Caracterización Multimodal de pacientes pediátricos con enfermedades neuromusculares del Suroccidente Colombiano

Introducción: La Distrofia Muscular de Duchenne (DMD) y la Atrofia Muscular Espinal (AME) son enfermedades neuromusculares genéticas poco comunes pero graves en la población pediátrica con alta carga de morbilidad y mortalidad. A pesar de avances en su comprensión y búsqueda de opciones terapéuticas dirigidas, persisten vacíos en la detección oportuna, caracterización, seguimiento de pacientes, búsqueda activa de portadores y en algunos países de Latinoamérica sin tamización neonatal. Objetivo: Caracterizar clínica, paraclínica, imagenológica y molecularmente pacientes con diagnóstico presuntivo y confirmado de distrofia muscular de Duchenne (DMD) y Atrofia Muscular Espinal (AME) atendidos en un centro pediátrico de referencia y excelencia del Suroccidente Colombiano. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio observacional de corte transversal en pacientes menores de 18 años con diagnósticos CIE-10 relacionados con DMD y AME. Los datos se exportaron a una matriz de Excel en Office 365 versión 2403, y luego a IBM SPSS versión 29 para realizar un análisis univariado, se emplearon medidas de tendencia central y dispersión para variables numéricas, considerando su distribución, y frecuencias absolutas y porcentajes para variables cualitativas. Resultados: Tras revisar 954 historias clínicas pertenecientes a un centro de atención pediátrica en el Suroccidente Colombiano entre los años 2015 - 2021, se identificaron 422 casos relacionados a Distrofia Muscular de Duchenne (DMD) y Atrofia Muscular Espinal (AME); excluyendo duplicados y registros no relacionados, de estos, se seleccionaron aleatoriamente 99 casos para un análisis exhaustivo utilizando OpenEpi versión 3.01, distribuidos en dos grupos: AME (n=23) y DMD (n=76). Los pacientes confirmados con Distrofia Muscular de Duchenne (DMD) mostraron un inicio de síntomas a los 54,5 ± 29,0 meses y un diagnóstico a los 98,8 ± 34,9 meses, siendo más común en varones con hipotonía y niveles elevados de creatin quinasa (CK), el 54,5% presentaba trastorno cognitivo y el 88.2% tenía antecedentes familiares, en la Atrofia Muscular Espinal (AME), el inicio de síntomas fue a los 28,9 ± 37,7 meses y el diagnóstico a los 37,9 ± 38,2 meses, siendo predominante en mujeres con arreflexia y fasciculaciones, no hubo registros de la función cognitiva en los pacientes confirmados, y el 21,7% tenía antecedentes familiares de AME, además de ligeras elevaciones de CK. En el grupo AME, 9 casos se confirmaron molecularmente y 3 se respaldaron con registros médicos; en contraste, en el grupo de DMD, 22 casos tuvieron confirmación molecular, pero 9 contaban con anotaciones en los registros médicos, aunque estos informes eran incompletos. Conclusiones: La sospecha y diagnóstico temprano de estas enfermedades neurodegenerativas progresivas que se caracterizan por altas tasas de morbilidad y mortalidad es fundamental para impactar en el abordaje holístico que deben recibir los pacientes. Dado al continuo avance en métodos diagnósticos y opciones terapéuticas innovadoras y dirigidas ( medicina de la hiperpersonalización ), se hace necesario crear registros y "big data" médicos- clínicos completos, que cuenten con todas las herramientas actuales disponibles (opciones diagnósticas multimodales) que faciliten el re-contacto de pacientes, seguimiento y poderles ofrecer una atención personalizada, de precisión, que mejore la calidad de vida de ellos, sus familias, contribuyendo en la generación de políticas públicas integradas y dirigidas. (provisto por Infomedic International)

