Elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis receives less aggressive therapies than young-onset rheumatoid arthritis in an Argentinian cohort.

OBJECTIVES: When rheumatoid arthritis (RA) starts after the age of 60 it is called elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis (EORA) and when it starts earlier, young-onset rheumatoid arthritis. (YORA). There are few Latin American studies that compared both groups. The objective of the study was to evaluate differences in the clinical characteristics, evolution and treatment among patients with RA with onset before or after 60 years of age. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Observational study of patients with RA attended consecutively in four centers in Argentina. Sociodemographic data, comorbidities, clinical manifestations at diagnosis, presence of rheumatoid factor and/or anti-CCP (cyclic citrullinated peptide) and treatments received were collected. At the last visit, swollen and tender joints, assessment of disease activity by the patient and physician, the presence of radiographic erosions, and functional status using the HAQ-DI were recorded. RESULTS: 51 patients from each group were analyzed. The EORA group had a significantly higher proportion of smokers (58.8% vs. 35.3%, p = 0.029), cardiovascular history (54.9% vs. 21.6%, p = 0.001), abrupt onset (49% vs. 29.4%, p = 0.034) or with symptoms similar to PMR (19.6% vs. 0%, p = 0.001). Lower methotrexate doses were used in the EORA group: 19 mg (15-25) vs. 21.9 mg (20-25) (p = 0.0036) and more frequently did not receive bDMARDs or tsDMARDs. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: The benefits of intensive treatment in patients with RA have been described. In this study, the use of DMARDs in the EORA group was less intensive, suggesting that advanced age constitutes a barrier in the therapeutic choice.

La artritis reumatoide de inicio en el anciano recibe terapias menos agresivas que la artritis reumatoide de inicio en el adulto en una cohorte argentina / Elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis receives less aggressive therapies than young-onset rheumatoid arthritis in an Argentinian cohort

Antecedentes y objetivo: Cuando la artritis reumatoide (AR) comienza después de los 60años se denomina artritis reumatoide de inicio en el anciano, y cuando se inicia antes, artritis reumatoide de inicio en el adulto. Son escasos los estudios latinoamericanos que compararon ambos grupos. El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar diferencias en las características clínicas, en la evolución y en la elección terapéutica entre los pacientes con AR de inicio antes o después de los 60años. Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional de pacientes con AR atendidos en forma consecutiva en cuatro centros de Argentina. Se recolectaron datos sociodemográficos, comorbilidades, manifestaciones clínicas al diagnóstico, presencia de factor reumatoide y/o anti-proteínas cíclicas citrulinadas (PCC) y tratamientos recibidos. En la última visita se registraron las articulaciones tumefactas o dolorosas, la evaluación de la actividad de la enfermedad por el paciente y por el médico, la presencia de erosiones radiográficas y el estado funcional mediante el HAQ-DI. Resultados: Se analizaron 51 pacientes de cada grupo. El grupo de AR del anciano tuvo significativamente mayor proporción de fumadores (58,8% vs 35,3%, p=0,029), de antecedentes cardiovasculares (54,9% vs 21,6%, p=0,001), de inicio abrupto (49% vs 29,4%, p=0,034) o con síntomas similares a la PMR (19,6% vs 0%, p=0,001), menores dosis de metotrexato: 19mg (15-25) vs 21,9mg (20-25) (p=0,0036) y con mayor frecuencia no recibieron FAMEb o FAMEsd. Discusión y conclusiones: Se han descrito los beneficios del tratamiento intensivo en pacientes con AR. En este trabajo, el empleo de FAME en el grupo de AR de inicio en el anciano fue menos intensivo, sugiriendo que la edad avanzada constituye una barrera en la elección terapéutica.(AU)

Objectives: When rheumatoid arthritis (RA) starts after the age of 60 it is called elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis (EORA) and when it starts earlier, young-onset rheumatoid arthritis (YORA). There are few Latin American studies that compared both groups. The objective of the study was to evaluate differences in the clinical characteristics, evolution and treatment among patients with RA with onset before or after 60years of age. Materials and methods: Observational study of patients with RA attended consecutively in four centers in Argentina. Sociodemographic data, comorbidities, clinical manifestations at diagnosis, presence of rheumatoid factor and/or anti-CCP (cyclic citrullinated peptide) and treatments received were collected. At the last visit, swollen and tender joints, assessment of disease activity by the patient and physician, the presence of radiographic erosions, and functional status using the HAQ-DI were recorded. Results: Fifty-one patients from each group were analyzed. The EORA group had a significantly higher proportion of smokers (58.8% vs. 35.3%, P=.029), cardiovascular history (54.9% vs. 21.6%, P=.001), abrupt onset (49% vs. 29.4%, P=.034) or with symptoms similar to PMR (19.6% vs. 0%, P=.001). Lower methotrexate doses were used in the EORA group: 19mg (15-25) vs. 21.9mg (20-25) (P=.0036) and more frequently did not receive bDMARDs or tsDMARDs. Discussion and conclusions: The benefits of intensive treatment in patients with RA have been described. In this study, the use of DMARDs in the EORA group was less intensive, suggesting that advanced age constitutes a barrier in the therapeutic choice.(AU)

Comparison of subretinal aflibercept vs ranibizumab vs bevacizumab in the context of PPV, pneumatic displacement with subretinal air and subretinal tPA in naïve submacular haemorrhage secondary to nAMD. "The Submarine Study".

