia na atenção básica sob o modelo proposto pelo Projeto Demonstrativo no Brasil, como parte da Campanha Global Contra a Epilepsia da WHO/ILAE/IBE. MÉTODO: Avaliamos o resultado do tratamento nos pacientes acompanhados em quatro unidades básicas de saúde. As equipes de saúde fizeram um treinamento padrão. O resultado do tratamento foi baseado em cinco aspectos: 1) redução da freqüência das crises, 2) percepção subjetiva dos pacientes e dos médicos, 3) redução de absenteísmo, 4) integração social (escola, trabalho), e 5) senso de independência. RESULTADOS: Um total de 181 pacientes (93 mulheres - 51 por cento), com uma média de 38 anos (variando de 2 a 86 anos) entraram nesta análise. O tempo médio de seguimento foi de 26 meses (variou de 1 a 38 meses, 11 pacientes tinham seguimento menos de 12 meses). A freqüência das crises foi categorizada variando de 0 (sem nenhuma crise nos últimos 24 meses) a 7 (>10 crises/dia). O escore mediano da freqüência de crises no começo era de 3 (uma a três crises por mês). O escore mediano da freqüência de crises no final era de 1 (uma a três crises por ano). A opinião dos pacientes e familiares é que a maioria (106 casos) houve uma melhora importante na saúde, 34 tiveram pouca melhora, 37 não tiveram mudanças e em quatro houve piora. Em relação ao absenteísmo, integração social e senso de independência houve pouca melhora. DISCUSSÃO: O modelo desenvolvido de tratamento de epilepsia na atenção primária com base na estrutura de saúde existente, com estratégias centradas nos profissionais de saúde e na comunidade, provou ser efetivo com redução importante na freqüência das crises bem como na melhora em geral da saúde. Esse modelo pode ser aplicado em âmbito nacional, pois os elementos chaves já existem, desde que essas estratégias sejam pactuadas com os organismos locais de saúde.

Prevalence and pattern of epilepsy treatment in different socioeconomic classes in Brazil.

PURPOSE: The worldwide prevalence of epilepsy is variable, estimated at 10//1,000 people, and access to treatment is also variable. Many people go untreated, particularly in resource-poor countries. OBJECTIVE: To estimate the prevalence of epilepsy and the proportion of people not receiving adequate treatment in different socioeconomic classes in Brazil, a resource-poor country. METHODS: A door-to-door survey was conducted to assess the prevalence and treatment gap of epilepsy in three areas of two towns in Southeast Brazil with a total population of 96,300 people. A validated screening questionnaire for epilepsy (sensitivity 95.8%, specificity 97.8%) was used. A neurologist further ascertained positive cases. A validated instrument for socioeconomic classification was used. RESULTS: Lifetime prevalence was 9.2/1,000 people [95% CI 8.4-10.0] and the prevalence of active epilepsy was 5.4/1,000 people. This was higher in the more deprived social classes (7.5/1,000 compared with 1.6/1,000 in the less deprived). Prevalence was also higher in elderly people (8.5/1,000). Thirty-eight percent of patients with active epilepsy had inadequate treatment (19% on no medication); the figures were similar in the different socioeconomic groups. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of epilepsy in Brazil is similar to other resource-poor countries, and the treatment gap is high. Epilepsy is more prevalent among less wealthy people and in elderly people. There is an urgent need for education in Brazil to inform people that epilepsy is a treatable, as well as preventable, condition.

Patients with ischaemic, mixed and nephrotoxic acute tubular necrosis in the intensive care unit--a homogeneous population?

INTRODUCTION: Acute tubular necrosis (ATN) is usually studied as a single entity, without distinguishing between ischaemic, nephrotoxic and mixed aetiologies. In the present study we evaluated the characteristics and outcomes of patients with ATN by aetiological group. METHOD: We conducted a retrospective comparison of clinical features, mortality rates and risk factors for mortality for the three types of ATN in patients admitted to the general intensive care unit of a university hospital between 1997 and 2000. RESULTS: Of 593 patients with acute renal failure, 524 (88%) were classified as having ATN. Their mean age was 58 years, 68% were male and 52% were surgical patients. The overall mortality rate was 62%. A total of 265 patients (51%) had ischaemic ATN, 201 (38%) had mixed ATN, and 58 (11%) had nephrotoxic ATN. There were no differences among groups in terms of age, sex, APACHE II score and reason for ICU admission. Multiple organ failure was more frequent among patients with ischaemic (46%) and mixed ATN (55%) than in those with nephrotoxic ATN (7%; P < 0.0001). The complications of acute renal failure (such as, gastrointestinal bleeding, acidosis, oliguria and hypervolaemia) were more prevalent in ischaemic and mixed ATN patients. Mortality was higher for ischaemic (66%; P = 0.001) and mixed ATN (63%; P = 0.0001) than for nephrotoxic ATN (38%). When ischaemic ATN patients, mixed ATN patients and all patients combined were analyzed by multivariate logistic regression, the independent factors for mortality identified were different except for oliguria, which was the only variable universally associated with death (odds ratio [OR] 3.0, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.64-5.49 [P = 0.0003] for ischaemic ATN; OR 1.96, 95% CI 1.04-3.68 [P = 0.036] for mixed ATN; and OR 2.53, 95% CI 1.60-3.76 [P < 0.001] for all patients combined]). CONCLUSION: The frequency of isolated nephrotoxic ATN was low, with ischaemic and mixed ATN accounting for almost 90% of cases. The three forms of ATN exhibited different clinical characteristics. Mortality was strikingly higher in ischaemic and mixed ATN than in nephrotoxic ATN. Although the type of ATN was not an independent predictor of death, the independent factors related to mortality were different for ischaemic, mixed and all patients combined. These data indicate that the three types of ATN represent different patient populations, which should be taken into consideration in future studies.

Hepatitis B in healthcare workers: prevalence, vaccination and relation to occupational factors

The prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in healthcare workers (HCW) in Brazilian university hospitals is high. However, vaccination of these workers and relations with occupational factors are not well documented. A prospective study was made of 1,433 HCW and 872 administrative employees of the Hospital de Base (HB), São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil, and 2,583 blood donor candidates from the Hospital Blood Bank. HCW were observed from January 1994 to December 1999. Data were obtained from exams made when a worker entered hospital service, periodically and after work-related injuries. Serological reactions were analyzed in HCW who received HBV vaccine. Occupational and non-occupational information was obtained through a questionnaire. The prevalence of HBV among HCW (0.8 percent) was significantly higher than in blood-donor candidates (0.2 percent). Among the HCW who were vaccinated, 86.4 percent were immunized. Multivariate analysis revealed that increased age reduced the chance of immunization. Among the occupational factors, time in service contributed to a 14 percent increase in the chances of having positive serology, and work-related injuries increased the risk of HBV infection 4.29 times. The maximum risk sector presented a larger number of HCW with positive anti-HBc serology. There was a higher seroconversion in HCW who received the full set of HBV vaccines. In HCW with positive serology, the factors that presented greatest risks were time in service, work-related injuries and maximum risk sector.