Riesgo cardiovascular en la población anciana española. Escala de riesgo EPICARDIAN / Cardiovascular risk in the elderly population of Spain. The EPICARDIAN risk score

Antecedentes y objetivos: La estimación del riesgo cardiovascular en personas mayores de 70 años es problemática. La mayoría de las escalas se han creado basándose en cohortes de personas de mediana edad, con una representación insuficiente de los adultos de más edad. El poder predictivo de los factores de riesgo cardiovascular clásicos disminuye con la edad. El objetivo de este estudio es desarrollar una escala específica para estimar el riesgo cardiovascular de la población anciana española. Métodos: Este estudio se realizó en una cohorte poblacional establecida en 1995. Marco: 3 zonas geográficas de España (Madrid, Ávila y Lugo). Participantes: 3.729 personas mayores de 64 años sin enfermedades cardiovasculares (ECV) al inicio del seguimiento. Mediciones: se investigaron anualmente las sospechas de ECV mortal y no mortal (cardiopatía coronaria e ictus) y se confirmaron usando los criterios del proyecto MONICA de la OMS. Se siguió a todos los participantes hasta que apareció el primer episodio de ECV, hasta su muerte o hasta el 31 de diciembre de 2015. Resultados: La edad fue el factor predictivo más potente de ECV a los 10 años en ambos sexos. Las variables asociadas con ECV en los varones fueron el tratamiento de la hipertensión arterial (HR: 1,35; IC 95%: 1,067-1,710), la diabetes (HR: 1,359; IC 95%: 0,997-1,852) y el tabaquismo (HR: 1,207; IC 95%: 0,945-1,541), y en las mujeres, el tabaquismo (HR: 1,881; IC 95%: 1,356-2,609) y la diabetes (HR: 1,285; IC 95%: 0,967-1,707). El colesterol total no aumentó el riesgo de ECV ni en varones ni en mujeres. Sin embargo, las concentraciones de colesterol total>200mg/dL se asociaron inversamente al riesgo de ECV a los 10 años, tanto en varones como en mujeres. conclusiones: La ECV total a los 10 años aumenta significativamente en los varones españoles de edad avanzada con la edad, la diabetes y el tratamiento antihipertensivo, y en las mujeres con la diabetes y el tabaquismo (AU)

Background and objectives: Cardiovascular risk estimation in people over 70 years of age is problematic. Most scores have been created based on cohorts of middle-aged people, with an underrepresentation of older adults. The predictive power of classical cardiovascular risk factors declines with age. The aim of this work is to develop a specific score for estimating cardiovascular risk among the elderly population in Spain. Methods: This work is a population-based cohort established in 1995. Setting: 3 geographical areas of Spain (Madrid, Ávila, and Lugo). Participants: 3,729 people older than 64 years with no cardiovascular diseases (CVD) at baseline. Measurements: suspected fatal and nonfatal CVD (both coronary heart disease and stroke) were investigated annually and confirmed using the WHO-MONICA criteria. All participants were followed-up on until occurrence of a first CVD event, until death, or until December 31, 2015. Results: Age was the strongest predictor of CVD at 10 years in both men and women. In men, variables associated with CVD were high blood pressure treatment (HR: 1.35; 95% CI: 1.067-1.710), diabetes (HR: 1.359; 95% CI: 0.997-1.852), and smoking (HR: 1.207; 95% CI: 0.945-1.541) and in women, the variables were smoking (HR: 1.881; 95% CI: 1.356-2.609) and diabetes (HR: 1.285; 95% CI: 0.967-1.707). Total cholesterol did not increase the risk of CVD in men or women. However, total cholesterol levels>200mg/dL were inversely associated with 10-year risk of CVD in men and women. Conclusions: In elderly Spanish men, total CVD at 10 years is significantly increased by age, diabetes, and antihypertensive treatment and in elderly Spanish women by diabetes and smoking. Total cholesterol levels did not increase the risk of CVD, particularly in males (AU)

Cardiovascular risk in the elderly population of Spain. The EPICARDIAN risk score.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Cardiovascular risk estimation in people over 70 years of age is problematic. Most scores have been created based on cohorts of middle-aged people, with an underrepresentation of older adults. The predictive power of classical cardiovascular risk factors declines with age. The aim of this work is to develop a specific score for estimating cardiovascular risk among the elderly population in Spain. METHODS: This work is a population-based cohort established in 1995. SETTING: Three geographical areas of Spain (Madrid, Ávila, and Lugo). PARTICIPANTS: 3,729 people older than 64 years with no cardiovascular diseases (CVD) at baseline. MEASUREMENTS: Suspected fatal and nonfatal CVD (both coronary heart disease and stroke) were investigated annually and confirmed using the WHO-MONICA criteria. All participants were followed-up on until occurrence of a first CVD event, until death, or until December 31, 2015. RESULTS: Age was the strongest predictor of CVD at 10 years in both men and women. In men, variables associated with CVD were high blood pressure treatment (HR: 1.35; 95% CI: 1.067-1.710), diabetes (HR: 1.359; 95% CI: 0.997-1.852), and smoking (HR: 1.207; 95% CI: 0.945-1.541) and in women, the variables were smoking (HR: 1.881; 95% CI: 1.356-2.609) and diabetes (HR: 1.285; 95% CI: 0.967-1.707). Total cholesterol did not increase the risk of CVD in men or women. However, total cholesterol levels >200 mg/dL were inversely associated with 10-year risk of CVD in men and women. CONCLUSIONS: In elderly Spanish men, total CVD at 10 years is significantly increased by age, diabetes, and antihypertensive treatment and in elderly Spanish women by diabetes and smoking. Total cholesterol levels did not increase the risk of CVD, particularly in males.

