Endothelium-biomarkers for postthrombotic syndrome: a case-control study.

BACKGROUND: The postthrombotic syndrome (PTS) is a long-term complication of deep venous thrombosis (DVT). Increase knowledge on the PTS pathophysiology and novel biomarkers are needed in order to predict PTS development and to improve treatment results. The aim of this study was to analyze novel endothelium-biomarkers for PTS in patients with DVT out of the acute phase. METHODS: A case-control study was conducted. Inclusion criteria were symptomatic and confirmed DVT patients treated with anticoagulants for at least 3 months. Villalta score was performed at the time of inclusion and used to diagnose and classify the severity of PTS. Plasma inter-cellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), P-selectin, fractalkine and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were quantified using cytometric bead array. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) and circulating endothelial cells (CEC) level were quantified by flow cytometry. RESULTS: Thirty two patients and 61 controls were included. PTS patients showed higher levels of CEC (0.56/µl (0.34-1.5) vs. 0.20/µl (0.11-0.77); P  = 0.04) and EPC (0.75/µl (0.38-1.52) vs. 0.09/µl (0.05-0.82); P  = 0.0021) compared to no PTS patients. Patients with PTS had significantly higher levels of fractalkine (387.60 pg/ml (222.30-597.90) vs. 98.00 pg/ml (82.30-193.02); P  = 0.044) than patients without PTS. Fracktalkine levels showed a strong linear correlation with Villalta score, r  = 0.86, P  < 0.0001. No differences were observed in P-selectin, ICAM-1 and VEGF between studied groups. CONCLUSIONS: The formation and early resolution of DVT are characterized by inflammation and endothelial/platelet activation. We have identified possible novel biomarkers such as CEC, EPC and fractalkine for the development of PTS. These results suggest a possible role of these mediators in the maintenance and worsening of PTS turning them into potential therapeutic targets.

Two mutations in the SBDS gene reveal a diagnosis of Shwachman-Diamond syndrome in a patient with atypical symptoms.

We present the case of a 53-yr-old woman with an inherited bone marrow failure coexisting with uncommon extrahematological symptoms, such as cirrhosis and skin abnormalities. Whole-exome sequencing revealed a diagnosis of Shwachman-Diamond syndrome (SDS) with an atypical presentation. Unexpected was the age of disease expression, normally around the pediatric age, with a predominantly median survival age of 36 yr. To our knowledge, she was the first adult patient with a molecular diagnosis of Shwachman-Diamond in Uruguay. The patient was referred to our service when she was 43-yr-old with a history of bone marrow failure with anemia and thrombocytopenia. All secondary causes of pancytopenia were excluded. Bone marrow aspirate and biopsy specimens were hypocellular for the patient's age. Numerous dysplastic features were observed in the three lineages. She had a normal karyotype and normal chromosomal fragility. A diagnosis of low-risk hypoplastic MDS was made. Dermatological examination revealed reticulate skin pigmentation with hypopigmented macules involving the face, neck, and extremities; nail dystrophy; premature graying; and thin hair. Extrahematological manifestations were present (e.g., learning difficulties, short stature). Last, she was diagnosed with cryptogenic liver cirrhosis CHILD C. This rules out all other possible causes of chronic liver disease. This clinical presentation initially oriented the diagnosis toward telomeropathy, so we did a telomeropathy NGS panel that came up negative. Finally, we did an exome sequencing that confirmed the diagnosis of SDS. Using whole-exome sequencing, we were able to find two compound heterozygous mutations in the SBDS gene that were responsible for the phenotype of a patient that was undiagnosed for 10 years. An earlier genetic diagnosis could have influenced our patient's outcome.

TGF-ß/SMAD Pathway Is Modulated by miR-26b-5p: Another Piece in the Puzzle of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Progression.

Clinical and molecular heterogeneity are hallmarks of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), a neoplasm characterized by accumulation of mature and clonal long-lived CD5 + B-lymphocytes. Mutational status of the IgHV gene of leukemic clones is a powerful prognostic tool in CLL, and it is well established that unmutated CLLs (U-CLLs) have worse evolution than mutated cases. Nevertheless, progression and treatment requirement of patients can evolve independently from the mutational status. Microenvironment signaling or epigenetic changes partially explain this different behavior. Thus, we think that detailed characterization of the miRNAs landscape from patients with different clinical evolution could facilitate the understanding of this heterogeneity. Since miRNAs are key players in leukemia pathogenesis and evolution, we aim to better characterize different CLL behaviors by comparing the miRNome of clinically progressive U-CLLs vs. stable U-CLLs. Our data show up-regulation of miR-26b-5p, miR-106b-5p, and miR-142-5p in progressive cases and indicate a key role for miR-26b-5p during CLL progression. Specifically, up-regulation of miR-26b-5p in CLL cells blocks TGF-ß/SMAD pathway by down-modulation of SMAD-4, resulting in lower expression of p21-Cip1 kinase inhibitor and higher expression of c-Myc oncogene. This work describes a new molecular mechanism linking CLL progression with TGF-ß modulation and proposes an alternative strategy to explore in CLL therapy.

