[Follow-up of the patient with pacemakers: Interrogation and basic programming]. / Seguimiento del paciente con marcapasos: interrogatorio y programación básica.

Permanent pacemakers are a frequently used therapeutic modality. Its use has had a great impact on the morbidity and mortality and quality of life of patients with heart rhythm disturbances, with an exponential increase observed in recent decades. The use of this strategy presents different phases, in which follow-up throughout the useful life of the device is a fundamental and determinant pillar of the efficacy and safety of this therapeutic modality. This review seeks to provide a clear and structured update of the fundamental aspects to consider in the follow-up of all patients with pacemakers. The follow-up of the patient with a pacemaker must follow a complete, systematic and periodic protocol, evaluating aspects and parameters related to the patient and the pacemaker, in order to ensure the proper and safe operation of the device adapted to the person.

Los marcapasos permanentes son una modalidad terapéutica de uso frecuente. Su empleo ha tenido un gran impacto en la morbimortalidad y calidad de vida de los pacientes con alteraciones del ritmo cardiaco, observándose en las últimas décadas un incremento exponencial. El empleo de esta estrategia presenta diferentes fases, que inician con la indicación de la estimulación, la selección del sistema de marcapaso apropiado, el procedimiento de implantación, la programación inicial y el seguimiento posterior, en la cual el seguimiento a lo largo de la vida útil del dispositivo es un pilar fundamental y determinante de la eficacia y seguridad de esta modalidad terapéutica. La presente revisión busca proporcionar una actualización clara y estructurada de los aspectos fundamentales a considerar en el seguimiento de todo paciente portador de marcapasos. El seguimiento del paciente con marcapasos debe seguir un protocolo completo, sistemático y periódico, evaluando aspectos y parámetros relacionado con el paciente y el marcapaso, con la finalidad de garantizar un funcionamiento adecuado y seguro del dispositivo adaptado a la persona.

Monitorización hemodinámica integrada: clínica, gasométrica y ecocardiográfica / Integrated hemodynamic monitoring: clinical, gasometric and echocardiographic / Monitorização hemodinâmica integrada: clínica, gasométrica e ecocardiográfica

Introducción: la monitorización hemodinámica constituye un conjunto de técnicas y parámetros que permiten valo rar si la función cardiovascular es la adecuada para mantener la perfusión y la oxigenación tisular que permita sa tisfacer las demandas metabólicas del organismo, valorar el estado y el comportamiento del sistema cardiovascular, orientando sobre la mejor estrategia terapéutica. La presente revisión busca proporcionar una descripción general e integrada de las diferentes técnicas de monitorización, así como aspectos fisiológicos relevantes para su entendi miento y empleo terapéutico. La monitorización hemodinámica acompañada de un adecuado conocimiento de la fisiología cardiovascular permite determinar el estado del sistema cardiovascular, la condición hemodinámica del paciente y la estrategia terapéutica requerida. Su interpretación debe partir de la integración y la correlación de diversos parámetros hemodinámicos.

Introduction: hemodynamic monitoring is a set of techniques and parameters that allow evaluating whether cardio vascular function is adequate to maintain tissue perfusion and oxygenation to satisfy metabolic demands of the or ganism, assess the condition and behavior of the cardiovascular system, providing guidance on the best therapeutic strategy. This review seeks to provide a general and integrated description of the different monitoring techniques, as well as physiological aspects relevant to their understanding and therapeutic use. Hemodynamic monitoring accompanied by an adequate knowledge of cardiovascular physiology allows to determine the state of the cardiovascular system, hemodynamic condition of the patient and therapeutic strategy required, its interpretation must start from the integration and correlation of different hemodynamic parameters.

Introdução: a monitorização hemodinâmica constitui um conjunto de técnicas e parâmetros que permitem avaliar se a função cardiovascular é adequada para manter a perfusão e oxigenação tecidual que permite satisfazer as exi gências metabólicas do organismo, avaliar o estado e comportamento do sistema cardiovascular, orientando sobre a melhor estratégia terapêutica. Esta revisão procura fornecer uma descrição geral e integrada das diferentes técnicas de monitorização, bem como aspectos fisiológicos relevantes para a sua compreensão e utilização terapêutica. A monitorização hemodinâmica acompanhada de um conhecimento adequado da fisiologia cardiovascular permite determinar o estado do sistema cardiovascular, a condição hemodinâmica do doente e a estratégia terapêutica neces sária, a sua interpretação deve partir da integração e correlação de vários parâmetros hemodinâmicos.

[Ebstein's anomaly with ventricular preexcitation in an adult patient]. / Anomalía de Ebstein con preexcitación ventricular en un paciente adulto.

