Promoting the Participation of "Hard-to-Reach" Migrant Populations in Qualitative Public Health Research during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Chile.

The COVID-19 pandemic has further deepened socioeconomic and health inequities worldwide, especially among populations experiencing social vulnerability, such as international migrants. Sustained lockdowns and social distancing have raised challenges to conducting public health research with hard-to-reach populations. This study aims at exploring strategies to recruit "hard-to-reach" international migrants for qualitative public health research during the pandemic in Chile, based on the authors' experience. A retrospective qualitative evaluation process was carried out on the recruitment processes of three qualitative research projects focused on international migrants in Chile. All projects were implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, demanding complementary and flexible strategies: (i) social media; (ii) snowball sampling; (iii) referrals from social workers and pro-migrant and migrant-led organizations; (iv) vaccination centers and healthcare centers; and (v) community-based recruitment. The strategies are qualitatively evaluated around seven emerging qualitative categories: (i) feasibility during lockdown periods; (ii) speed of recruitment; (iii) geographical coverage; (iv) sample diversity; (v) proportion of successful interviews; (vi) ethical considerations; and (vii) cost. Engaging hard-to-reach international migrants in public health research during the pandemic required constantly adapting recruitment strategies. Furthermore, relying on strategies that were not only Internet-based promoted the participation of populations with limited access to the Internet and low-digital literacy.

Nail dermatophytoma in HIV-infected patients in Cali, Colombia.

INTRODUCTION: A dermatophytoma is a mass of hyphae that is observed at direct examination, it responds poorly to treatment with antifungal drugs, some authors have proposed that it is actually a biofilm. This pathology is underdiagnosed, and its true incidence is unknown. OBJECTIVES: This study presents the clinical findings of dermatophytoma in HIV/AIDS patients from Colombia presenting onychomycosis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A transversal observational descriptive study was carried out in a third level university hospital. One hundred thirty HIV positive patients diagnosed using ELISA and Western Blot that presented nail lesions on their hands and/or feet compatible with onychomycosis were included. Samples taken from affected nails were observed in direct examination with KOH and seeded onto Sabouraud agar, mycosel agar and dextrose-potato agar. Molds were identified based on macroscopic and microscopic characteristics. RESULTS: Six (4.6%) individuals presented dermatophytoma. Average age was 43 years (range 33-50); nails more commonly affected (5/6) were on the toes, principally the hallux. Clinical manifestations included a yellow or white, rounded or linear dense area on the nail. Superficial white onychomycosis was present in 83.3% of the patients. Fungal cultures were obtained in only 5 patients; Trichophyton mentagrophytes complex was found in 2 individuals while T. rubrum, T. tonsurans and Epidermophyton floccosum were in the other 3. Average cell count for CD4+T lymphocytes was 86.8 cells/mm3 (range 9-282). CONCLUSIONS: This is the first report in Colombia of dermatophytoma in HIV/AIDS patients, most of them had a CD4+ T lymphocytes count less than 200 cells/mm3. Several clinical forms of onychomycosis were observed, the most frequent was the white superficial onychomycosis.

Crecimiento del complejo Cryptococcus neoformans/ Cryptococcus gattiien extractos de excretas de palomas / Growth of Cryptococcus neoformans/Cryptococcus gattii species complex in pigeon excreta / Crescimento do complexo Cryptococcus neoformans/ Cryptococcus gattii em extratos de excrementos de pombos

RESUMEN Cryptococcus neoformans/Cryptococcus gattii son agentes etiológicos de la criptococosis, el primero tiene distribución mundial y su hábitat principal son las excretas de palomas (Columba livia), mientras que el último se ha aislado de árboles y en pocas ocasiones de heces de aves. En este estudio se comparó en condiciones de laboratorio, el crecimiento de C. neoformans y C. gattii en extractos de excretas de paloma. Se utilizaron dos extractos de heces de aves cautivas: uno de una muestra en la que se aisló C. neoformans (extracto positivo) y otro de una muestra negativa para este hongo (extracto negativo), los cuales fueron inoculados con C. neoformans y C. gattii. Los extractos permitieron el desarrollo de las dos especies y, mostraron un patrón de crecimiento uniforme en el extracto negativo, mientras que, en el positivo, el crecimiento de C. neoformans fue mayor comparado con el de C. gattii (P = 0.0001). El crecimiento de C. gattii fue menor a un pH superior a 7,5, mientras que el crecimiento de C. neoformans no mostró diferencias significativas en los dos extractos independiente de las variaciones del pH. Se necesitan más estudios para elucidar la interacción de estas dos especies en las excretas de palomas.