Recommendations for the diagnosis and management of persons with suspected vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) / Recomendaciones para diagnostico y manejo de personas con trombocitopenia trombotica inmune inducida por vacunas (VITT)

Abstract In recent months, rare cases of thrombosis at unusual sites associated with thrombocytopenia, occurring within a typical risk window (i.e., 4-28 days) after receiving SARS CoV2 vaccines, have been reported. Healthcare professionals should be prepared to detect these cases on time. The Expert Panel of the Knowledge Management and Transfer Network conducted a free search of the related literature. With the available information and the clinical expertise of the working group, we formulated, reviewed, and endorsed recommendations for the timely suspicion, diagnosis (case definitions, the use of initial laboratory and imaging tests, specific tests), and management of these thrombotic conditions. This document is considered a living document that will be updated as new evidence emerges, and recommendations may change over time.

Resumen En meses recientes se han reportado casos raros de trombocitopenia y trombosis en sitios inusuales, que ocurren dentro de una ventana de riesgo típica ( por ejemplo de 4 a 28 días) luego de recibir vacunas de SARS CoV 2. Los profesionales de la salud deben estar preparados para detectar estos casos a tiempo. Un panel de expertos y una red de transferencia de conocimiento realizó una búsqueda libre de literatura seleccionada. Con la información disponible y la experticia clínica del grupo de trabajo revisamos y dimos recomendaciones para la sospecha temprana, el diagnostico (definición de caso, el uso de pruebas de laboratorio especificas y de imágenes diagnósticas) para le manejo de estas condiciones tromboticas. Este documento es considerado un documento vivo que debe ser actualizado a medida que surja nueva evidencia y las recomendaciones vayan cambiando con el tiempo

Comparación del potencial de generación de trombina en puerperios de parto con puerperios de cesárea. Resultados preliminares

Resumen: Introducción: El embarazo es un estado asociado con profundos cambios en el sistema hemostático determinando un estado de hipercoagulabilidad relacionado con un aumento en generación de trombina, y como tal, un factor de riesgo bien establecido de Enfermedad Tromboembólica Venosa. El objetivo del presente trabajo es determinar y comparar la generación de trombina en los puerperios de parto con puerperios cesáreas. Evaluar el potencial de generación de trombina como un factor de riesgo adicional para decidir la indicación tromboprofilaxis. Metodología: Estudio analítico observacional prospectivo realizado en el Hospital Pereira Rossell, octubre de 2018 a agosto del 2019. La medición del potencial endógeno de trombina se realizó en el analizador de coagulación BCS® XP automatizado en el Hospital de Clínicas. Resultados: 220 embarazadas, 70 cesáreas (C) y 150 partos (P). El potencial endogeno de trombina (ETP AUC2) fue menor estadísticamente en el grupo P, valor p < 0,001.La concentración máxima de generación de trombina calculado (ETPB AUC2) fue estadísticamente menor en el grupo P valor p = 0,010. Discusión: Hay una diferencia estadísticamente significativa cuando comparamos los parámetros de ETP AUC2 y ETPB AUC2 de los grupos de partos vs cesárea, siendo menor para partos. Conclusión: Las cesáreas presentan un ETP AUC2, ETPB AUC2 mayor que los partos. Esto permitiría seleccionar pacientes con mayor riesgo de enfermedad tromboembólica venosa. La cesárea se identificó como un evento generador de trombina probablemente asociado al mayor daño endotelial que produce.

Abstract: Introduction: Pregnancy is a state associated with profound changes in the hemostatic system, determining a state of hypercoagulability related to an increase in thrombin generation, and as such, a well-established risk factor for Venous Thromboembolic Disease. The objective of this work is to determine and compare the generation of thrombin in postpartum delivery with postpartum cesarean section. Evaluate the potential for thrombin generation as an additional risk factor to decide the thromboprophylaxis indication. Methodology: Prospective observational analytical study carried out at the Pereira Rossell Hospital, from October 2018 to August 2019. The measurement of the endogenous potential of thrombin was carried out in the automated BCS® XP coagulation analyzer at the Hospital de Clínicas. Results: 220 pregnant women, 70 cesarean sections (C) and 150 deliveries (P). The endogenous thrombin potential (ETP AUC2) was statistically lower in group P, p-value < 0.001. The maximum concentration of thrombin generation calculated (ETPB AUC2) was statistically lower in group P, p-value = 0.010. Discussion: There is a statistically significant difference when we compare the ETP AUC2 and ETPB AUC2 parameters of the delivery vs. cesarean section groups, being lower for deliveries. Conclusion: Caesarean sections have a higher ETP AUC2, ETPB AUC2 than deliveries. This would allow selecting patients with a higher risk of venous thromboembolic disease. Cesarean section was identified as a thrombin-generating event probably associated with the greater endothelial damage it produces.