Background: Ebstein's anomaly is a rare complex congenital heart disease, first described in 1866 by physician Wilhelm Ebstein, characterized by anatomical and functional malformations of the tricuspid valve and the right ventricle because of inadequate delaminization of the tricuspid valve tissue. By presenting a clinical case and reviewing the literature, we analyzed the approach of an adult patient with Ebstein anomaly with ventricular preexcitation. Clinical case: We describe the case of a 34-year-old male patient, with a clinical history of palpitations and dyspnea, and his paraclinics documented Ebstein type B anomaly associated with patent foramen oval and paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia, Successful radiofrequency ablation was performed and tricuspid valvuloplasty was proposed. Conclusion: It is concluded that Ebstein's anomaly is complex with clinical, morphological and physiopathological heterogeneous spectrum. Manifested from severe symptomatic forms in the neonatal period to asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic ones detected incidentally. Its diagnosis is based on clinical suspicion and confirmed by echocardiography or imaging studies. The therapeutic strategy may be based on medical management in its mild asymptomatic forms up to surgical interventions that include tricuspid valvuloplasty, palliative surgery, valve replacement or cardiac transplantation.

Introducción: la anomalía de Ebstein es una cardiopatía congénita compleja infrecuente, descrita por primera vez en 1866 por el médico Wilhelm Ebstein, caracterizada por malformaciones anatómicas y funcionales de la válvula tricúspide y del ventrículo derecho a consecuencia de una inadecuada deslaminización del tejido valvular tricuspídeo. Mediante la presentación de caso clínico y revisión de la literatura analizamos el abordaje de un paciente adulto con anomalía de Ebstein con preexcitación ventricular. Caso clínico: describimos el caso de un paciente masculino de 34 años, con historial clínico de palpitaciones y disnea, en sus paraclínicos se documentó anomalía de Ebstein tipo B asociado a foramen oval permeable y taquicardia paroxística supraventricular, como tratamiento se realizó ablación por radiofrecuencia exitosa y proponiéndose valvuloplastia tricuspídea. Conclusión: la anomalía de Ebstein es compleja de espectro clínico, morfológico y fisiopatológico heterogéneo, manifestada desde formas graves sintomáticas en el periodo neonatal hasta asintomáticas o mininamente sintomáticas detectadas de forma incidental. Su diagnóstico parte de la sospecha clínica confirmándose a partir de ecocardiografía o estudios de imagen. La estrategia terapéutica puede estar basada en manejo médico en sus formas leves asintomáticas hasta intervenciones quirúrgicas que incluyen valvulo-plastia tricuspídea, cirugía paliativa, reemplazo valvular o trasplante cardiaco.

Increment of D-dimer Associated with Immune Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia in ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 Vaccinated Individuals.

AIM OF THE STUDY: Development of thrombocytopenia and thrombosis after administration of the ChAdox1 nCoV-19 (AstraZeneca-Oxford) vaccine has recently been described. This new condition is called vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT). Our objective was to summarize case reports on VITT with/without D-dimer increments in AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccinated individuals. DATA SOURCES: MEDLINE, PubMed, and Scopus databases were searched. STUDY SELECTION: Case series, case reports, letters to the editor; and abstracts of AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccinated patients with a clinical profile of thrombocytopenia (platelet count <150X10 3 /dL) and D-dimer determination, with or without thrombosis, and/or bleeding, and/or antibodies against platelet factor 4 (aPF4), were included. DATA EXTRACTION: Baseline risk factors, symptoms, physical signs; laboratory results, imaging findings, treatment; and outcome in patients with VITT reported in case series, were examined. DATA SYNTHESIS: Patients who developed VITT were more likely to be young women (ages 21 to 77) given the AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine 5-14 days prior to presentation. Patients' signs, symptoms, and imaging findings were consistent with cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, or deep veins, lung, and other sites. Laboratory findings showed thrombocytopenia, low fibrinogen, and elevated D-dimer levels, while aPF4 was positive in most assays performed. Treatment was non-heparin anticoagulants, IV immunoglobulin, and steroids, as recommended by medical guidelines. CONCLUSIONS: Vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia is a rare complication with high morbidity, related to administration of the AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine. Clinicians should prepare for early identification of patients with suspicious symptoms, and prompt treatment initiated to avoid catastrophic events. D-dimer determination is useful for surveillance of cases with suspected VITT.

Reporte de caso: hipoglucemia grave como manifestación tardía de síndrome de Sheehan.

BACKGROUND: Sheehan's syndrome is a hypopituitarism secondary to necrosis of the pituitary gland caused by massive postpartum bleeding. The presentation is frequently amenorrhea and agalactia; hypoglycemia as a solitary presentation is uncommon. CASE REPORT: 68-year-old female with a history of postpartum hemorrhage 35 years ago. She had two episodes of hypoglycemia. During her hospital stay, panhypopituitarism was detected and the empty sella was confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. CONCLUSIONS: It is recommended that medical personnel suspect Sheehan´s syndrome in any woman with nonspecific hypoglycemia and no history of chronic degenerative disease.

ANTECEDENTES: El síndrome de Sheehan es un hipopituitarismo secundario a necrosis de la glándula hipófisis causado por una hemorragia posparto. La presentación frecuentemente es como amenorrea y agalactia; la hipoglucemia como presentación solitaria es infrecuente. CASO CLÍNICO: Mujer de 68 años con antecedente de hemorragia posparto hace 35 años. Cursó con dos episodios de hipoglucemia. Durante su hospitalización se detecta panhipopituitarismo y se corrobora por resonancia magnética la silla turca vacía. CONCLUSIONES: Es recomendable que el personal médico sospeche un síndrome de Sheehan ante cualquier mujer con hipoglucemia inespecífica y sin antecedente de enfermedad crónica degenerativa.