[Pharmacological treatment in uncertainty times: Hydroxychloroquine/chloroquine use in the COVID-19 treatment]. / Tratamiento farmacológico en tiempos de incertidumbre: uso de la hidroxicloroquina/cloroquina en el tratamiento de COVID-19.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: In this moments, of extreme gravity in which we find ourselves, and in the uncertainty face about the most effective treatment against COVID-19 disease and with the aim of find the evidence that support the chloroquine/hydroxychloroquine use recommendation to treat COVID-19 disease, a systematic review of published studies and RCT studies publishes until April 28, 2020 was carried out. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A systematic search was carried out in PubMed with the keywords COVID-19 and their synonyms and hydroxychloroquine/chloroquine. The data selection and extraction was elaborated by two researchers, independently. The results were discussed with a Primary Care physicians clinical group and the results were synthesized using GRADE methodology. RESULTS: A good quality systematic review was found that includes articles with a high risk of bias. And 8 EC launched that will produce results beyond May 2020. CONCLUSIONS: Although the conclusions of the systematic review generate a low confidence in the results, and the clinical variables that show benefit are intermediate variables, the side effects are acceptable and could be minimized with the use of QT lengthening risk tools, so it is could make a weak recommendation in favor of the use of chloroquine/hydroxychloroquine in patients with mild-moderate stage COVID-19.

Tratamiento farmacológico en tiempos de incertidumbre: uso de la hidroxicloroquina/cloroquina en el tratamiento de COVID-19 / Pharmacological treatment in uncertainty times: hydroxychloroquine/chloroquine use in the COVID-19 treatment

ANTECEDENTES Y OBJETIVOS: En los momentos de extrema gravedad en los que nos encontramos, y ante la incertidumbre acerca de los tratamientos más eficaces en la lucha contra la enfermedad COVID-19 y con el objetivo de conocer las evidencias que pueden sostener la recomendación de utilización de cloroquina/hidroxicloroquina en el COVID 19, se realizó una revisión sistemática de estudios publicados y EC puestos en marcha con fecha hasta 28 de abril 2020. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Se realizó una búsqueda sistemática en PubMed con las palabras clave COVID-19 y sus sinónimos y cloroquina/hidroxicloroquina. La selección y extracción de los datos aparecidos en dicha búsqueda fue realizada por dos investigadores de forma independiente. Los resultados se discutieron con un grupo clínico de médicos de Atención Primaria y se sintetizaron los resultados mediante tablas de GRADE. RESULTADOS: Se encontró una revisión sistemática de buena calidad que incluye artículos con elevado riesgo de sesgos. Y 8 EC puestos en marcha que arrojarán resultados más allá de mayo de 2020. CONCLUSIONES: Aunque las conclusiones de la revisión sistemática generan una baja confianza en los resultados, y las variables clínicas que muestran beneficio son variables intermedias, los efectos secundarios son asumibles y podrían ser minimizados con el uso de herramientas de riesgo de alargamiento del QT, por lo que se podría hacer una recomendación débil a favor del uso de cloroquina/hidroxicloroquina en pacientes con COVID-19 en estadio leve-moderado

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: In this moments, of extreme gravity in which we find ourselves, and in the uncertainty face about the most effective treatment against COVID-19 disease and with the aim of find the evidence that support the chloroquine/hydroxychloroquine use recommendation to treat COVID-19 disease, a systematic review of published studies and RCT studies publishes until April 28, 2020 was carried out. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A systematic search was carried out in PubMed with the keywords COVID-19 and their synonyms and hydroxychloroquine/chloroquine. The data selection and extraction was elaborated by two researchers, independently. The results were discussed with a Primary Care physicians clinical group and the results were synthesized using GRADE methodology. RESULTS: A good quality systematic review was found that includes articles with a high risk of bias. And 8 EC launched that will produce results beyond May 2020. CONCLUSIONS: Although the conclusions of the systematic review generate a low confidence in the results, and the clinical variables that show benefit are intermediate variables, the side effects are acceptable and could be minimized with the use of QT lengthening risk tools, so it is could make a weak recommendation in favor of the use of chloroquine/hydroxychloroquine in patients with mild-moderate stage COVID-19

[Do we adequately prescribe antiplatelet treatment to type 2 diabetic patients?]. / Antiagregamos adecuadamente a los pacientes diabéticos tipo 2?

OBJECTIVE: To estimate how many type 2 diabetic patients receive antiplatelet therapy according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA) guidelines on primary and secondary prevention. DESIGN: A descriptive, cross-sectional study based on information in medical records. A random sample of 170 type 2 diabetics seen in an urban Health Centre was studied. MEASUREMENTS: The data collected including, age, sex, antiplatelet therapy according to the ADA, antiplatelet therapy indicated, cardiovascular risk factors, cardiovascular disease, and other clinical parameters. RESULTS: Of the subjects analysed, 56.9% were males, and the mean age was 67.8 years. The majority of patients (71.2%) were on primary prevention, and 44.4% of the diabetics were receiving adequate antiplatelet therapy according to the ADA. Among the subjects on secondary prevention, 90.9% received adequate antiplatelet therapy, while only 25.7% of those on primary prevention received it, which was significant. The most used antiplatelet drug was acetylsalicylic acid (ASA). CONCLUSIONS: A large proportion of diabetes on primary prevention does not receive adequate antiplatelet therapy, according to the ADA. However, patients on secondary prevention receive sufficient antiplatelet treatment. The benefits of ASA in reducing cardiovascular disease are well documented in patients with cardiovascular disease. On the other hand, the role of antiplatelet therapy in diabetics on primary prevention is not clear and is the subject of discussion. From 2006 to 2011, the ADA has modified the recommendation level of primary prevention antiplatelet therapy, thus decreasing the percentage of patients that may be given antiplatelet therapy with ASA, to the extent that it increases the cardiovascular risk calculation required for its indication.

