Impact of asthma control on quality of life in an outpatient setting in Brazil.

INTRODUCTION: The goal of asthma therapy is asthma control. As a chronic disease, asthma may cause considerable physical, emotional and social restrictions impacting quality of life. The aim of this study was to analyze control of asthma symptoms in an outpatient setting in Brazil and its impact on quality of life. METHODS: A pilot cross-sectional study was performed in two public centers in the metropolitan region of São Paulo, Brazil. Control of asthma symptoms was assessed according to GINA guidelines, and quality of life was analyzed by the Mini Quality of Life Questionnaire (mini-AQLQ). RESULTS: A total of 47 adult patients with asthma were analyzed. Asthma was controlled in 8 patients (17.0%), partially controlled in 26 patients (55.3%) and uncontrolled in 13 patients (27.7%). Patients with controlled asthma showed better mini-AQLQ scores (4.99 ± 1.10) as compared to those with partly controlled (3.66 ± 1.10) and uncontrolled asthma (2.59 ± 0.64; p < 0.001 for both). Most patients (85.1%) were taking inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and long-acting bronchodilators (LABA) as controller treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Better asthma control had a positive impact on Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) contributing to a better disease management. Few patients reached full asthma control in our specialty ambulatory center, suggesting further initiatives are required to improve the quality of asthma care in Brazil.

Autologous Infusion of Bone Marrow and Mesenchymal Stromal Cells in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Phase I Randomized Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by the destruction of alveolar walls, chronic inflammation and persistent respiratory symptoms. There is no curative clinical treatment for COPD. In this context, cell-based therapy is a promising therapeutic alternative for COPD. Thus, in this open, controlled and randomized Phase I Clinical Trial, we aimed to assess the safety of the infusion of autologous bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMC), adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (ADSC) and, especially, the safety of concomitant infusion (co-infusion) of BMMC and ADSC as a new therapeutic alternative for COPD. The rationale for co-infusion of BMMC and ADSC is based on the hypothesis of an additive or synergistic therapeutic effect resulting from this association. METHODS: To achieve the proposed objectives, twenty patients with moderate-to-severe COPD were randomly divided into four groups: control group - patients receiving conventional treatment; BMMC group - patients receiving only BMMC; ADSC group - patients receiving only ADSC, and co-infusion group - patients receiving the concomitant infusion of BMMC and ADSC. Patients were assessed for pulmonary function, biochemical profile, and quality of life over a 12 months follow-up. RESULTS: No adverse events were detected immediately after the infusion of BMMC, ADSC or co-infusion. In the 12-month follow-up, no causal relationship was established between adverse events and cell therapy procedures. Regarding the efficacy, the BMMC group showed an increase in forced expiratory volume (FEV1) and diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO). Co-infusion group showed a DLCO, and gas exchange improvement and a better quality of life. CONCLUSION: The results obtained allow us to conclude that cell-based therapy with co-infusion of BMMC and ADSC is a safe procedure and a promising therapeutic for COPD. However, additional studies with a greater number of patients are needed before randomized and controlled Phase III clinical trials can be implemented.

Evaluation of sleep quality and daytime somnolence in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in pulmonary rehabilitation.

BACKGROUND: Dyspnea, fatigue, and decline in sleep quality are symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Pulmonary rehabilitation programs have been shown to ameliorate dyspnea and fatigue. However, only a few studies have investigated the effects of pulmonary rehabilitation on the sleep quality of COPD patients. In this study, we analyzed the benefits of a pulmonary rehabilitation program to sleep quality and daytime somnolence in COPD patients. METHODS: This study was a study of 30 moderate-severe COPD patients. All patients were evaluated by a pulmonologist and underwent polysomnography before participating in the study. For this study, we selected only ex-smokers and patients with sleep apnea were referred to the sleep clinic. These participants were prospectively recruited and not selected based on program completion. Before the start of the program, sleep quality and daytime somnolence of the participants were evaluated using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), respectively. Rehabilitation program consisted of muscular training sessions conducted at the gym 3 times per week for 12 weeks. After rehabilitation program, the patients were reassessed and their sleep quality and daytime somnolence were reevaluated using the PSQI and the ESS, respectively. RESULTS: Before rehabilitation, PSQI evaluation revealed that 73% of the participants had poor sleep quality, and ESS evaluation showed that 86.7% of the participants experienced daytime somnolence. After pulmonary rehabilitation, the PSQI specifically improved in terms of subjective sleep quality and sleep duration (< 0.001), habitual sleep efficiency (0.001), and sleep latency and sleep alterations (0.002) and there was also improvement in the ESS (< 0.001). CONCLUSION: Pulmonary rehabilitation program of gradually increasing intensity has the potential to provide sleep-related benefits to patients with COPD who have poor sleep quality and daytime somnolence. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos (ReBEC) RBR62b4z2.

