Charlson Comorbidity Index and other predictors of in-hospital mortality among adults with community-acquired pneumonia.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the performance of Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) with those of the mental Confusion, Urea, Respiratory rate, Blood pressure, and age = 65 years (CURB-65) score and the Pneumonia Severity Index (PSI) as predictors of all-cause in-hospital mortality in patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). METHODS: This was a cohort study involving hospitalized patients with CAP between April of 2014 and March of 2015. Clinical, laboratory, and radiological data were obtained in the ER, and the scores of CCI, CURB-65, and PSI were calculated. The performance of the models was compared using ROC curves and AUCs (95% CI). RESULTS: Of the 459 patients evaluated, 304 met the eligibility criteria. The all-cause in-hospital mortality rate was 15.5%, and 89 (29.3%) of the patients were admitted to the ICU. The AUC for the CCI was significantly greater than those for CURB-65 and PSI (0.83 vs. 0.73 and 0.75, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: In this sample of hospitalized patients with CAP, CCI was a better predictor of all-cause in-hospital mortality than were the PSI and CURB-65.

Charlson Comorbidity Index and other predictors of in-hospital mortality among adults with community-acquired pneumonia / Índice de Comorbidade de Charlson e outros preditores de mortalidade hospitalar em adultos com pneumonia adquirida na comunidade

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare the performance of Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) with those of the mental Confusion, Urea, Respiratory rate, Blood pressure, and age = 65 years (CURB-65) score and the Pneumonia Severity Index (PSI) as predictors of all-cause in-hospital mortality in patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). Methods: This was a cohort study involving hospitalized patients with CAP between April of 2014 and March of 2015. Clinical, laboratory, and radiological data were obtained in the ER, and the scores of CCI, CURB-65, and PSI were calculated. The performance of the models was compared using ROC curves and AUCs (95% CI). Results: Of the 459 patients evaluated, 304 met the eligibility criteria. The all-cause in-hospital mortality rate was 15.5%, and 89 (29.3%) of the patients were admitted to the ICU. The AUC for the CCI was significantly greater than those for CURB-65 and PSI (0.83 vs. 0.73 and 0.75, respectively). Conclusions: In this sample of hospitalized patients with CAP, CCI was a better predictor of all-cause in-hospital mortality than were the PSI and CURB-65.

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar o desempenho do Índice de Comorbidade de Charlson (ICC) com o do mental Confusion, Urea, Respiratory rate, Blood pressure, and age = 65 years (CURB-65, Confusão mental, Ureia, frequência Respiratória, Pressão arterial e idade = 65 anos) e do Pneumonia Severity Index (PSI, Índice de Gravidade da Pneumonia) como preditores de mortalidade hospitalar por qualquer causa em pacientes com pneumonia adquirida na comunidade (PAC). Métodos: Estudo de coorte com pacientes hospitalizados com PAC entre abril de 2014 e março de 2015. Dados clínicos, laboratoriais e radiológicos foram obtidos no PS, e o ICC, CURB-65 e PSI foram calculados. O desempenho dos modelos foi comparado por meio de curvas ROC e ASC (IC95%). Resultados: Dos 459 pacientes avaliados, 304 preencheram os critérios de elegibilidade. A taxa de mortalidade hospitalar por qualquer causa foi de 15,5%, e 89 (29,3%) dos pacientes foram admitidos na UTI. A ASC do ICC foi significativamente maior do que a do CURB-65 e do PSI (0,83 vs. 0,73 e 0,75, respectivamente). Conclusões: Nesta amostra de pacientes hospitalizados com PAC, o ICC foi um preditor melhor de mortalidade hospitalar por qualquer causa do que o PSI e o CURB-65.

Clinical, epidemiological, and etiological profile of inpatients with community-acquired pneumonia in a public hospital in the interior of Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the patient profile, mortality rates, the accuracy of prognostic scores, and mortality-associated factors in patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in a general hospital in Brazil. METHODS: This was a cohort study involving patients with a clinical and laboratory diagnosis of CAP and requiring admission to a public hospital in the interior of Brazil between March 2014 and April 2015. We performed multivariate analysis using a Poisson regression model with robust variance to identify factors associated with in-hospital mortality. RESULTS: We included 304 patients. Approximately 70% of the patients were classified as severely ill on the basis of the severity criteria used. The mortality rate was 15.5%, and the ICU admission rate was 29.3%. After multivariate analysis, the factors associated with in-hospital mortality were need for mechanical ventilation (OR: 3.60; 95% CI: 1.85-7.47); a Charlson Comorbidity Index score > 3 (OR: 1.30; 95% CI: 1.18-1.43); and a mental. CONFUSION,: Urea, Respiratory rate, Blood pressure, and age > 65 years (CURB-65) score > 2 (OR: 1.46; 95% CI: 1.09-1.98). The mean time from patient arrival at the emergency room to initiation of antibiotic therapy was 10 h. Conclusions: The in-hospital mortality rate of 15.5% and the need for ICU admission in almost one third of the patients reflect the major impact of CAP on patients and the health care system. Individuals with a high burden of comorbidities, a high CURB-65 score, and a need for mechanical ventilation had a worse prognosis. Measures to reduce the time to initiation of antibiotic therapy may result in better outcomes in this group of patients.