Introduction: Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) and Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) are rare but severe genetic neuromuscular diseases in the pediatric population with high burden of morbidity and mortality. Despite advances in their understanding and search for targeted therapeutic options, there are still gaps in timely detection, characterization, patient follow-up, active search for carriers and in some Latin American countries no neonatal screening. Objective: To characterize clinically, paraclinically, imaging and molecularly patients with presumptive and confirmed diagnosis of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) attended in a pediatric center of reference and excellence in Southwestern Colombia. Materials and Methods: Observational cross-sectional study in patients under 18 years of age with ICD-10 diagnoses related to DMD and SMA. Data were exported to an Excel matrix in Office 365 version 2403, and then to IBM SPSS version 29 to perform a univariate analysis, measures of central tendency and dispersion were used for numerical variables, considering their distribution, and absolute frequencies and percentages for qualitative variables. Results: After reviewing 954 medical records belonging to a pediatric care center in Southwestern Colombia between 2015 - 2021, 422 cases related to Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) and Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) were identified; excluding duplicates and unrelated records, from these, 99 cases were randomly selected for a comprehensive analysis using OpenEpi version 3.01, distributed in two groups: SMA (n=23) and DMD (n=76). Patients confirmed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) showed symptom onset at 54.5 ± 29.0 months and diagnosis at 98.8 ± 34.9 months, being more common in males with hypotonia and elevated creatin kinase (CK) levels, 54.5% had cognitive impairment and 88. 2% had family history, in Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), the onset of symptoms was at 28.9 ± 37.7 months and diagnosis at 37.9 ± 38.2 months, being predominant in females with areflexia and fasciculations, there were no records of cognitive function in confirmed patients, and 21.7% had family history of SMA, in addition to slight elevations of CK. In the SMA group, 9 cases were molecularly confirmed and 3 were supported by medical records; in contrast, in the DMD group, 22 cases had molecular confirmation, but 9 had annotations in medical records, although these reports were incomplete. Conclusions: Early suspicion and diagnosis of these progressive neurodegenerative diseases characterized by high morbidity and mortality rates is critical to impact the holistic approach patients should receive. Given the continuous advance in diagnostic methods and innovative and targeted therapeutic options (hyperpersonalization medicine), it is necessary to create complete medical-clinical registries and big data, which have all the current tools available (multimodal diagnostic options) to facilitate patient re-contact, follow-up and to be able to offer personalized, precision care that improves the quality of life of patients and their families, contributing to the generation of integrated and targeted public policies. (provided by Infomedic International)

Cuidados respiratorios en pacientes con atrofia muscular espinal para evitar el fallo ventilatorio agudo y la traqueostomía: revisión literaria y recomendaciones consensuadas / Respiratory care in patients with spinal muscular atrophy to avoid acute ventilatory failure and tracheostomy: literature review and consensus recommendations

La atrofia muscular espinal (AME) 5q es una de las enfermedades neuromusculares de mayor incidencia en la infancia. Sin embargo, la prevalencia de AME tipo 1, su forma más severa de presentación, es menor debido a muertes prematuras evitables antes de los dos años por insuficiencia ventilatoria subtratada. La irrupción de nuevos tratamientos modificadores de la enfermedad pueden cambiar dramáticamente este pronóstico y es una oportunidad para actualizar el manejo respiratorio, a través de cuidados estandarizados básicos, preferentemente no invasivos, abordando la debilidad de los músculos respiratorios, la insuficiencia tusígena y ventilatoria, con un enfoque preventivo. La siguiente revisión literaria entrega estrategias para evitar la intubación y la traqueostomía usando soporte ventilatorio no invasivo (SVN), reclutamiento de volumen pulmonar (RVP) y facilitación de la tos. Se analizan en detalle los protocolos de extubación en niños con AME tipo 1.

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) 5q is one of the neuromuscular diseases with the highest incidence in childhood. Nevertheless, the prevalence of its most severe form SMA1 is lower due to premature preventable deaths before two years of age related to ventilatory insufficiency undertreated. The emergence of new disease-modifying treatments can dramatically change this prognosis and is an opportunity to update respiratory management, through basic standardized care, mostly non-invasive, addressing respiratory muscles pump weakness, cough and ventilatory insufficiency with a preventive approach. This literature review provides consensus recommendations for strategies to avoid intubation and tracheostomy using noninvasive ventilatory support (NVS), lung volume recruitment (LVR), and cough facilitation. Extubation protocols in children with SMA type 1 are analyzed in detail.

