Proposal of a prophylactic photobiomodulation protocol for chemotherapy-induced oral and oropharyngeal mucositis: a randomized clinical trial.

Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) is widely used in oncology settings, but lack of assessment standardization is the main barrier to optimization of clinical protocols. This study analyzed three PBMT protocols for preventing oral and oropharyngeal mucositis (OM) in patients undergoing chemotherapy (CT) and/or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). This is a preliminary randomized blind clinical trial. Group 1 received intraoral prophylactic PBMT, Group 2 received intraoral and oropharyngeal PBMT, and Group 3 received intraoral, oropharyngeal, and extraoral PBMT. The applications were from the first day of CT to day + 10. Clinicodemographic data, CT regimens, types of HSCT, hematological exams, occurrence/severity of OM, odynophagia, and OM-related opportunistic infections were assessed. Sixty participants (age range: 18-74 years) were included; 70% of them underwent CT and 30% HSCT. About 43.3% of patients had OM, while odynophagia was reported by 23.3%. Both Groups 1 and 2 revealed better results. Multivariate analysis showed that HSCT directly influenced the occurrence of OM. Individuals who had undergone allogeneic HSCT were 1.93 times more likely to develop OM (p < 0.001). Group 3 exhibited a higher frequency of OM, albeit of lower grades. This group consisted of half the population who had undergone HSCT, had the highest percentage of melphalan use, and had the lowest mean leukocyte count. The three proposed protocols were effective in preventing and reducing OM, with good tolerance and no reported adverse effects. PBMT is a safe and effective approach to OM prophylaxis in adults undergoing CT/HSCT.

Leukemia/lymphoma oral infiltration and its impact on disease outcomes: A Brazilian study.

OBJECTIVE: Oral malignant infiltrations (OMI) are relevant for the diagnosis and prognosis of leukemia/lymphoma. This study analysed the oral health status and OMI of individuals with leukemia/lymphoma. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective analysis (2010-2021) of data from individuals seen at a specialized hospital-based dental service in Brazil. RESULTS: A total of 781 cases of leukemia/lymphoma were surveyed. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (30.1%), acute myeloid leukemia (AML; 26.0%), and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (22.2%) were the most common diagnoses. The first (21.3%) and second (19.3%) decades of life were the most affected. Overall, dental caries (36.7%) and periodontal changes (34.6%) were the most frequent oral conditions. OMI occurred in 25 (3.2%) individuals. Lesions mainly involved the gingiva (80%) and patients diagnosed with AML (64%). Death (p < 0.001) and worse periodontal condition (p = 0.036) were more frequent among adults with OMI than among those without OMI. Death (p = 0.002) was more frequent among paediatric individuals with OMI than among those without OMI. When controlling for underlying disease, no association was observed between OMI and these outcomes. CONCLUSION: Oral status of individuals with leukemia, particularly those with acute leukemia or lymphoma, should be closely monitored since one or multiple conditions may occur, including OMI, which may influence disease outcomes.

Residency training for minimally invasive surgery.

OBJECTIVE: to develop a training program in minimally invasive surgery, based on simulation and with an emphasis on the acquisition of laparoscopic competences. METHODS: this was a prospective, observational study carried out at a university hospital in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, between April 2020 and January 2021. We recruited residents of surgical specialties for structured, progressive training according to instructional principles to promote learning, such as motivation, activation, demonstration, application, and integration. We filmed the skill tests at the program's beginning, middle, and end, which were then anonymously evaluated by a surgical education expert. Individual performances were scored using the global assessment tools "GOALS" and "specific checklist for suture". At the end, all participants received individual feedback and completed a questionnaire to assess the impact of training on the Kirkpatrick model. RESULTS: 43 residents completed the program. The evolution of performances was evident and grew between tests. The average achievements were 29% in the initial test, 43% in the intermediate test, and 88% in the final test, with significant differences between all mean scores, with H=97.59, GL=2, p<0.0001. The program evaluation and learning perceptions were excellent, but only 10.7% of residents felt fully capable of performing unsupervised, low-complexity laparoscopic surgery at the end of training. CONCLUSIONS: the training program developed in this study proved to be feasible and promising as a strategy for teaching laparoscopic surgery.