¿Antiagregamos adecuadamente a los pacientes diabéticos tipo 2? / Do we adequately prescribe antiplatelet treatment to type 2 diabetic patients?

Objetivo. Estimar cuántos pacientes diabéticos tipo 2 deberían recibir tratamiento antiagregante, según las directrices de la Asociación Americana de Diabetes (ADA) en prevención primaria y secundaria. Diseño. Estudio descriptivo transversal, basado en información de historias clínicas. Muestra aleatoria de 170 diabéticos tipo 2 atendidos en el año 2006, en un centro de salud urbano. Mediciones. Edad, sexo, antiagregación según ADA, antiagregante indicado, factores de riesgo cardiovascular, eventos cardiovasculares, parámetros clínicos. Resultados. De los sujetos analizados, 56,9% eran varones, con edad media de 67,8 años. El 71,2% de los pacientes estaban en prevención primaria. El 44,4% de los diabéticos estaban adecuadamente antiagregados, según la ADA. Entre los sujetos en prevención secundaria están adecuadamente antiagregados el 90,9%, mientras que solamente lo están el 25,7% de los de prevención primaria, lo que es significativo. Cuando se antiagrega, el ácido acetilsalicílico (AAS) es el fármaco más usado. Conclusiones. Una gran proporción de diabéticos en prevención primaria no está adecuadamente antiagregada, según la ADA. Sin embargo existe una correcta antiagregación en los pacientes de prevención secundaria. El beneficio del AAS en la reducción de eventos cardiovasculares está correctamente documentado en pacientes con enfermedad cardiovascular. En cambio, el papel de la antiagregación en diabéticos de prevención primaria es poco conciso y objeto de discusión. Desde 2006 a 2011, la ADA ha modificado el grado de recomendación de antiagregación en prevención primaria, disminuyendo el porcentaje de pacientes susceptibles de recibir tratamiento antiagregante con AAS a medida que aumenta el cálculo del riesgo cardiovascular necesario para la indicación (AU)

Objective. To estimate how many type 2 diabetic patients receive antiplatelet therapy according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA) guidelines on primary and secondary prevention. Design. A descriptive, cross-sectional study based on information in medical records. A random sample of 170 type 2 diabetics seen in an urban Health Centre was studied. Measurements. The data collected including, age, sex, antiplatelet therapy according to the ADA, antiplatelet therapy indicated, cardiovascular risk factors, cardiovascular disease, and other clinical parameters. Results. Of the subjects analysed, 56.9% were males, and the mean age was 67.8 years. The majority of patients (71.2%) were on primary prevention, and 44.4% of the diabetics were receiving adequate antiplatelet therapy according to the ADA. Among the subjects on secondary prevention, 90.9% received adequate antiplatelet therapy, while only 25.7% of those on primary prevention received it, which was significant. The most used antiplatelet drug was acetylsalicylic acid (ASA). Conclusions. A large proportion of diabetes on primary prevention does not receive adequate antiplatelet therapy, according to the ADA. However, patients on secondary prevention receive sufficient antiplatelet treatment. The benefits of ASA in reducing cardiovascular disease are well documented in patients with cardiovascular disease. On the other hand, the role of antiplatelet therapy in diabetics on primary prevention is not clear and is the subject of discussion. From 2006 to 2011, the ADA has modified the recommendation level of primary prevention antiplatelet therapy, thus decreasing the percentage of patients that may be given antiplatelet therapy with ASA, to the extent that it increases the cardiovascular risk calculation required for its indication (AU)

Nutritional state during COPD exacerbation: clinical and prognostic implications.

AIMS: To estimate the prevalence of malnutrition in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients hospitalized for exacerbation and to evaluate its clinical and prognostic influence on the exacerbation. SUBJECTS/METHODS: The subjects were 78 consecutive patients with moderate-to-severe COPD who were admitted to hospital with a diagnosis of exacerbation. Nutritional status was assessed by means of body mass index (BMI), bioelectric impedance analysis and levels of plasmatic albumin. Previous spirometry, 6-min walk test, severity of the exacerbation, days of hospitalization and readmission in the following 3 months were also evaluated. RESULTS: Malnutrition [BMI <20 or fat-free mass (FFM) index

Síndrome de burnout en profesionales sanitarios de Cuidados Paliativos de la Comunidad de Madrid / No disponible

Objetivo: la prevalencia del síndrome de burnout en profesionales sanitarios que trabajan en unidades de Cuidados Paliativos de la Comunidad de Madrid, dentro del ámbito de la sanidad pública y concertada. Métodos: estudio transversal descriptivo realizado entre personal médico y de enfermería de unidades de atención domiciliaria (equipos de soporte -ESAD- y unidades de la AECC) y servicios de cuidados paliativos de hospitales de la red pública y concertada. De un total de 193 individuos, mediante muestreo aleatorio simple se seleccionó un grupo de 60, a los cuales se administró el cuestionario Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI),validado en castellano. Fue enviado por correo en febrero 2005. El MBI consta de tres subescalas (cansancio emocional -CE-, despersonalización -DP- y realización personal -RP-). Se tuvieron en cuenta variables de tipo demográfico y laboral. Resultados: la tasa de respuestas fue del 75% (45 personas). Un 57,8% de los individuos presentaba cansancio emocional bajo, 68,9% despersonalización baja y 62,2% realización personal alta. Además un tercio de los participantes (15) se ajustaba al patrón de bajo nivel de burnout en las tres subescalas (es decir, CE bajo, DP baja y RP elevada). Conclusiones: los profesionales de Cuidados Paliativos de la Comunidad de Madrid han manifestado niveles bajos de desgaste profesional en relación con otros estudio realizados en nuestro país, fundamentalmente en atención primaria (AU)