Nuevos paradigmas en atrofia muscular espinal de presentación temprana: siempre es bueno recordar / New paradigms in early-onset spinal muscular atrophy: a reminder is always beneficial

La atrofia muscular espinal (AME) de presentación temprana representa la variante más severa, con una expectativa de vida generalmente no mayor a dos años sin soporte ventilatorio, debido a la insuficiencia respiratoria y la dificultad para toser. Tradicionalmente, el manejo respiratorio en muchos países ha incluido la traqueostomía para proporcionar asistencia ventilatoria invasiva de manera continua. No obstante, la introducción de medicamentos de precisión ha modificado la progresión natural de la enfermedad, evidenciando mejoras significativas en los hitos motores y beneficiando también la función respiratoria. A pesar de estas mejoras, en muchos casos sigue siendo necesaria la ventilación intermitente y/o continua, además de la facilitación de la tos. Estas necesidades pueden abordarse de forma no invasiva mediante el soporte ventilatorio no invasivo (SVN), la in-exsuflación mecánica (IEM) y el reclutamiento de volumen pulmonar (RVP), que son considerados pilares del tratamiento respiratorio en enfermedades neuromusculares. Estas estrategias promueven el desarrollo y mantenimiento de la función respiratoria, reduciendo el riesgo de exacerbaciones respiratorias que podrían llevar a intubaciones evitables. Comúnmente, los pacientes con AME experimentan intentos fallidos de extubación siguiendo protocolos tradicionales, siendo catalogados como no extubables y potenciales candidatos a traqueostomía. No obstante, existen protocolos de extubación específicos para AME que emplean SVN e IEM con un alto porcentaje de éxito, evitando traqueostomías innecesarias que pueden complicar la progresión de la enfermedad y afectar la calidad de vida. El enfoque respiratorio no invasivo es una opción de manejo segura tanto en el hospital como en el hogar, ofreciendo una mejor calidad de vida para los pacientes y sus familias.

Early-onset spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is the most severe variant, with a life expectancy generally not exceeding two years without ventilatory support due to respiratory insufficiency and difficulty in coughing. Traditionally, respiratory management in many countries has included tracheostomy to provide continuous invasive ventilatory support. However, the introduction of precision medicine has altered the natural progression of the disease, showing significant improvements in motor milestones and also benefiting respiratory function. Despite these improvements, many cases still require intermittent and/or continuous ventilation, as well as cough facilitation. These needs can be addressed non-invasively through non-invasive ventilatory support (NIV), mechanical insufflation-exsufflation (MIE), and lung volume recruitment (LVR), which are considered the pillars of respiratory treatment in neuromuscular diseases. These strategies promote the development and maintenance of respiratory function, reducing the risk of respiratory exacerbations that could lead to avoidable intubations. Commonly, SMA patients experience failed extubation attempts following traditional protocols, being labeled as non-extubatable and potential candidates for tracheostomy. Nevertheless, there are specific extubation protocols for SMA that employ NIV and MIE with a high success rate, avoiding unnecessary tracheostomies that can complicate disease progression and impact quality of life. The non-invasive respiratory approach is a safe management option both in the hospital and at home, offering a better quality of life for patients and their families.

Judicialization of Zolgensma in the Ministry of Health: costs and clinical profile of patients / Judicialização do Zolgensma no Ministério da Saúde: custos e perfil clínico dos pacientes