Impact of activities in self-esteem of patients in a pulmonary rehabilitation program.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate self-esteem and self-image of respiratory diseases patients in a Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program, who participated in socialization and physical fitness activities, and of patients who participated only in physical fitness sessions. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional exploratory study. Out of a total of 60 patients analyzed, all enrolled in the Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program, 42 participated in at least one of the proposed activities, 10 did not participate in any activity and 8 were excluded (7 were discharged and 1 died). RESULTS: When the two groups were compared, despite the fact that both demonstrated low self-esteem and self-image, the difference between them was relevant (p<0.05) regarding self-esteem, indicating that those who participated in the proposed socialization activities had better self-esteem than the individuals who only did the physical fitness sessions. Regarding self-image, the difference between the groups was not relevant (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: The Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program patients evaluated presented low self-esteem and self-image; however, those carrying out some socialization activity proposed had better self-esteem as compared to the individuals who did only the physical fitness sessions.

Impact of activities in self-esteem of patients in a pulmonary rehabilitation program / Impacto das atividades na autoestima dos pacientes em um programa de reabilitação pulmonar

Objective To evaluate self-esteem and self-image of respiratory diseases patients in a Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program, who participated in socialization and physical fitness activities, and of patients who participated only in physical fitness sessions. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional exploratory study. Out of a total of 60 patients analyzed, all enrolled in the Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program, 42 participated in at least one of the proposed activities, 10 did not participate in any activity and 8 were excluded (7 were discharged and 1 died). Results When the two groups were compared, despite the fact that both demonstrated low self-esteem and self-image, the difference between them was relevant (p<0.05) regarding self-esteem, indicating that those who participated in the proposed socialization activities had better self-esteem than the individuals who only did the physical fitness sessions. Regarding self-image, the difference between the groups was not relevant (p>0.05). Conclusion The Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program patients evaluated presented low self-esteem and self-image; however, those carrying out some socialization activity proposed had better self-esteem as compared to the individuals who did only the physical fitness sessions. .

Objetivo Avaliar a autoestima e a autoimagem de pacientes com doenças respiratórias de um Programa de Reabilitação Pulmonar, que participaram de atividades de socialização e de treinamento físico e de pacientes que participaram apenas de treinamentos físicos. Métodos Estudo exploratório descritivo e transversal. Foram analisados 60 pacientes, todos inclusos em um Programa de Reabilitação Pulmonar. Destes, 42 participaram de pelo menos uma das atividades propostas, 10 não participaram das atividades e 8 foram excluídos (7 tiveram alta e 1 faleceu), não respondendo ao questionário de autoimagem e autoestima. Resultados Quando comparados os dois grupos, apesar de ambos terem apresentado autoestima e autoimagem baixas, a diferença entre eles foi significativa (p<0,05) com relação à autoestima: aqueles que participaram de atividades de socialização propostas pela equipe tiveram autoestima melhor que a dos sujeitos que participam apenas do treinamento físico. Já quanto à autoimagem, a diferença entre os grupos não foi significativa (p>0,05). Conclusão Os pacientes do Programa de Reabilitação Pulmonar avaliados apresentaram baixas autoestima e autoimagem, porém aqueles que realizaram alguma atividade de socialização proposta tiveram a autoestima maior comparada à dos que fizeram apenas o treinamento físico. .

Comparison between the 6-minute walk tests performed in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease at different altitudes / Comparação entre os testes de caminhada de 6 minutos realizados em pacientes com doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica em diferentes altitudes

Objective To evaluate the influence of the altitude on the 6-minute walking test in patients with moderate to severe pulmonary disease. Methods Twenty-nine patients performed the 6-minute walk test at a pulmonary rehabilitation clinic in Santo André (above sea level), in São Paulo State, and at the Enseada Beach, in Guarujá (at sea level), also in São Paulo State. Of these 29 patients, 8 did the test both on hard sand and on asphalt to analyze if there were differences in performance during the tests. Data such as heart rate, oxygen saturation, test distance, and Borg scale were compared. Results We found no statistical difference in relation to oxygen saturation at rest before the beginning of the walking test in Santo André 94.67±2.26% and at sea level 95.56±2% (p=0.71). The minimum saturation measured during the test was 87.27±6.54% in Santo André and 89.10±5.41% in Guarujá (p=0.098). There were no differences in the performed distance between the different kinds of terrains; the distance on sand was 387.75±5.02m and on asphalt it was 375.00±6.54m (p=0.654). Regarding oxygen saturation during walking, the pulse oximetry on sand was 95.12±1.80% and on asphalt it was 96.87±1.64% (p=1.05). Conclusion Altitude did not affect the performance of the walking test in patients with moderate to severe pulmonary disease and the results were similar in both cases, on sand and on asphalt. .