Aim: to study the prevalence of burnout syndrome in health professionals working in palliative care units within Madrid region's public and semi-public health system. Methods: a cross-sectional descriptive study of home care medical and nursing staff -medical support team (ESAD), and also the Spanish Association Against Cancer (AECC) and palliative care services from public and semi-public hospitals. By means of simple random sampling 60 subjects were selected from a total group of 193 people. They were sent a questionnaire by mail in February 2005, the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) as validated in the Spanish language. MBI has three sub-stages: emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalitazion (DP), and personal accomplishment (PA). Not only demographic but also professional variables were taken into account. Results: response rate was 75% (45 out of 60 subjects); 57.8% showed low emotional exhaustion, 68.9% had low depersonalization, and 62.2% reported high personal accomplishment. Moreover, one third of participants(15) conform to the pattern of low burnout level in the three different substages, that is, low CE, low DP, and high RP. Conclusions: in comparison to other studies in our country, Madrid's professional palliative care staff exhibited low burnout levels (AU)

La utilización de las pruebas de laboratorio en la hipercolesterolemia: una nueva metodología en la evaluación de la práctica clínica / No disponible

OBJETIVO. Evaluación de la utilidad del sistema de información del laboratorio (SIL) para evaluar la solicitud de las pruebas de laboratorio en la hipercolesterolemia en Atención Primaria y su adecuación a los estándares de prácticas nacionales e internacionales. MATERIAL Y MÉTODO. Se trata de un estudio transversal realizado en el año 2000 y en el año 2003 junto con un seguimiento no concurrente. Se incluyen todos los individuos con una o dos extracciones de colesterol en el año 2000 (17.815) o 2003 (12.743) y al menos una determinación de colesterol total en el primer trimestre. Se miden la frecuencia, el porcentaje y el intervalo de confianza (IC) para una probabilidad del 95,0% de los niveles del colesterol total y delas pruebas lipídicas utilizadas tanto en la primera como en la segunda extracción, así como el intervalo de tiempo transcurrido entre la primera y la segunda extracción. RESULTADOS. En el año 2000, el 65,2% (IC = 64,5-65,9) de los pacientes tenía una cifra de colesterol mayor de 200 mg/dl. En el año 2003 este porcentaje fue del 50,1% (IC =49,3-51,0). La prueba más solicitada en la segunda extracción fue el colesterol total y se registró una disminución significativa en la utilización combinada de colesterol total, triglicéridos y colesterol unido a lipoproteínas de alta densidad en el año 2003 con respecto al año 2000. El intervalo de tiempo entre la primera y la segunda solicitud de pruebas lipídicas fue mayor de 89 días del 86,43% (IC = 85,1-87,6) en el año 2000 y del 83,24% (IC = 80,9-85,4) en el año 2003. CONCLUSIONES. El SIL puede ser un instrumento útil para medir la práctica clínica de los médicos de Atención Primaria y para comparar su conducta en relación con las guías de práctica clínica

OBJECTIVE. To evaluate the usefulness of the laboratory information system (LIS) to evaluate request for laboratory tests in hypercholesterolemia in Primary Health Care and its adjustment. MATERIAL AND METHODS. Cross-sectional study in the year 2000 and the year 2003 together with a non-concurrent follow-up. All individuals with one or two blood drawings for cholesterol in 2000 (17,815) or 2003 (12,743) and at least one total cholesterol measurement in the first quarter were included. Frequency, percentage and likelihood of 95% confidence intervals for total cholesterol and lipids tests used in the first and the second drawings and in the request interval between the first and the second drawing were measured. RESULTS. In 2000, cholesterol level in 65.2% (CI: 64.5-65.9) of the patients was higher than 200 mg/dl. In 2003this percentage was 50.1% (CI: 49.3-51.0). The test requested most during the second drawing was total cholesterol level, there being a significant decrease in the combined use of total cholesterol, triglycerides and HDL-cholesterol in 2003compared to year 2000. Time interval between the first and second request for lipid tests was greater than 89 days in86.43% (CI: 85.1-87.6) in 2000 and 83.24% (CI: 80.9-85.4) in 2003. CONCLUSIONS. LIS can be a useful instrument to analyze the clinical practice of Primary Care doctors and to compare their conduct in relationship with the clinical practice guidelines

[Relationship between pulse pressure and clinical cardiovascular damage in elderly subjects of EPICARDIAN study]. / Relación entre presión de pulso y antecedente de enfermedad cardiovascular en ancianos de dos poblaciones pertenecientes al estudio EPICARDIAN.

INTRODUCTION: Arterial hypertension and aging are the main cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF) in the elderly population. Aging is associated with an increase in systolic blood pressure (SBP) levels and a decrease of diastolic blood pressure (DBP), due to increased large artery stiffness. Several epidemiological studies have demonstrated that pulse pressure (PP) is an independent risk factor, better than SBP, for overall, cardiovascular mortality, coronary heart disease and cerebrovascular, particularly in the elderly. OBJECTIVES: To determine the association of PP with clinical cardiovascular damage, in a population-based sample of Spanish elders subjects. To quantify the association between PP and the background of clinical cardiovascular damage. To determine which PP, SBP, DBP or mean arterial pressure (MAP) are better associated to the history of clinical cardiovascular damage. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The sample analyzed included individuals from the EPICARDIAN study in the areas of Lista district (Madrid) and Arévalo (Avila). The following CVRF of age, gender, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, obesity, abdominal obesity and smoking were considered. Clinical cardiovascular damage is defined as the personal background of stroke, myocardial infarction, angina pectoris and/or intermittent claudication. RESULTS: The sample included 2665 individuals, 56% women, mean age: 74 year-old; 74.3% were hypertensive, 55.6% had central obesity and 31.9% hypercholesterolemia. In the multivariate analysis, the PP was the BP parameter associated most to stroke, angina pectoris and intermittent claudication: OR, 1.015, (95% CI: 1.001-1.030), 1.029 (95% CI: 1.006-1.052) and 1.012 (95% CI: 1.002-1.023), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: In the elderly population studied, an elevated PP is the component of arterial pressure with the greatest association to the background of cardiovascular damage.