Acute invasive fungal rhinosinusitis in pediatric patients with oncohematological diseases

Abstract Introduction Invasive fungal diseases represent important causes of morbidity and mortality among pediatric oncohematological patients. Acute invasive fungal rhinosinusitis is a rare and aggressive disease that occurs mainly in immunocompromised patients. The mortality rate is high and therefore, accurate and early diagnosis is essential. Objectives The aim of this study was to describe the frequency of acute invasive fungal rhinosinusitis among pediatric oncohematological patients and characterize them with confirmed diagnoses. Methods This was a retrospective study that analyzed the medical records of pediatric patients diagnosed with oncohematological diseases and suspected fungal infections, who were included after obtaining informed consent, from January to December 2017, in the pediatric unit of a tertiary university hospital. Data collected from medical record analysis included the following: underlying diagnosis, absolute neutrophil count, clinical presentation, culture and biopsy results, surgical procedures performed, survival and mortality. Results A total of 27 patients were evaluated, with three suspected cases of acute invasive fungal rhinosinusitis. Histopathological and microbiological analyses confirmed two cases. In both cases, the pathogen isolated in the culture was Fusarium sp. The two confirmed cases were female, aged 12 and 14 years, both with an absolute neutrophil count of 10 cells/μL. The underlying disease of the first patient was acute myeloid leukemia (subtype M5), whereas the second patient presented idiopathic bone marrow aplasia. Conclusion Both confirmed cases of acute invasive fungal rhinosinusitis presented with constitutional symptoms and signs of nasal and sinusital inflammation. This demonstrates the importance of fever as a symptom in immunocompromised patients and it should prompt otorhinolaryngological investigation.

Acute invasive fungal rhinosinusitis in pediatric patients with oncohematological diseases.

INTRODUCTION: Invasive fungal diseases represent important causes of morbidity and mortality among pediatric oncohematological patients. Acute invasive fungal rhinosinusitis is a rare and aggressive disease that occurs mainly in immunocompromised patients. The mortality rate is high and therefore, accurate and early diagnosis is essential. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to describe the frequency of acute invasive fungal rhinosinusitis among pediatric oncohematological patients and characterize them with confirmed diagnoses. METHODS: This was a retrospective study that analyzed the medical records of pediatric patients diagnosed with oncohematological diseases and suspected fungal infections, who were included after obtaining informed consent, from January to December 2017, in the pediatric unit of a tertiary university hospital. Data collected from medical record analysis included the following: underlying diagnosis, absolute neutrophil count, clinical presentation, culture and biopsy results, surgical procedures performed, survival and mortality. RESULTS: A total of 27 patients were evaluated, with three suspected cases of acute invasive fungal rhinosinusitis. Histopathological and microbiological analyses confirmed two cases. In both cases, the pathogen isolated in the culture was Fusarium sp. The two confirmed cases were female, aged 12 and 14 years, both with an absolute neutrophil count of 10cells/µL. The underlying disease of the first patient was acute myeloid leukemia (subtype M5), whereas the second patient presented idiopathic bone marrow aplasia. CONCLUSION: Both confirmed cases of acute invasive fungal rhinosinusitis presented with constitutional symptoms and signs of nasal and sinusital inflammation. This demonstrates the importance of fever as a symptom in immunocompromised patients and it should prompt otorhinolaryngological investigation.