Objetivo Avaliar a influência da altitude no teste de caminhada de 6 minutos em pacientes com doença pulmonar moderada a grave. Métodos Vinte e nove pacientes realizaram o teste de caminhada de 6 minutos em um ambulatório de reabilitação pulmonar, na cidade de Santo André (acima do nível do mar), em São Paulo, e na praia da Enseada no Guarujá (ao nível do mar), também em São Paulo. Destes, oito pacientes realizaram tanto na areia batida como no asfalto, para avaliar a existência de alguma alteração no desempenho durante o teste. Dados como frequência cardíaca, saturação de oxigênio, distância do teste e escala de Borg foram comparados. Resultados Não encontramos diferença estatística em relação à saturação de oxigênio em repouso antes do início do teste de caminhada em Santo André 94,67±2,26% e ao nível do mar 95,56±2% (p=0,71). A saturação mínima obtida durante os testes foi de 87,27±6,54%, em Santo André, e de 89,10±5,41%, no Guarujá (p=0,098). Não houve diferença na distância percorrida e nos diferentes tipos de piso; a distância na areia foi de 387,75±5,02m e 375,00±40,88m no asfalto (p=0,654). Quanto à saturação durante a caminhada, a oximetria de pulso na areia foi de 95,12±1,80% e no asfalto foi de 96,87±1,64% (p=1,05), ou seja, o teste foi reprodutível em ambos os solos. Conclusão A altitude não influenciou o desempenho do teste de caminhada realizado por pacientes com doença pulmonar moderada a grave, sendo reprodutível tanto acima quanto ao nível do mar, mesmo ...

Can bronchodilators improve exercise tolerance in COPD patients without dynamic hyperinflation?

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the modulatory effects that dynamic hyperinflation (DH), defined as a reduction in inspiratory capacity (IC), has on exercise tolerance after bronchodilator in patients with COPD. METHODS: An experimental, randomized study involving 30 COPD patients without severe hypoxemia. At baseline, the patients underwent clinical assessment, spirometry, and incremental cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET). On two subsequent visits, the patients were randomized to receive a combination of inhaled fenoterol/ipratropium or placebo. All patients then underwent spirometry and submaximal CPET at constant speed up to the limit of tolerance (Tlim). The patients who showed ΔIC(peak-rest) < 0 were considered to present with DH (DH+). RESULTS: In this sample, 21 patients (70%) had DH. The DH+ patients had higher airflow obstruction and lower Tlim than did the patients without DH (DH-). Despite equivalent improvement in FEV1 after bronchodilator, the DH- group showed higher ΔIC(bronchodilator-placebo) at rest in relation to the DH+ group (p < 0.05). However, this was not found in relation to ΔIC at peak exercise between DH+ and DH- groups (0.19 ± 0.17 L vs. 0.17 ± 0.15 L, p > 0.05). In addition, both groups showed similar improvements in Tlim after bronchodilator (median [interquartile range]: 22% [3-60%] vs. 10% [3-53%]; p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Improvement in TLim was associated with an increase in IC at rest after bronchodilator in HD- patients with COPD. However, even without that improvement, COPD patients can present with greater exercise tolerance after bronchodilator provided that they develop DH during exercise.

Can bronchodilators improve exercise tolerance in COPD patients without dynamic hyperinflation? / Os broncodilatadores podem melhorar a tolerância ao exercício na ausência de hiperinsuflação dinâmica em pacientes com DPOC?

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the modulatory effects that dynamic hyperinflation (DH), defined as a reduction in inspiratory capacity (IC), has on exercise tolerance after bronchodilator in patients with COPD. METHODS: An experimental, randomized study involving 30 COPD patients without severe hypoxemia. At baseline, the patients underwent clinical assessment, spirometry, and incremental cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET). On two subsequent visits, the patients were randomized to receive a combination of inhaled fenoterol/ipratropium or placebo. All patients then underwent spirometry and submaximal CPET at constant speed up to the limit of tolerance (Tlim). The patients who showed ΔIC(peak-rest) < 0 were considered to present with DH (DH+). RESULTS: In this sample, 21 patients (70%) had DH. The DH+ patients had higher airflow obstruction and lower Tlim than did the patients without DH (DH-). Despite equivalent improvement in FEV1 after bronchodilator, the DH- group showed higher ΔIC(bronchodilator-placebo) at rest in relation to the DH+ group (p < 0.05). However, this was not found in relation to ΔIC at peak exercise between DH+ and DH- groups (0.19 ± 0.17 L vs. 0.17 ± 0.15 L, p > 0.05). In addition, both groups showed similar improvements in Tlim after bronchodilator (median [interquartile range]: 22% [3-60%] vs. 10% [3-53%]; p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Improvement in TLim was associated with an increase in IC at rest after bronchodilator in HD- patients with COPD. However, even without that improvement, COPD patients can present with greater exercise tolerance after bronchodilator provided that they develop DH during exercise. .