Resumo: Introdução: A gravidez é um estado associado a profundas alterações no sistema hemostático, determinando um estado de hipercoagulabilidade relacionado ao aumento da geração de trombina e, como tal, um fator de risco bem estabelecido para Doença Tromboembólica Venosa. O objetivo deste trabalho é determinar e comparar a geração de trombina no pós-parto com a cesariana pós-parto. Avaliar o potencial de geração de trombina como fator de risco adicional para decidir a indicação de tromboprofilaxia. Metodologia: Estudo analítico observacional prospectivo realizado no Hospital Pereira Rossell, de outubro de 2018 a agosto de 2019. A medição do potencial endógeno da trombina foi realizada no analisador de coagulação automatizado BCS® XP do Hospital de Clínicas. Resultados: 220 gestantes, 70 cesarianas (C) e 150 partos (P). O potencial endógeno da trombina (ETP AUC2) foi estatisticamente menor no grupo P, valor p < 0,001. A concentração máxima de geração de trombina calculada (ETPB AUC2) foi estatisticamente menor no grupo P, valor p = 0,010. Discussão: Há diferença estatisticamente significativa quando comparamos os parâmetros ETP AUC2 e ETPB AUC2 dos grupos de parto vs. cesariana, sendo menor para partos. Conclusão: As cesarianas têm uma ETP AUC2, ETPB AUC2 mais alta do que os partos. Isso permitiria selecionar pacientes com maior risco de doença tromboembólica venosa. A cesariana foi identificada como evento gerador de trombina, provavelmente associado ao maior dano endotelial que produz.

Germline CEBPA mutation in familial acute myeloid leukemia.

Myeloid Neoplasms with germline predisposition become part of 2016 World Health Organization (WHO) classification of hematological malignancies since 2016. CCAAT/enhancer binding protein-alpha (CEBPA) is a myeloid transcription factor located in chromosome 19q. Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with biallelic mutations of CEBPA AML with recurrent genetic abnormalities according to WHO classification. The inheritance of a germline CEBPA mutation predisposes to the development of AML with autosomal dominant inheritance. Familial CEBPA AML share characteristics with somatic CEBPA AML. However, a higher relapse incidence is reported. We present the case of a 46-years-old male with family history of acute leukemia who was diagnosed with single mutated CEBPA acute myeloid leukemia. The same mutation was found in two of his siblings. The clinical suspicion and proper diagnosis of familial cases is necessary, especially when a related allogenic transplant is indicated in order to select an adequate donor.

[Compliance with post-cesarean section thromboprophylaxis recommendations. A cross sectional study in 233 women]. / Adherencia a las recomendaciones de tromboprofilaxis post-cesárea: estudio de corte transversal.

BACKGROUND: Cesarean section increases four times the risk of venous thromboembolism compared to vaginal delivery. The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists guidelines are used at our service. A written alert was designed to stratify patients at high, intermediate or low risk making a suggestion for thromboprophylaxis. AIM: To assess the compliance with the guidelines and to evaluate the impact of a written alert in the thromboprophylaxis compliance in women subjected to caesarean section. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Review of medical records of 233 women aged 19 to 32 years, subjected to a caesarean section in a Gynecology Service, between 2016-2017. RESULTS: Compliance with recommendations was observed in 29% of patients (68/233), 86% in the low-risk group, 26% in the intermediate risk group and 100% in the high risk group. In 41/233 (18%) of patients, a written alert was included in the medical record. Compliance with recommendations in the presence of the written alert was 61% (25/41 women) compared to 22% (43/192) in those lacking the alert (p < 0.01). In women whose emergency caesarean section was the only risk factor, the compliance with the recommendation was 8%, compared with 30% among those who had at least one thrombotic risk factor associated with caesarean section (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: In this cross-sectional study, we observed a low compliance with thromboprophylaxis guidelines in cesarean women. We observed that the use of a written alert improved the compliance with thromboprophylaxis.

2021 Update of the International Council for Standardization in Haematology Recommendations for Laboratory Measurement of Direct Oral Anticoagulants.

In 2018, the International Council for Standardization in Haematology (ICSH) published a consensus document providing guidance for laboratories on measuring direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). Since that publication, several significant changes related to DOACs have occurred, including the approval of a new DOAC by the Food and Drug Administration, betrixaban, and a specific DOAC reversal agent intended for use when the reversal of anticoagulation with apixaban or rivaroxaban is needed due to life-threatening or uncontrolled bleeding, andexanet alfa. In addition, this ICSH Working Party recognized areas where additional information was warranted, including patient population considerations and updates in point-of-care testing. The information in this manuscript supplements our previous ICSH DOAC laboratory guidance document. The recommendations provided are based on (1) information from peer-reviewed publications about laboratory measurement of DOACs, (2) contributing author's personal experience/expert opinion and (3) good laboratory practice.