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To investigate the costs and profile of patients who have filed a lawsuit against the Ministry of Health for the treatment of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) with the onasemnogene abeparvovec (Zolgensma®). METHODS This is a cross-sectional, descriptive study with a census design, based on records of lawsuits filed against the Ministry of Health between January 2019 and September 2022. Data was requested from the Ministry of Health via the Access to Information Act. Information was extracted on the epidemiological profile of the beneficiaries of the lawsuits, as well as the expenses spent by the Ministry of Health in cases where the requests were granted. RESULTS 136 lawsuits were identified, of which 113 (83%) were favorable to patients at a cost of R$ 944.8 million in the period analyzed. Demographic (gender and age), clinical (SMA subtypes, use of ventilatory or nutritional support), and lawsuit (type of legal service) characteristics were not associated with the granting of lawsuits. Prior use of medication (nusinersena or ridisplam) was associated with the dismissal of lawsuits. Of the 113 lawsuits granted in favor of patients, only six (5.3%) would meet the criteria currently established by the National Committee for Health Technology Incorporation - Conitec (children up to six months without ventilatory and nutritional support). R$ 146 million was spent on supplying Zolgensma to children over the age of two, which is outside the recommendation contained in the drug's package leaflet. CONCLUSIONS The Ministry of Health incurs a high cost with the judicialization of Zolgensma for SMA, representing 2.45% of total spending on medicines in the Unified Health System, including spending by the three administrative spheres. Some of the lawsuits have been granted in disagreement with the criteria established by health technology assessment agencies and the drug manufacturer's recommendations.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Investigar os custos e o perfil dos pacientes que demandaram judicialmente o onasemnogene abeparvoveque (Zolgensma®) para o tratamento da atrofia muscular espinhal (AME) no Ministério da Saúde. MÉTODOS Estudo transversal, de natureza descritiva e desenho censitário, com base em registros de ações judiciais movidas contra o Ministério da Saúde no período de janeiro de 2019 a setembro de 2022. Os dados foram solicitados ao Ministério da Saúde, via Lei de Acesso à Informação. Foram extraídas informações sobre o perfil epidemiológico dos beneficiários das ações judiciais, bem como os gastos dispendidos pelo Ministério da Saúde nos casos de deferimento das solicitações. RESULTADOS Foram identificados 136 processos judiciais, dos quais 113 (83%) foram favoráveis aos pacientes ao custo de R$ 944,8 milhões no período analisado. Características demográficas (sexo e idade), clínicas (subtipos da AME, uso de suporte ventilatório ou nutricional) e do processo judicial (tipo de serviço advocatício) não foram associadas com o deferimento das ações judiciais. O uso prévio de medicamento (nusinersena ou ridisplam) foi associado com o indeferimento dos processos judiciais. Das 113 ações judiciais concedidas em favor dos pacientes, apenas seis (5,3%) atenderiam aos critérios estabelecidos atualmente pela Comissão Nacional de Incorporação de Tecnologias - Conitec (crianças com até seis meses sem suporte ventilatório e nutricional). Houve dispêndio de R$ 146 milhões com o fornecimento do Zolgensma para crianças com idade superior a dois anos, que está fora da recomendação contida na bula do medicamento. CONCLUSÕES O Ministério da Saúde incorre em um alto custo com a judicialização do Zolgensma para AME, representando 2,45% do gasto total com medicamentos no Sistema Único de Saúde, incluindo gastos das três esferas administrativas. Parte das demandas judiciais tem sido deferida em divergência com os critérios estabelecidos por agências de avaliação de tecnologias em saúde e recomendações do fabricante do medicamento.

Brazilian version of the CHOP INTEND scale: cross-cultural adaptation and validation / Versão brasileira da escala CHOP INTEND: adaptação transcultural e validação

Abstract Background Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a rare genetic disease that causes progressive muscle weakness and impacts motor function. The type I is the most severe presentation and affects infants before 6 months old. In addition, the instruments available for assessing motor function have limitations when applied to infants with neuromuscular diseases and significant muscle weakness. Objective To translate, cross-culturally adapt, and validate the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Infant Test of Neuromuscular Disorders (CHOP INTEND) to Brazilian Portuguese. Methods The present study comprised the translation, synthesis of translations, backtranslation, consolidation by a committee of experts, and test of the final version of the CHOP INTEND in 13 patients with SMA type I. We also assessed the content validity and reliability of the translated version. Results The scale was translated considering semantic, structural, idiomatic, and cultural aspects. All agreement rates were > 0.8, the overall content validity index of the instrument was 0.98, and inter-rater reliability using the intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.998. Conclusion The Brazilian version of the CHOP INTEND met semantic and technical equivalence criteria with the original version and was valid and reliable for patients with SMA type I.