Residency training for minimally invasive surgery / Treinamento de cirurgia minimamente invasiva em programas de residência médica

ABSTRACT Objective: to develop a training program in minimally invasive surgery, based on simulation and with an emphasis on the acquisition of laparoscopic competences. Methods: this was a prospective, observational study carried out at a university hospital in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, between April 2020 and January 2021. We recruited residents of surgical specialties for structured, progressive training according to instructional principles to promote learning, such as motivation, activation, demonstration, application, and integration. We filmed the skill tests at the program's beginning, middle, and end, which were then anonymously evaluated by a surgical education expert. Individual performances were scored using the global assessment tools "GOALS" and "specific checklist for suture". At the end, all participants received individual feedback and completed a questionnaire to assess the impact of training on the Kirkpatrick model. Results: 43 residents completed the program. The evolution of performances was evident and grew between tests. The average achievements were 29% in the initial test, 43% in the intermediate test, and 88% in the final test, with significant differences between all mean scores, with H=97.59, GL=2, p<0.0001. The program evaluation and learning perceptions were excellent, but only 10.7% of residents felt fully capable of performing unsupervised, low-complexity laparoscopic surgery at the end of training. Conclusions: the training program developed in this study proved to be feasible and promising as a strategy for teaching laparoscopic surgery.

RESUMO Objetivo: desenvolver programa de treinamento em cirurgia minimamente invasiva, baseado em simulação e com ênfase na aquisição de competências laparoscópicas. Métodos: trata-se de estudo prospectivo observacional que foi realizado em hospital universitário de Belo Horizonte, Brasil, entre abril de 2020 e janeiro de 2021. Foram recrutados residentes de clínicas cirúrgicas para treinamento progressivo estruturado de acordo com princípios instrucionais de promoção da aprendizagem, como: motivação, ativação, demonstração, aplicação e integração. Testes de habilidades foram filmados no início, meio e final do programa, e, então, avaliados em anonimato por perito em educação cirúrgica. As performances individuais foram pontuadas por meio das ferramentas de avaliação global "GOALS" e "checklist específico de sutura". Ao final, todos participantes receberam feedbacks individuais e preencheram questionário destinado a avaliar o impacto do treinamento, baseado no modelo de Kirkpatrick. Resultados: 43 residentes concluíram o treinamento. A evolução das performances foi crescente e evidente entre os testes. Os aproveitamentos médios foram: 29% no teste inicial; 43% no teste intermediário; e 88% no teste final, com diferenças significativas entre todas as médias de pontuação, sendo H=97,59; GL=2; p<0,0001. A avaliação do programa e percepções de aprendizagem foram excelentes, mas apenas 10,7% dos residentes sentiram-se totalmente capazes a realizar cirurgia laparoscópica de baixa complexidade sem supervisão ao final do treinamento. Conclusões: o programa de treinamento desenvolvido nesse estudo mostrou-se factível e promissor como estratégia de ensino da cirurgia laparoscópica.

Safety protocols for dental care during the COVID-19 pandemic: the experience of a Brazilian hospital service.

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has been prioritized in relation to other illnesses considered critical, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases/stroke, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases. The management of patients with these diseases involves dental care to reduce systemic complications caused by odontogenic infections, and/or to treat oral manifestations of systemic comorbidities. In this regard, the dental care of these individuals must be guaranteed during the pandemic. Although a high risk of exposure to and catching of COVID-19 is expected to befall dental professionals, biosafety guidelines reduce the likelihood of infection. Thus, the current scenario poses challenges, and offers decision-making approaches and tools that facilitate the management of individuals with oral manifestations of chronic and/or critical diseases, using hospital-based services. This article presents an overview for hospital service providers who are at the forefront of COVID-19 care, including a secure protocol, and clinical guidelines based on the experience of the Hospital das Clínicas in Belo Horizonte, a public referral service, supported by the Brazilian National Health System.