5-Azacytidine restores interleukin 6-increased production in mesenchymal stromal cells from myelodysplastic patients.

INTRODUCTION: Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a heterogeneous group of clonal hematological diseases. In addition to defects in hematologic progenitor and stem cells, dysfunctions in the bone marrow microenvironment (BMM) participate in the MDS pathogenesis. Furthermore, the immune response is deregulated by the pro-inflammatory response prevailing in low-risk MDS, while immunosuppression predominates in high-risk MDS. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC), part of the BMM, are characterized by plastic adherent growth and multipotentiality. They exhibit immunomodulatory properties and sustain hematopoiesis. There is conflicting evidence regarding their status in MDS. The aim of this study was to characterize MDS-MSC and evaluate the effect of 5-Azacytidine. METHODS: The MSC from MDS patients and controls were cultured and characterized according to the International Society of Cell Therapy recommendations. Immunomodulatory properties were assessed by studying the MSD cytokine production, using the cytometric bead array. We evaluated the effect of 5-Azacytidine on the MSC cytokine production. RESULTS: We included 35 MDS patients and 22 controls. The MSC from patients and controls were cultured and characterized. The MSC from patients showed morphological differences, but there were no differences in immunophenotype or multipotentiality. The interleukin 6 (IL-6) was the main MSC secreted cytokine. The MDS-MSC produced higher levels of IL-6, IL-17, interferon gamma, or interferon γ (INF-γ), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). The in vitro 5-Azacytidine treatment induced a significant decrease in the IL-6 production by MDS-MSC. CONCLUSIONS: The MDS-MSC show an increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The in vitro treatment with 5-Azacytidine lead to a significant reduction in the IL-6 production by the MDS-MSC, restoring the IL-6 levels to those found in controls. The MSC produced inflammatory cytokines involved in the MDS pathogenesis, representing a potential future therapeutic target. Moreover, 5-Azacytidine may have a stromal effect, modulating the immune response in MDS.

[Iron deficiency in reproductive age university women at the School of Medicine, Uruguay]. / Deficiencia de hierro en mujeres universitarias en edad reproductiva en la Facultad de Medicina, Uruguay.

Introduction: Disorders of iron metabolism are very common pathological conditions. Iron deficiency, with or without anemia, is estimated to affect more than 2 billion people.The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of iron deficiency and anemia and their predisposing factors in a group of premenopausal women, university students of the School of Medicine of the University of the Republic in Uruguay. Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was carried out, including women of reproductive age, university students of the Faculty of Medicine. They were interviewed in order to collect clinical data and monthly menstrual volume was recorded through a pictogram. A hemogram was performed and ferritin levels were determined. Results: 196 women aged from 18 to 37 years were included. The prevalence of iron deficiency was 8.7% (n = 17) and the prevalence of anemia was 2.1% (n = 4). The presence of iron deficiency was associated with a lower consumption of red meat (p = 0.024), a higher menstrual volume (p = 0.018) and a higher frequency of abnormal uterine bleeding (p = 0.019). Conclusions: This study shows the high frequency of iron deficiency in healthy women in relation to abnormal uterine bleeding and low consumption of red meat, which raises the need to implement programs that promote educational measures in order to promote early consultation and avoid anemia and iron deficiency in these women of reproductive age.

Introducción: Los trastornos del metabolismo del hierro son condiciones patológicas muy frecuentes. La deficiencia de hierro, con o sin anemia, se estima que afecta a más de 2 billones de personas. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la prevalencia de deficiencia de hierro y anemia y los factores predisponentes en un grupo de mujeres premenopáusicas, estudiantes universitarias de la Facultad de Medicina de la Universidad de la República en Uruguay. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional de corte transversal donde se incluyeron mujeres en edad reproductiva estudiantes universitarias de la Facultad de Medicina. Se les realizó una entrevista con el objetivo de recabar los datos clínicos y se registró el volumen menstrual mensual a través de un pictograma. Se realizó un hemograma y se determinaron los niveles de ferritina. Resultados: Se incluyeron 196 mujeres de 18 a 37 años. La prevalencia de ferropenia fue 8.7% (n=17) y la prevalencia de anemia fue de 2.1% (n=4). La presencia de ferropenia se asoció a un menor consumo de carne roja (p=0.024), a un mayor volumen menstrual (p=0.018) y a una mayor frecuencia de sangrado uterino anormal (p=0,019). Conclusión: Este estudio pone de manifiesto la frecuencia elevada de deficiencia de hierro en mujeres sanas en relación con sangrado uterino anormal y bajo consumo de carne roja, lo que plantea la necesidad de implementar programas que promuevan medidas educativas a fin de promover la consulta precoz y evitar la anemia y ferropenia en estas mujeres en edad reproductiva.