Resumo Antecedentes A atrofia muscular espinhal (AME) é uma doença genética rara que provoca fraqueza muscular progressiva com impacto sobre a motricidade dos pacientes. A AME tipo I é considerada o tipo mais grave e acomete lactentes antes dos 6 meses de idade. As escalas disponíveis para avaliação das aquisições motoras mostram limitações para uso com crianças pequenas com doenças neuromusculares e fraqueza importante. Objetivo Realizar a tradução, adaptação transcultural e validação para a língua portuguesa do Brasil da Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Infant Test of Neuromuscular Disorders (CHOP INTEND, na sigla em inglês). Métodos O presente estudo seguiu as etapas de tradução, síntese das traduções, retrotradução, consolidação por comitê de especialistas e teste com 13 pacientes com AME tipo 1. Foi avaliada a validade de conteúdo e a confiabilidade do instrumento. Resultados A escala foi traduzida considerando os aspectos semânticos, estruturais, idiomáticos e culturais. Todas as taxas de concordância foram > 0,8. O índice de validade de conteúdo geral do instrumento foi de 0,98. A confiabilidade interavaliadores analisada através do coeficiente de correlação intraclasse (ICC, na sigla em inglês) demonstrou um valor de ICC = 0,998. Conclusão A versão da CHOP INTEND em português atende aos critérios de equivalência semântica e técnica em relação à versão original e apresenta validade de conteúdo e confiabilidade para seu uso na população de pacientes com AME tipo I.

El difícil camino al diagnóstico del paciente con atrofia muscular espinal / The difficult path to diagnosis of the patient with spinal muscular atrophy

Introducción. Con las nuevas terapias, el diagnóstico temprano de la atrofia muscular espinal (AME) es esencial. El objetivo de este estudio es analizar los distintos componentes que influyen en el retraso diagnóstico. Población y métodos. Se incluyeron pacientes con un diagnóstico molecular de AME tipo I, II y III. Se estudiaron varios parámetros, como la edad al momento de la aparición del primer signo, qué signo fue y el intervalo entre este y el diagnóstico confirmado. Neurólogos especialistas realizaron entrevistas que se complementaron con la revisión de historias clínicas cuando fue necesario. Resultados. Se entrevistaron 112 pacientes. AME I n = 40, AME II n = 48, AME III n = 24. La mediana de edad en meses al momento del reporte del primer signo fue AME I: 1,5 (R 0-7), AME II: 9 (R 2-20), AME III: 18 (R 8-180). Los primeros signos fueron reconocidos por los padres en el 75 % al 85 % de las veces en todos los subtipos. La mediana del tiempo transcurrido entre el primer signo y la primera consulta médica fue menor a un mes en los tres tipos. La mediana de tiempo transcurrido en meses entre el primer signo y el diagnóstico molecular confirmado fue en AME I: 2 (R 0-11), en AME II: 10 (3-46) y en AME III: 31,5 (R 4-288). Conclusiones. Existe un significativo retraso en el diagnóstico de la AME relacionado fundamentalmente a la falta de sospecha clínica. La demora es menor en AME I y mayor en AME III. Otros factores incluyen deficiencias en el sistema de salud.

Introduction. News treatments, make early diagnosis of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) critical. The objective of this study is to analyze the different factors that influence delay in diagnosis. Population and methods. Patients with a molecular diagnosis of types I, II, and III SMA were included. Several parameters were studied, such as age at onset of first sign, what sign it was, and the time from recognition of first sign to confirmed diagnosis. Neurologists specialized in SMA conducted interviews, supported by the review of medical records when deemed necessary. Results. A total of 112 patients were interviewed. SMA I n = 40, SMA II n = 48, SMA III n = 24. The median age in months at the time of reporting the first sign was SMA I: 1.5 (R: 0­7), SMA II: 9 (R: 2­20), SMA III: 18 (R: 8­180). In all subtypes, first signs were identified by parents from 75% to 85% of the times. The median time from first sign to first medical consultation was less than a month in all 3 types. The median time in months, from first sign to confirmed molecular diagnosis in SMA I was: 2 (R: 0­11), in SMA II: 10 (R: 3­46), in SMA III: 31.5 (R: 4­288). Conclusions. There is a significant delay in SMA diagnosis mainly related to the absence of clinical suspicion. The delay is shorter in SMA I and longer in SMA III. Other factors include deficiencies in the health care system.