Patterns of allergen sensitization in patients with asthma in Yaqui Valley, Mexico.

INTRODUCTION: People who live in highly allergenic regions have a greater risk of being sensitized; therefore, these areas have a higher prevalence of mono and polysensitized patients. The aim of the present study was to investigate the allergen sensitization profiles in patients with asthma in an agricultural zone in Mexico. METHODS: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in a secondary care hospital in Obregon City, Mexico. The allergen sensitization pattern profiles were analyzed through a skin prick test (SPT) in 294 patients. Data was collected before SPT: asthma control was classified according to the Global Initiative for Asthma Criteria, nutritional status was assessed with the Body Mass Index (BMI) using Quetelet's index (BMI = weight/height2), and comorbidities, asthma, and smoking habits were collected from the patients' medical records. RESULTS: In this study, in a group of adults with asthma, the prevalence of sensitization was 77%. The most frequent categories of aeroallergens were in indoors, in zones with weeds and abundant trees. A low proportion of monosensitized patients (2%) was observed. House dust mites were the most common allergens. CONCLUSIONS: Our study describes the sensitization pattern among asthma patients. This study will help identify the panel of most common allergens in this region of Mexico, and aid in selection of specific treatment through immunotherapy.

[Dermatological reactions secondary to the use of personal protective equipment]. / Reacciones dermatológicas secundarias al uso de equipo de protección personal.

BACKGROUND: During the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare professionals use personal protective equipment (PPE) on a constant basis and for extended periods, leading to adverse dermatological reactions, a situation little known and studied despite its relevance. OBJECTIVE: To determine the risk factors associated with the development of adverse dermatological reactions in health workers using PPE during the COVID-19 pandemic. MATERIAL AND METHODS: An observational, cross-sectional, analytical study conducted through an online survey that evaluated the association between dermatological reactions and the use of PPE through a descriptive and inferential statistical analysis. RESULTS: There was a sample of 171 healthcare professionals. It was reported a high prevalence of adverse reactions (59%) and the most affected sites were the facial region and hands. The use of PPE > 6 hours, a history of dermatological disease, female gender, use of plastic overalls and the use of a respirator were documented as risk factors. CONCLUSIONS: Being an infectious disease, COVID-19 forces healthcare professionals to use accessories as a form of personal protection, implying potential health risks; for this, effective preventive strategies and treatment are required.

INTRODUCCIÓN: durante la pandemia por COVID-19, los trabajadores de la salud utilizan equipos de protección personal (EPP) de forma constante y por periodos prolongados, lo cual propicia reacciones adversas dermatológicas, situación poco conocida y estudiada a pesar de su relevancia. OBJETIVO: determinar los factores de riesgo asociados al desarrollo de reacciones adversas dermatológicas en trabajadores de la salud que utilizan EPP durante la pandemia por COVID-19. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: estudio observacional, transversal, analítico, realizado mediante una encuesta en línea, que evaluó la asociación entre reacciones dermatológicas y el uso de EPP a partir de un análisis estadístico descriptivo e inferencial. RESULTADOS: se recabó una muestra de 171 trabajadores de la salud. Se reportó una alta prevalencia de reacciones adversas (59%) y los sitios más afectados fueron la región facial y las manos. El uso de EPP > 6 horas, el antecedente de enfermedad dermatológica, el género femenino, el uso de overol de plástico y el uso de respirador se documentaron como factores de riesgo. CONCLUSIONES: al ser una enfermedad infectocontagiosa, la COVID-19 condiciona que los trabajadores de salud utilicen aditamentos para su protección personal, lo cual implica potenciales riesgos para la salud; por tanto, se requieren estrategias preventivas y tratamientos eficaces.

Understanding SARS-CoV-2: an analysis of the current pandemic. / Para entender el SARS-CoV-2: un análisis de la pandemia actual.

In late December 2019, a group of patients with "atypical pneumonia" of viral etiology was reported in Wuhan, China. We now know that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 that produces an acute disease with respiratory predilection and high contagiousness, whose origin is the result of natural selection between species. The World Health Organization declared this event as a public health emergency of global concern. The clinical presentation is diverse, from asymptomatic or mildly self-limiting upper respiratory tract disease to the development of severe and progressive interstitial pneumonia with the development of multiple organ failure and death. To date there is no specific treatment. Epidemiological measures of social distancing, hand washing and the use of personal protective equipment reduce the spread of this virus in the population. The aim of this review was to describe the existing information about SARS-CoV-2 and the COVID-19 pandemic, which allows health personnel to better understand the origin, epidemiology, clinical evolution, diagnosis, and current experimental treatments for this new disease. Therefore, it was carried out an evaluation of the bibliographic information with the terms coronavirus, COVID-19, and SARS-CoV-2 in the specialized databases in English and Spanish.