Clinical, epidemiological, and etiological profile of inpatients with community-acquired pneumonia in a public hospital in the interior of Brazil / Perfil clínico, epidemiológico e etiológico de pacientes internados com pneumonia adquirida na comunidade em um hospital público do interior do Brasil

ABSTRACT Objective: To describe the patient profile, mortality rates, the accuracy of prognostic scores, and mortality-associated factors in patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in a general hospital in Brazil. Methods: This was a cohort study involving patients with a clinical and laboratory diagnosis of CAP and requiring admission to a public hospital in the interior of Brazil between March 2014 and April 2015. We performed multivariate analysis using a Poisson regression model with robust variance to identify factors associated with in-hospital mortality. Results: We included 304 patients. Approximately 70% of the patients were classified as severely ill on the basis of the severity criteria used. The mortality rate was 15.5%, and the ICU admission rate was 29.3%. After multivariate analysis, the factors associated with in-hospital mortality were need for mechanical ventilation (OR: 3.60; 95% CI: 1.85-7.47); a Charlson Comorbidity Index score > 3 (OR: 1.30; 95% CI: 1.18-1.43); and a mental Confusion, Urea, Respiratory rate, Blood pressure, and age > 65 years (CURB-65) score > 2 (OR: 1.46; 95% CI: 1.09-1.98). The mean time from patient arrival at the emergency room to initiation of antibiotic therapy was 10 h. Conclusions: The in-hospital mortality rate of 15.5% and the need for ICU admission in almost one third of the patients reflect the major impact of CAP on patients and the health care system. Individuals with a high burden of comorbidities, a high CURB-65 score, and a need for mechanical ventilation had a worse prognosis. Measures to reduce the time to initiation of antibiotic therapy may result in better outcomes in this group of patients.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever o perfil dos pacientes, taxas de mortalidade, acurácia de escores prognósticos e fatores associados à mortalidade em pacientes com pneumonia adquirida na comunidade (PAC) em um hospital geral no Brasil. Métodos: Estudo de coorte envolvendo pacientes com diagnóstico clínico e laboratorial de PAC e necessidade de internação hospitalar entre março de 2014 e abril de 2015 em um hospital público do interior do Brasil. Foi realizada a análise multivariada mediante o modelo de regressão de Poisson com variância robusta para avaliar os fatores associados com mortalidade intra-hospitalar. Resultados: Foram incluídos 304 pacientes. Aproximadamente 70% dos pacientes foram classificados como graves de acordo com os critérios de gravidade utilizados. A taxa de mortalidade foi de 15,5% e a de necessidade de internação em UTI foi de 29,3%. Após a análise multivariada, os fatores associados à mortalidade intra-hospitalar foram necessidade de ventilação mecânica (OR = 3,60; IC95%: 1,85-7,47); Charlson Comorbidity Index > 3 (OR = 1,30; IC95%: 1,18-1,43); e mental Confusion, Urea, Respiratory rate, Blood pressure, and age > 65 years (CURB-65) > 2 (OR = 1,46; IC95%: 1,09-1,98). A média do tempo entre a chegada do paciente na emergência e o início da antibioticoterapia foi de 10 h. Conclusões: A taxa de mortalidade intra-hospitalar de 15,5% e a necessidade de internação em UTI em quase um terço dos pacientes demonstram o grande impacto da PAC nos pacientes e no sistema de saúde. Indivíduos com maior carga de comorbidades prévias, CURB-65 elevado e necessidade de ventilação mecânica apresentaram pior prognóstico. Ações para reduzir o tempo até o início da antibioticoterapia podem resultar em melhores desfechos nesse grupo de pacientes.

Risk factors for acute kidney injury in patients treated with polymyxin B at a Tertiary Care Medical Center.

INTRODUCTION: Polimyxins were originally abandoned due to high rates of nephrotoxicity. However they have been recently reintroduced due to activity against carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative organisms. Recent literature suggests a lower rate of nephrotoxicity than historically reported. OBJECTIVE: To determine the rate of polymixins-associated nephrotoxicity as defined by the RIFLE criteria. METHODS: A retrospective cohort of all adult patients who received polymixin B at a terciary hospital from December 2010 to March 2011was performed. RESULTS: 61 patients (43%) fulfilled the RIFLE criteria for renal injury and 28 patients (13.7%) needed dialysis. Independent predictors for nephrotoxicity were hypotension (OR, 2.79; CI 1.14-5.8; p = 0.006) and concomitant use of vancomycin (OR, 2.86; CI, 1.27-6.4; p = 0.011). CONCLUSIONS: In this retrospective cohort, nephrotoxicity (as defined by RIFLE criteria) occurred among 43% of treated patients. The concomitant use of vancomycin and hypotension were independent risk factors of nephropathy. Further studies are needed, particularly with polymyxin B, to clarify if the characteristics of this drug and colistin are overlapping.