Leukaemic infiltration in the oral and maxillofacial region: An update.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to integrate the available data published on leukaemic infiltration in the oral and maxillofacial region into a comprehensive analysis of its clinical manifestations, imaginological characteristics, management and survival. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An electronic search with no publication date restriction was undertaken in October 2020 in the following databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and Embase. Overall survival was calculated by survival analysis with the Kaplan-Meier test. A critical appraisal of included articles was performed using the Joanna Briggs Institute tool. RESULTS: A total of 63 studies including 68 patients were selected for data extraction. The most common haematologic diagnosis was acute myeloid leukaemia (47%). The most affected individuals were 40 to 49 years old (20.9%). The male-to-female ratio was 1.2:1. The gingiva was the most affected site (37%). Swelling/mass/oedema (33.7%) and enlargement/hyperplasia/hypertrophy (25.5%) were the main clinical findings. Osteolytic lesions with bone destruction were the main imaginological characteristics among the reported cases. Follow-up was available for 36 patients. Overall, within the 21-month follow-up, the survival probability dropped to 14.3%. CONCLUSION: A considerable number of studies reported oral manifestations mainly in individuals with the acute form of leukaemia. Children and adults were affected, but the fifth decade of life was the most common. Dentists should be vigilant since these manifestations may be important for a diagnosis and for the monitoring of the treatment response and recurrence of haematological neoplasia.

ADVERSE EVENTS RELATED TO MECHANICAL VENTILATION IN A PEDIATRIC INTENSIVE CARE UNIT.

OBJECTIVE: To identify the prevalence and factors associated with adverse events (AE) related to invasive mechanical ventilation in patients admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) of a tertiary public hospital. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study from July 2016 to June 2018, with data collected throughout patients' routine care in the unit by the care team. Demographic, clinical and ventilatory characteristics and adverse events were analysed. The logistic regression model was used for multivariate analysis regarding the factors associated with AE. RESULTS: Three hundred and six patients were included, with a total ventilation time of 2,155 days. Adverse events occurred in 66 patients (21.6%), and in 11 of those (16.7%) two AE occurred, totalling 77 events (36 AE per 1000 days of ventilation). The most common AE was post-extubation stridor (25.9%), followed by unplanned extubation (16.9%). Episodes occurred predominantly in the afternoon shift (49.3%) and associated with mild damage (54.6%). Multivariate analysis showed a higher occurrence of AE associated with length of stay of 7 days or more (Odds Ratio [OR]=2.6; 95% confidence interval [95%CI] 1.49-4.66; p=0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The results of the present study show a significant number of preventable adverse events, especially stridor after extubation and accidental extubation. The higher frequency of these events is associated with longer hospitalization.

Adverse events related to mechanical ventilation in a pediatric intensive care unit / Eventos adversos relacionados à ventilação mecânica em uma unidade de terapia intensiva pediátrica

ABSTRACT Objective: To identify the prevalence and factors associated with adverse events (AE) related to invasive mechanical ventilation in patients admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) of a tertiary public hospital. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study from July 2016 to June 2018, with data collected throughout patients' routine care in the unit by the care team. Demographic, clinical and ventilatory characteristics and adverse events were analysed. The logistic regression model was used for multivariate analysis regarding the factors associated with AE. Results: Three hundred and six patients were included, with a total ventilation time of 2,155 days. Adverse events occurred in 66 patients (21.6%), and in 11 of those (16.7%) two AE occurred, totalling 77 events (36 AE per 1000 days of ventilation). The most common AE was post-extubation stridor (25.9%), followed by unplanned extubation (16.9%). Episodes occurred predominantly in the afternoon shift (49.3%) and associated with mild damage (54.6%). Multivariate analysis showed a higher occurrence of AE associated with length of stay of 7 days or more (Odds Ratio [OR]=2.6; 95% confidence interval [95%CI] 1.49-4.66; p=0.001). Conclusions: The results of the present study show a significant number of preventable adverse events, especially stridor after extubation and accidental extubation. The higher frequency of these events is associated with longer hospitalization.