A fines de diciembre de 2019, se informó en Wuhan (China) sobre un grupo de pacientes con "neumonía atípica" de etiología viral. Ahora sabemos que la enfermedad por coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) es provocada por el nuevo coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, que produce una enfermedad aguda con predilección respiratoria y de elevada contagiosidad, cuyo origen es resultado de una selección natural entre especies. La Organización Mundial de la Salud declaró este evento como una emergencia de salud pública de interés global. La presentación clínica es diversa y se manifiesta en personas asintomáticas o con enfermedad leve autolimitada del tracto respiratorio superior hasta aquellas que desarrollan una neumonía intersticial progresiva y grave, con evolución a insuficiencia multiorgánica y muerte. No se cuenta a la fecha con tratamiento específico. Las medidas epidemiológicas de distanciamiento social, lavado de manos y uso de equipo de protección personal disminuyen la diseminación de este virus entre la población. Esta revisión tuvo la finalidad de hacer una descripción de la información existente acerca del SARS-CoV-2 y la pandemia de COVID-19 que permita al personal de salud comprender mejor el origen, la epidemiología, el cuadro clínico, el diagnóstico y los tratamientos experimentales actuales para esta nueva enfermedad, para lo cual se realizó una evaluación de la información bibliográfica con los términos coronavirus, COVID-19 y SARS-CoV-2 en las bases de datos especializadas en idioma inglés y español.

Nivel de ruido ambiental en 2 unidades de cuidados críticos de un centro de tercer nivel de atención / Environmental noise levels in 2 intensive care units in a tertiary care centre

Resumen Introducción: La Organización Mundial de la Salud establece como nivel máximo de ruido 40 decibelios (dB) para una unidad de cuidados críticos. El objetivo de este estudio fue comparar la intensidad del nivel de ruido ambiental en 2 unidades de cuidados críticos de un hospital de tercer nivel de atención. Métodos: En un diseño observacional, descriptivo y transversal se comparó el nivel máximo de ruido dentro de la unidad de cuidados intensivos metabólicos y coronarios con un medidor digital. La medición en 4 puntos diferentes de cada habitación con intervalos de 5 min durante un período de 60 min se llevó a cabo a las 7:30, 14:30 y 20:30. El promedio de las observaciones se comparó con estadística descriptiva y U de Mann-Whitney. Un análisis con la prueba de Kruskal-Wallis se realizó para comparar los promedios de ruido en las diferentes lecturas. Resultados: Se observó que el ruido en la unidad de cuidados intensivos tuvo un promedio de 64.77 ± 3.33 dB (p = 0.08); algo similar sucedió en la unidad de cuidados intensivos metabólicos coronarios con un promedio de 60.20 ± 1.58 dB (p = 0.129). El 25% o más de las mediciones superaron hasta por 20 puntos lo recomendado por la Organización Mundial de la Salud. Conclusiones: El nivel de ruido que se encontró en las unidades de cuidados intensivos estudiadas sobrepasan el nivel máximo recomendado para un hospital. Es necesario diseñar y aplicar acciones para una mayor participación del personal de salud en la disminución del ruido ambiental.

Abstract Introduction: The World Health Organisation (WHO) has established a maximum noise level of 40 decibels (dB) for an intensive care unit. The aim of this study was to compare the noise levels in 2 different intensive care units at a tertiary care centre. Methods: Using a cross-sectional design study, an analysis was made of the maximum noise level was within the intensive coronary care unit and intensive care unit using a digital meter. A measurement was made in 4 different points of each room, with 5 minute intervals, for a period of 60 minutes 7:30, 14:30, and 20:30. The means of the observations were compared with descriptive statistics and Mann-Whitney U. An analysis with Kruskal-Wallis test was performed to the mean noise level. Results: The noise observed in the intensive care unit had a mean of 64.77 ± 3.33 dB (P = .08), which was similar to that in the intensive coronary care unit, with a mean of 60.20 ± 1.58 dB (P = .129). Around 25% or more of the measurements exceeded the level recommended by the WHO by up to 20 points. Conclusions: Noise levels measured in intensive care wards exceed the maximum recommended level for a hospital. It is necessary to design and implement actions for greater participation of health personnel in the reduction of environmental noise.

Prevalence and antifungal susceptibility profiles of Candida glabrata, Candida parapsilosis and their close-related species in oral candidiasis.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the importance of Candida glabrata, Candida parapsilosis and their close-related species, Candida bracarensis, Candida nivariensis, Candida metapsilosis and Candida orthopsilosis in patients with oral candidiasis and, to determine the in vitro activities of antifungal drugs currently used for the treatment. METHODS: One hundred fourteen isolates of C. glabrata and 97 of C. parapsilosis, previously identified by conventional mycological methods, were analysed by molecular techniques. In vitro antifungal susceptibility to fluconazole, itraconazole, miconazole, and nystatin was evaluated by CLSI M44-A2 disk diffusion test, and by CLSI M27-A3 microdilution for fluconazole. RESULTS: All C. glabrata isolates were identified as C. glabrata sensu stricto, 93 out of 97 C. parapsilosis isolates as C. parapsilosis sensu stricto, three as C. orthopsilosis and one as C. metapsilosis. Candida glabrata was mainly isolated in mixed cultures but C. parapsilosis complex was more frequent in pure culture. Candida metapsilosis and C. orthopsilosis were isolated as pure culture and both species were susceptible to all antifungal agents tested. Most C. glabrata isolates were susceptible to miconazole and nystatin, but resistant to fluconazole and itraconazole. Azole cross resistance was also observed. Candida parapsilosis isolates were susceptible to fluconazole although azole cross resistance to miconazole and itraconazole was observed. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the importance of accurate identification and antifungal susceptibility testing of oral Candida isolates in order to have an in-depth understanding of the role of C. glabrata and C. parapsilosis in oral candidiasis.