ABSTRACT Cryptococcus neoformans/Cryptococcus gattii are etiologic agents of cryptococcosis, the former has a worldwide distribution, and its habitat is associated with pigeon excreta (Columba livia), whereas the latter it has been mainly associated with trees and rarely from the feces of birds. In this study was to compare, under laboratory conditions, the growth of C. neoformans and C. gattii in extracts of pigeon excreta. Two extracts of captive bird feces were used: one prepared from a sample in which C. neoformans was isolated (positive extract) and one from which sample was negative for this fungus (negative extract). Under laboratory conditions, the extracts allowed the development of both species. Both showed a uniform pattern of growth in the negative extract, whereas in the positive, C. neoformans growth was significantly higher than that of C. gattii (P = 0.0001). The growth of the C. gattii was lower in positive extracts and it seems to decrease at pH greater than 7.5, whereas the growth of C. neoformans showed no significant differences regardless of pH variations. Further studies are need to elucidate the interaction between these two species in the excreta of pigeon.

RESUMO Cryptococcus neoformans / Cryptococcus gattii são agentes etiológicos da criptococose, o primeiro tem distribuição mundial e seu habitat principal é a excreção de pombos (Columba livia), enquanto o último foi isolado de árvores e raramente de fezes de aves. Neste estudo, o crescimento de C. neoformans e C. gattii nos extratos de excrementos de pombo foi comparado em condições de laboratório. Foram utilizados dois extratos de fezes de aves em cativeiro: um de uma amostra em que C. neoformans (extrato positivo) foi isolado e outro de uma amostra negativa para esse fungo (extrato negativo), que foi inoculado com C. neoformans e C gattii Os extratos permitiram o desenvolvimento das duas espécies e mostraram um padrão de crescimento uniforme no extrato negativo, enquanto no positivo o crescimento de C. neoformans foi maior em comparação ao de C. gattii (P = 0,0001). O crescimento de C. gattii foi menor a pH maior que 7,5, enquanto o crescimento de C. neoformans não mostrou diferenças significativas nos dois extratos, independentemente das variações de pH. Mais estudos são necessários para elucidar a interação dessas duas espécies nos excrementos de pombos.

Candida auris infection in the central catheter of a patient without sepsis symptoms / Infección por Candida auris en el catéter central de un paciente sin síntomas de sepsis

Abstract Background: Candida auris is an emerging yeast frequently reported as resistant to multiple antifungal drugs commonly used to treat Candida infections. This specie can colonize the patient's skin and has great ability for producing outbreaks in hospitals. C. auris is phylogenetically related to other Candida species, can be misidentified using conventional biochemical or commercial methods and requires specific technology for its identification. Case report: We report the first isolate of C. auris in Cali, Colombia, from a central venous catheter in a 37-year-old patient with rheumatoid arthritis and endocarditis who did not have symptoms of sepsis. The yeast was initially misidentified as C. haemulonii using the Phoenix system and subsequently identified as C. auris by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). The broth microdilution method was used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration; the isolate was susceptible to fluconazole, itraconazole, voriconazole and amphotericin B. Conclusions: This report contributes to knowledge of the epidemiology of C. auris infections in individuals with underlying disease and describes an isolate with a behavior different from what is usually reported.

Resumen Antecedentes: Candida auris es una levadura emergente, informada con frecuencia como resistente a diversos antifúngicos usados comúnmente para tratar infecciones por Candida. Esta especie puede colonizar la piel y tiene gran capacidad de producir brotes en ambientes hospitalarios. Está filogenéticamente relacionada con otras especies de Candida, es mal identificada por los métodos bioquímicos o comerciales, y requiere tecnología específica para su identificación. Reporte de caso: Se informa el primer aislamiento de C. auris en Cali, Colombia en un paciente de 37 años con artritis reumatoide y endocarditis, sin síntomas de sepsis, a partir de la punta de catéter venoso central. La levadura inicialmente se identificó como C. haemulonii por el sistema Phoenix® y posteriormente como C. auris por espectrometría de masas desorción/ionización láser asistida por una matriz con detección de masas por tiempo de vuelo (MALDI-TOF MS). Se determinó la concentración inhibitoria mínima por el método de microdilución en caldo que mostró un aislamiento sensible a fluconazol, itraconazol, voriconazol y anfotericina B. Conclusión: Este informe contribuye al conocimiento de la epidemiología de las infecciones por C. auris en individuos con enfermedad subyacente y describe un aislamiento con un comportamiento diferente a lo indicado en otros estudios.