Fatores de risco associados à lesão renal aguda em pacientes tratados com polimixina B em um hospital terciário / Risk factors for acute kidney injury in patients treated with polymyxin B at a Tertiary Care Medical Center

Resumo Introdução: O uso de polimixinas foi praticamente abandonado nos anos 1970 devido as altas taxas de nefropatia. Entretanto, foram reintroduzidas na prática médica devido a sua ação contra bactérias gram negativas resistentes a carbapenemicos. A literatura recente sugere uma taxa de nefropatia mais baixa do que a historicamente reportada. Objetivo: Determinar a incidência de nefropatia associada ao uso de polimixina utilizando os critérios de RIFLE. Métodos: Foi realizada coorte retrospectiva de todos pacientes adultos que receberam polimixina B no Hospital Nossa Senhora da Conceição de dezembro de 2010 até março de 2011. Resultados: 61 pacientes (43%) preencheram os critérios de rifle para injúria renal e 28 (13,7%) necessitaram de diálise. Preditores independentes para nefrotoxicidade foram hipotensão (OR, 2.79; CI 1.14-5.8; p = 0.006) e uso concomitante de vancomicina (OR, 2.86; CI, 1.27-6.4; p = 0.011). Conclusão: Nessa coorte retrospectiva, nefrotoxicidade (definida pelos criterios de RIFLE) ocorreu em 43% dos pacientes tratados com polimixina B. O uso concomitante de vancomicina e hipotensão foram fatores de risco independentes para desenvolvimento de nefropatia. Mais estudos são necessarios, particularmente com polimixina B, para esclarecer se as caracteristicas dessa droga e da colistina são sobreponíveis.

Abstract Introduction: Polimyxins were originally abandoned due to high rates of nephrotoxicity. However they have been recently reintroduced due to activity against carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative organisms. Recent literature suggests a lower rate of nephrotoxicity than historically reported. Objective: To determine the rate of polymixins-associated nephrotoxicity as defined by the RIFLE criteria. Methods: A retrospective cohort of all adult patients who received polymixin B at a terciary hospital from December 2010 to March 2011was performed. Results: 61 patients (43%) fulfilled the RIFLE criteria for renal injury and 28 patients (13.7%) needed dialysis. Independent predictors for nephrotoxicity were hypotension (OR, 2.79; CI 1.14-5.8; p = 0.006) and concomitant use of vancomycin (OR, 2.86; CI, 1.27-6.4; p = 0.011). Conclusions: In this retrospective cohort, nephrotoxicity (as defined by RIFLE criteria) occurred among 43% of treated patients. The concomitant use of vancomycin and hypotension were independent risk factors of nephropathy. Further studies are needed, particularly with polymyxin B, to clarify if the characteristics of this drug and colistin are overlapping.

Decreased mortality in patients hospitalized due to respiratory diseases after installation of an intensive care unit in a secondary hospital in the interior of Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association between the in-hospital mortality of patients hospitalized due to respiratory diseases and the availability of intensive care units. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study evaluated a database from a hospital medicine service involving patients hospitalized due to respiratory non-terminal diseases. Data on clinical characteristics and risk factors associated with mortality, such as Charlson score and length of hospital stay, were collected. The following analyses were performed: univariate analysis with simple stratification using the Mantel Haenszel test, chi squared test, Student's t test, Mann-Whitney test, and logistic regression. RESULTS: Three hundred thirteen patients were selected, including 98 (31.3%) before installation of the intensive care unit and 215 (68.7%) after installation of the intensive care unit. No significant differences in the clinical and anthropometric characteristics or risk factors were observed between the groups. The mortality rate was 18/95 (18.9%) before the installation of the intensive care unit and 21/206 (10.2%) after the installation of the intensive care unit. Logistic regression analysis indicated that the probability of death after the installation of the intensive care unit decreased by 58% (OR: 0.42; 95%CI 0.205 -0.879; p = 0.021). CONCLUSION: Considering the limitations of the study, the results suggest a benefit, with a decrease of one death per every 11 patients treated for respiratory diseases after the installation of an intensive care unit in our hospital. The results corroborate the benefits of the implementation of intensive care units in secondary hospitals.

Redução de mortalidade em pacientes internados por doenças respiratórias após a implementação de unidade de cuidados intensivos em hospital secundário do interior do Brasil / Decreased mortality in patients hospitalized due to respiratory diseases after installation of an intensive care unit in a secondary hospital in the interior of Brazil