RESUMO Objetivo: Identificar a prevalência e os fatores associados a eventos adversos (EA) relacionados à ventilação mecânica (VM) invasiva em pacientes internados na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Pediátrica (UTIP) de hospital público terciário. Métodos: Trata-se de estudo transversal realizado entre julho de 2016 e junho de 2018, com dados coletados ao longo da rotina de atendimento dos pacientes na unidade pela equipe assistencial. Neste estudo, foram analisados características demográficas, clínicas, ventilatórias e os EA ocorridos. O modelo de regressão logística foi utilizado para análise multivariada quanto aos fatores associados aos EA. Resultados: Neste estudo, foram incluídos 306 pacientes, com tempo de ventilação total de 2.155 dias. Ocorreram EA em 66 pacientes (21,6%), dos quais 11 (16,7%) sofreram dois EA, totalizando 77 eventos (36 EA por mil dias de ventilação). O EA mais comum foi o estridor pós-extubação (25,9%), seguido da extubação não planejada (16,9%). Os episódios ocorreram predominantemente no turno da tarde (49,3%) e associados a grau de dano leve (54,6%). Na análise multivariada, observou-se maior ocorrência de EA associado a tempo de internação igual ou superior a sete dias (Odds Ratio [OR]=2,6, intervalo de confiança de 95% [IC95%)]1,49-4,66, p=0,001). Conclusões: Evidenciou-se número significativo de EA que podem ser prevenidos, destacando-se o estridor pós-extubação e a extubação acidental, com ocorrência mais frequentemente associada ao maior tempo de internação.

Safety protocols for dental care during the COVID-19 pandemic: the experience of a Brazilian hospital service

Abstract The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has been prioritized in relation to other illnesses considered critical, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases/stroke, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases. The management of patients with these diseases involves dental care to reduce systemic complications caused by odontogenic infections, and/or to treat oral manifestations of systemic comorbidities. In this regard, the dental care of these individuals must be guaranteed during the pandemic. Although a high risk of exposure to and catching of COVID-19 is expected to befall dental professionals, biosafety guidelines reduce the likelihood of infection. Thus, the current scenario poses challenges, and offers decision-making approaches and tools that facilitate the management of individuals with oral manifestations of chronic and/or critical diseases, using hospital-based services. This article presents an overview for hospital service providers who are at the forefront of COVID-19 care, including a secure protocol, and clinical guidelines based on the experience of the Hospital das Clínicas in Belo Horizonte, a public referral service, supported by the Brazilian National Health System.

Prophylactic photobiomodulation therapy using 660 nm diode laser for oral mucositis in paediatric patients under chemotherapy: 5-year experience from a Brazilian referral service.

The use of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) in the prevention of oral mucositis (OM) in paediatric care has increased. In this article, we report data of paediatric oncology/haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) patients treated with PBMT to prevent chemotherapy-induced OM. A retrospective study was conducted at a Brazilian referral service. Prophylactic PBMT was used in children and adolescents (≤ 17 years) following the protocol: InGaAIP, 660 nm, 100 mW, 2 J, 3.33 W/cm2, and 20 s per point. Demographic data and OM severity scores were assessed. A regression model tested the association between OM with prophylactic PBMT and antineoplastic therapy. A total of 148 individuals who had undergone 358 chemotherapy cycles were analysed. A higher occurrence of OM was observed in HSCT and osteosarcoma (OS) patients. Except for HSCT, OM was associated with methotrexate (MTX) use in all disease groups. PBMT significantly reduced OM severity in acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) and OS patients. OM grade was 3.16 and 5.45 times higher among individuals with ALL and OS, who had not undergone prophylactic PBMT compared with those who had undergone prophylactic PBMT (p < 0.001). PBMT prevented chemotherapy-induced OM. Individuals who used MTX and did not undergo prophylactic PBMT were at increased risk of OM.

Acinetobacter baumannii orofacial cellulitis: report of 2 cases.

Acinetobacter baumannii infection of skin and soft tissues is uncommon and usually associated with trauma. The present report describes 2 pediatric cases of cellulitis in the orofacial region, caused by A. baumannii infection with a fatal outcome. A 12-year-old male patient, diagnosed with acute promyelocytic leukemia, presented with an ulcerated lesion on the lip suggestive of local trauma. The condition progressed to cellulitis, epithelial necrosis, and nonspecific vesicles and blisters. The second case occurred in a 10-year-old male patient with a diagnosis of Burkitt lymphoma. The patient's condition progressed to World Health Organization Grade IV mucositis and cellulitis. In both cases, hemoculture was positive for multidrug-resistant A. baumannii. In conclusion, A. baumannii should be considered a potentially multidrug-resistant pathogen in the presence of skin and soft tissue cellulitis. Ulcerated oral lesions may place hospitalized pediatric patients at risk for A. baumannii infection.