Candida auris infection in the central catheter of a patient without sepsis symptoms.

BACKGROUND: Candida auris is an emerging yeast frequently reported as resistant to multiple antifungal drugs commonly used to treat Candida infections. This specie can colonize the patient's skin and has great ability for producing outbreaks in hospitals. C. auris is phylogenetically related to other Candida species, can be misidentified using conventional biochemical or commercial methods and requires specific technology for its identification. CASE REPORT: We report the first isolate of C. auris in Cali, Colombia, from a central venous catheter in a 37-year-old patient with rheumatoid arthritis and endocarditis who did not have symptoms of sepsis. The yeast was initially misidentified as C. haemulonii using the Phoenix system and subsequently identified as C. auris by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). The broth microdilution method was used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration; the isolate was susceptible to fluconazole, itraconazole, voriconazole and amphotericin B. CONCLUSIONS: This report contributes to knowledge of the epidemiology of C. auris infections in individuals with underlying disease and describes an isolate with a behavior different from what is usually reported.

ANTECEDENTES: Candida auris es una levadura emergente, informada con frecuencia como resistente a diversos antifúngicos usados comúnmente para tratar infecciones por Candida. Esta especie puede colonizar la piel y tiene gran capacidad de producir brotes en ambientes hospitalarios. Está filogenéticamente relacionada con otras especies de Candida, es mal identificada por los métodos bioquímicos o comerciales, y requiere tecnología específica para su identificación. REPORTE DE CASO: Se informa el primer aislamiento de C. auris en Cali, Colombia en un paciente de 37 años con artritis reumatoide y endocarditis, sin síntomas de sepsis, a partir de la punta de catéter venoso central. La levadura inicialmente se identificó como C. haemulonii por el sistema Phoenix® y posteriormente como C. auris por espectrometría de masas desorción/ionización láser asistida por una matriz con detección de masas por tiempo de vuelo (MALDI-TOF MS). Se determinó la concentración inhibitoria mínima por el método de microdilución en caldo que mostró un aislamiento sensible a fluconazol, itraconazol, voriconazol y anfotericina B. CONCLUSIÓN: Este informe contribuye al conocimiento de la epidemiología de las infecciones por C. auris en individuos con enfermedad subyacente y describe un aislamiento con un comportamiento diferente a lo indicado en otros estudios.

Candida en la cavidad oral de pacientes con VIH en Cali, Colombia: determinación de especies y sensibilidad al fluconazol / Candida in the oral cavity of HIV-infected patients: Identification of species and susceptibility to fluconazole in Cali, Colombia / Candida na cavidade oral de pacientes com HIV: determinação de espécies e sensibilidade ao fluconazol em Cali, Colômbia

Introducción: Candida albicans es la levadura aislada con mayor frecuencia de la cavidad oral de individuos VIH positivos. El uso del fluconazol ha incrementado el aislamiento de especies de Candida diferentes de C. albicans resistentes o con sensibilidad disminuida a este antimicótico. Objetivo: establecer, en individuos VIH positivos de un hospital de la ciudad de Cali, las especies de Candida de la cavidad oral, su densidad poblacional y la sensibilidad al fluconazol de aquellas diferentes de C. albicans. Materiales y métodos: las muestras se sembraron en CHROMagar Candida y se hizo el recuento de unidades formadoras de colonias (UFC); se identificaron las levaduras con el API 20C Aux y se hicieron las pruebas de sensibilidad al fluconazol con el Etest. Resultados: se estudiaron 230 pacientes y hubo 202 aislamientos: 106 fueron únicos y 96, mixtos. C. albicans fue la especie más frecuente, seguida por C. dubliniensis y C. glabrataLas especies diferentes de C. albicans predominaron en los recuentos menores de 400 UFC/mL. El estudio de sensibilidad al fluconazol de las especies diferentes de C. albicans mostró que 14 (40 %) fueron sensibles dosis-dependientes y 7 (20 %), resistentes. Conclusión: en la población estudiada, la cavidad oral está colonizada por aislamientos no salvajes, lo que representa un riesgo para el desarrollo de candidiasis orofaríngea resistente al tratamiento con fluconazol.