Adhesión insuficiente a la prevención de la enfermedad tromboembólica venosa en Hospitales Uruguayos. Un grave problema en salud / Insufficient adherence to the prevention of venous thromboembolic disease in Uruguayan Hospitals. A serious health problem / Insuficiente adesão à prevenção da doença tromboembólica venosa em hospitais uruguaios. Um sério problema de saúde

Resumen: Introducción: La Enfermedad Tromboembólica Venosa (ETV) es una complicación médica grave, frecuente y prevenible en el paciente hospitalizado. Si bien se ha demostrado la eficacia de su prevención (farmacológica y/o mecánica), su adhesión es insuficiente a nivel internacional y nacional. Objetivos: Contribuir al conocimiento de la realidad nacional sobre tromboprofilaxis en el paciente hospitalizado en vistas a optimizar su adherencia. Conocer la prevalencia del riesgo de ETV en la población analizada y evaluar la adherencia a la indicación de tromboprofilaxis. Metodología. Estudio observacional, descriptivo, transversal y multicéntrico de todos los pacientes médico-quirúrgicos internados en salas de cuidado moderado del Hospital de Clínicas, Hospital Maciel y Sanatorio Americano, durante el 26 y 27 de Abril 2017. Se estudiaron variables sociodemográficas y el porcentaje de pacientes en riesgo de ETV. En los pacientes de riesgo se valoró el porcentaje que reciben tromboprofilaxis farmacológica. Resultados. Se incluyeron 427 pacientes. 63% (269) presentaban patología médica y 37% (158) patología quirúrgica. 294 (68,9%) se encontraban en riesgo de ETV, de los cuales 55,8% (164) recibían profilaxis farmacológica. No la recibían por omisión 19,4% (57), por contraindicación 18,4% (54) y por estar anticoagulados 6,4% (19). Ninguno de los pacientes con contraindicación para tromboprofilaxis farmacológica recibía medidas mecánicas. La población de pacientes en riesgo que recibían tromboprofilaxis era estadísticamente mayor en los pacientes médicos (66,7%, 110/165) que en los quirúrgicos (41,9%, 54/129) p < 0,001. De los 130 pacientes que no tenían indicación de tromboprofilaxis farmacológica 9,3% (12) la recibían. Todos estos pacientes presentaban patología médica. Conclusiones: En nuestro estudio encontramos un 68,9 % de pacientes en riesgo, lo que confirma que es un problema grave y frecuente. Con respecto a la tromboprofilaxis, si bien objetivamos una franca mejoría con respecto a estudios nacionales previos, creemos que es aún insuficiente y debemos seguir trabajando esta línea.

Abstract: Introduction: Venous Thromboembolic Disease (VTE) is a serious, frequent and preventable medical complication in hospitalized patients. Although the efficacy of its prevention (pharmacological and / or mechanical) has been demonstrated, its adherence is insufficient at the international and national level. Objectives: Contribute to the knowledge of the national reality on thromboprophylaxis in hospitalized patients in order to optimize their adherence. To know the prevalence of the risk of VTE in the analyzed population and evaluate adherence to the indication of thromboprophylaxis. Methodology: Observational, descriptive, cross-sectional and multicenter study of all medical-surgical patients admitted to moderate care wards of Hospital de Clínicas, Hospital Maciel and Sanatorio Americano, during April 26 and 27, 2017. Sociodemographic variables and the percentage of patients were studied at risk of VTE. In patients at risk, the percentage who received pharmacological thromboprophylaxis was assessed. Results: 427 patients were included. 63% (269) presented medical pathology and 37% (158) surgical pathology. 294 (68.9%) were at risk of VTE, of which 55.8% (164) were receiving pharmacological prophylaxis. They did not receive it by omission 19.4% (57), due to contraindication 18.4% (54) and because they were anticoagulated 6.4% (19). None of the patients with a contraindication for pharmacological thromboprophylaxis received mechanical measures. The population of patients at risk who received thromboprophylaxis was statistically higher in medical patients (66.7%, 110/165) than in surgical patients (41.9%, 54/129) p <0.001. Of the 130 patients who did not have an indication for drug thromboprophylaxis, 9.3% (12) received it. All these patients presented medical pathology. Conclusions: In our study we found 68.9% of patients at risk, which confirms that it is a serious and frequent problem. With regard to thromboprophylaxis, although we observed a clear improvement compared to previous national studies, we believe that it is still insufficient and we must continue working on this line.