OBJECTIVE: To compare efficacy and safety profile of subretinal aflibercept, ranibizumab, and bevacizumab in the context of pars plana vitrectomy, pneumatic displacement with subretinal air and subretinal tPA for subretinal macular haemorrhage (SMH) due to naïve neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). DESIGN: Retrospective interventional cohort study. PARTICIPANTS: 123 eyes of 123 patients treated with subretinal aflibercept (n = 41, 33%), ranibizumab (n = 41,33%), and bevacizumab (n = 41, 33%). METHODS: Review of electronic medical records for best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central subfoveal thickness (CST), and intraocular pressure (IOP) at baseline and 24 months after treatment. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: BCVA, CST, and number of intravitreal anti VEGF over 24 months. RESULTS: Mean age of patients was 80.5 ± 5.5 years, 43.9% were female. Mean time from symptom onset until surgery was 1.1 days (range 0-3 days). In all cases, the SMH did not reach the arcades. CST at baseline was 627 ± 140 µ, 739 ± 54 µ, and 793 ± 93 µ (p = 0.0001) for aflibercept, ranibizumab, or bevacizumab, respectively. Baseline BCVA (logMAR) was 0.65 ± 0.13, 0.69 ± 0.96, and 0.74 ± 0.81 (p = 0.0041) for aflibercept, ranibizumab, and bevacizumab, respectively. All three groups showed statistically significant improvement in BCVA and CST (for all groups: p < 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference at the final BCVA (p = 0.789). The mean number of anti VEGF given during follow-up period was 5.2 ± 0.81, 4.4 ± 0.63, and 5.5 ± 0.95 (p = 0.0001) for aflibercept, ranibizumab, and bevacizumab, respectively. CONCLUSION: This study shows that aflibercept, ranibizumab, and bevacizumab in a subretinal manner in the context of PPV, pneumatic displacement with subretinal air and subretinal tPA for subretinal macular haemorrhage secondary to naïve nAMD work with the same efficacy and safety profile.

High cell-free DNA is associated with disease progression, inflammasome activation and elevated levels of inflammasome-related cytokine IL-18 in patients with myelofibrosis.

Myelofibrosis (MF) is a clonal hematopoietic stem cell disorder classified among chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms, characterized by exacerbated myeloid and megakaryocytic proliferation and bone marrow fibrosis. It is induced by driver (JAK2/CALR/MPL) and high molecular risk mutations coupled to a sustained inflammatory state that contributes to disease pathogenesis. Patient outcome is determined by stratification into risk groups and refinement of current prognostic systems may help individualize treatment decisions. Circulating cell-free (cf)DNA comprises short fragments of double-stranded DNA, which promotes inflammation by stimulating several pathways, including inflammasome activation, which is responsible for IL-1ß and IL-18 maturation and release. In this work, we assessed the contribution of cfDNA as a marker of disease progression and mediator of inflammation in MF. cfDNA was increased in MF patients and higher levels were associated with adverse clinical outcome, a high-risk molecular profile, advanced disease stages and inferior overall survival, indicating its potential value as a prognostic marker. Cell-free DNA levels correlated with tumor burden parameters and markers of systemic inflammation. To mimic the effects of cfDNA, monocytes were stimulated with poly(dA:dT), a synthetic double-stranded DNA. Following stimulation, patient monocytes released higher amounts of inflammasome-processed cytokine, IL-18 to the culture supernatant, reflecting enhanced inflammasome function. Despite overexpression of cytosolic DNA inflammasome sensor AIM2, IL-18 release from MF monocytes was shown to rely mainly on the NLRP3 inflammasome, as it was prevented by NLRP3-specific inhibitor MCC950. Circulating IL-18 levels were increased in MF plasma, reflecting in vivo inflammasome activation, and highlighting the previously unrecognized involvement of this cytokine in MF cytokine network. Monocyte counts were higher in patients and showed a trend towards correlation with IL-18 levels, suggesting monocytes represent a source of circulating IL-18. The close correlation shown between IL-18 and cfDNA levels, together with the finding of enhanced DNA-triggered IL-18 release from monocytes, suggest that cfDNA promotes inflammation, at least in part, through inflammasome activation. This work highlights cfDNA, the inflammasome and IL-18 as additional players in the complex inflammatory circuit that fosters MF progression, potentially providing new therapeutic targets.

Síndrome confusional agudo y confusional subsindromático en terapia intensiva: evolución intrahospitalaria y a los tres meses del alta / Delirium and subsyndromal delirium in the intensive care unit: In-hospital outcomes and prognosis at discharge

Antecedentes y objetivo Las características y la evolución de los pacientes con confusional subsindromático (CSS) en la internación aún continúa en discusión. El objetivo fue describir la incidencia de síndrome confusional agudo (SCA) y CSS en terapia intensiva (UTI), analizar su asociación con la presencia de factores de riesgo y explorar diferencias en la evolución hospitalaria y a los tres meses del alta. Pacientes y métodos Estudio prospectivo con seguimiento telefónico tres meses luego del alta. Se aplicó el CAM-ICU para definir tres grupos: sin delirio (de referencia), CSS y SCA. Resultados En 270 pacientes, el 22,96% presentaron SCA y el 17,03%, CSS. Factores relacionados con mayor riesgo de SCA: deterioro cognitivo (p=0,000), edad ≥75años (p=0,019), motivo de ingreso neurológico (p=0,003), shock (p=0,043), escaras (p=0,010), polifarmacia (0,017), ARM (p=0,001) y reposo digestivo (p=0,028); con mayor riesgo de CSS: baja escolaridad (p=0,014), Charlson >5 (p=0,028), AIVD <8 (p=0,001), alimentación enteral (p=0,000) y motivo de ingreso no cardiovascular (p=0,019). La mortalidad global fue del 6% en el grupo sin delirio, del 8% en CSS (p=0,516) y del 30% en SCA (p=0,000). La mediana de internación en UTI fue de 2días (rango 1-2) en el grupo sin delirio, 3 (2-4) días en CSS (p=0,0001) y 3 (2-7) días en SCA (p=0,0001). A los tres meses del alta, las AIVD estaban conservadas en el 50% del grupo sin delirio, en el 30% de CSS (p=0,026) y en el 26% de SCA (p=0,005). Conclusiones El CSS presentó un pronóstico intermedio entre el grupo sin delirio y el SCA. Se aconseja su diagnóstico para mejor clasificación de riesgo (AU)