Introduction: Candida albicans is the most frequently isolated yeast from the oral cavity of HIV-infected individuals. The use of fluconazole has increased the number of resistant or less-sensitive Candida species different from C. albicans, to this antifungal agent. Objective: To establish the Candida species present in the oral cavity of HIV-infected individuals at a hospital in Cali (Colombia), their population densities, and the susceptibility to fluconazole of species different from C. albicans. Materials and methods: Samples were cultured in CHROMagar Candida and the number of colony forming units (CFU) was counted. Yeast identification was done with API 20C Aux, and the susceptibility tests to fluconazole, by Etest. Results: 230 patients were studied, and 202 isolates were obtained: 106 single and 96 mixed. C. albicans predominated, followed by C. dubliniensis and C. glabrata. Candida species other than C. albicans predominated in counts lower than 400 CFU/mL. Susceptibility study to fluconazole of species different from C. albicans showed that 14 (40 %) of the isolates were susceptible dose-dependent and 7 (20 %), resistant. Conclusion: In the studied population, the oral cavity was colonized by non-wild type isolates that represent a risk for the development of oropharyngeal candidiasis resistant to fluconazole treatment.

Introdução: Candida albicans é o fermento isolado com maior frequência da cavidade oral de indivíduos HIV positivos. O uso do fluconazol incrementou o isolamento de espécies de Candida diferentes de C. albicans resistentes ou com sensibilidade diminuída a este antimicótico. Objetivo: estabelecer, em indivíduos HIV positivos de um hospital da cidade de Cali, as espécies de Candida da cavidade oral, sua densidade populacional e a sensibilidade ao fluconazol daquelas diferentes de C. albicans. Materiais e métodos: as mostras se semearam em CHROMagar Candida e se fez a recontagem de unidades formadoras de colônias (UFC); identificaram-se os fermentos com o API 20C Aux e se fizeram as provas de sensibilidade ao fluconazol com o Etest. Resultados: estudaram-se 230 pacientes e teve 202 isolamentos: 106 foram únicos e 96, mistos. C. albicans foi a espécie mais frequente, seguida por C. dubliniensis e C. glabrata. As espécies diferentes de C. albicans predominaram nas recontagens menores de 400 UFC/ML. O estudo de sensibilidade ao fluconazol das espécies diferentes de C. albicans mostrou que 14 (40 %) foram sensíveis doses-dependentes e 7 (20 %), resistentes. Conclusão: na população estudada, a cavidade oral está colonizada por isolamentos não selvagens, o que representa um risco para o desenvolvimento de candidíase orofaríngea resistente ao tratamento com fluconazol.

Prototecosis cutánea: presentación de un caso con énfasis en la histopatología / Cutaneous protothecosis: report of a case with emphasis on histopathology

La prototecosis es una infección infrecuente causada por algas del género Prototheca. Su diagnóstico se hace mediante estudios microbiológicos o por la identificación del alga en biopsias por su morfología característica. Se presenta el hallazgo histopatológico de prototecosis en una mujer de 72 años con diagnóstico presuntivo de dermatitis actínica crónica; en el estudio anatomatopatológico de una biopsia de piel se observaron estructuras con septos internos típicos de Prototheca. Se hace una revisión de todos los registros de esta enfermedad en Colombia.

Protothecosis is a rare infection caused by algae of the Prototheca genus. Its diagnosis is based on microbiological studies and on the identification in biopsies of the characteristic structures of the algae. We present the histopathological findings of protothecosis in a 72 year-old woman with the presumptive diagnosis of chronic actinic dermatitis. The pathological study of a skin biopsy revealed structures with internal septa typical of Prototheca. A review of all reports of this disease in Colombia is also presented.