OBJETIVO: Investigar os efeitos moduladores da hiperinsuflação dinâmica (HD), definida pela redução da capacidade inspiratória (CI), na tolerância ao exercício após broncodilatador em pacientes com DPOC. MÉTODOS: Estudo experimental e randomizado com 30 pacientes com DPOC sem hipoxemia grave. Na visita inicial, os pacientes realizaram avaliação clínica, espirometria e teste de exercício cardiopulmonar (TECP) incremental. Em duas visitas subsequentes, os pacientes foram randomizados para receber uma combinação de fenoterol/ipratrópio ou placebo e, em seguida, realizaram espirometria e TECP com velocidade constante até o limite da tolerância (Tlim). Os pacientes com ΔCI(pico-repouso) < 0 foram considerados com HD (HD+). RESULTADOS: Nesta amostra, 21 pacientes (70%) apresentaram HD. Os pacientes HD+ apresentaram maior obstrução ao fluxo aéreo e menor Tlim do que os pacientes sem HD (HD-). Apesar de ganhos equivalentes de VEF1 após broncodilatador, o grupo HD- apresentou maior ΔCI(broncodilatador-placebo) em repouso em relação ao grupo HD+ (p < 0,05). Entretanto, isso não ocorreu com a ΔCI no pico do exercício entre os grupos HD+ e HD- (0,19 ± 0,17 L vs. 0,17 ± 0,15 L; p > 0,05). Similarmente, ambos os grupos apresentaram melhoras equivalentes do Tlim após broncodilatador (mediana [intervalo interquartílico]: 22% [3-60%] e 10% [3-53%]; p > 0,05). CONCLUSÕES: A melhora da CI em repouso após broncodilatador associou-se com ganho de tolerância ao esforço mesmo nos pacientes com DPOC que não apresentem HD. Por outro lado, pacientes sem melhora da CI em repouso ainda podem obter beneficio funcional com o broncodilatador desde que apresentem HD no exercício. .

Comparison between the 6-minute walk tests performed in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease at different altitudes.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the influence of the altitude on the 6-minute walking test in patients with moderate to severe pulmonary disease. METHODS: Twenty-nine patients performed the 6-minute walk test at a pulmonary rehabilitation clinic in Santo André (above sea level), in São Paulo State, and at the Enseada Beach, in Guarujá (at sea level), also in São Paulo State. Of these 29 patients, 8 did the test both on hard sand and on asphalt to analyze if there were differences in performance during the tests. Data such as heart rate, oxygen saturation, test distance, and Borg scale were compared. RESULTS: We found no statistical difference in relation to oxygen saturation at rest before the beginning of the walking test in Santo André 94.67±2.26% and at sea level 95.56±2% (p=0.71). The minimum saturation measured during the test was 87.27±6.54% in Santo André and 89.10±5.41% in Guarujá (p=0.098). There were no differences in the performed distance between the different kinds of terrains; the distance on sand was 387.75±5.02m and on asphalt it was 375.00±6.54m (p=0.654). Regarding oxygen saturation during walking, the pulse oximetry on sand was 95.12±1.80% and on asphalt it was 96.87±1.64% (p=1.05). CONCLUSION: Altitude did not affect the performance of the walking test in patients with moderate to severe pulmonary disease and the results were similar in both cases, on sand and on asphalt.

Bronchial thermoplasty: Long-term safety and effectiveness in patients with severe persistent asthma.

BACKGROUND: Bronchial thermoplasty (BT) has previously been shown to improve asthma control out to 2 years in patients with severe persistent asthma. OBJECTIVE: We sought to assess the effectiveness and safety of BT in asthmatic patients 5 years after therapy. METHODS: BT-treated subjects from the Asthma Intervention Research 2 trial (ClinicalTrials.govNCT01350414) were evaluated annually for 5 years to assess the long-term safety of BT and the durability of its treatment effect. Outcomes assessed after BT included severe exacerbations, adverse events, health care use, spirometric data, and high-resolution computed tomographic scans. RESULTS: One hundred sixty-two (85.3%) of 190 BT-treated subjects from the Asthma Intervention Research 2 trial completed 5 years of follow-up. The proportion of subjects experiencing severe exacerbations and emergency department (ED) visits and the rates of events in each of years 1 to 5 remained low and were less than those observed in the 12 months before BT treatment (average 5-year reduction in proportions: 44% for exacerbations and 78% for ED visits). Respiratory adverse events and respiratory-related hospitalizations remained unchanged in years 2 through 5 compared with the first year after BT. Prebronchodilator FEV1 values remained stable between years 1 and 5 after BT, despite a 18% reduction in average daily inhaled corticosteroid dose. High-resolution computed tomographic scans from baseline to 5 years after BT showed no structural abnormalities that could be attributed to BT. CONCLUSIONS: These data demonstrate the 5-year durability of the benefits of BT with regard to both asthma control (based on maintained reduction in severe exacerbations and ED visits for respiratory symptoms) and safety. BT has become an important addition to our treatment armamentarium and should be considered for patients with severe persistent asthma who remain symptomatic despite taking inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting ß2-agonists.