Background and objective The characteristics and outcomes of patients with subsyndromal delirium (SSD) at hospitalization are still under discussion. The objectives were to describe the incidence of delirium and SSD in the intensive care unit (ICU), to analyze the association with risk factors and to explore outcomes of delirium and SSD at hospitalization and three months after discharge. Patients and methods A prospective study, with telephone follow-up three months after discharge. The study included 270 patients over one year. Delirium and SSD were assessed with the CAM-ICU. Results 22.96% developed delirium and 17.03% SSD. The main risk factors associated with the development of delirium were cognitive impairment (P=.000), age ≥75years (P=.019), neurological admission (P=.003), shock (P=.043), bedsores (P=.010), polypharmacy (P=.017), ARM (P=.001) and fast (P=.028), and with the development of SSD were low schooling (P=.014), Charlson >5 (P=.028), AIVD <8 (P=.001), enteral feeding (P=.000) and non-cardiovascular admission (P=.019). Overall mortality was 6% in the group without delirium (reference), 8% in SSD (P=.516) and 30% in delirium (P=.000). Median ICU length of stay was 2 (IQR, 1-2) days in the group without delirium, 3 (IQR, 2-4) days in SSD (P=.0001), and 3 (IQR, 2-7) days in delirium group (P=.0001). Three months after discharge, instrumental ADL were preserved in 50% of the group without delirium, 30% of SSD (P=.026) and 26% of delirium (P=.005). Conclusions The SSD group presented an intermediate prognosis between no delirium and delirium groups. It is advisable to promote its diagnosis for better risk classification (AU)

Delirium and subsyndromal delirium in the intensive care unit: In-hospital outcomes and prognosis at discharge. / Síndrome confusional agudo y confusional subsindromático en terapia intensiva: evolución intrahospitalaria y a los tres meses del alta.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The characteristics and outcomes of patients with subsyndromal delirium (SSD) at hospitalization are still under discussion. The objectives were to describe the incidence of delirium and SSD in the intensive care unit (ICU), to analyze the association with risk factors and to explore outcomes of delirium and SSD at hospitalization and three months after discharge. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A prospective study, with telephone follow-up three months after discharge. The study included 270 patients over one year. Delirium and SSD were assessed with the CAM-ICU. RESULTS: 22.96% developed delirium and 17.03% SSD. The main risk factors associated with the development of delirium were cognitive impairment (P=.000), age ≥75years (P=.019), neurological admission (P=.003), shock (P=.043), bedsores (P=.010), polypharmacy (P=.017), ARM (P=.001) and fast (P=.028), and with the development of SSD were low schooling (P=.014), Charlson >5 (P=.028), AIVD <8 (P=.001), enteral feeding (P=.000) and non-cardiovascular admission (P=.019). Overall mortality was 6% in the group without delirium (reference), 8% in SSD (P=.516) and 30% in delirium (P=.000). Median ICU length of stay was 2 (IQR, 1-2) days in the group without delirium, 3 (IQR, 2-4) days in SSD (P=.0001), and 3 (IQR, 2-7) days in delirium group (P=.0001). Three months after discharge, instrumental ADL were preserved in 50% of the group without delirium, 30% of SSD (P=.026) and 26% of delirium (P=.005). CONCLUSIONS: The SSD group presented an intermediate prognosis between no delirium and delirium groups. It is advisable to promote its diagnosis for better risk classification.

Significance of HLA-B[*]51 allele expression in Crohn's disease: a case-control study.

OBJECTIVES: Crohn's disease (CD) and Behçet's disease (BD) are two autoinflammatory diseases that share clinical and pathogenic features. Furthermore, when BD involves the gastrointestinal tract, it is extremely difficult to distinguish endoscopic lesions from CD lesions. HLA-B*51 allele expression is highly associated with BD diagnosis. In this study we analysed HLA-B*51 status in 70 Argentine patients with confirmed CD diagnosis and compared it to our previous Argentine BD cohort, with the aim of finding similarities or differences between these two diseases regarding HLA-B*51 status. METHODS: This is a multi-centre case-control study, including 70 patients with confirmed CD diagnosis, who underwent HLA-B*51 allele status testing; the results were compared to our previous BD cohort of 34 patients. RESULTS: Among patients with CD, 12.85% were positive for the HLA-B*51 allele, compared with 38.24% patients with BD (OR=0.238; 95% CI=0.089-0.637; p=0.004). CONCLUSIONS: Our finding suggests that determination of HLA-B*51 allele status may contribute to the differential diagnosis between CD and BD.

Naïve subretinal haemorrhage due to neovascular age-related macular degeneration. pneumatic displacement, subretinal air, and tissue plasminogen activator: subretinal vs intravitreal aflibercept-the native study.