Candida species and other yeasts in the oral cavities of type 2 diabeticpatients in Cali, Colombia / Especies de candida y otras levaduras en la cavidad oral de pacientes diabéticos tipo 2 en Cali, Colombia

Objective:To determine the prevalence ofCandidaspeciesand to study factors associated to oral cavity colonization inpatients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.Methods:A total of 107 diabetics were classified into contro-lled and uncontrolled according to glycosylated hemoglobinvalues. Each patient was assessed for stimulated salivary flowrates, pH, and an oral rinse to search for yeast. The study alsodetermined the state of oral health via Klein and Palmer CPOindexes for permanent dentition, dental plaque by O’Leary,and a periodontal chart.Results:We found yeasts in 74.8 percent of the patients. A total of 36of the 52 subjects with controlled diabetes presented yeasts and44 in the uncontrolled; no significant differences (p = 0.2) werenoted among the presence of yeasts and the control of bloodglucose. The largest number of isolates corresponded toC. al-bicans, followed byC. parapsilosis.Uncontrolled individualspresented a significantly higher percentage of yeast differentfromC. albicans(p = 0.049).Conclusions:We found a high percentage of Candida colo-nization and uncontrolled individuals had greater diversityof species. The wide range of CFU/ml found both in patientswith oral candidiasis, as well as in those without it did not per-mit distinguishing between colonization and disease. We onlyfound association between isolation of yeasts and the low rateof salivary flow.

Candida species and other yeasts in the oral cavities of type 2 diabetic patients in Cali, Colombia.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of Candida species and to study factors associated to oral cavity colonization in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. METHODS: A total of 107 diabetics were classified into controlled and uncontrolled according to glycosylated hemoglobin values. Each patient was assessed for stimulated salivary flow rates, pH, and an oral rinse to search for yeast. The study also determined the state of oral health via Klein and Palmer CPO indexes for permanent dentition, dental plaque by O'Leary, and a periodontal chart. RESULTS: We found yeasts in 74.8% of the patients. A total of 36 of the 52 subjects with controlled diabetes presented yeasts and 44 in the uncontrolled; no significant differences (p = 0.2) were noted among the presence of yeasts and the control of blood glucose. The largest number of isolates corresponded to C. albicans, followed by C. parapsilosis. Uncontrolled individuals presented a significantly higher percentage of yeast different from C. albicans (p = 0.049). CONCLUSIONS: We found a high percentage of Candida colonization and uncontrolled individuals had greater diversity of species. The wide range of CFU/mL found both in patients with oral candidiasis, as well as in those without it did not permit distinguishing between colonization and disease. We only found association between isolation of yeasts and the low rate of salivary flow.

OBJETIVOS: Determinar la prevalencia de las especies de Candida y estudiar factores asociados a la colonización de la cavidad oral en pacientes con diabetes mellitus tipo 2. MÉTODOS: 107 diabéticos se clasificaron en controlados y no controlados, de acuerdo con los valores de hemoglobina glucosilada. A cada paciente se le tomó una muestra de saliva estimulada y un enjuague oral, la primera se utilizó para determinar el pH y la tasa de flujo salival, la segunda para buscar levaduras. Además, se determinó el estado de salud oral mediante los índices CPO-D de Klein y Palmer para dentición permanente, el de placa bacteriana de O Leary y un periodontograma. RESULTADOS: Se hallaron levaduras en el 74,8% de los pacientes. Un total de 36 de 52 sujetos con diabetes controlada presentaron levaduras y 44 en los no controlados; sin diferencias significativas (p = 0.2) entre la presencia de levaduras y el control de la glucemia. El mayor número de aislamientos correspondió a C. albicans, seguido de C. parapsilosis. Los individuos no controlados presentaron de manera significante un porcentaje más alto de levaduras diferentes a C. albicans (p = 0.049). Sólo se encontró asociación entre el aislamiento de levaduras y la baja tasa de flujo salival. CONCLUSIÓN: Se encontró un alto porcentaje de colonización por Candida, y en los individuos no controlados hubo mayor diversidad de especies. El amplio rango de UFC/mL hallada tanto en pacientes con candidiasis oral como sin ella no permitió establecer colonización y enfermedad.

Pseudomembranous candidiasis in HIV/AIDS patients in Cali, Colombia.