Relación entre presión de pulso y antecedente de enfermedad cardiovascular en ancianos de dos poblaciones pertenecientes al estudio EPICARDIAN / Relationship between pulse pressure and clinical cardiovascular damage in elderly subjects of EPICARDIAN study

Introducción. La hipertensión arterial y la edad son los factores de riesgo cardiovasculares (FRCV) principales en la población anciana. Con la edad existe un incremento en los niveles de presión arterial sistólica (PAS) y un descenso de la presión arterial diastólica (PAD) debido a la rigidez arterial de las grandes arterias. Numerosos estudios epidemiológicos han demostrado que la presión de pulso (PP) es un factor de riesgo independiente, mejor que la PAS, de mortalidad global, cardiovascular, enfermedad coronaria y cerebrovascular, sobre todo en población anciana. Objetivos. Determinar la asociación entre la PP con el antecedente de enfermedad cardiovascular clínica en una muestra poblacional de ancianos españoles. Determinar si la PP se asocia mejor que la PAS, PAD y presión arterial media (PAM) con el antecedente de daño cardiovascular clínico. Pacientes y métodos. Los datos empleados han sido obtenidos de una muestra del proyecto EPICARDIAN pertenecientes al barrio de Lista (Madrid) y Arévalo (Ávila). Se consideraron los siguientes FRCV: edad, sexo, hipertensión, diabetes, hipercolesterolemia, obesidad, obesidad abdominal y tabaquismo. Se definió enfermedad cardiovascular clínica a los antecedentes de accidente cerebrovascular (ACV), infarto agudo de miocardio (IAM), angina y/o claudicación intermitente. Resultados. Se estudiaron 2.665 sujetos (56% mujeres), edad media: 74 años. El 74,3% eran hipertensos, el 55,6% presentaban obesidad central y el 31,9% hipercolesterolemia. De los cuatro componentes de PA, la PP elevada fue el parámetro que más se asoció a ACV, angina y claudicación intermitente: odds ratio en el análisis multivariado de 1,015 (intervalo de confianza del 95% [IC 95%]: 1,001-1,030), 1,029 (IC 95%: 1,006-1,052) y 1,012 (IC 95%: 1,002-1,023), respectivamente. Conclusiones. En la población anciana estudiada la PP es el parámetro de la PA que muestra una mayor asociación con el antecedente de enfermedad cardiovascular (AU)

Introduction. Arterial hypertension and aging are the main cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF) in the elderly population. Aging is associated with an increase in systolic blood pressure (SBP) levels and a decrease of diastolic blood pressure (DBP), due to increased large artery stiffness. Several epidemiological studies have demonstrated that pulse pressure (PP) is an independent risk factor, better than SBP, for overall, cardiovascular mortality, coronary heart disease and cerebrovascular, particularly in the elderly. Objectives. To determine the association of PP with clinical cardiovascular damage, in a population-based sample of Spanish elders subjects. To quantify the association between PP and the background of clinical cardiovascular damage. To determine which PP, SBP, DBP or mean arterial pressure (MAP) are better associated to the history of clinical cardiovascular damage. Patients and methods. The sample analyzed included individuals from the EPICARDIAN study in the areas of Lista district (Madrid) and Arévalo (Avila). The following CVRF of age, gender, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, obesity, abdominal obesity and smoking were considered. Clinical cardiovascular damage is defined as the personal background of stroke, myocardial infarction, angina pectoris and/or intermittent claudication. Results. The sample included 2665 individuals, 56% women, mean age: 74 year-old; 74.3% were hypertensive, 55.6% had central obesity and 31.9% hypercholesterolemia. In the multivariate analysis, the PP was the BP parameter associated most to stroke, angina pectoris and intermittent claudication: OR, 1.015, (95% CI: 1.001-1.030), 1.029 (95% CI: 1.006-1.052) and 1.012 (95% CI: 1.002-1.023), respectively. Conclusions. In the elderly population studied, an elevated PP is the component of arterial pressure with the greatest association to the background of cardiovascular damage (AU)

Osteoporosis increases the severity of cartilage damage in an experimental model of osteoarthritis in rabbits.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of osteoporosis (OP) in cartilage damage developed in an experimental model of osteoarthritis (OA) in mature female rabbits in order to investigate the relationship between OP and OA. METHODS: OA was experimentally induced by anterior cruciate section and partial medial meniscectomy in the left knee of 12 rabbits. OP was experimentally induced prior to OA in six rabbits by bilateral ovariectomy (OVX) and systemic corticosteroid administration during 4 weeks. Knees were evaluated with high resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before knee surgery to rule out any detrimental effect of corticosteroids on cartilage. Gross and microscopic cartilage changes were assessed 16 weeks after surgery in bilateral knees. Left knees were considered osteoarthritic or osteoarthritic plus osteoporotic. Right knees were used as osteoporotic and healthy controls, respectively. Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured with dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) at the lumbar spine, global knee and subchondral knee bone, and its variations correlated with cartilage abnormalities. RESULTS: MRI before knee surgery disclosed no cartilage or bone abnormalities in any of the studied groups. OP increased the severity of cartilage abnormalities in experimental knee OA significantly (P<0.05). Cartilage damage was inversely correlated with BMD variations measured at the lumbar spine (r=-0.74; P=0.015). BMD changes in global and subchondral knee bone also showed a trend to correlate inversely with cartilage damage. CONCLUSIONS: Prior induction of OP increases the severity of cartilage damage in experimental OA. Increase in cartilage damage correlates with bone loss. These findings suggest a direct relationship between OP and OA.