Quality of life in persons with Human Immunodeficiency Virus infection in Mexico / Calidad de vida en personas infectadas con virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana en México

Background: The evaluation of quality of life related to health (HRQOL) has become an important prognostic indicator in HIV/AIDS. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of socio-demographic, clinical and psychological factors in HRQOL in a group of subjects with HIV/AIDS in northwestern Mexico and determine which variables best predict HRQOL. Methods: In a cross-sectional study with a sample of 87% of patients receiving care at a clinic for HIV/AIDS in northwestern Mexico between November 2010 to June 2011, we measure the HRQOL using the Tool Medical Outcomes Study HIV Health Survey (MOS-HIV). A model of multiple linear regression was performed to identify variables that allow us to predict HRQOL in this population. Results: In a sample of 54 subjects with HIV/AIDS. Patients had an average age of 43 ± 9 years, 83% were men with a mean time of 6.5 ± 4.5 years from diagnosis. HRQOL scores of physical and mental health of the participants were 57 ± 6 and 57 ± 13 respectively. In multivariate analysis, the variables that influenced the physical health punctuation were gender, marital status, sexual orientation, time since diagnosis and viral load (log). Conclusions: Prospective studies are needed to better explain the influence of the factors that predict changes or trends in HRQOL in patients with HIV/AIDS.

Introducción: la evaluación de la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud (CVRS) se ha convertido en un importante indicador pronóstico en el enfermo con VIH/SIDA. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar el impacto de los factores sociodemográficos, clínicos y psicológicos en la CVRS de un grupo de pacientes portadores de VIH/SIDA del noroeste de México, así como determinar qué variables predicen mejor la CVRS. Métodos: estudio transversal con una muestra del 87% de los pacientes que recibían atención en una clínica de VIH/SIDA en el noroeste de México, entre noviembre del 2010 y junio del 2011, se midió la CVRS utilizando el instrumento Medical Outcomes Study HIV Health Survey (MOS-HIV). Se realizó un modelo de regresión lineal múltiple para identificar aquellas variables que permiten predecir la CVRS en esta población. Resultados: en una muestra de 54 sujetos con VIH/SIDA que tenían una edad de 43 ± 9 años, 83% eran hombres con un tiempo de 6.5 ± 4.5 años desde el diagnóstico. Las puntuaciones de CVRS de salud mental y física de los participantes fueron de 57 ± 6 y 57 ± 13 respectivamente. En el análisis multivariado, las variables que influyeron en la puntuación de salud física fueron el género, el estado civil, la orientación sexual, el tiempo transcurrido desde el diagnóstico y la carga viral (log). Conclusiones: es necesario realizar estudios prospectivos para explicar mejor la influencia de los factores que predicen cambios o tendencias en la CVRS en pacientes con VIH/SIDA.

Risk factors for three-vessel coronary artery disease in patients of Northwest Mexico.

INTRODUCTION: Three-vessel coronary artery disease is an advanced manifestation of atherosclerosis, with high prevalence in Mexico. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to describe coronary risk factors in a group of patients with three-vessel coronary artery disease in Northwest Mexico. METHODS: A cross sectional study was conducted on a population with three-vessel coronary artery disease from May 2015 to February 2016. The disease was defined when ≥70% stenosis was present in each major epicardial coronary artery. Anthropometric and biochemical parameters were measured in each patient. Ankle-Brachial Index was measured with vascular ultrasound, and Syntax score calculation with an on-line application. Statistical analysis for qualitative differences was performed using Pearson X2 test, with p<0.05 being considered as significant. RESULTS: The study included 100 patients, of whom 75 were male (mean age 63±9 years) and 25 female (mean age 69±9 years). The coronary risk factors observed were diabetes (58%), hypertension (86%), smoking (68%), dyslipidaemia (100%), metabolic syndrome (71%), and obesity/overweight (75%). Diabetes and metabolic syndrome prevalence was higher in women (p=0.03), but smoking was higher in men (76%, p=0.003). Ankle-Brachial Index was abnormal in 58% of patients, the mean Syntax score was in 36.9±11.5, and the prevalence of left main coronary heart disease was 36%. CONCLUSIONS: This group of patients with complex coronary lesions has a high prevalence of coronary risk factors, which could represent a worse prognosis.

Chitosan treatment for skin ulcers associated with diabetes.