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to compare visual and anatomical outcome in subretinal aflibercept vs. intravitreal aflibercept in the context of Pars Plana Vitrectomy (PPV), pneumatic displacement with subretinal air and subretinal tPA in patients with naïve submacular haemorrhage (SMH) secondary to neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). DESIGN: Retrospective interventional cohort study. PARTICIPANTS: 80 patients treated with subretinal aflibercept vs. intravitreal aflibercept in the context of PPV, subretinal air and subretinal tPA in patients with SMH secondary to naïve nAMD. METHODS: Records were reviewed. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central subfoveal thickness (CST), and intraocular pressure (IOP) were recorded at baseline and 24 months after treatment. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: BCVA, CST, and number of anti VEGF treatment over follow-up period. RESULTS: The average duration from onset of symptoms to surgery was 1.26 days (range 0-3 days). Based on review of OCT images, SMH was subretinal in all 80 patients (100%), and sub-RPE in 29 patients (36.3%). Forty-one patients (51.25%) were treated with subretinal aflibercept ("subretinal group"), and 39 patients (48.75%) were treated with intravitreal aflibercept injections ("intravitreal group"). The groups were well balanced for age and gender p = 0.6588, and p = 0.263, respectively). Both groups showed statistically significant improvement in BCVA and CST (for all groups: p < 0.001). The mean number of anti VEGF given during follow-up period was statistically significantly lower in the "subretinal group" (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: This study shows better management of the CNV, with a statistically significant lower need for anti-VEGF injections when treated with subretinal aflibercept compared to intravitreal application.

Anticuerpos anti-RNA polimerasa III en esclerosis sistémica: estudio multicéntrico de Argentina / Anti-RNA Polymerase III Antibodies in Systemic Sclerosis: Multicentric Study from Argentina

Objetivo: Describir la frecuencia del anticuerpo anti-RNA polimerasa III positivo en pacientes con esclerosis sistémica (ES) de un grupo de centros asistenciales de Argentina, y explorar las diferencias entre pacientes con anti-RNA polimerasa III positivo y negativo. Pacientes y métodos: Se recopilaron datos de las historias clínicas, anamnesis y exámenes físicos de 135 pacientes con ES (ACR/EULAR 2013), de los cuales se obtuvo una muestra de suero para la detección de anti-RNA polimerasa III IgG por ELISA. Resultados: El 92,6% fueron mujeres, la mediana de edad al diagnóstico fue de 53 años (rango: 12-87), el 77,7% tenía ES limitada, el 19,3% tenía ES difusa y el 2,9% con ES sine esclerodermia. El 67,5% de los pacientes pertenecían a la etnia mestiza o amerindia. La frecuencia de anti-RNA polimerasa III positivo fue del 5,9%. En 36 pacientes los anticuerpos anticentrómero (ACA) y anti-Scl70 fueron negativos; el anti-RNA polimerasa III fue positivo en el 16,7% de estos 36 pacientes. El grupo de pacientes con anti-RNA polimerasa III positivo tuvo una mayor frecuencia de cicatrices puntiformes e hipertensión arterial pulmonar, y una mayor edad al diagnóstico. No se encontró asociación con ectasia vascular gástrica antral. La única paciente con crisis renal esclerodérmica, fue anti-RNA polimerasa III positiva. Conclusiones: La frecuencia de anti-RNA polimerasa III encontrada en este estudio fue una de las más bajas reportadas, lo cual podría estar relacionado con el predominio de la etnia mestiza y amerindia. Si bien se necesitan más estudios, es posible que la detección del anti-RNA polimerasa III permita clasificar mejor a los pacientes con ES, conocer su pronóstico y mejorar el seguimiento.(AU)

Objective: To describe the frequency of anti-RNA polymerase III antibody in patients with Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) of a group of healthcare centres from Argentina and to explore differences among patients with positive and negative anti-RNA polymerase III antibody. Patients and Methods: Data from clinical records, anamnesis and physical examination were collected from 135 patients with SSc (ACR/EULAR 2013). A serum sample from each patient was obtained for the detection of anti-RNA polymerase III IgG antibodies by ELISA. Results: In all, 97.8% were women and the median age at diagnosis was 53 years (range: 12-87), 77.7% had limited cutaneous SSc (lcSSC), 19,3% patients had diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSC) and 2.9% had scleroderma sine scleroderma. The 67.5% of the patients were from a Mestizos or Amerindian ethnic group. Anti-RNA polymerase III was positive in 5.9% of the patients. In 36 patients, the anticentromere (ACA) and anti-Scl70 antibodies were negative; anti-RNA polymerase III was positive in 16.7% of these 36 patients. Pitting scars and pulmonary artery hypertension were more frequent in anti-RNA polymerase III positive patients who were also older at diagnosis. No association with gastric antral vascular ectasia was found. The only patient with scleroderma renal crisis was anti-RNA polymerase III positive. Conclusions: Anti-RNA polymerase III frequency found in this study was one of the lowest reported, which could be related to the predominance of the Amerindian and Mestizo ethnic group. It is possible that the detection of anti-RNA polymerase III allows better classification of SSc patients, to know their prognosis and to improve their follow-up, therefore more studies are needed.(AU)

Anti-RNA polymerase III antibodies in systemic sclerosis: Multicentric study from Argentina.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the frequency of anti-RNA polymerase III antibody in patients with Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) of a group of healthcare centres from Argentina and to explore differences among patients with positive and negative anti-RNA polymerase III antibody. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Data from clinical records, anamnesis and physical examination were collected from 135 patients with SSc (ACR/EULAR 2013). A serum sample from each patient was obtained for the detection of anti-RNA polymerase III IgG antibodies by ELISA. RESULTS: In all, 97.8% were women and the median age at diagnosis was 53 years (range 12-87), 77.7% had limited cutaneous SSc (lcSSC), 19,3% patients had diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSC) and 2.9% had scleroderma sine scleroderma. The 67.5% of the patients were from a Mestizos or Amerindian ethnic group. Anti-RNA polymerase III was positive in 5.9% of the patients. In 36 patients, the anticentromere (ACA) and anti-Scl70 antibodies were negative; anti-RNA polymerase III was positive in 16.7% of these 36 patients. Pitting scars and pulmonary artery hypertension were more frequent in anti-RNA polymerase III positive patients who were also older at diagnosis. No association with gastric antral vascular ectasia was found. The only patient with scleroderma renal crisis was anti-RNA polymerase III positive. CONCLUSIONS: Anti-RNA polymerase III frequency found in this study was one of the lowest reported, which could be related to the predominance of the Amerindian and Mestizo ethnic group. It is possible that the detection of anti RNA polymerase III allows better classification of SSc patients, to know their prognosis and to improve their follow-up, therefore more studies are needed.