Resumo: Introdução: A Doença Tromboembólica Venosa (TEV) é uma complicação médica grave, frequente e evitável em pacientes hospitalizados. Embora a eficácia da sua prevenção (farmacológica e / ou mecânica) tenha sido demonstrada, a sua adesão é insuficiente a nível internacional e nacional. Objetivos: Contribuir para o conhecimento da realidade nacional sobre tromboprofilaxia em pacientes hospitalizados de forma a otimizar a sua adesão. Conhecer a prevalência de risco de TEV na população analisada e avaliar a adesão à indicação de tromboprofilaxia. Metodologia: Estudo observacional, descritivo, transversal e multicêntrico de todos os pacientes médico-cirúrgicos internados em unidades de cuidados moderados do Hospital de Clínicas, Hospital Maciel e Sanatorio Americano, durante os dias 26 e 27 de abril de 2017. Foram estudadas variáveis sociodemográficas e o percentual de pacientes em risco de TEV. Em pacientes de risco, foi avaliada a porcentagem que recebeu tromboprofilaxia farmacológica. Resultados: 427 pacientes foram incluídos. 63% (269) apresentavam patologia médica e 37% (158) patologia cirúrgica. 294 (68,9%) estavam em risco de TEV, dos quais 55,8% (164) recebiam profilaxia farmacológica. Não o receberam por omissão 19,4% (57), por contra-indicação 18,4% (54) e por estarem anticoagulados 6,4% (19). Nenhum dos pacientes com contra-indicação para tromboprofilaxia farmacológica recebeu medidas mecânicas. A população de pacientes em risco que recebeu tromboprofilaxia foi estatisticamente maior em pacientes médicos (66,7%, 110/165) do que em pacientes cirúrgicos (41,9%, 54/129) p <0,001. Dos 130 pacientes que não tinham indicação de tromboprofilaxia medicamentosa, 9,3% (12) a receberam. Todos esses pacientes apresentavam patologia médica. Conclusões: Em nosso estudo encontramos 68,9% de pacientes em risco, o que confirma que se trata de um problema grave e frequente. No que se refere à tromboprofilaxia, embora tenhamos observado uma clara melhora em relação aos estudos nacionais anteriores, acreditamos que ainda é insuficiente e devemos continuar trabalhando nessa linha.

LPL protein in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia have different origins in Mutated and Unmutated patients. Advances for a new prognostic marker in CLL.

Lipoprotein lipase (LPL) mRNA expression in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is associated with an unmutated immunoglobulin profile and poor clinical outcome. We evaluated the subcellular localization of LPL protein in CLL cells that did or did not express LPL mRNA. Our results show that LPL protein is differently located in CLL cells depending on whether it is incorporated from the extracellular medium in mutated CLL or generated de novo by leukaemic cells of unmutated patients. The specific quantification of endogenous LPL protein correlates with mRNA expression levels and mutational IGHV status, suggesting LPL protein as a possible reliable prognostic marker in CLL.

International Council for Standardization in Haematology (ICSH) Recommendations for Laboratory Measurement of Direct Oral Anticoagulants.

This guidance document was prepared on behalf of the International Council for Standardization in Haematology (ICSH) for providing haemostasis-related guidance documents for clinical laboratories. This inaugural coagulation ICSH document was developed by an ad hoc committee, comprised of international clinical and laboratory direct acting oral anticoagulant (DOAC) experts. The committee developed consensus recommendations for laboratory measurement of DOACs (dabigatran, rivaroxaban, apixaban and edoxaban), which would be germane for laboratories assessing DOAC anticoagulation. This guidance document addresses all phases of laboratory DOAC measurements, including pre-analytical (e.g. preferred time sample collection, preferred sample type, sample stability), analytical (gold standard method, screening and quantifying methods) and post analytical (e.g. reporting units, quality assurance). The committee addressed the use and limitations of screening tests such as prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time as well as viscoelastic measurements of clotting blood and point of care methods. Additionally, the committee provided recommendations for the proper validation or verification of performance of laboratory assays prior to implementation for clinical use, and external quality assurance to provide continuous assessment of testing and reporting method.

Compliance with the 2009 Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists guidelines for venous thromboembolic disease prophylaxis in pregnancy and postpartum period in Uruguay.

: Venous thromboembolism remains as one of the leading causes of maternal death. Prevention of venous thromboembolism in the obstetric population is challenging as recommendations for prophylaxis have low grade of evidence. Risk factors and prophylaxis guidelines have been highlighted by Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. In 2014, we developed a written alert following this guidelines to guide thromboprophylaxis. The aim of this study is to assess recommendations compliance. This study was conducted at University-Hospital in Uruguay from January 2014 to December 2016. A total of 1035 women were enrolled and stratified in high, intermediate or low risk based on Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists guidelines. Thromboprophylaxis was recommended for women at intermediate and high risk. Women were followed up to assess symptomatic thromboembolism or haemorrhagic complications. A total of 309 were pregnant and 731 puerperal. Median age was 24 (19-29) years old. Of them, 3.0% (n = 31) were at high risk and 35.4% (n = 366) at intermediate risk. All high-risk women received prophylaxis with low-molecular-weight heparin. Of the 366 intermediate-risk women, 52.7% received prophylaxis. Venous thromboembolism was developed in only one woman of the intermediate group, who had received prophylaxis. Bleeding complications were not observed. Awareness of the thrombotic risk, as conferred by an easy and suitable risk assessment, has the potential to improve venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in pregnant and puerperal women. We have a good guidelines compliance with the written alert in the high-risk women group. However, we have to improve low-molecular-weight heparin indication in intermediate-risk group, especially in postcaesarean women.