Dynamic hyperinflation during treadmill exercise testing in patients with moderate to severe COPD.

OBJECTIVE: To characterize the presence, extent, and patterns of dynamic hyperinflation (DH) during treadmill exercise testing in patients with moderate to severe COPD. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study involving 30 non-hypoxemic patients (FEV1= 43 ± 14% of predicted) who were submitted to a cardiopulmonary exercise test on a treadmill at a constant speed (70-80% of maximum speed) to the tolerance limit (Tlim). Serial inspiratory capacity (IC) maneuvers were used in order to assess DH. RESULTS: Of the 30 patients studied, 19 (63.3%) presented with DH (DH+ group), having greater pulmonary function impairment at rest than did those without DH (DH- group). None of the variables studied correlated with exercise tolerance in the DH- group, whereas Tlim, IC, and perception of dyspnea during exercise did so correlate in the DH+ group (p < 0.05). In the DH+ group, 7 and 12 patients, respectively, presented with a progressive and a stable pattern of DH (ΔIC Tlim,2min = -0.28 ± 0.11 L vs. 0.04 ± 0.10 L; p < 0.01). Patients with a progressive pattern of DH presented with higher perception of dyspnea/Tlim rate and lower exercise tolerance than did those with a stable pattern (354 ± 118 s and 465 ± 178 s, respectively; p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The presence of DH is not a universal phenomenon during walking in COPD patients, even in those with moderate to severe airflow limitation. In the patients who presented DH, a progressive pattern of DH had a greater impact on exercise tolerance than did a stable pattern of DH.

Comportamento da hiperinsuflação dinâmica em teste em esteira rolante em pacientes com DPOC moderada a grave / Dynamic hyperinflation during treadmill exercise testing in patients with moderate to severe COPD

OBJETIVO: Caracterizar a presença, extensão e padrões de hiperinsuflação dinâmica (HD) durante teste em esteira rolante em pacientes com DPOC moderada a grave. Métodos: Estudo transversal com 30 pacientes não hipoxêmicos (VEF1= 43 ± 14 por cento do previsto) submetidos a teste cardiopulmonar de exercício em esteira rolante em velocidade constante (70-80 por cento da velocidade máxima) até o limite da tolerância (Tlim). Manobras seriadas de capacidade inspiratória (CI) foram utilizadas para avaliação da HD. RESULTADOS: Dos 30 pacientes estudados, 19 (63,3 por cento) apresentaram HD (grupo HD+), que apresentaram maior comprometimento funcional em repouso do que os pacientes sem HD (grupo HD-). Nenhuma das variáveis obtidas relacionou-se com a tolerância ao exercício no grupo HD-, enquanto Tlim, CI e percepção de dispneia ao esforço foram significativamente correlacionados no grupo HD+ (p < 0,05). No grupo HD+, 7 e 12 pacientes, respectivamente, apresentaram padrão progressivo e estável de HD (ΔCI Tlim,2min = -0,28 ± 0,11 L e 0,04 ± 0,10 L; p < 0,01). Pacientes com padrão progressivo de HD apresentaram maior relação percepção de dispneia/Tlim e menor tolerância ao exercício do que aqueles com padrão estável (354 ± 118 s e 465 ± 178 s, respectivamente; p < 0,05). CONCLUSÕES: A HD não é um fenômeno universal durante a caminhada em pacientes com DPOC, mesmo que apresentem obstrução ao fluxo aéreo de graus moderado a acentuado. Nos pacientes que apresentaram HD, um padrão progressivo de HD teve maior repercussão na tolerância ao exercício do que um padrão estável de HD.