Clinical profile of patients suspected of sleep apnea / [Perfil clínico de pacientes con sospecha de apneas del sueño]

Introduction: Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome is a disease with a growing prevalence worldwide that significantly affects quality of life and increases cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Objectives: To describe symptoms, comorbidities and anthropometry of patients who were clinically evaluated and underwent sleep studies to identify variables associated with a Respiratory Disturbance Index (RDI) equal or greater than 15. Material and methods: We reviewed data from a self-administered questionary, anthropometry, comorbidities and sleep studies of patients who consulted for the first time at a sleep medicine practice from June 2012 through May 2016. Results: Among 366 patients included we found 47.5% with a RDI>30, 21.9% with a RDI 15 ­ 29.9, 22.1% with a RDI 5 ­ 14.9 and 8.5% with a RDI<5. A multivariate model was built using RDI≥15 as the dependent variable. It showed that snoring more than 3 nights per week (OR 2.89, 95%CI 1.66 ­ 5.05), BMI ≥ 35 Kg/m2 (OR 2.53, 95%CI 1.35 ­ 4.72), witnessed apneas almost every night or every night (OR 1.95, 95%CI 1.09 ­ 3.49), male sex (OR 1.81, 95%CI 1.10 ­ 2.97) and the presence of high blood pressure (OR 1.67, 95%CI 1.02 ­ 2.74) were the most significant clinical factors. Conclusions: In our sample, the most significant predictors of a RDI >15 were: snoring more than 3 nights per week, BMI ≥ 35 Kg/m2, witnessed apneas almost every night or every night, male sex and the presence of high blood pressure.

Introducción: El sindrome de Apneas Hipopneas Obstructivas del sueño (SAHOS) es una patología con una prevalencia en aumento que produce un impacto significativo en la calidad de vida y en la morbimortalidad, fundamentalmente cardiovascular. Objetivos: Objetivos: Describir síntomas, comorbilidades y medidas antropométricas de pacientes evaluados clínicamente y sometidos a estudios de sueño para identificar variables que se asocian a un Índice de Perturbación Respiratoria (IPR) mayor o igual a 15. Material y métodos: Se revisaron cuestionarios autoadministrados, antropometría, comorbilidades y estudios de sueño de los pacientes que consultaron por primera vez en el consultorio de patología respiratoria del sueño entre junio de 2012 y mayo de 2016. Resultados: Entre los 366 pacientes incluidos se encontró 47.5% con IPR>30, 21,9% con IPR 15-29.9, 22,1% con IPR 5-14.9 y 8.5% con IPR<5. El modelo multivariado usando el IPR≥15 como variable dependiente demostró que una frecuencia de ronquido mayor a 3 noches por semana (OR 2.89, 95%IC 1.66 - 5.05), el IMC≥35 Kg/m2 (OR 2.53, 95%IC 1.35 - 4.72), apneas presenciadas todas o casi todas las noches (OR 1.95, 95%IC 1.09 - 3.49), el sexo masculino (OR 1.81, 95%IC 1.10 - 2.97) y la presencia de hipertensión arterial (OR 1.67, 95%IC 1.02 - 2.74) fueron los factores clínicos más significativos. Conclusiones: En nuestra muestra, los predictores más significativos de la presencia de un IPR≥15 fueron: una frecuencia de ronquido mayor a 3 noches por semana, el IMC≥35 Kg/m2, apneas presenciadas todas o casi todas las noches, el sexo masculino y la presencia de hipertensión.

[Inpatient identification wristbands failures detection]. / Detección de fallas en las pulseras identificatorias de pacientes internados.

Medical attention is not free from committing mistakes that can increase mortality and costs. The International Goals for Patient Safety include correct patient identification. The use of wristbands reduces the number of adverse events. The rate of nonidentified patients at the moment of phlebotomy was investigated retrospectively during 2019. The annual rate of non-identified patients was 9.8% and higher rates were observed from April to September. Monday was the day with the highest rate of non-identified. There was statistically significant relationship between the month rate of non-identified patients and the number of discharges from operative unit per month (r=0.6465; p=0.0237) and the bed turnover rate (r=0.7776; p=0.0029). Other wristband identification errors are unknown. The investigation detected failures in patient identification that allowed to make recommendations. In order to reduce the number of missing wristbands it will be necessary to monitor the indicator, especially during the months with the highest number of discharges and bed turnover rate, to evaluate the adherence of the personnel to the current protocol and to carry out training programs.

La atención médica no se encuentra libre de errores, que pueden poner en riesgo tanto la salud como la vida de los pacientes, con aumento de la morbimortalidad y los costos del sistema sanitario. Las recomendaciones internacionales de seguridad del paciente incluyen una correcta identificación. El uso de pulseras identificatorias reduce la cantidad de eventos adversos. Se investigó en forma retrospectiva la tasa de pacientes sin pulsera identificatoria al momento de la extracción sanguínea durante el año 2019 en el Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas Alfredo Lanari (IDIM). Se registró un total de 521 casos de pacientes no identificados sobre 5267 pedidos de laboratorio. La tasa anual de no identificados fue de 9.8%, superior al máximo ac eptable, y entre abril a septiembre se observaron mayores valores promedio. El día de la semana con mayor tasa de no identificados fueron los lunes con un 14%. Se observó una relación estadísticamente significativa entre la tasa mensual de no identificados con la cantidad mensual de egresos d e unidades operativas (r = 0.6465; p = 0.0237) y con el giro cama (r = 0.7776; p = 0.0029). Se desconoce si hubo otros errores de identificación. El estudio permitió conocer fallas en la identificación de pacientes internados. Se recomienda monitorear el indicador especialmente durante los meses con mayor cantidad de egresos y giro cama, evaluar la adherencia del personal al protocolo vigente y realizar capacitaciones para lograr una menor tasa de no identificados.