Infections, ulcerations, gangrene and, in severe cases, extremity amputation, are common complications among diabetic subjects. Various biomaterials have been utilized for the treatment of these lesions. Chitosan is an amino sugar with a low risk of toxicity and immune response. In this study, we evaluated chitosan topical gel and film treatments for subjects with diabetic ulcerations and wounds associated with diabetes mellitus. In a pre-experimental design, we described the result of chitosan gel and film treatment for wounds and skin ulcers among patients with long-standing diabetes mellitus. We studied 8 diabetic patients with wounds and skin ulcers (long duration and Wagner degree 1-2). Initially, most lesions had some degree of infection, tissue damage and ulceration. At the end of the treatment (topical chitosan) period, the infections were cured. All patients experienced a significant improvement in the initial injury and developed granulation tissue and a healthy skin cover. This report represents one of the few published clinical experience regarding the chitosan for the treatment of skin lesions among diabetic subjects. These results are relevant and promising for the treatment of this disease.

[Environmental noise levels in 2 intensive care units in a tertiary care centre]. / Nivel de ruido ambiental en 2 unidades de cuidados críticos de un centro de tercer nivel de atención.

INTRODUCTION: The World Health Organisation (WHO) has established a maximum noise level of 40 decibels (dB) for an intensive care unit. The aim of this study was to compare the noise levels in 2 different intensive care units at a tertiary care centre. METHODS: Using a cross-sectional design study, an analysis was made of the maximum noise level was within the intensive coronary care unit and intensive care unit using a digital meter. A measurement was made in 4 different points of each room, with 5minute intervals, for a period of 60minutes 7:30, 14:30, and 20:30. The means of the observations were compared with descriptive statistics and Mann-Whitney U. An analysis with Kruskal-Wallis test was performed to the mean noise level. RESULTS: The noise observed in the intensive care unit had a mean of 64.77±3.33dB (P=.08), which was similar to that in the intensive coronary care unit, with a mean of 60.20±1.58dB (P=.129). Around 25% or more of the measurements exceeded the level recommended by the WHO by up to 20 points. CONCLUSIONS: Noise levels measured in intensive care wards exceed the maximum recommended level for a hospital. It is necessary to design and implement actions for greater participation of health personnel in the reduction of environmental noise.

Risk factors for three-vessel coronary artery disease in patients of Northwest Mexico / Factores de riesgo para la enfermedad arterial coronaria de tres vasos en pacientes del noroeste de México

Abstract Introduction: Three-vessel coronary artery disease is an advanced manifestation of atherosclerosis, with high prevalence in Mexico. Objective: The aim of this study was to describe coronary risk factors in a group of patients with three-vessel coronary artery disease in Northwest Mexico. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted on a population with three-vessel coronary artery disease from May 2015 to February 2016. The disease was defined when ≥70% stenosis was present in each major epicardial coronary artery. Anthropometric and biochemical parameters were measured in each patient. Ankle-Brachial Index was measured with vascular ultrasound, and Syntax score calculation with an on-line application. Statistical analysis for qualitative differences was performed using Pearson X2 test, with p < 0.05 being considered as significant. Results: The study included 100 patients, of whom 75 were male (mean age 63 ± 9 years) and 25 female (mean age 69 ± 9 years). The coronary risk factors observed were diabetes (58%), hypertension (86%), smoking (68%), dyslipidaemia (100%), metabolic syndrome (71%), and obesity/overweight (75%). Diabetes and metabolic syndrome prevalence was higher in women (p = 0.03), but smoking was higher in men (76%, p = 0.003). Ankle-Brachial Index was abnormal in 58% of patients, the mean Syntax score was in 36.9 ± 11.5, and the prevalence of left main coronary heart disease was 36%. Conclusions: This group of patients with complex coronary lesions has a high prevalence of coronary risk factors, which could represent a worse prognosis.

Resumen Introducción: La enfermedad coronaria de tres vasos (ECTV) es una manifestación avanzada de aterosclerosis, con alta prevalencia en el noroeste de México. Objetivo: Describir los factores de riesgo coronario (FRC) en un grupo de enfermos con ECTV en el noroeste de México. Métodos: De mayo de 2015 a febrero de 2016 se realizó un estudio transversal en una población del noroeste de México diagnosticada con ECTV. Se definió ECTV cuando existía estenosis ≥70% en cada una de las arterias coronarias epicárdicas mayores. Se midieron parámetros antropométricos y bioquímicos en cada paciente. Los parámetros para el índice tobillo-brazo (ITB) se obtuvieron con ultrasonido vascular (Edan SonoTrax 8 Hz) y un cálculo de puntaje Syntax con una aplicación en línea. Análisis estadístico con 32 de Pearson para diferencias cualitativas Se consideró significativo cuando p ≤ 0.05. Resultados: Se estudiaron 25 mujeres (edad 69 ± 9 años) y 75 varones (edad 63 ± 9 años). Los FRC observados fueron diabetes (58%), hipertensión (86%), antecedente de tabaquismo (68%), dislipidemia (100%), síndrome metabólico (71%) y sobrepeso/obesidad (75%). En las mujeres la prevalencia de diabetes y síndrome metabólico fue mayor que en los varones (p = 0.03), pero el tabaquismo fue más prevalente en los varones (76%, p = 0.003). El ITB se encontró anormal en el 58% de los pacientes, el puntaje Syntax promedio fue de 36.9 ± 11.5 y la prevalencia de la enfermedad del tronco de la arteria coronaria izquierda fue del 36%. Conclusión: En este grupo de estudio con lesiones coronarias complejas existe alta prevalencia de FRC que se refleja en y posiblemente un peor pronóstico.