OBJECTIVE: To characterize the presence, extent, and patterns of dynamic hyperinflation (DH) during treadmill exercise testing in patients with moderate to severe COPD. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study involving 30 non-hypoxemic patients (FEV1= 43 ± 14 percent of predicted) who were submitted to a cardiopulmonary exercise test on a treadmill at a constant speed (70-80 percent of maximum speed) to the tolerance limit (Tlim). Serial inspiratory capacity (IC) maneuvers were used in order to assess DH. RESULTS: Of the 30 patients studied, 19 (63.3 percent) presented with DH (DH+ group), having greater pulmonary function impairment at rest than did those without DH (DH- group). None of the variables studied correlated with exercise tolerance in the DH- group, whereas Tlim, IC, and perception of dyspnea during exercise did so correlate in the DH+ group (p < 0.05). In the DH+ group, 7 and 12 patients, respectively, presented with a progressive and a stable pattern of DH (ΔIC Tlim,2min = -0.28 ± 0.11 L vs. 0.04 ± 0.10 L; p < 0.01). Patients with a progressive pattern of DH presented with higher perception of dyspnea/Tlim rate and lower exercise tolerance than did those with a stable pattern (354 ± 118 s and 465 ± 178 s, respectively; p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The presence of DH is not a universal phenomenon during walking in COPD patients, even in those with moderate to severe airflow limitation. In the patients who presented DH, a progressive pattern of DH had a greater impact on exercise tolerance than did a stable pattern of DH.

Efeitos da reabilitação pulmonar em pacientes fumantes e ex-fumantes com doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica / Pulmonary rehabilitation in current smokers and ex-smokers chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients

Introdução: O carcinoma colorretal é uma das neoplasias mais incidentes nos países ocidentais. É controverso se os níveis séricos e a imunoexpressão tecidual do marcador tumoral CA 19-9 estão relacionados com o comprometimento linfonodal e com a invasão linfática no carcinoma colorretal. Casuística e métodos: Em 45 pacientes com carcinoma colorretal operados, o nível de CA19-9 pré-operatório e a imunoexpressão do CA19-9 no tecido neoplásico foram analisados. Valores de CA19-9 ≥ 37 UI/ml foram considerados aumentados. As amostras do tecido com carcinoma colorretal foram submetidas ao estudo imunoistoquímico, com anticorpo monoclonal anti-CA19-9. A intensidade de expressão do CA19-9 na neoplasia foi semiquantificada em leve (+/+++), moderada (++/+++), intensa (+++/+++) ou ausente. Foram comparados os níveis séricos e a imunoexpressão tecidual do marcador CA19-9 com o comprometimento linfonodal e a invasão linfática. Resultados: O nível sérico e a imunoexpressão tecidual do CA19-9 não se relacionaram significantemente com o comprometimento linfonodal (p = 0,49 e p = 0,45, respectivamente) ou com a invasão linfática (p = 0,12 e p = 0,74, respectivamente). Conclusões: O nível sérico e a imunoexpressão tecidual do CA19-9 não refletem o comprometimento linfonodal e a presença de invasão linfática no carcinoma colorretal.

Introduction: Colorectal carcinoma is one of the most common tumors in Western countries. It is controversial whether serum and tissue immunohistochemical expression of tumor marker CA 19-9 are associated with lymph node involvement or lymphatic invasion in colorectal carcinoma. Methods: In 45 patients with colorectal carcinoma operated, the preoperative serum levels and immunoexpression of CA19-9 in tumor tissues were performed. Values of CA19-9 ≥ 37 UI/ml were considered increased. Tissue samples with colorectal carcinoma were subjected to the immunohistochemistry study, with monoclonal antibody anti-CA19-9. The severity of CA19-9 expression in the tumor was semiquantified as mild (+/+++), moderate (++/+++), intense(+++/+++), or absent. We compared the serum levels and the tissue immunoexpression of CA19-9 marker with lymph node and lymphatic invasion. Results: Serum level and tissue immunoexpression of CA19-9 did not correlate significantly with lymph node involvement (p = 0.49 and p = 0.45,respectively) or with lymphatic invasion (p = 0.12 and p = 0.74, respectively). Conclusions: The serum level and tissue immunoexpression of CA19-9 do not reflect the presence of lymph node involvement and the presence of lymphatic invasion in colorectal carcinoma.

[Influence of current smoking on adherence and responses to pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with COPD]. / Influência do tabagismo atual na aderência e nas respostas à reabilitação pulmonar em pacientes com DPOC.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the modulating effects of current smoking on adherence and responses to pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). METHODS: In a prospective study, 18 ex-smokers and 23 current smokers (GOLD stages II-III) were enrolled in a 12-week multidisciplinary, supervised PR program. The patients were assessed clinically and as to subjective variables (dyspnea and health-related quality of life) and objective variables (body composition, pulmonary function and 6-min walking distance). The degree of nicotine dependence in current smokers was assessed by the Fagerström test. Program completion defined PR 'adherence'. RESULTS: There was a significant association between current smoking and non-adherence to PR with 30.4% vs. 11.1% and odds ratio=2.9 (1.6-4.1; p<0.01). However, the current smokers who completed the program (n=16) had a similar absentee rate to the ex-smokers, as well as similar gains in the subjective (quality of life) and objective (walked distance) items. Additionally, there was a significant reduction in daily cigarette consumption and in the degree of nicotine dependence in current smokers (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Although current smoking is negatively related to PR adherence, COPD smokers who complete the PR can have similar gains in functionality and quality of life compared to ex-smokers. Moreover, PR may be related to decreased nicotine dependence, even without a formal smoking withdrawal program.