Candida albicans is the most frequently isolated yeast from the oral cavity of HIV/AIDS individuals. The use of fluconazole has increased the number of resistant or less-sensitive Candida species different than C. albicans. The purpose of this study was to identify the Candida species producing pseudomembranous candidiasis in patients suffering from AIDS, their relationship with CD4(+) counts and their sensitivity to fluconazole and itraconazole. We studied 71 patients at a hospital in the city of Cali. Samples of white plaque were seeded on CHROMagar Candida, yeast identification was done with API 20C Aux, and susceptibility testing was determined by E test. Ninety-three yeast isolates were obtained, 52 single and 41 mixed. C. albicans was the most isolated, followed by C. glabrata. An increased frequency of isolates and variety of Candida species occurred in patients with a CD4(+) cell count ≤100 cells/mm(3) without significant differences (p = 0.29). The susceptibility study showed that 8 (8.6%) isolates were resistant to fluconazole and 11 (11.8%) to itraconazole, while 6 (8.8%) C. albicans were simultaneously resistant. No association was found between the isolates of C. albicans or Candida species different than C. albicans and the use of fluconazole (p = 0.21). The results of this study indicate that in the tested population, fluconazole continues to be the best treatment option for oropharyngeal candidiasis in patients suffering from AIDS (HIV/AIDS); however, susceptibility tests are necessary in patients who present therapeutic failure.

Case report of Schizophyllum commune sinusitis in an immunocompetent patient / Informe de un caso de sinusitis por Schizophyllum commune en enfermo inmuno-competente

Schizophyllum commune is a basidiomycete fungus with broad distribution in nature; however, it is a rare cause of infectious disease. We report the isolation of this mould in a 46 year-old immunocompetent patient with chronic sinusitis previously treated with multiple antibiotics and topical nasal steroids. Material obtained via a left maxillary sinus antrostomy showed septate hyaline hyphae with clamp connections on direct examination with KOH and histopathological studies. Further growth on Sabouraud agar produced a white mould that, based on its microscopic and macroscopic characteristics, was identified as S. commune. Despite its low frequency, this fungus should be considered a possible pathogen, particularly in samples obtained from paranasal sinuses.

Schizophyllum commune es un hongo basidiomiceto con una amplia distribución en la naturaleza, que con poca frecuencia causa enfermedad infecciosa. Se informa el aislamiento de este moho, en un paciente inmuno-competente de 46 años con sinusitis crónica tratada previamente con múltiples antibióticos y esteroides tópicos nasales. Por una antrostomía maxilar izquierda se obtuvo una muestra que en el examen directo con KOH y tinciones histopatológicas, mostró hifas septadas hialinas con conexiones en asa. En agar Sabouraud creció un moho blanco que por sus características macroscópicas y microscópicas se identificó como S. commune. El paciente fue tratado con itraconazol y después de cuatro meses hubo resolución de las manifestaciones clínicas. A pesar de su baja frecuencia, este hongo se debe considerar como posible patógeno, en especial en muestras de senos paranasales.

Isolation of Candida dubliniensis for the first time in Cali, Colombia, and its identification with phenotyping methods.

Candida dubliniensis is an emerging pathogenic yeast isolated mainly from the oral cavity of HIV-infected patients. The close phenotypic and genotypic relationship between C. albicans and C. dubliniensis has led to incorrectly identifying isolates of C. dubliniensis as C. albicans. The oral cavities of 107 diabetic patients were studied in Cali, Colombia, and 72 colonies of Candida, with shades of green on CHROMagar Candida culture media, were obtained. Various phenotypic tests were carried out, which included germ tube formation and production of chlamydospores on corn meal Agar. Additionally, growth studies were carried out at 42 degrees C and 45 degrees C and on Sabouraud agar with 6.5%, sodium chloride. Identification of C. dubliniensis with these tests was confirmed with API 20C Aux. We identified 65 and 7 colonies of C. albicans and C. dubliniensis, respectively. This is the first time that C. dubliniensis is identified with phenotypic methods in Colombia.

Medically important fungi found in hallux nails of university students from Cali, Colombia.

The presence of medically important fungi was studied in hallux nails scrapings obtained from 504 students (204 males, 300 females) of three universities in Cali. Specimens were examined by direct microscopic examination and fungal culture. Medically important fungi were found in 49 (9.7%) students, 24 (4.8%) had onychomycosis while the rest did not have nail lesions. Trichophyton rubrum was the most commonly isolated fungi in students with lesions, where as T. mentagrophytes predominated in healthy nails. Most of the students with fungi were males. The prevalence of fungi was higher in individuals between 26 and 35 years. No association was observed between fungi and practicing sports or undergoing pedicures. These results suggest that dermatophytes can be found in healthy hallux nails, which can be reservoirs of pathogenic fungi.