[Aplasia cutis congenita associated with epidermolysis bullosa]. / Aplasia cutis congénita asociada a epidermólisis ampollosa.

INTRODUCTION: Aplasia cutis congenita (ACC) is a skin condition of rare presentation, this disease is characterized by absence of skin at birth and associated with facial, skin and bone skull deformities. The diagnosis is mainly clinical. CASE REPORT: Male 5 days after birth, unique product of primigravida mother and no family history of relevance. Physical examination revealed bilateral and symmetrical skin defects of both lower extremities, the disease is characterized by skin fragility, scabs, and coated pseudomembrane ulcers, decreased interdigital space between toes of the left foot, retraction of the foot and genu varum. It was handled with allograft of epidermis cultured in vitro, general wound care and clinical follow-up. DISCUSSION: ACC associated with epidermolysis bullosa is one of the rarer forms of presentation. It is necessary to rule out other skin diseases. Clinical management is recommended with biological or synthetic skin cover, infection prevention, early treatment of complications and clinical follow.

Artritis séptica en un centro de adultos de tercer nivel de atención / Septic arthritis in adults in a tertiary care center

Objetivo. Describir los antecedentes, características clínicas y microorganismos implicados en un grupo de sujetos adultos con y sin artritis séptica (AS) en un centro de tercer nivel de atención en México. Material y métodos. Diseño descriptivo, de tipo transversal analítico en 96 adultos con sospecha clínica de AS en una o más articulaciones. En todos los casos se realizó artrocentesis y cultivo de líquido sinovial. El grupo de comparación fueron sujetos con cultivo negativo. Un análisis con estadística descriptiva y un modelo con regresión logística binaria se realizó entre las variables asociadas al desarrollo de AS. Un valor de p ≤ 0,05 fue significativo. Resultados. Un total de 49/96 sujetos tuvieron cultivo positivo, la mayoría del tipo monoarticular (96%; p=0,02), principalmente la rodilla (61%; p=0,06). Las manifestaciones clínicas incluyeron: aumento de volumen (57%; p=0,01), dolor (59%; p=0,001) y limitación de la función (51%; p=0,002). El estafilococo fue el agente etiológico más común (65%; p<0,001). El modelo de regresión final reveló como factores de riesgo para AS el antecedente de enfermedad articular (RM=2,33), osteoartritis (RM=25,04) y uso de corticoides (RM=5,25). Clínicamente, el aumento de volumen (RM=13,16), el dolor (RM=5,79) y la limitación funcional (RM=8,54) se mostraron con un riesgo entre limítrofe y significativo para AS. Conclusiones. Nuestros resultados son congruentes con estudios previos y pueden generalizarse a zonas geográficas con características clínicas similares a las observadas en este estudio (AU)

Objective. To describe the history, clinical features and microorganisms involved in a group of adult subjects with and without septic arthritis (SA) at a tertiary care in Mexico. Material and methods. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 96 adults with clinical suspicion of AS in one or more joints. In all cases synovial fluid arthrocentesis and culture was performed. The comparison group subjects were culture negative. A descriptive statistical analysis and binary logistic regression model was performed between the variables associated with the development of AS. A value of P≤.05 was significant. Results. A total of 49 out of 96 subjects had a positive culture, mostly of the monoarticular type (96%; P=.02). The knee was the most common site (61%; P=.06) and pain was the main clinical manifestation (59%; P=.001). Staphylococcus was the most common etiological agent (65%; P<.001). The risk factors revealed in the final regression model were SA the history of joint disease (OR=25; P=.03) and volume increase (OR=13.16; P=.06). Functional limitation (OR=8.54; P=.04) showed a significant risk among borderline for SA. Conclusions. Our results are consistent with previous studies, and can be generalized to geographical areas with similar clinical features to those observed in this study (AU)

Septic arthritis in adults in a tertiary care center.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the history, clinical features and microorganisms involved in a group of adult subjects with and without septic arthritis (SA) at a tertiary care in Mexico. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 96 adults with clinical suspicion of AS in one or more joints. In all cases synovial fluid arthrocentesis and culture was performed. The comparison group subjects were culture negative. A descriptive statistical analysis and binary logistic regression model was performed between the variables associated with the development of AS. A value of P≤.05 was significant. RESULTS: A total of 49 out of 96 subjects had a positive culture, mostly of the monoarticular type (96%; P=.02). The knee was the most common site (61%; P=.06) and pain was the main clinical manifestation (59%; P=.001). Staphylococcus was the most common etiological agent (65%; P<.001). The risk factors revealed in the final regression model were SA the history of joint disease (OR=25; P=.03) and volume increase (OR=13.16; P=.06). Functional limitation (OR=8.54; P=.04) showed a significant risk among borderline for SA. CONCLUSIONS: Our results are consistent with previous studies, and can be generalized to geographical areas with similar clinical features to those observed in this study.

Antenatal use of bosentan and/or sildenafil attenuates pulmonary features in rats with congenital diaphragmatic hernia.