Influência do tabagismo atual na aderência e nas respostas à reabilitação pulmonar em pacientes com DPOC / Influence of current smoking on adherence and responses to pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with COPD

OBJETIVO: Investigar o possível efeito modulador do tabagismo atual na aderência e nos efeitos da reabilitação pulmonar (RP) em pacientes com doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica (DPOC). MÉTODOS: Em um estudo prospectivo, 18 pacientes ex-tabagistas e 23 tabagistas atuais (GOLD estádios II-IV) foram incluídos num programa multidisciplinar de RP com duração de 12 semanas. Os pacientes foram submetidos à avaliação clínica e à de variáveis subjetivas (dispneia e qualidade de vida) e objetivas (composição corporal, função pulmonar e teste da caminhada de 6 minutos). Nos pacientes tabagistas, obteve-se o nível de dependência da nicotina pela escala de Fagerstrõm. A interrupção da RP antes do término previsto foi considerada indicativa de não aderência ao programa. RESULTADOS: A proporção de pacientes não-aderentes à RP foi maior nos tabagistas do que nos ex-tabagistas (30,4 por cento vs 11,1 por cento, respectivamente; razão de chance=2,9 (1,6-4,1); p<0,01). Entretanto, os tabagistas atuais que completaram o programa (n=16) apresentaram taxa de absenteísmo à RP similar ao observado nos ex-tabagistas, assim como ganhos equivalentes nas respostas subjetivas (qualidade de vida) e objetivas (distância caminhada). Adicionalmente, houve redução significante no número de cigarros consumidos diariamente e no grau de dependência da nicotina nos tabagistas atuais (p<0,05). CONCLUSÕES: Embora o tabagismo atual reduza a aderência à RP, pacientes tabagistas com DPOC que completam tais programas apresentam ganhos funcionais e na qualidade de vida equivalentes aos observados nos ex-tabagistas. A RP, mesmo sem um programa estruturado de cessação do tabagismo, pode associar-se com redução, ao menos a curto prazo, da dependência da nicotina.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the modulating effects of current smoking on adherence and responses to pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). METHODS: In a prospective study, 18 ex-smokers and 23 current smokers (GOLD stages II-III) were enrolled in a 12-week multidisciplinary, supervised PR program. The patients were assessed clinically and as to subjective variables (dyspnea and health-related quality of life) and objective variables (body composition, pulmonary function and 6-min walking distance). The degree of nicotine dependence in current smokers was assessed by the Fagerstrõm test. Program completion defined PR "adherence". RESULTS: There was a significant association between current smoking and non-adherence to PR with 30.4 percent vs. 11.1 percent and odds ratio=2.9 (1.6-4.1; p<0.01). However, the current smokers who completed the program (n=16) had a similar absentee rate to the ex-smokers, as well as similar gains in the subjective (quality of life) and objective (walked distance) items. Additionally, there was a significant reduction in daily cigarette consumption and in the degree of nicotine dependence in current smokers (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Although current smoking is negatively related to PR adherence, COPD smokers who complete the PR can have similar gains in functionality and quality of life compared to ex-smokers. Moreover, PR may be related to decreased nicotine dependence, even without a formal smoking withdrawal program.

Effectiveness and safety of bronchial thermoplasty in the treatment of severe asthma: a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled clinical trial.

RATIONALE: Bronchial thermoplasty (BT) is a bronchoscopic procedure in which controlled thermal energy is applied to the airway wall to decrease smooth muscle. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of BT versus a sham procedure in subjects with severe asthma who remain symptomatic despite treatment with high-dose inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting beta(2)-agonists. METHODS: A total of 288 adult subjects (Intent-to-Treat [ITT]) randomized to BT or sham control underwent three bronchoscopy procedures. Primary outcome was the difference in Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ) scores from baseline to average of 6, 9, and 12 months (integrated AQLQ). Adverse events and health care use were collected to assess safety. Statistical design and analysis of the primary endpoint was Bayesian. Target posterior probability of superiority (PPS) of BT over sham was 95%, except for the primary endpoint (96.4%). MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: The improvement from baseline in the integrated AQLQ score was superior in the BT group compared with sham (BT, 1.35 +/- 1.10; sham, 1.16 +/- 1.23 [PPS, 96.0% ITT and 97.9% per protocol]). Seventy-nine percent of BT and 64% of sham subjects achieved changes in AQLQ of 0.5 or greater (PPS, 99.6%). Six percent more BT subjects were hospitalized in the treatment period (up to 6 wk after BT). In the posttreatment period (6-52 wk after BT), the BT group experienced fewer severe exacerbations, emergency department (ED) visits, and days missed from work/school compared with the sham group (PPS, 95.5, 99.9, and 99.3%, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: BT in subjects with severe asthma improves asthma-specific quality of life with a reduction in severe exacerbations and healthcare use in the posttreatment period. Clinical trial registered with www.clinialtrials.gov (NCT00231114).