Comparación de las guías de práctica clínica de riesgo vascular / Comparison of vascular risk clinical practice guides

OBJETIVO. En estos últimos años diversos autores y organizaciones han desarrollado guías de práctica clínica (GPC) con recomendaciones para el manejo del paciente con riesgo vascular. El objetivo es la descripción de la variabilidad existente entre las recomendaciones de las distintas GPC. MÉTODOS. Se comparan los autores de las distintas GPC y si están basadas en la evidencia y en el riesgo vascular (los factores de riesgo, el método de estimación y su estratificación), tanto en aquellas guías de carácter internacional, que son la referencia bibliográfica de las guías españolas, como en las GPC nacionales en Atención Primaria. RESULTADOS. Las GPC están basadas en la evidencia o en la adaptación de otras GPC ya existentes. La importancia de las últimas versiones de las GPC radica en la llamada de atención sobre los nuevos marcadores potenciales de las enfermedades cardiovasculares (ECV): la homocisteína, los marcadores de inflamación, los factores trombogénicos, los factores genéticos, la microalbuminuria y la aterosclerosis subclínica. También prestan mayor atención al síndrome metabólico. CONCLUSIONES. Existe variabilidad entre las GPC revisadas tanto en los autores como en los factores de riesgo contemplados y en el método de estimar y de estratificar el riesgo. Los nuevos marcadores de ECV todavía no se consideran aplicables en la estimación de riesgo cardiovascular rutinario de la ECV. Se espera que la combinación de los factores de riesgo tradicionales y de los factores de riesgo que emergen facilite la valoración del riesgo global de los pacientes con el fin de optimizar los esfuerzos diagnósticos y terapéuticos. Sugerimos que en la práctica clínica los médicos de Atención Primaria utilicen la GPC editada por la semFYC II

OBJECTIVES: In recent years, several authors and organizations have developed clinical practice guides (CPG) with recommendations for the management of patients with vascular risk. Description of existing variability between recommendations of the different CPG. METHODS. A comparison is made of authors of the different CPG and if they are based on evidence and vascular risk (risk factors, estimation method and its stratification) both in those international guides, that are the bibliographic reference of the Spanish guidelines, as well as in the national CPG in Primary Care. RESULTS. The CPG are based on evidence or the adaptation of other already existing CPG. The importance of the last versions of the CPG is found in the call to attention on the new potential markers of cardiovascular diseases: homocysteine, inflammation markers, thrombogenic factors, genetic factors, microalbuminuria and subclinical atherosclerosis. Greater attention is also given to the metabolic syndrome. CONCLUSIONS. There is variability between the CPG reviewed both in the authors and in the risk factors contemplated and in the method of estimating and stratifying risk. The new CVD markers are still not considered applicable in the estimation of routine cardiovascular risk of CVD. It is hoped that the combination of the traditional risk factors and the risk factors that emerge will facilitate the assessment of global risk of the patients in order to optimize diagnostic and therapeutic efforts. We suggest that Primary Care physicians use the CPG edited by the semFYC (Spanish Society of Family and Community Medicine) II in the clinical practice

Bone mineral measurements of subchondral and trabecular bone in healthy and osteoporotic rabbits.

INTRODUCTION: Experimental models of osteoporosis in rabbits are useful to investigate anabolic agents because this animal has a fast bone turnover with predominant remodelling over the modelling processes. For that purpose, it is necessary to characterize the densitometric values of each type of bony tissue. OBJECTIVE: To determine areal bone mass measurement in the spine and in trabecular, cortical and subchondral bone of the knee in healthy and osteoporotic rabbits. DESIGN: Bone mineral content and bone mineral density were measured in lumbar spine, global knee, and subchondral and cortical bone of the knee with dual energy X-ray absorptiometry using a Hologic QDR-1000/W densitometer in 29 skeletally mature female healthy New Zealand rabbits. Ten rabbits underwent triplicate scans for evaluation of the effect of repositioning. Osteoporosis was experimentally induced in 15 rabbits by bilateral ovariectomy and postoperative corticosteroid treatment for 4 weeks. Identical dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) studies were performed thereafter. RESULTS: Mean values of bone mineral content at the lumbar spine, global knee, subchondral bone and cortical tibial metaphysis were: 1934+/-217 mg, 878+/-83 mg, 149+/-14 mg and 29+/-7.0 mg, respectively. The mean values of bone mineral density at the same regions were: 298+/-24 mg/cm(2), 455+/-32 mg/cm(2), 617+/-60 mg/cm(2) and 678+/-163 mg/cm(2), respectively. Bone mineral content and bone density of healthy rabbits followed a normal distribution at the four skeletal regions studied. Precision after triplicate repositioning yielded a coefficient of variation ranging from 2.6% to 3.8%. The least significant change ranged between 7.3% and 10.7%. Bone mineral density measured at the four different skeletal regions correlated significantly. Bone mineral density in osteoporotic rabbits was significantly lower in the four regions studied than that in controls, rendering a T-score of, respectively, -2.0+/-1.1 in the lumbar spine, -2.2+/-2.1 in the global knee, -1.9+/-0.6 in the subchondral bone, and -5.7+/-3.1 in the cortical tibia (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: DXA is a reliable and precise method to evaluate the bone mass in rabbits. Our results also suggest that subchondral bone is a bone of mixed densitometric characteristics with marked cortical bone predominance.

[Cystic fibrosis in adults: inter- and intraobserver agreement for the Brasfield and Chrispin-Norman chest radiography scoring systems and correlation with clinical data and spirometry]. / Fibrosis quística en adultos: acuerdos inter e intraobservador para las escalas de puntuación de Brasfield y Chrispin-Norman en la radiografía de tórax y relación con datos clínicos y espirométricos.