Detección de fallas en las pulseras identificatorias de pacientes internados / Inpatient identification wristbands failures detection

Resumen La atención médica no se encuentra libre de errores, que pueden poner en riesgo tanto la salud como la vida de los pacientes, con aumento de la morbimortalidad y los costos del sistema sanitario. Las recomendaciones internacionales de seguridad del paciente incluyen una correcta identificación. El uso de pulseras identificatorias reduce la cantidad de eventos adversos. Se investigó en forma retrospectiva la tasa de pacientes sin pulsera identificatoria al momento de la extracción sanguínea durante el año 2019 en el Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas Alfredo Lanari (IDIM). Se registró un total de 521 casos de pacientes no identificados sobre 5267 pedidos de laboratorio. La tasa anual de no identificados fue de 9.8%, superior al máximo ac eptable, y entre abril a septiembre se observaron mayores valores promedio. El día de la semana con mayor tasa de no identificados fueron los lunes con un 14%. Se observó una relación estadísticamente significativa entre la tasa mensual de no identificados con la cantidad mensual de egresos d e unidades operativas (r = 0.6465; p = 0.0237) y con el giro cama (r = 0.7776; p = 0.0029). Se desconoce si hubo otros errores de identificación. El estudio permitió conocer fallas en la identificación de pacientes internados. Se recomienda monitorear el indicador es pecialmente durante los meses con mayor cantidad de egresos y giro cama, evaluar la adherencia del personal al protocolo vigente y realizar capacitaciones para lograr una menor tasa de no identificados.

Abstract Medical attention is not free from committing mistakes that can increase mortality and costs. The International Goals for Patient Safety include correct patient identification. The use of wristbands reduces the number of adverse events. The rate of non-identified patients at the moment of phlebotomy was investigated retrospectively during 2019. The annual rate of non-identified patients was 9.8% and higher rates were observed from April to September. Monday was the day with the highest rate of non-identified. There was statistically significant relationship between the month rate of non-identified patients and the number of discharges from operative unit per month (r=0.6465; p=0.0237) and the bed turnover rate (r=0.7776; p=0.0029). Other wristband identification errors are unknown. The investigation detected failures in patient identification that allowed to make recommendations. In order to reduce the number of missing wristbands it will be necessary to monitor the indicator, especially during the months with the highest number of discharges and bed turnover rate, to evaluate the adherence of the personnel to the current protocol and to carry out training programs.

Clinical characteristics and prognostic factors in an argentinian cohort with ANCA-associated vasculitis / Características clínicas y factores pronósticos en una cohorte argentina de vasculitis asociada a ANCA

Abstract ANCA-associated vasculitis is a heterogeneous group of rare autoimmune conditions of unknown cause. Clinical characteristics and prognostic factors were analyzed in 47 patients: 20 (42.5%) with granulomatosis with polyangiitis, 17 (36.2%) with microscopic polyangiitis, 6 (12.8%) with renal-limited vasculitis, and 4 (8.5%) with eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis. Mean age at diagnosis was 53.5 ± 16.5 years and the median of BVAS (Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score) was 14 (4-42). The most frequent clinical manifesta tions were: general in 44 (93.6%), renal in 30 (63.8%) and respiratory in 28 (59.6%). All received corticosteroids at the beginning of treatment. Intravenous cyclophosphamide was associated in 20 (42.5%) and oral route in 14 (29.8%); azathioprine in 3 (6.4%) and rituximab in 2 (4.2%). At a median follow-up of 35.5 months (range 0.14- 234), 21 relapses were recorded in 14 patients. Overall mortality was 3.5 deaths per 100 patient-year in the whole group. Those over 55 years old, the presence of alveolar hemorrhage, those with FFS (Five Factor Score) of 2, and patients with MPA had poor prognosis. Renal involvement, ANCA pattern and BVAS were not associated to a poorer prognosis.

Resumen Las vasculitis asociadas a ANCA son un grupo heterogéneo de entidades autoinmunes, poco frecuentes, de etiología desconocida. Analizamos las características clínicas y factores pronóstico en 47 pacientes: 20 (42.5%) granulomatosis con poliangeítis, 17 (36.2%) poliangeítis microscópica, 6 (12.8%) vasculitis limitada al riñón y 4 (8.5%) granulomatosis eosinofílica con poliangeítis. La edad promedio al diagnóstico fue 53.5 ± 16.5 años y la mediana de BVAS (Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score) 14 (4-42). Las manifestaciones clínicas más frecuentes fueron: generales en 44 (93.6%), renales 30 (63.8%) y respiratorias en 28 (59.6%). Todos recibieron corticoides al inicio del tratamiento. Se asoció ciclofosfamida endovenosa en 20 (42.5%) y oral en 14 (29.8%); azatioprina en 3 (6.4%) y rituximab en 2 (4.2%). En una mediana de seguimiento de 35.5 meses (rango 0.14-234), se registraron 21 recaídas en 14 pacientes. La mortalidad fue 3.5 por cien pacientes-año en todo el grupo. Los mayores de 55 años, con presencia de hemorragia alveolar, FFS (Five Factor Score) de 2, y los casos con poliangeítis microscópica tuvieron peor pronóstico. El compromiso renal, el patrón de ANCA y el BVAS no se asociaron a peor pronóstico.