Estudio del ratio de FLT3-ITD como factor pronóstico en leucemias agudas mieloides: primeros casos estudiados en Uruguay / Analysis of the FLT3-ITD ratio as a prognostic factor in acute myeloid leukemias. First cases studied in Uruguay

Introducción: en los últimos años ha existido un avance significativo en el conocimiento biológico de la leucemia aguda mieloide (LAM) que se ha traducido en que el tratamiento de los pacientes afectados se realice guiado por el perfil citogenético y molecular. Las duplicaciones internas en tándem del gen FLT3 (FLT3-ITD) representan las mutaciones más frecuentes en LAM y confieren un mal pronóstico en pacientes con riesgo citogenético intermedio. Se ha reportado que la presencia de un ratio FLT3-ITD elevado (relación entre cantidad de alelo portador de ITD y de alelo salvaje) confiere un mayor pronóstico adverso. Objetivo: estandarizar una técnica, no disponible en Uruguay, para determinar el ratio de FLT3-ITD en pacientes portadores de LAM de riesgo citogenético intermedio. Discutir los primeros casos de LAM FLT3+ a los que se realizó el ratio. Material y método: para la detección de FLT3-ITD se amplificó un fragmento correspondiente a los exones 14 y 15 del gen en muestras de médula ósea al debut de la enfermedad. En los casos positivos se determinó el ratio de FLT3-ITD mediante análisis de fragmentos por electroforesis capilar. Resultados: en este trabajo mostramos la estandarización de un método para la determinación del ratio de FLT3-ITD y los primeros casos analizados en nuestro país. Se estudiaron 12 pacientes y se detectó la presencia de FLT3-ITD en tres de ellos. El ratio de FLT3-ITD encontrado fue en dos casos menor a 0,8 y en un caso mayor o igual a 0,8. Conclusiones: disponemos de una técnica de determinación del ratio de FLT3-ITD con importante valor pronóstico para pacientes portadores de LAM.

Abstract Introduction: In recent years, significant progress has been made in the biological knowledge of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), which has been reflected on treatment of affected patients being guided by cytogenetics and molecular profiling. FLT3 internal tandem duplications (FLT3/ITDs) represent the most frequent mutations in AML and confer a bad prognosis in patients with intermediate cytogenetic risk. It has been reported that the presence of a high FLT3-ITD ratio (relationship between number of ITD carrier allele and wild type allele). Objective: To standardize a technique, still not available in Uruguay, to determine the FLT3-ITD ratio in patients carriers of AML of intermediate cytogenetic risk. To discuss the first cases of AML FLT3+ who underwent ratio analysis. Methods: In order to identify FLT3-ITD, the fragment corresponding to exons 14 and 15 of the gene was amplified in bone marrow samples upon debut of the disease. In the cases it was positive, the FLT3-ITD ratio was determined by the analysis of fragments with capillary electrophoresis. Results: This study presented the standardization of a method to determine the FLT3-ITD ratio and the first cases analysed in our country. Twelve patients were studied and the presence of FLT3-ITD was detected in three of them. In two cases, the FLT3-ITD ratio found was below 0.8 and in one case it was greater than or equal to 0.8. Conclusions: We have a technique to determine the FLT3-ITD ratio with an important prognostic value for patients carriers of AML.

Resumo Introdução: nos últimos anos observou-se um avanço significativo do conhecimento biológico da leucemia aguda mieloide (LAM) que fez com que o tratamento destes pacientes seja orientado por seus perfis citogenético e molecular. As duplicações internas no tandem do gen FLT3 (FLT3-ITD) são as mutações mais frequentes na LAM e conferem um mal prognóstico em pacientes com risco citogenético intermediário. Foi descrito que uma proporção de FLT3-ITD elevada (relação entre a quantidade do alelo portador de ITD e do alelo selvagem) está vinculada com um maior prognóstico adverso. Objetivo: padronizar uma técnica, não disponível no Uruguai, para determinar a proporção de FLT3-ITD em pacientes portadores de LAM com risco citogenético intermediário. Discutir os primeiros casos de LAM FLT3+ cuja proporção foi calculada. Materiais e métodos: para a detecção de FLT3-ITD, foi realizada a ampliação de um fragmento correspondente aos exons 14 e 15 do gen em amostras de medula óssea no inicio da doença. Nos casos positivos, a proporção de FLT3-ITD foi determinada usando análise de fragmentos por eletroforese capilar. Resultados: neste trabalho mostramos a padronização de um método para a determinação da proporção de FLT3-ITD e os primeiros casos estudados no nosso país. Foram estudados 12 pacientes e a presença de FLT3-ITD foi determinada em 3. Em dois casos a proporção de FLT3-ITD era menor que 0,8 e em 1 caso maior ou igual a 0,8. Conclusões: contamos com uma técnica de determinação da proporção de FLT3-ITD com importante valor prognóstico para pacientes portadores de LAM.