OBJECTIVE: Most chest radiography scoring systems for patients with cystic fibrosis have been developed for children but are also used for adults. Our aim was to evaluate the intra- and interobserver variability of 2 radiographic scoring systems in adults with cystic fibrosis and to assess the correlation of these systems with clinical and spirometric parameters. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The chest x-rays of 24 adult patients with cystic fibrosis were compared using 2 scoring systems (Brasfield and Chrispin-Norman). The x-rays were scored by 2 radiologists and reevaluated 4 months later by 1 of the 2 observers. Intra- and interobserver agreement was assessed using the intraclass and Pearson's correlation coefficients. The radiographic scores were compared to lung function tests and other clinical data. RESULTS: Both intra- and interobserver agreement were high (r > or = 0.9 and the intraclass correlation coefficient > or = 0.85 with both systems for both samples). Both scoring systems correlated with spirometry results: forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) (r = 0.64 and r = 0.55), FEV1% (r = 0.75 and r = 0.72), and the percentage of forced vital capacity in relation to the predicted value (r = 0.63 and r = 0.056). We found no association between scoring system and sex, age, or body mass index. CONCLUSIONS: Assessment of chest radiographs of adult patients with cystic fibrosis by the Brasfield and Chrispin-Norman scoring systems shows good intra- and interobserver agreement. Both systems correlate well with lung function variables, especially FEV1.

Fibrosis quística en adultos: acuerdos inter e intraobservador para las escalas de puntuación de Brasfield y Chrispin-Norman en la radiografía de tórax y relación con datos clínicos y espirométricos / Cystic fibrosis in adults: inter- and intraobserver agreement for the Brasfield and Chrispin-Norman chest radiography scoring systems and correlation with clinical data spirometry

Objetivo: La mayoría de los sistemas de puntuación para la radiografía de tórax de pacientes con fibrosis quística (FQ) se desarrollaron en niños y se utilizan en adultos. Nuestro objetivo ha sido valorar la variabilidad intra e inter-observador para la radiografía de tórax en 2 sistemas de puntuación en adultos con FQ y relacionarlos con algunos parámetros clínicos y espirométricos. Pacientes y métodos: Se han comparado las radiografías de tórax de 24 pacientes adultos con FQ mediante 2 sistemas de puntuación (Brasfield y Chrispin-Norman). Dos radiólogos clasificaron los estudios, que revaluó 4 meses después uno de los 2 observadores. Los acuerdos intra e interobservador se calcularon mediante el coeficiente de correlación de Pearson (r) y el coeficiente de correlación intraclase. Las puntuaciones de la radiografía de tórax se relacionaron con pruebas de función respiratoria y otros datos clínicos. Resultados: Los acuerdos intra e interobservador fueron altos (r ≥ 0,9 y coeficiente de correlación intraclase ≥ 0,85 en los 2 acuerdos para los 2 sistemas). Los 2 sistemas de puntuación mostraron correlación con los datos espirométricos: volumen espiratorio forzado en el primer segundo (FEV1; r = 0,64 y 0,55), FEV1% (r = 0,75 y 0,72) y porcentaje sobre el valor teórico estándar de la capacidad vital forzada (r = 0,63 y 0,056). No encontramos relación de los sistemas de puntuación con el sexo, la edad ni el índice de masa corporal. Conclusiones: La radiografía de tórax en pacientes adultos con FQ, valorada mediante los sistemas de puntuación de Brasfield y Chrispin-Norman, presenta buenos acuerdos intra e interobservador. Ambos sistemas de puntuación presentan una buena correlación con la función pulmonar, especialmente con el FEV1

Objective: Most chest radiography scoring systems for patients with cystic fibrosis have been developed for children but are also used for adults. Our aim was to evaluate the intra- and interobserver variability of 2 radiographic scoring systems in adults with cystic fibrosis and to assess the correlation of these systems with clinical and spirometric parameters. Patients and methods: The chest x-rays of 24 adult patients with cystic fibrosis were compared using 2 scoring systems (Brasfield and Chrispin-Norman). The x-rays were scored by 2 radiologists and reevaluated 4 months later by 1 of the 2 observers. Intra- and interobserver agreement was assessed using the intraclass and Pearson's correlation coefficients. The radiographic scores were compared to lung function tests and other clinical data. Results: Both intra- and interobserver agreement were high (r ≥ 0.9 and the intraclass correlation coefficient ≥ 0.85 with both systems for both samples). Both scoring systems correlated with spirometry results: forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) (r=0.64 and r=0.55), FEV1% (r=0.75 and r=0.72), and the percentage of forced vital capacity in relation to the predicted value (r=0.63 and r=0.056). We found no association between scoring system and sex, age, or body mass index. Conclusions: Assessment of chest radiographs of adult patients with cystic fibrosis by the Brasfield and Chrispin-Norman scoring systems shows good intra- and interobserver agreement. Both systems correlate well with lung function variables, especially FEV1

[Evaluation of referrals in primary care]. / Evaluación de la demanda derivada en atención primaria.