Anti-RNA Polymerase III Antibodies in Systemic Sclerosis: Multicentric Study from Argentina. / Anticuerpos anti-RNA polimerasa III en esclerosis sistémica: estudio multicéntrico de Argentina.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the frequency of anti-RNA polymerase III antibody in patients with Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) of a group of healthcare centres from Argentina and to explore differences among patients with positive and negative anti-RNA polymerase III antibody. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Data from clinical records, anamnesis and physical examination were collected from 135 patients with SSc (ACR/EULAR 2013). A serum sample from each patient was obtained for the detection of anti-RNA polymerase III IgG antibodies by ELISA. RESULTS: In all, 97.8% were women and the median age at diagnosis was 53 years (range: 12-87), 77.7% had limited cutaneous SSc (lcSSC), 19,3% patients had diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSC) and 2.9% had scleroderma sine scleroderma. The 67.5% of the patients were from a Mestizos or Amerindian ethnic group. Anti-RNA polymerase III was positive in 5.9% of the patients. In 36 patients, the anticentromere (ACA) and anti-Scl70 antibodies were negative; anti-RNA polymerase III was positive in 16.7% of these 36 patients. Pitting scars and pulmonary artery hypertension were more frequent in anti-RNA polymerase III positive patients who were also older at diagnosis. No association with gastric antral vascular ectasia was found. The only patient with scleroderma renal crisis was anti-RNA polymerase III positive. CONCLUSIONS: Anti-RNA polymerase III frequency found in this study was one of the lowest reported, which could be related to the predominance of the Amerindian and Mestizo ethnic group. It is possible that the detection of anti-RNA polymerase III allows better classification of SSc patients, to know their prognosis and to improve their follow-up, therefore more studies are needed.

Clinical characteristics and prognostic factors in an Argentinian cohort with ANCA-associated vasculitis.

ANCA-associated vasculitis is a heterogeneous group of rare autoimmune conditions of unknown cause. Clinical characteristics and prognostic factors were analyzed in 47 patients: 20 (42.5%) with granulomatosis with polyangiitis, 17 (36.2%) with microscopic polyangiitis, 6 (12.8%) with renal-limited vasculitis, and 4 (8.5%) with eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis. Mean age at diagnosis was 53.5 ± 16.5 years and the median of BVAS (Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score) was 14 (4-42). The most frequent clinical manifestations were: general in 44 (93.6%), renal in 30 (63.8%) and respiratory in 28 (59.6%). All received corticosteroids at the beginning of treatment. Intravenous cyclophosphamide was associated in 20 (42.5%) and oral route in 14 (29.8%); azathioprine in 3 (6.4%) and rituximab in 2 (4.2%). At a median follow-up of 35.5 months (range 0.14-234), 21 relapses were recorded in 14 patients. Overall mortality was 3.5 deaths per 100 patient-year in the whole group. Those over 55 years old, the presence of alveolar hemorrhage, those with FFS (Five Factor Score) of 2, and patients with MPA had poor prognosis. Renal involvement, ANCA pattern and BVAS were not associated to a poorer prognosis.

Las vasculitis asociadas a ANCA son un grupo heterogéneo de entidades autoinmunes, poco frecuentes, de etiología desconocida. Analizamos las características clínicas y factores pronóstico en 47 pacientes: 20 (42.5%) granulomatosis con poliangeítis, 17 (36.2%) poliangeítis microscópica, 6 (12.8%) vasculitis limitada al riñón y 4 (8.5%) granulomatosis eosinofílica con poliangeítis. La edad promedio al diagnóstico fue 53.5 ± 16.5 años y la mediana de BVAS (Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score) 14 (4-42). Las manifestaciones clínicas más frecuentes fueron: generales en 44 (93.6%), renales 30 (63.8%) y respiratorias en 28 (59.6%). Todos recibieron corticoides al inicio del tratamiento. Se asoció ciclofosfamida endovenosa en 20 (42.5%) y oral en 14 (29.8%); azatioprina en 3 (6.4%) y rituximab en 2 (4.2%). En una mediana de seguimiento de 35.5 meses (rango 0.14-234), se registraron 21 recaídas en 14 pacientes. La mortalidad fue 3.5 por cien pacientes-año en todo el grupo. Los mayores de 55 años, con presencia de hemorragia alveolar, FFS (Five Factor Score) de 2, y los casos con poliangeítis microscópica tuvieron peor pronóstico. El compromiso renal, el patrón de ANCA y el BVAS no se asociaron a peor pronóstico.

Mortalidad de la insuficiencia renal aguda con requerimiento de hemodiálisis en unidades de terapia intensiva / Mortality of acute renal failure requiring hemodialysis in intensive care units