Results of high-risk neutropenia therapy of hematology-oncology patients in a university hospital in Uruguay.

BACKGROUND: Febrile neutropenia is an important cause of mortality and morbidity in hematology-oncology patients undergoing chemotherapy. The management of febrile neutropenia is typically algorithm-driven. The aim of this study was to assess the results of a standardized protocol for the treatment of febrile neutropenia. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study (2011-2012) was conducted of patients with high-risk neutropenia in a hematology-oncology service. RESULTS: Forty-four episodes of 17 patients with a median age of 48 years (range: 18-78 years) were included. The incidence of febrile neutropenia was 61.4%. The presence of febrile neutropenia was associated with both the duration and severity of neutropenia. Microbiological agents were isolated from different sources in 59.3% of the episodes with bacteremia isolated from blood being the most prevalent (81.3%). Multiple drug-resistant gram-negative bacilli were isolated in 62.5% of all microbiologically documented infections. Treatment of 63% of the episodes in which the initial treatment was piperacillin/tazobactam needed to be escalated to meropenem. The mortality rate due to febrile neutropenia episodes was 18.5%. CONCLUSION: The high rate of gram-negative bacilli resistant to piperacillin/tazobactam (front-line antibiotics in our protocol) and the early need to escalate to carbapenems raises the question as to whether it is necessary to change the current protocol.

Results of high-risk neutropenia therapy of hematology-oncology patients in a university hospital in Uruguay

Background: Febrile neutropenia is an important cause of mortality and morbidity in hematology-oncology patients undergoing chemotherapy. The management of febrile neutropenia is typically algorithm-driven. The aim of this study was to assess the results of a standardized protocol for the treatment of febrile neutropenia. Methods: A retrospective cohort study (2011-2012) was conducted of patients with high-risk neutropenia in a hematology-oncology service. Results: Forty-four episodes of 17 patients with a median age of 48 years (range: 18-78 years) were included. The incidence of febrile neutropenia was 61.4%. The presence of febrile neutropenia was associated with both the duration and severity of neutropenia. Microbiological agents were isolated from different sources in 59.3% of the episodes with bacteremia iso- lated from blood being the most prevalent (81.3%). Multiple drug-resistant gram-negative bacilli were isolated in 62.5% of all microbiologically documented infections. Treatment of 63% of the episodes in which the initial treatment was piperacillin/tazobactam needed to be escalated to meropenem. The mortality rate due to febrile neutropenia episodes was 18.5%. Conclusion: The high rate of gram-negative bacilli resistant to piperacillin/tazobactam (frontline antibiotics in our protocol) and the early need to escalate to carbapenems raises the question as to whether it is necessary to change the current protocol. .

Uso de rituximab en trombocitopenia inmune: experiencia en el Hospital de Clínicas / Use of rituximab in immune thrombocytopenia at the University Hospital

Introducción: rituximab es un anticuerpo monoclonal que se une específicamente al antígeno CD20 expresado en los linfocitos B. El uso de rituximab en el tratamiento de la trombocitopenia inmune refractaria no se encuentra aprobado en su ficha técnica. Objetivo: describir las características clínicas, la respuesta terapéutica y los aspectos vinculados a la seguridad con el uso de rituximab en los pacientes con trombocitopenia inmune refractaria asistidos en la Cátedra de Hematología del Hospital de Clínicas y revisar la evidencia sobre el beneficio clínico esperado en este grupo de pacientes. Material y método: se realizó un estudio descriptivo de los pacientes con trombocitopenia inmune refractaria asistidos en la Cátedra de Hematología del Hospital de Clínicas a quienes se les prescribió rituximab. Se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica en PubMed sobre el uso de rituximab en este tipo de patología. Resultados: se trataron cuatro pacientes con trombocitopenia inmune refractaria con rituximab. Se obtuvo respuesta en tres de cuatro pacientes. La media de tiempo de respuesta fue 9,25 semanas. La respuesta se ha mantenido en los tres pacientes. No se registraron efectos adversos durante la perfusión de rituximab. La evidencia publicada se limita a estudios observacionales, en adultos, con pocos pacientes, habiendo mostrado respuestas favorables. Conclusiones: existen limitaciones en la evidencia sobre el tratamiento de la trombocitopenia inmune refractaria, pero rituximab constituye una alternativa efectiva. Es indispensable la integración clínica para monitorizar la efectividad y seguridad del uso de anticuerpos monoclonales, especialmente en indicaciones no aprobadas...