OBJECTIVE: To study the process of referral from primary care in a health area in Madrid. The second objective was to evaluate the trends in the referral process. DESIGN: Observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study. SETTING: Three urban health centers in the Area 2. PARTICIPANTS: All referrals made by 13 doctors during 3 consecutive weeks. The total number of visits attended were 6012. The study was realized between February 2002 and January 2003. MAIN MEASUREMENTS: Patient, doctor and referral characteristics on every referral. RESULTS: 349 referrals were studied. The rate of referral 5.8% (5.21-6.39). The referred patients, 65.5% women, medium age 50.6+/-21. The specialties that received more referrals are gynecologist, ophthalmology, dermatology, otorhinolaryngology, rehabilitation, orthopedic surgeon and general surgeon. The most common conditions referred, 25.6% of all referrals, are gynecologist check, blindness, other illnesses of subcutaneous cellular tissue, arthrosis, joint pain, diabetes, benign neoplasm of skin, depression and hypoacusis. 92.3% of the referrals were sent to the specialist center. 89.7% were normal (no urgent). The reason for referral was to accede to the patient's request in 18.3% of the referrals. CONCLUSIONS: The process of referral is similar to previous studies. Although people are more participative, have more information and the defensive medicine is increasing, the process of referral have not changed.

Evaluación de la demanda derivada en atención primaria / Evaluation of referrals in primary care

Objetivo. Analizar el patrón de derivación en consultas de atención primaria de un área de salud de Madrid. Un segundo objetivo es analizar los cambios que se hayan producido en dicho patrón. Diseño. Estudio observacional, descriptivo y transversal de la demanda derivada. Emplazamiento. Tres centros de salud urbanos del Área 2. Participantes. Se han seleccionado todas las derivaciones realizadas durante 3 semanas consecutivas por 13 médicos que atendieron a un total de 6.012 visitas en ese período. El estudio se realizó entre febrero de 2002 y marzo de 2003. Mediciones principales. En cada derivación se determinaron los datos del paciente, del médico y de la derivación. Resultados. Se estudiaron 349 derivaciones, lo que supone una tasa de derivación del 5,8% (5,21-6,39). De los pacientes derivados, el 65,5% era mujer, con una edad media ± desviación estándar (DE) de 50,6 ± 21 años. Las especialidades que han recibido más derivaciones son ginecología, oftalmología, dermatología, otorrinolaringología, rehabilitación, traumatología y cirugía general. Los diagnósticos más frecuentes derivados, el 25,6% del total, son revisión ginecológica, disminución de la agudeza visual, otras enfermedades de la piel y el tejido celular subcutáneo, artrosis, dolor articular, diabetes, neoplasia benigna de la piel, depresión y sordera. Un 92,3% de las derivaciones fueron dirigidas a un centro de especialidades, el 89,7% de forma normal. En el 18,3%, el médico sintió algún grado de presión por parte del paciente para derivarlo. Conclusiones. El patrón de derivación es similar al de estudios anteriores. El hecho de que la población tenga una actitud más participativa y un mayor acceso a la información, y el aumento de la medicina defensiva no parecen haber modificado el patrón de derivación

Objective. To study the process of referral from primary care in a health area in Madrid. The second objective was to evaluate the trends in the referral process. Design. Observational, descriptive and crosssectional study. Setting. Three urban health centers in the Area 2. Participants. All referrals made by 13 doctors during 3 consecutive weeks. The total number of visits attended were 6012. The study was realized between February 2002 and January 2003. Main measurements. Patient, doctor and referral characteristics on every referral. Results. 349 referrals were studied. The rate of referral 5.8% (5.21-6.39). The referred patients, 65.5% women, medium age 50.6±21. The specialties that received more referrals are gynecologist, ophthalmology, dermatology, otorhinolaringology, rehabilitation, orthopedic surgeon and general surgeon. The most common conditions referred, 25.6% of all referrals, are gynecologist check, blindness, other illnesses of subcutaneous cellular tissue, arthrosis, joint pain, diabetes, benign neoplasm of skin, depression and hypoacusis. 92.3% of the referrals were sent to the specialist center. 89.7% were normal (no urgent). The reason for referral was to accede to the patient’s request in 18.3% of the referrals. Conclusions. The process of referral is similar to previous studies. Although people are more participative, have more information and the defensive medicine is increasing, the process of referral have not changed

Pegylated interferon-alpha2a kinetics during experimental haemodialysis: impact of permeability and pore size of dialysers.

BACKGROUND: Therapeutics in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients undergoing haemodialysis (HD) has to consider potential drug clearance during the dialysis procedure. Pegylated interferon-alpha (PEG-IFN-alpha), a middle-size protein drug active against viral hepatitis, allows convenient once-weekly dosing due to prolonged plasma half-life. AIM: To investigate the impact of permeability and dialyser pore size on PEG-IFN-alpha blood levels during experimental HD. METHODS: Polymethylmetacrylate (PMMA) membrane 1.6 m2 dialysers with three different permeabilities/pore sizes were selected. RESULTS: A 40 kDa PEG-IFN-alpha2a (PEGASYS) was not cleared (< 5%) through low-flux/small pore size (25 A;B3A) and high-flux/middle-large pore size (60 A;BKP) dialysers, and was partially (approximately 15%) through intermediate permeability/large pore size (100 A;BKF) dialysers. In contrast, unmodified 17 kDa IFN-alpha2a(Roferon-A) was removed (65%-95%) through BKP or BKF, but not B3A, PMMA dialysers. Moreover, 12 kDa PEG-IFN-alpha2b(PegIntron) was cleared (40%-80%) through PMMA dialysers with pore sizes > or = 60 angstroms. When B3A or BKP were replaced every hour PEG-IFN-alpha2a plasma levels remained constant throughout three experimental-HD-sessions, but PEG-IFN-alpha2b was cleared partially every BKP replacement. Porosity differ among high-flux dialysers. Neither PEG-IFN-alpha2a nor PEG-IFN-alpha2b were removed after three HD sessions through (27/31/33 A) pore size polysulphone dialysers. Although PEG-IFN-alpha2a was not cleared through middle pore-size (43 A/AN69ST) polyacrylonitrile dialyser, PEG-IFN-alpha2b was partially removed. CONCLUSIONS: The pharmacokinetics of Peg-IFN-alpha may vary in a patient on dialysis.