Helicobacter pylori associated with glossitis and halitosis.

BACKGROUND: Helicobacter pylori is a curved microaerophilic Gram-negative bacterium considered as a risk factor for gastric cancer. The aim of this study was to find an association between burning sensations, acid taste, halitosis, and lingual hyperplasia with the effect of H. pylori on the mouth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 124 subjects with different gastric diseases were studied: 46 patients with burning, halitosis and lingual dorsum hyperplasia and 78 patients with other diseases. RESULTS: The detection of H. pylori in the oral cavity by histopathologic diagnosis and molecular biology was confirmed in 40/46 (87%) patients with burning, halitosis, and lingual hyperplasia, and in 2/78 (2.6%) subjects with other diseases. Chi2: 91.26 (p < .001) Mantel-Haenszel. CONCLUSION: This trial showed an association between H. pylori and burning, halitosis, and lingual hyperplasia, and further considered this bacterium a risk factor for gastric infection.

Onychomycosis in Cali, Colombia.

This study presents the epidemiological and mycological aspects of 299 patients with nail lesions who were referred to three diagnostic laboratories in the city of Cali. The diagnosis of mycoses was established through visualization of mycotic structures in a direct microscopic examination of skin scrapings and by isolation. Onychomycosis was found in 183 cases (61.2%), of which 141 were in toenails (44 in males and 97 in females), 38 in fingernails (9 males and 29 females), and 4 cases in toenails and fingernails simultaneously (all females). No statistically significant relation was found between sex and onychomycosis. Yeasts accounted for 40.7% of the mycoses, dermatophytes for 38%, nondermatophyte molds for 14% and the etiology was mixed in the remaining cases (7.3%). Candida albicans was the most commonly isolated yeast species; the most common dermatophyte was Trichophyton rubrum and Fusarium spp. and Scytalidium dimidiatum were the most common nondermatophytic molds. Them common fungi found in fingernails were yeasts; in toenails dermatophytes were more prevalent (chi2 with Yates' correction = 19.75, P= 0.000088). Yeasts were observed more frequently in females while dermatophytes were more common in males. The difference between these two etiologic groups was statistically significant (chi2 with Yates' correction = 7.43, P = 0.0064); no relation was observed according to age.

Infección intrabucal por helicobacter en paciente de sexo masculino / Intraoral infection by helycobacter in a male patient

El Helicobacter Pylori es una bacteria espiralada Gram negativa anaerobia que coloniza la mucosa gástrica. Algunos investigadores sugieren que la cavidad oral es reservorio del Helicobacter pylori, teniendo implicancia en la reinfección. Objetivo. Determinar si el Helicobacter pylori puede ser agente etiológico del ardor lingual y halitosis. Presentación del caso. Paciente varón de 35 años consulta por halitosis y ardor bucal, acompañado de epigastralgia. Presenta hiperplasia de papilas filiformes en dorso lingual con exámen micológico negativo. La biopsia gástrica demostró una gastritis crónica en actividad por Helicobacter pylori. Se realizó la biopsia parcial del área lingual afectada para estudio histopatológico y determinación del Helicobacter pylori con Biología Molecular. Resultados. Histológicamente, la lesión lingual presentaba acantosis, papilomatosis e hiperqueratosis, identificándose con técnica de Giemsa bacterias espiraladas compatibles con Helicobacter pylori adheridas a la superficie de las células epiteliales. La técnica de PCR permitió detectar la presencia del ADN del Helicobacter pylori. Mediante tratamiento antibiótico local se logró la remisión de la sintomatología. Conclusión: Los resultados obtenidos sugieren un rol etiológico para el Helicobacter pylori en esta patología. Creemos necesario ampliar el tamaño de la población con efecto de dilucidar si el Helicobacter pylori está relacionado etiológicamente del ardor lingual y halitosis(AU)

Infección intrabucal por helicobacter en paciente de sexo masculino / Intraoral infection by helycobacter in a male patient