Vertical Transmission of HIV-1 in the Metropolitan Area of Belo Horizonte, Brazil: 2006-2014.

OBJECTIVE: To revise HIV-1 vertical transmission (VT) rates in the metropolitan area of Belo Horizonte, Brazil, from January of 2006 to December of 2014. METHODS: Descriptive study of a prospective cohort of HIV-1-infected pregnant women and their children, monitored by the Maternal and Child HIV/Aids Research Group of Research Group at Faculty of Medicine of Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil. RESULTS: The VT general rate was 1.9% (13/673; confidence interval [CI] 95%: 1.0-3.3). The extensive use of combined highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) (89.7%; 583/650) strongly impacted the reduction of VT during this period. Maternal viral load (VL) higher than 1,000 copies/mL showed significant association with VT (OR:6.6; CI 95%:1.3-33.3). Maternal breastfeeding was described in 10 cases in this cohort (1.5%; CI 95%: 0.7-2.7), but it was not associated with VT. CONCLUSION: The present cohort data were coherent with the low VT rate described in other global populations, and it was considerably lower in comparison to the results of the same cohort during the period of 1998-2005, when the VT rate was 6.2%. These data confirm the efficiency of the National Guidelines, and emphasize the importance of adopting the international recommended procedures for prevention of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV.

OBJETIVO: Rever as taxas de transmissão vertical (TV) do HIV-1 na área metropolitana de Belo Horizonte, Brasil, de janeiro de 2006 a dezembro de 2014. MéTODOS: Estudo descritivo de uma coorte prospectiva de gestantes infectadas pelo HIV-1 e seus filhos, monitorados pelo Grupo de Pesquisa em HIV/Aids Materno-Infantil, da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brasil. RESULTADOS: A taxa geral de TV foi de 1,9% (13/673; intervalo de confiança [IC] 95%: 1,0­3,3). O uso extensivo de terapia antirretroviral combinada (TARVc) (89,7%; 583/650) impactou fortemente a redução de TV durante este período. Carga viral materna superior a 1.000 cópias/mL mostrou associação significante com TV (OR: 6,6; IC 95%:1,3­33,3). A amamentação materna foi descrita em 10 casos nesta coorte (1,5%; IC 95%: 0,7­2,7), mas não foi associada à TV. CONCLUSãO: Os dados atuais da coorte foram coerentes com a baixa taxa de TV descrita em outras populações globais, e foi consideravelmente menor em comparação com os resultados da mesma coorte no período de 1998­2005, quando a taxa de TV foi de 6,2%. Esses dados confirmam a eficiência das Diretrizes Nacionais, e enfatizam a importância de adotar os procedimentos internacionais recomendados para a prevenção da transmissão do HIV da mãe para o filho.

Long-term postpartum adherence to antiretroviral drugs among women in Latin America.

Antiretroviral adherence in the postpartum period is crucial for maternal health and decreasing the risk of mother-to-child HIV transmission and transmission to sexual partners. Self-reported antiretroviral adherence was examined between 6- to 12-weeks and 30 months postpartum among 270 HIV-infected women enrolled in a prospective cohort study from 2008 to 2010 at multiple sites in Latin America. Adherence data were collected at each study visit to quantify the proportion of prescribed antiretrovirals taken during the previous three days, assess the timing of the last missed dose, and identify predictors of adherence. Mean adherence rates were 89.5% at 6-12 weeks and 92.4% at 30 months; the proportions with perfect adherence were 80.3% and 83.6%, respectively. The overall trend for perfect adherence was not significant (p = 0.71). In adjusted regression modelling, younger age was associated with an increased probability of non-perfect adherence at 18 and 24 months postpartum. Other factors associated with increased probability of non-perfect adherence were higher parity, current use of alcohol and tobacco, and more advanced HIV disease. Women with perfect adherence had lower viral loads. Interventions for alcohol and tobacco use cessation, and support for young women and those with advanced HIV disease should be considered to improve postpartum adherence.