RESUMOObjetivo:Avaliar relação entre a mortalidade intra-hospitalar de pacientes internados por doenças respiratórias e a disponibilidade de unidades de terapia intensiva.Métodos:Foi realizada coorte retrospectiva do banco de dados em um serviço de medicina hospitalar. Selecionaram- se pacientes internados por doenças respiratórias não terminais. Características clínicas, fatores de risco associado à mortalidade, como o escore de Charlson, e tempo de internação foram coletados. Foram realizados: análise univariada com estratificação simples por Mantel Haenszel, e testes qui quadrado, t de Student e Mann-Whitney, além de regressão logística.Resultados:Foram selecionados 313 pacientes, 98 (31,3%) antes da instalação da unidade de terapia intensiva e 215 (68,7%) após a disponibilização de unidade de terapia intensiva. Quando comparados quanto a características clínicas, antropométricas e fatores de risco, não houve diferença significativa. A mortalidade antes da disponibilidade da unidade de terapia intensiva foi de 18/95 (18,9%) e, após, de 21/206 (10,2%). Na regressão logística, a chance de morte após implantação da unidade de terapia intensiva diminuiu em 58% (OR: 0,42; IC95% 0,205 - 0,879; p = 0,021).Conclusão:Respeitando as limitações do estudo, conjetura-se benefício na redução de uma morte a cada 11 pacientes tratados por doenças respiratórias após a implantação da unidade de terapia intensiva no hospital. Estes resultados corroboram a impressão do benefício da implantação de unidades de terapia intensiva em hospitais de nível secundário.

ABSTRACTObjective:To evaluate the association between the in-hospital mortality of patients hospitalized due to respiratory diseases and the availability of intensive care units.Methods:This retrospective cohort study evaluated a database from a hospital medicine service involving patients hospitalized due to respiratory non-terminal diseases. Data on clinical characteristics and risk factors associated with mortality, such as Charlson score and length of hospital stay, were collected. The following analyses were performed: univariate analysis with simple stratification using the Mantel Haenszel test, chi squared test, Student’s t test, Mann-Whitney test, and logistic regression.Results:Three hundred thirteen patients were selected, including 98 (31.3%) before installation of the intensive care unit and 215 (68.7%) after installation of the intensive care unit. No significant differences in the clinical and anthropometric characteristics or risk factors were observed between the groups. The mortality rate was 18/95 (18.9%) before the installation of the intensive care unit and 21/206 (10.2%) after the installation of the intensive care unit. Logistic regression analysis indicated that the probability of death after the installation of the intensive care unit decreased by 58% (OR: 0.42; 95%CI 0.205 -0.879; p = 0.021).Conclusion:Considering the limitations of the study, the results suggest a benefit, with a decrease of one death per every 11 patients treated for respiratory diseases after the installation of an intensive care unit in our hospital. The results corroborate the benefits of the implementation of intensive care units in secondary hospitals.

Computerized tomography contrast induced nephropathy (CIN) among adult inpatients.

INTRODUCTION: Contrast induced nephropathy (CIN) is one of the complications of the use of intravascular contrast agents, being defined as a reduction of the glomerular filtration rate caused by the iodinated contrast. Most CIN data derive from the cardiovascular literature, which identified as the most consistent risk factors pre-existing chronic renal insufficiency and diabetes mellitus. However, these studies limit their conclusions to a more specific patient population. Computerized tomography as a cause of CIN has been studied less often. OBJECTIVE: To report on the incidence of computerized tomography contrast induced nephropathy (CIN) in an inpatient population of a tertiary general hospital, identifying potentially avoidable risk factors. METHODS: We performed a prospective cohort study with inpatients admitted at a tertiary hospital requiring contrast-induced CT. The primary outcome was the development of CIN, measure by the alteration of serum creatinine or glomerular filtration rate in 48 or 72 hours. Through clinical interview, we verified possible risk factors and preventive measures instituted by the medical team and their association with development of CIN. RESULTS: Of a total of 410 patients, 35 (8.5%) developed CIN. There was a positive correlation between CIN and the presence of diabetes mellitus (OR = 2.15; 95%CI 1.35-4.06; p = 0.02), heart failure (OR = 2.23; 95%CI 1.18-8.8; p = 0.022), and renal failure (OR = 3.36; 95%CI 1.57- 7.17; p = 0.002) CONCLUSION: Incidence of CIN varies according to the population. Diabetes mellitus, heart failure and renal failure were independent risk factors for the development of CT-associated CIN. Further studies are needed to better understand and treat CT-associated CIN.

Computerized Tomography Contrast Induced Nephropathy (CIN) among adult inpatients / Nefropatia induzida por contraste (NIC) em pacientes adultos internados submetidos à tomografia computadorizada por contraste

Introduction: Contrast induced nephropathy (CIN) is one of the complications of the use of intravascular contrast agents, being defined as a reduction of the glomerular filtration rate caused by the iodinated contrast. Most CIN data derive from the cardiovascular literature, which identified as the most consistent risk factors pre-existing chronic renal insufficiency and diabetes mellitus. However, these studies limit their conclusions to a more specific patient population. Computerized tomography as a cause of CIN has been studied less often. Objective: To report on the incidence of computerized tomography contrast induced nephropathy (CIN) in an inpatient population of a tertiary general hospital, identifying potentially avoidable risk factors. Methods: We performed a prospective cohort study with inpatients admitted at a tertiary hospital requiring contrast-induced CT. The primary outcome was the development of CIN, measure by the alteration of serum creatinine or glomerular filtration rate in 48 or 72 hours. Through clinical interview, we verified possible risk factors and preventive measures instituted by the medical team and their association with development of CIN. Results: Of a total of 410 patients, 35 (8.5%) developed CIN. There was a positive correlation between CIN and the presence of diabetes mellitus (OR = 2.15; 95%CI 1.35-4.06; p = 0.02), heart failure (OR = 2.23; 95%CI 1.18-8.8; p = 0.022), and renal failure (OR = 3.36; 95%CI 1.57- 7.17; p = 0.002) Conclusion: Incidence of CIN varies according to the population. Diabetes mellitus, heart failure and renal failure were independent risk factors for the development of CT-associated CIN. Further studies are needed to better understand and treat CT-associated CIN. .