BACKGROUND: Lung hypoplasia, pulmonary persistent hypertension of the newborn and its morphological changes are the main features in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). This study was undertaken to investigate if antenatal use of sildenafil and/or bosentan attenuates vascular remodeling, promotes branching, and improves alveolarization in experimental nitrofeninduced CDH. METHODS: Nitrofen (100 mg) was gavage-fed to pregnant rats at post conception day (PCD) 9 to induce CDH. The rats were randomized to 5 groups: 1) control; 2) nitrofen; 3) nitrofen+sildenafil 100 mg/kg per day at PCD 16-20; 4) nitrofen+bosentan 30 mg/kg per day, at PCD 16-20, and 5) nitrofen+bosentan+sildenafil, same doses and administration days. After cesarean delivery, the offsprings were sacrificed. The diaphragmatic defect and pulmonary hypoplasia were identified, and the lungs were dissected. Arterial wall thickness, bronchiolar density and alveolarization were assessed. RESULTS: The offsprings with CDH were characterized by severe pulmonary hypoplasia (lung weight-to-body weight ratio: 0.0263 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.0242-0.0278)] in the nitrofen group versus 0.0385 (95% CI 0.0355-0.0424) in the control group (P=0.0001). Pulmonary arterial wall thickness was decreased to 3.0 (95% CI 2.8-3.7) µm in the nitrofen+sildenafil group versus 5.0 (95% CI 4.1-4.9) µm in the nitrofen group (P=0.02). Terminal bronchioles increased to 13.7 (95% CI 10.7-15.2) µm in the nitrofen+bosentan group in contrast to 8.7 (95% CI 7.2-9.4) µm in the nitrofen group (P=0.002). More significant differences (P=0.0001) were seen in terminal bronchioles in the nitrofen+sildenafil+bosentan group than in the nitrofen group [14.0 (95% CI 12.5-15.4) µm versus 8.5 (95% CI 7.1-9.3) µm]. Pulmonary arterial wall thickness was also decreased in the former group. CONCLUSIONS: In this rat model, antenatal treatment with sildenafil attenuates vascular remodeling. Bosentan promotes the development of terminal bronchioles in nitrofen-induced CDH.

[Seroprevalence of antinuclear antibodies in blood donors in the Yaqui Valley]. / Seroprevalencia de anticuerpos antinucleares en donadores de sangre del valle del Yaqui.

BACKGROUND: Antinuclear antibodies are immunoglobulins that recognize autologous nuclear and cytoplasmic cellular components. In healthy persons they are not associated with autoimmune disease. However, they may be related to an immune risk phenotype that has not been sufficiently studied. We undertook this study to examine the presence of antinuclear antibodies in serum from blood donors. METHODS: Cross-sectional study on 379 blood donors between 18 and 65 years old. Serum for the presence of antinuclear antibodies by indirect immunofluorescence in HEp-2 cells was analyzed. The prevalence and pattern of expression were compared with age, gender, and history of rheumatic or thyroid disease. RESULTS: Prevalence of antinuclear antibodies in the study population was 13%. Most of the positive subjects were between 21 and 40 years old. Male gender expressed a greater proportion of positivity (11%) than females (2%). Likewise, 82% of males had low titers (1:80) and nucleolar type in 66% of cases (OR = 10.66 [1.83 to 62.18], p = 0.007). CONCLUSIONS: The presence of antinuclear antibodies in healthy individuals at low levels may not mean an autoimmune condition; however, it could reflect exposure to environmental factors that have not been sufficiently studied. New studies of healthy individuals are necessary in order to explain the association between the presence of these antibodies and toxic and environmental factors and their effects on health.

Antecedentes: los anticuerpos antinucleares son inmunoglobulinas que reconocen componentes celulares nucleares y citoplasmáticos autólogos. En personas sanas no se relacionan con alguna enfermedad autoinmune; sin embargo, pueden estar vinculados con un fenotipo inmunológico de riesgo que no ha sido suficientemente estudiado. Objetivo: examinar la existencia de anticuerpos antinucleares en el suero de donadores de sangre. Material y métodos: estudio transversal y analítico en búsqueda de anticuerpos antinucleares en suero mediante inmunofluorescencia indirecta en células HEp-2. La prevalencia y patrón de expresión se contrastaron con la edad, el género y los antecedentes de enfermedad reumática o tiroidea. Resultados: se estudiaron 379 donadores de sangre con límites de edad entre 18 y 65 años. La prevalencia de anticuerpos antinucleares en la población estudiada fue de 13%. La mayoría de los sujetos positivos tenía entre 21 y 40 años de edad. El género masculino expresó mayor proporción de positividad (11%) en comparación con las mujeres (2%). De la misma forma, 82% de los hombres tenía títulos bajos (1:80) y en 66% eran de tipo nucleolar (RM = 10.66 [1.83 a 62.18]; p = 0.007). Conclusiones: en individuos sanos, la existencia de anticuerpos antinucleares a títulos bajos puede no significar un estado de autoinmunidad; sin embargo, podría ser el reflejo de una exposición a factores ambientales que no han sido lo suficientemente estudiados. Es necesario realizar nuevos estudios en población sana que permitan explicar la asociación entre estos anticuerpos y los factores tóxicoambientales, así como sus efectos en la salud.