RESUMEN Introducción: La insuficiencia renal aguda en pacientes internados en unidades de terapia intensiva es frecuente y se asocia con alta mortalidad. El objetivo del trabajo fue identificarfactores relacionados con mortalidad en pacientes internados en unidades de terapia intensiva con insuficiencia renal aguda que requirieron tratamiento sustitutivo de la función renal.Material y métodos:Se identificaron, en forma retrospectiva, 3.732pacientes internados en unidades de terapia intensiva. El 2,7% presentaron insuficiencia renal aguda con requerimiento de tratamiento sustitutivo de la función renal. Se excluyeron pacientes con antecedentes de enfermedad renal crónica con filtrado glomerular menor de 15 ml/m o en diálisis crónica. Resultados:Se analizaron 97 casos, 55% mujeres, mediana de edad 74 años (rango intercuartil: 68-78). Los motivos de insuficiencia renal aguda más frecuentes fueron sepsis (41,2%) y necrosis tubular aguda isquémica (36,1%). El 22,7% eran diabéticos. La mediana de APACHE II fue 23 (rango intercuartil: 19-28). El 75,3% requirió asistencia respiratoria mecánica y el 81,4%, inotrópicos. La mediana de tiempo de internación en unidades de terapia intensiva fue de 8 días (rango intercuartil: 4-11) y la mortalidad fue 58,76%.En el análisis individual, la mortalidad se asoció con asistencia respiratoria mecánica (p<0,0001), el uso de inotrópicos (p<0,0001) y el antecedente deenfermedad renal crónica (p=0.008), pero no se encontró asociación con sexo, edad, APACHE II, diabetes ni otros factores de riesgo cardiovascular. Modelo multivariable de factores asociados con mortalidad: asistencia respiratoria mecánica (Odds Ratio=14,16; p=0,003), inotrópicos (Odds Ratio=8,73; p=0,07) y enfermedad renal crónica (Odds Ratio=0,27; p=0,020).Conclusiones:Los pacientes con insuficiencia renal agudaque requirieron tratamiento sustitutivo de la función renal ingresados a unidades de terapia intensiva presentaron alta mortalidad. El requerimiento de asistencia respiratoria mecánica se asoció con mayor mortalidad, también el uso de inotrópicos, aunque no alcanzó significación estadística en el multivariable. El antecedente de enfermedad renal crónica se asoció con menor mortalidad.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Acute renal failure in patients admitted to intensive care units is common and is associated with high mortality. The aim of the study was to identify factors related to mortality in patients with acute renal failure, hospitalized in intensive care units, who required renal replacement therapy. Methods: We retrospectively identified 3,732 patients admitted to intensive care units; 2.7% had acute renal failure requiring replacement therapy for renal function. Patients with a history of chronic kidney disease with a glomerular filtration rate of less than 15 mL/m or on chronic dialysis were excluded. Results: 97 cases were analyzed, 55% women, median age: 74 years (interquartile range: 68-78). The most frequent reasons for acute renal failure were sepsis (41.2%) and ischemic acute tubular necrosis (36.1%); 22.7% were diabetic. The median APACHE II score was 23 (interquartile range: 19-28). 75.3% required mechanical ventilation and 81.4%, inotropic drugs. Median time of hospitalization in intensive care units was 8 days (interquartile range: 4-11) and the mortality rate was 58.76%. In the individual analysis, mortality was associated with mechanical ventilation (p<0.0001), the use of inotropic drugs (p<0.0001) and a history of chronic kidney disease (p=0.008), but no association was found with sex, age, APACHE II score, diabetes, or other cardiovascular risk factors. Multivariate model of factors associated with mortality: mechanical ventilation (Odds Ratio=14.16; p=0.003), inotropic drugs (Odds Ratio=8.73; p=0.07) and chronic kidney disease (Odds Ratio=0.27; p=0.020). Conclusions: Patients with acute renal failure who required renal replacement therapy and were admitted to intensive care units presented high mortality. The requirement for mechanical ventilation was associated with higher mortality, as was the use of inotropic drugs, although it did not reach statistical significance in the multivariate analysis. A history of chronic kidney disease was associated with lower mortality.

Tailored Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy in obese patients undergoing bariatric surgery.

OBJECTIVES: to compare the efficacy and safety of a tailored quadruple concomitant therapy based on body weight, with the same scheme but with fixed doses in obese patients undergoing bariatric surgery. METHODS: a prospective study was performed of 104 obese patients. RESULTS: the weight-based therapy group achieved significantly higher eradication rates in the intention-to-treat analysis; 86.3 % (95 % CI: 74.3-93.2) vs 66.1 % (95 % CI: 52.6-77.3), p < 0.05. Relative risk: 1.31 (95 % CI: 1.05-1.63). Discontinuations and adverse events were similar in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: a tailored quadruple concomitant therapy based on body weight seems to be more effective than the standard quadruple concomitant therapy in obese patients.

Long-term follow-up after fetal radiation exposure during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography.

Background and study aims The main concern about endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) during pregnancy is the risk of radiation exposure to the fetus. The potential exists not only in the short-term, but also in the long-term and includes growth and development problems and the possibility of childhood cancer. Little is known about the long-term effects of fetal radiation exposure at the time of ERCP. The aim of the study was to report the long-term outcome of babies born after radiation exposure to mothers who underwent ERCP during pregnancy. Patients and methods This was a single-center retrospective cohort study. We included 24 consecutive pregnant patients who underwent ERCP due to choledocholithiasis and their children, between June 1997 and June 2015. All patients and their babies were followed up until birth to assess their short-term outcome. To assess long-term outcomes, from September 2014 to September 2015, a comprehensive medical interview was conducted with the mothers and their children. We also evaluated medical records, lab tests, school report cards, and the families completed a questionnaire inquiring about perceived health status of the children. Results Fifteen patients had full-term pregnancies. One patient had a preterm delivery (32 weeks) due to preeclampsia. There were no cases of miscarriage, stillbirth or fetal malformations. Long-term follow-up was performed at a mean age of 11.08 years (range 1-18) for the children, with no developmental delays, poor school performance, or malignancies found. Conclusions Long-term outcome in children born after radiation exposure during ERCP was unremarkable.

Interferon-γ and IL-10 Release Assay for Patients with Ocular Toxoplasmosis.

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from patients with ocular toxoplasmosis were challenged with total antigens from Toxoplasma gondii lysate (TATL) in a cytokine release assay (CRA), run during the inactive period of the disease. Increased interferon gamma (IFN-γ) levels were detected after PBMC stimulation with either ME49 reference strain (P = 0.0015) or local TgCkAr-11-9 isolate (P = 0.0012), as compared with those recorded under basal conditions. TATL from TgCkAr11-9 isolate induced a higher release of IFN-γ than ME49 strain in CRA from all tested patients (P = 0.02). The median value of IFN-γ release on TgCkAr-11-9 stimulation (26.03 pg/mL) allowed the classification of patients into high- or low-/non-IFN-γ releasers. Clinical correlations were established with both groups. The results obtained in this study suggest the need to include local strains when performing CRA with TATL.