Introdução: Nefropatia induzida por contraste (NIC) é consequência do uso de meios de contraste intravenoso, sendo definida como uma redução da taxa de filtração glomerular. A maioria dos dados de NIC são da literatura cardiovascular, que identificou como fatores de risco insuficiência renal crônica e diabetes. Entretanto, esses estudos limitam suas conclusões a uma população especifica de pacientes. Tomografia Computadorizada contrastada como causa de NIC foi menos estudada. Objetivo: Reportar incidência de NIC numa população de pacientes internados em hospital terciário submetidos à tomografia computadorizada com contraste, identificando possíveis fatores de risco evitáveis. Métodos: Realizamos um estudo de coorte prospectivo com pacientes internados em hospital terciário e que necessitaram de tomografia computadorizada com contraste. O desfecho primário foi desenvolvimento de NIC, verificado por meio da variação da creatinina sérica ou taxa de filtração glomerular em 48 ou 72 horas. Em entrevista clínica, verificamos possíveis fatores de risco, assim como medidas preventivas instituídas pela equipe médica e suas possíveis associações com desenvolvimento de NIC. Resultados: Do total de 410 pacientes, 35 (8,5%) desenvolveram NIC. Houve correlação positiva entre desenvolvimento de NIC e a presença de diabetes mellitus (OR = 2,15; 95%CI 1,35-4,06; p = 0,02), insuficiência cardíaca (OR = 2,23; 95%CI 1,18-8,8; p = 0,022), e insuficiência renal (OR = 3,36; 95%CI 1,57-7,17; p = 0,002). Conclusão: A incidência de NIC varia de acordo com a população. Diabetes, insuficiência cardíaca e insuficiência renal foram fatores de risco independentes para o desenvolvimento de NIC. Mais estudos são ...

Blood-brain barrier breakdown in reduced uterine perfusion pressure: a possible model of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a clinical entity characterized by headaches, altered mental status, seizures, and visual disturbances and is associated with white matter vasogenic edema. There are no experimental models to study PRES brain changes. METHODS: Twenty-eight pregnant Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups of 7: (1) pregnant-control; (2) reduced uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP); (3) invasive blood pressure (IBP); and (4) reduced uterine perfusion pressure plus invasive blood pressure (RUPP-IBP). The RUPP and RUPP-IBP groups were submitted to a reduction of uterine perfusion pressure at pregnancy days 13 to 15. The invasive mean arterial pressure of the IBP and RUPP-IBP groups was measured on day 20. The blood-brain barriers (BBBs) of all groups were analyzed using 2% Evans Blue dye on day 21. RESULTS: RUPP rats had higher blood pressures and increased BBB permeability to Evans Blue dye compared with the control animals. Brain staining occurred in 11 of 14 RUPP rats and in none of the control groups (P < .0001). CONCLUSIONS: The physiopathology of PRES remains unclear. Here, we described the use of RUPP rats as a potential model to better comprehend this syndrome.

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome: differences between pregnant and non-pregnant patients.

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a clinical-radiologic entity not yet understood, that presents with transient neurologic symptoms and particular radiological findings. Few papers show the differences between pregnant and non-pregnant patients. We review the cases of 38 women diagnosed with PRES, in order to find significant differences between pregnant (18) and non-pregnant (20) patients. We found differences among the age of patients (25.83 years old in pregnant and 29.31 years old in non pregnant; P=0.001); in the mean of highest systolic blood pressure, that was higher in non-pregnant group (185:162 mmHg; P=0.121); and in creatinine levels that was higher in non-pregnant group (3.47:1.04 mg/dL; P=0.001). To our knowledge, just a few papers analyzed whether PRES syndrome presented in the same way in pregnant and non-pregnant patients. The differences and the possible pathophisiology of this syndrome still remain enigmatic.

Risk factors among stroke subtypes in Brazil.

Stroke is a leading cause of mortality and disability in Brazil. Among the risk factors for cerebrovascular disease, some have more influence than others in certain stroke subtypes. Little data are available in the literature on the prevalence of stroke subtypes in Latin America. We analyzed data from 688 patients with acute ischemic stroke (52.3% women; mean age, 65.7 years) who were enrolled in a stroke data bank. Standardized data assessment and stroke subtype classification were used. The most common stroke subtype was large-artery atherosclerosis (n = 223; 32.4%), followed by cardioembolism (n = 195; 28.3%), and microangiopathy (n = 127; 18.5%). Stroke risk factors differ among stroke subtypes. The population of South America is ethnically diverse, and few previous studies have describe the distribution of risk factors among stroke subtypes in this population. In this study, the most important risk factors were hypertension and dyslipidemia.