El Helicobacter Pylori es una bacteria espiralada Gram negativa anaerobia que coloniza la mucosa gástrica. Algunos investigadores sugieren que la cavidad oral es reservorio del Helicobacter pylori, teniendo implicancia en la reinfección. Objetivo. Determinar si el Helicobacter pylori puede ser agente etiológico del ardor lingual y halitosis. Presentación del caso. Paciente varón de 35 años consulta por halitosis y ardor bucal, acompañado de epigastralgia. Presenta hiperplasia de papilas filiformes en dorso lingual con exámen micológico negativo. La biopsia gástrica demostró una gastritis crónica en actividad por Helicobacter pylori. Se realizó la biopsia parcial del área lingual afectada para estudio histopatológico y determinación del Helicobacter pylori con Biología Molecular. Resultados. Histológicamente, la lesión lingual presentaba acantosis, papilomatosis e hiperqueratosis, identificándose con técnica de Giemsa bacterias espiraladas compatibles con Helicobacter pylori adheridas a la superficie de las células epiteliales. La técnica de PCR permitió detectar la presencia del ADN del Helicobacter pylori. Mediante tratamiento antibiótico local se logró la remisión de la sintomatología. Conclusión: Los resultados obtenidos sugieren un rol etiológico para el Helicobacter pylori en esta patología. Creemos necesario ampliar el tamaño de la población con efecto de dilucidar si el Helicobacter pylori está relacionado etiológicamente del ardor lingual y halitosis

Estudio clínico epidemiológico en aftas recidivantes bucales / A clinical and epidemiological study of recurrent oral aphthae

Se realizó un estudio epidemiológico en 119 pacientes que concurrieron al Servicio de Estomatología del CEMIC, con historia y diagnóstico de aftas recidivantes. Se evaluó el aspecto clínico, tamaño, localización, inicio, tiempo de evolución, historia familiar, factores generales (alt. hemáticas, hormonales, gastrointestinales), factores locales (sepsis y trauma). Si bien el factor local se hallaba presente en un 85 por ciento de los casos, los factores de orden general se presentaban concomitantemente con los mismos. La detección temprana de alteraciones orgánicas a través de esta patología resulta beneficiosa no sólo por el control de la misma, sino también por e diagnóstico precoz de las afecciones generales en ocasiones desconocidas por el paciente (AU)

Estudio clínico epidemiológico en aftas recidivantes bucales / A clinical and epidemiological study of recurrent oral aphthae

Se realizó un estudio epidemiológico en 119 pacientes que concurrieron al Servicio de Estomatología del CEMIC, con historia y diagnóstico de aftas recidivantes. Se evaluó el aspecto clínico, tamaño, localización, inicio, tiempo de evolución, historia familiar, factores generales (alt. hemáticas, hormonales, gastrointestinales), factores locales (sepsis y trauma). Si bien el factor local se hallaba presente en un 85 por ciento de los casos, los factores de orden general se presentaban concomitantemente con los mismos. La detección temprana de alteraciones orgánicas a través de esta patología resulta beneficiosa no sólo por el control de la misma, sino también por e diagnóstico precoz de las afecciones generales en ocasiones desconocidas por el paciente

Tiña pedis en estudiantes de la Universidad del Valle, Cali, Colombia / Tinea Pedis amongst students from Universidad de Valle, Colombia

Se analizaron 333 estudiantes de la Universidad del Valle en Cali, Colombia, con el fin de determinar la frecuencia de afección micótica en el cuarto espacio interdigital del pie, la cual estableció por examen directo, cultivo o ambos. La prevalencia global de infección micótica fue de 15,6 por ciento, en tanto que para tiña pedis fue de 10,5 por ciento. El mayor número de casos se halló en estudiantes entre 21 y 25 años; se encontró que la prevalencia aumentaba con relación a la edad. No se hallarón diferencias significativas en la distribución por sexos; tampoco se encontró asociación entre el grupo sanguíneo y la práctica deportiva entre los indivisuos con o sin infección micótica. Los agentes aislados fueron dermatofitos y no dermatofitos; los primeros causaron 35 casos, los segundos 4 y en 13 no se logró aislar hongos. El dermatofito más aislado fue Trichophyton mentagrophytes (71,4 por ciento), seguido en menor proporción por Trichophyton rubrum y Epidermophyton floccosum. Además, se encontró que, de 52 individuos positivos, 17 (32,7 por ciento) no presentaban lesiones, conviertiéndose, por tanto, en portadores sanos. Se destaca la importancia de mantener unas adecuadas condiciones higiénicas de los pies para evitar la tiña pedis