Estudo comparativo da função pulmonar em pacientes submetidos a revascularização do miocárdio com irculação extracorpórea em uso de drenos pleural e mediastinal versus dreno mediastinal / Comparative study of the pulmonary function in patients submitted to myocardial

Objetivo: Comparar as alterações da função pulmonar no período pós-operatório com uso de drenos pleural e mediastinal ou somente dreno mediastinal, verificando se a utilização do dreno pleural, além do mediastinal traz maiores repercussões à função pulmonar no pós-operatório. Essa avaliação auxilia a escolha de exercícios fisioterapêuticos específicos que atendam as necessidades individuais dos pacientes. Método: Dezesseis pacientes com idade média de 65 anos e fatores de risco para doença coronariana foram avaliados. Excluíram-se três pacientes, sendo que o restante foi dividido em dois grupos de acordo com a quantidade de drenos, a saber: Grupo 1 (n = 8), com dreno mediastinal e Grupo 2 (n = 5), com drenos pleural e mediastinal. Todos os pacientes foram submetidos à avaliação da função pulmonar através da mensuração da pressãoinspiratória máxima, da pressão expiratória máxima, do volume corrente e da mobilidade torácica. As medidas foram obtidas no pré e até o quinto dia pós-operatório. Resultados: Em ambos os grupos houve alterações, no pós-operatório, da pressão inspiratória máxima, da pressão expiratória máxima e da mobilidade torácica. Porém, apenas a alteração do volume corrente foi estatisticamente significante (p ≤ 0,05). Conclusão: Os pacientes do Grupo 2 tiveram uma diminuição mais acentuda do volume corrente quando comparados aos pacientes do Grupo 1.

Aim: To compare the alterations of the pulmonary function during the post-operative between patients using pleural and mediastinal drains or only mediastinal drain, verifying if the use of the pleural drain besides the mediastinal brings larger changes in pulmonary selection of physiotherapy specific exercises that involve the individual necessity of patients. Method: We evaluated sixteen patients with an average of 65 years, who present coronary disease. Three patients were excluded and the other 13 were divided into two groups according to the amount of drains, as follows: Group 1 (n = 8), with mediastinal drain and Group 2 (n = 5), with pleural and mediastinal drains. All patients were submitted to pulmonary function evaluation, it measured the maximun inspiratory and expiratory pressures, the tidal volume and the mobility of the thoracic box in the pre-operative and until the fifth post-operative day. Results: In both groups there were changes, in the post-operative period, in the maximun inspiratory and expiratory pressures and in the mobility of the thoracic box. Although, only the tidal volume alterations were statistically significant (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: Patients from Group 2 presented tidal volume reduction when compared to patients from Group.

Comparison between azithromycin and amoxicillin in the treatment of infectious exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of azithromycin and amoxicillin in the treatment of patients with infectious exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. METHODS: This study was conducted at six medical centers across Brazil and included 109 patients from 33 to 82 years of age. Of those, 102 were randomized to receive either azithromycin (500 mg/day for three days, n = 49) or amoxicillin (500 mg every eight hours for ten days, n = 53). The patients were evaluated at the study outset, on day ten, and at one month. Based on the clinical evaluation of the signs and symptoms present on day ten and at one month, the outcomes were classified as cure, improvement, or treatment failure. The microbiological evaluation was made through the culture of sputum samples that were considered appropriate samples only after leukocyte counts and Gram staining. Secondary efficacy evaluations were made in order to analyze symptoms (cough, dyspnea, and expectoration) and pulmonary function. RESULTS: There were no differences between the groups treated with azithromycin or amoxicillin in terms of the percentages of cases in which the outcomes were classified as cure or improvement: 85% vs. 78% (p = 0.368) on day ten; and 83% vs. 78% (p = 0.571) at one month. Similarly, there were no significant differences between the two groups in the secondary efficacy variables or the incidence of adverse effects. CONCLUSION: Azithromycin and amoxicillin present similar efficacy and tolerability in the treatment of acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.