Anafilaxia / Anaphylaxis

O termo anafilaxia é amplamente utilizado para definir reações de hipersensibilidade graves e potencialmente fatais. As reações anafiláticas podem ser desencadeadas por diversos agentes etiológicos e apresentam sintomas de intensidade variável. A pronta suspeição e a conduta adequada, no atendimento de emergência, são imprescindíveis para a resolução favorável do quadro. Neste trabalho procuramos apresentar uma revisão atual sobre o diagnóstico e tratamento da anafilaxia, no contexto emergencial.

Anaphylaxia is defined as a serious, potentially fatal life-threatening hypersensitivity reaction. Anaphylaxis may be triggered by multiple agents and present with mild to severe intensity of symptoms. Prompt diagnosis and adequate treatment are vital to the resolution of the anaphylaxis. Here the authors review diagnosis criteria and emergency treatment of anaphylaxis.

Há uma associação entre anti-inflamatórios não-esteroides e nefropatia induzida por contraste? / Is there an association between non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and contrast nephropathy? / ¿Hay una asociación entre antiinflamatorios no esteroides y nefropatía inducida por contraste?

FUNDAMENTO: A associação entre o uso de anti-inflamatórios não-esteroides (AINEs) e insuficiência renal aguda ou crônica é bem documentada, mas evidências sobre a associação entre AINEs e nefropatia induzida por contraste (NIC) não são encontradas na literatura. OBJETIVO: Avaliar uma possível associação entre AINEs e NIC. MÉTODOS: Em um estudo de coorte, através da entrevista clínica de pacientes que foram submetidos à cateterização cardíaca, analisamos o uso de AINEs e sua associação com desenvolvimento de NIC, através da alteração dos níveis de creatinina sérica ou taxa de filtração glomerular em 48 ou 72 horas. RESULTADOS: No período de julho de 2005 a julho de 2006, 236 pacientes foram incluídos no estudo, dos quais 29 foram posteriormente excluídos. A incidência de NIC foi 10,37 por cento (20 de 207) e 42 por cento dos pacientes estavam recebendo AINEs até o momento da avaliação. Não houve associação entre o uso de AINEs e o desenvolvimento de NIC com OR de 1,293; IC95 por cento (0,46-4,2). O estudo detectou fatores de risco conhecidos para o desenvolvimento de NIC, tais como diabete, com OR de 2,77; IC95 por cento (1,05-7,47) e insuficiência renal crônica com OR de 3,48; IC95 por cento (1,1-11,07) e também sugeriu uma ação protetora da hidratação com solução salina com OR de 0,166; IC95 por cento (0,03-0,92). CONCLUSÃO: Com base nos dados obtidos, concluímos que não houve associação entre NIC e uso prévio de AINEs, pelo menos com um OR > 2,85, o qual nossa amostra detectou.

BACKGROUND: The association between the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acute or chronic renal failure is well documented, but evidence of such association between NSAIDs and Contrast-Induced Nephropathies (CIN) is not found in the indexed literature. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the possible association between NSAIDs and CIN. METHODS: In a cohort study, through clinical interviews of patients that underwent cardiac catheterization, we analyzed the use of NSAIDs and its association with the development of CIN, through alterations in serum creatinine or glomerular filtration rate in 48 or 72 hours. RESULTS: From July 2005 to July 2006, 236 patients were enrolled in the study, of which 29 were later excluded. The incidence of CIN was 10.37 percent (20 of 207) and 42 percent of the patients were using NSAIDs until the moment of the evaluation. There was no association between the use of NSAIDs and the development of CIN with OR of 1.293 95 percent CI (0.46-4.2). The study detected known risk factors for the development of CIN, such as diabetes with OR of 2.77 95 percentCI (1.05-7.47) and chronic renal failure with OR 3.48 95 percentCI (1.1-11.07). A protective action of saline solution hydrationis also suggested, with OR of 0.166 95 percentCI (0.03-0.92). CONCLUSION: Based on the data obtained, we conclude that there was no association between CIN and previous use of NSAIDs, at least with an OR higher then 2.85, which our sample detected.

FUNDAMENTO: La asociación entre el uso de antiinflamatorios no esteroides (AINEs) e insuficiencia renal aguda o crónica está bien documentada, pero evidencias sobre la asociación entre AINEs y nefropatía inducida por contraste (NIC) no son encontradas en la literatura. OBJETIVO: Evaluar una posible asociación entre AINEs y NIC. MÉTODOS: En un estudio de cohorte, a través de la entrevista clínica de pacientes que fueron sometidos a cateterismo cardíaco, analizamos el uso de AINEs y su asociación con desarrollo de NIC, a través de la alteración de los niveles de creatinina sérica o tasa de filtrado glomerular en 48 o 72 horas. RESULTADOS: En el período de julio de 2005 a julio de 2006, 236 pacientes fueron incluidos en el estudio, de los cuales 29 fueron posteriormente excluidos. La incidencia de NIC fue 10,37 por ciento (20 de 207) y 42 por ciento de los pacientes estaban recibiendo AINEs hasta el momento de la evaluación. No hubo asociación entre el uso de AINEs y el desarrollo de NIC con OR de 1,293; IC95 por ciento (0,46-4,2). El estudio detectó factores de riesgo conocidos para el desarrollo de NIC, tales como diabetes, con OR de 2,77; IC95 por ciento (1,05-7,47) e insuficiencia renal crónica con OR de 3,48; IC95 por ciento (1,1-11,07) y también sugirió una acción protectora de la hidratación con solución salina con OR de 0,166; IC95 por ciento (0,03-0,92). CONCLUSIÓN: Con base en los datos obtenidos, concluimos que no hubo asociación entre NIC y uso previo de AINEs, por lo menos con un OR > 2,85, el cual nuestra muestra detectó.