Vírus da imunodeficiência humana adquirida/HIV no período neonatal / Acquired human immunodeficiency virus/ HIV in the neonatal period

O bloqueio da transmissão vertical foi uma das maiores vitórias contra a infecção pelo HIV. Houve redução das taxas de infecção a níveis inferiores a 2% com a aplicação de estratégias como reconhecimento da infecção materna (testagem sorológica anti-HIV ou teste rápido) durante o pré-natal ou no momento do parto, uso de antirretrovirais, via de parto eletiva de acordo com a carga viral e substituição do aleitamento materno pelo uso de fórmula láctea infantil. No Brasil, recomenda-se a utilização de esquema antirretroviral composto de três drogas antirretrovirais de duas classes diferentes a partir da 14a semana de gestação (após o primeiro trimestre) para todas as gestantes infectadas pelo HIV, independentemente dos parâmetros imunológicos ou virológicos, uso de zidovudina por via venosa no momento do parto e de zidovudina para todas as crianças nascidas de mães infectadas pelo HIV, duranteas primeiras quatro semanas de vida. Em situações especiais tem-se sugerido a adição de outros antirretrovirais, como a lamivudina e a nevirapina. Os benefícios do uso materno de drogas antirretrovirais para a prevenção da trasnmissão do HIV para seus filhos são unânimes. A segurança desses regimes em curto prazo já foi demonstrada, mas tem sido descrita associação do uso materno de drogas antirretrovirais e anomalias congênitas, prematuridade, toxicidade mitocondrial, anemia, neutropenia e aumento de enzimas hepáticas. Efeitos graves raramente ocorrem. Ainda é necessário acompanhamento em longo prazo de todasas crianças expostas aos antirretrovirais para responder muitas dúvidas existentes.

Blocking mother-to-child transmission was one of the greatest victories against HIV infection. A reduction in infection rates down to below 2% was achieved by applying strategies such as the recognition of maternal infection (HIV serological testing or rapid test) during the prenatal periodor at delivery, use of antiretrovirals, elective route of delivery according to the patient?s viral load, and replacement of breastfeeding by formula. In Brazil, the recommended regimen includes the use of an anti-retroviral scheme composed of three anti-retroviral drugs from two different classes, from the 14th week of pregnancy (after the first trimester), in all pregnant women infected with HIV regardless of their virological or immunological parameters, use of intravenous zidovudine at the time of delivery, and of zidovudine in all children born to HIV infected mothers during the first four weeks of life. In special situations, adding other antiretrovirals, such as lamivudine and nevirapine, has been suggested. The benefits of maternal use of anti-retroviral drugs to prevent HIV transmission to children are unanimous. The safety of these short-term schemes has already been demonstrated, however, the association between maternal use of antiretrovirals drugs and congenital anomalies, prematurity, mitochondrial toxicity, anemia, neutropenia, and increased liver enzymes have been described. Serious effects rarely occur. Long-term follow-up of all children exposed to antiretroviral drugs is still necessary to answer many existing questions.

HIV-1 RNA detection in the amniotic fluid of HIV-infected pregnant women.

This study is aimed at evaluating the potential to detect human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in amniotic fluid (AF) collected at delivery from 40 HIV-positive pregnant women. Thirty patients had a plasma viral load (VL) below 1,000 copies/mL at delivery. VL was positive in three AF samples. No significant association was found between the HIV-1 RNA in AF and the maternal plasma samples. There was no HIV vertical transmission detected.

HIV-1 RNA detection in the amniotic fluid of HIV-infected pregnant women

This study is aimed at evaluating the potential to detect human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in amniotic fluid (AF) collected at delivery from 40 HIV-positive pregnant women. Thirty patients had a plasma viral load (VL) below 1,000 copies/mL at delivery. VL was positive in three AF samples. No significant association was found between the HIV-1 RNA in AF and the maternal plasma samples. There was no HIV vertical transmission detected.