Is there an association between non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and contrast nephropathy?

BACKGROUND: The association between the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acute or chronic renal failure is well documented, but evidence of such association between NSAIDs and Contrast-Induced Nephropathies (CIN) is not found in the indexed literature. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the possible association between NSAIDs and CIN. METHODS: In a cohort study, through clinical interviews of patients that underwent cardiac catheterization, we analyzed the use of NSAIDs and its association with the development of CIN, through alterations in serum creatinine or glomerular filtration rate in 48 or 72 hours. RESULTS: From July 2005 to July 2006, 236 patients were enrolled in the study, of which 29 were later excluded. The incidence of CIN was 10.37% (20 of 207) and 42% of the patients were using NSAIDs until the moment of the evaluation. There was no association between the use of NSAIDs and the development of CIN with OR of 1.293 95% CI (0.46-4.2). The study detected known risk factors for the development of CIN, such as diabetes with OR of 2.77 95%CI (1.05-7.47) and chronic renal failure with OR 3.48 95%CI (1.1-11.07). A protective action of saline solution hydration is also suggested, with OR of 0.166 95%CI (0.03-0.92). CONCLUSION: Based on the data obtained, we conclude that there was no association between CIN and previous use of NSAIDs, at least with an OR higher then 2.85, which our sample detected.

Prevalence and record of alcoholism among emergency department patients.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of alcoholism among inpatients, to identify social and demographic factors associated with this prevalence and to determine its rate of recognition by the medical team. METHODS: The study population consisted of all patients admitted to the emergency room at Hospital São Lucas, Porto Alegre, Brazil, between July and September of 2005. The data were collected in two steps: an interview with the patient and a review of the medical records to investigate the cases of alcoholism recorded by the medical team. The questionnaire consisted of questions concerning social and demographic data, smoking habits and Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test. RESULTS: We interviewed 248 patients. Twenty-eight (11.3%) were identified as alcoholics. Compared to the patients with a negative Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test value (less than 8), those with a positive Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test were more likely to be male, illiterate and smokers. The medical records of 217 (87.5%) patients were reviewed. Only 5 (20.0%) of the 25 patients with a positive Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test whose medical records were reviewed were identified as alcoholics by the medical team. The diagnosis made by the medical team, compared to Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test, shows only a 20% sensitivity, 93% specificity and positive and negative predictive values of 29% and 90%, respectively. CONCLUSION: Alcoholism has been underrecognized in patients who are hospitalized, and, as such, this opportunity for possible early intervention is often lost. Key social and demographic factors could provide physicians with risk factors and, when used together with a standardized diagnostic instrument, could significantly improve the rate of identification of alcoholic patients.

Prevalence and record of alcoholism among emergency department patients

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of alcoholism among inpatients, to identify social and demographic factors associated with this prevalence and to determine its rate of recognition by the medical team. METHODS: The study population consisted of all patients admitted to the emergency room at Hospital São Lucas, Porto Alegre, Brazil, between July and September of 2005. The data were collected in two steps: an interview with the patient and a review of the medical records to investigate the cases of alcoholism recorded by the medical team. The questionnaire consisted of questions concerning social and demographic data, smoking habits and Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test. RESULTS: We interviewed 248 patients. Twenty-eight (11.3 percent) were identified as alcoholics. Compared to the patients with a negative Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test value (less than 8), those with a positive Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test were more likely to be male, illiterate and smokers. The medical records of 217 (87.5 percent) patients were reviewed. Only 5 (20.0 percent) of the 25 patients with a positive Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test whose medical records were reviewed were identified as alcoholics by the medical team. The diagnosis made by the medical team, compared to Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test, shows only a 20 percent sensitivity, 93 percent specificity and positive and negative predictive values of 29 percent and 90 percent, respectively. CONCLUSION: Alcoholism has been underrecognized in patients who are hospitalized, and, as such, this opportunity for possible early intervention is often lost. Key social and demographic factors could provide physicians with risk factors and, when used together with a standardized diagnostic instrument, could significantly improve the rate of identification of alcoholic patients.

Existe associação entre antiinflamatórios não-esteróides e nefropatia induzida por contraste?: [revisão] / Is there association between non-steroiddal anti-inflammatory drugs and contrast media-induced nephropathy?: [review]

Objetivos: revisar a literatura médica sobre a possíbilidade de exixtir associação entre uso de antiinflamatórios não esteróides e aumento na incidência da nefropatia induzida por contraste. Fonte de dados: busca de artigos na base de dados Pubmed/Medline. Síntese dos dados: a investigação demonstrou não haver nenhum estudo observacional ou ensaio clínico que sustente a existência de associação entre a exiStência de associação entre uso de AINES e nefropatia induzida por contraste. Existem apenas relatos apenas relatos anedóticos em meio a artigos de revisão que incluem os antiinflamatórios não esteróides como drogas nefrotóxicas. Revisando mecanismos de lesão renal induzida pelo uso de meios de contrastes e pelos antiinflamatórios não esteróides, não parece haver razão para acreditar em um sincronismo que leve a lesão renal. Conclusões:faltam evidências, na literatura médica indexada, que sustetentem a afirmação de que os antiinflamatórios não esteróides seriam de risco para o desenvolvimento de nefropatia induzida por contraste.

Imersão do pâncreas por 24 horas em solução de colagenase a 4ºC no isolamento de ilhotas de Langerhans / Immersion of pancreas for 24 hours in collagenase solution at 4ºC in Langerhans islets isolation

Objetivos: testar se a imersão do pâncreas em solução de 1 ou 2 mg/ml de colagenase em 4ºC por 24 horas, no isolamento experimental de ilhotas de Langerhans, aumenta o rendimento de ilhotas por grama de tecido pancreático. Métodos: estudo experimental com camundongos, realizado no Laboratório de Nefrologia do Instituto de Pesquisas Biológicas do Hospital São Lucas da PUCRS, Porto Alegre, RS. Após sacrifício dos animais sob anestesia, os pâncreas foram retirados e triturados, sendo divididos em quatro grupos, conforme a técnica utilizada para isolar as ilhotas. A) colagenase 1mg/mL, a 4ºC por 24 horas e posterior aquecimento a 39ºC por 15 minutos. B) colagenase 2mg/mL com as mesmas etapas anteriores. C) colagenase 1mg/mL com aquecimento da solução no mesmo dia da retirada, a 39ºC por 15 minutos. D) colagenase 2mg/mL com aquecimento da solução no mesmo dia da retirada, a 39ºC por 15 minutos. Verificamos a viabilidade das ilhotas através do teste do azul tripano. Resultados: as medianas da quantidade de ilhotas isoladas nos grupos A, B, C e D foram 9.142, 8.285, 2.813 e 3.199 respectivamente. O teste de Kruskal- Wallis demonstrou diferença significativa, com valor de H = 17,44 com a = 0,01 e, na comparação dos grupos entre si, demonstrou que não há diferença entre as soluções de colagenase com concentrações de 1 e 2 mg/dL. Os grupos com a imersão do tecido pancreático em solução de colagenase por 24 horas obtiveram três vezes mais ilhotas, quando comparados aos submetidos à digestão imediata, conforme teste de Dunn com a<0,05. O teste do azul tripano demonstrou uma vitalidade maior que 95% em todos os grupos. Conclusões: sugere-se que a imersão em colagenase por tempo mais prolongado melhora o processo de digestão do tecido pancreático, aumentando o rendimento de ilhotas isoladas por grama de tecido pancreático. A diferença de concentração entre as soluções de colagenase não afetou o resultado.

Aims: To test whether the immersion of the pancreas in solutions of 1 or 2 mg/mL of collagenase in 4°C for 24 hours, for the isolation of Langerhans islets, rises the yield of islets/ grams of pancreatic tissue. Methods: Experimental study with mouses, performed in the Laboratory of Nephrology of the Instituto de Pesquisas Biológicas do Hospital São Lucas da PUCRS, Porto Alegre, RS. After the animals have been sacrified under anesthesia, the pancreas were removed and divided in four groups, according the technique used for isolating the islets. A) collagenase 1mg/mL, in 4ºC for 24 hours and heating for 39ºC for 15 minutes. B) collagenase 2mg/mL with the same previous described steps. C) collagenase 1mg/ mL and heating of the solution in the same day, in 39ºC for 15 minutes. D) collagenase 2mg/mL and heating of the solution in the same day, in 39ºC for 15 minutes. We verified the viability of the islet through the trypan blue test. Results: The median numbers of isolated islets in the groups A, B, C and D were 9142, 8285, 2813 e 3199, respectively. Kruskal-Wallis test showed significant difference, with the value of H = 17,44 with a = 0,01, and in the comparison between the groups, there was o difference in the solutions of collagenase with concentrations of 1 and 2 mg/dL. Groups with immersion of pancreatic tissue in collagenase solution for 24 hours had three times more islets when compared to groups submitted to immediate digestion, according to Dunn test with a <0,05. The trypan blue test showed viability higher than 95% in all groups. Conclusions: We suggest that the immersion in solution of collagenase for longer time improves the process of digestion of pancreatic tissue, rising the yield of islets/ grams of pancreatic tissue. Different concentration between the collagenase solutions did not affect the final result.