Diagnóstico tardío de atrofia muscular espinal en paciente con síndrome de Down / Late diagnosis of spinal muscular atrophy in a patient with Down syndrome

El síndrome de Down (SD) es la anomalía cromosómica más frecuente entre los recién nacidos vivos. La atrofia muscular espinal (AME), por su parte, es una enfermedad neuromuscular caracterizada por la degeneración progresiva de las motoneuronas del asta anterior de la médula espinal que produce atrofia muscular, debilidad y parálisis. Presentamos el caso de una niña de 6 años con síndrome de Down derivada a nuestro centro para estudio por cuadro de debilidad muscular generalizada de evolución crónica con falta de adquisición de la marcha. Realizamos una revisión bibliográfica enfocándonos en el compromiso neurológico esperable en el síndrome de Down, la evolución de los hitos del desarrollo motor grueso estipulado para este grupo de pacientes y en los hallazgos que deben sugerir la presencia de una enfermedad neuromuscular.

A case of a 6-year-old girl with Down's syndrome is presented. She was referred to our center due to a history of generalized muscle weakness of chronic evolution, associated to her inability to walk. Her mother claimed that the girl's muscle weakness always called her attention as well as the difficulties to the development of motor skills shown by her daughter compared to other children, whether they were healthy or with Down's syndrome. There was information in her medical record and physical exam that strongly suggested the possibility of suffering a neuromuscular disorder. We asked for a molecular study that confirmed the spinal muscular atrophy diagnosis. We carried out a bibliographical revision focusing on the expected neurological impairment in Down's syndrome, the retardation of the gross motor skills development determined for this kind of patients and on the findings that must suggest a neuromuscular disorder.

Acompanhamento das funções respiratória e motora de crianças com atrofia muscular espinhal e distrofia muscular de Duchenne: um estudo longitudinal / Monitoring of respiratory and motor functions on children with spinal muscular atrophy and Duchenne muscular dystrophy: a longitudinal study

Objetivo: Realizar o acompanhamento de crianças e adolescentes com Atrofia Muscular Espinhal (AME) e Distrofia Muscular de Duchenne (DMD) em um centro de referência, por meio de avaliações de parâmetros respiratórios e motores. Métodos: Conduziu-se 3 avaliações em um período de 24 meses, em pacientes até 15 anos, com DMD e AME. Avaliações respiratórias incluíram: parâmetros cardiorrespiratórios, força muscular respiratória, pico de fluxo de tosse e espirometria. Analisou-se a função motora por meio de escalas especificas: 1) Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Infant Test of Neuromuscular Disorders (CHOP INTEND) para crianças até 2 anos; 2) Medida da Função Motora (MFM-32) acima de 6 anos; 3) versão reduzida (MFM-20) para 2 a 6 anos. A análise estatística incluiu o teste de Shapiro-Wilk e utilizou-se ANOVA com Post Hoc de Bonferroni ou Friedman, e aplicou-se os coeficientes de Spearman ou Pearson. Resultados: Participaram 16 pacientes com mediana de idade de 6,5 anos, 12 com AME e 4 DMD. Houve diferença entre dados antropométricos, a frequência de crianças que não realizava fisioterapia reduziu (12,5%X6,3%) e houve aumento na adesão para técnica de empilhamento de ar (37,5%X43,8%). Uso de ventilação não invasiva se manteve igual, assim como parâmetros respiratórios e escalas motoras. Verificou-se forte correlação entre valor predito da capacidade vital forçada e escores MFM-20 e MFM-32. Conclusão: O acompanhamento ambulatorial de crianças com AME e DMD evidenciou relativa manutenção em parâmetros respiratórios e de função motora, o que pode ser atribuído a melhora na adesão de rotinas terapêuticas e aos cuidados em um centro de referência.

Objective: The aim of this study was to monitor children and adolescents with Spinal Muscular Atrophy(SMA) and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) at a referral center, through assessments of respiratory and motor parameters. Methods: 3 evaluations were conducted over a period of 24 months, in patients up to 15 years old, with DMD and SMA. Respiratory assessments included: cardiorespiratory parameters, respiratory muscle strength, peak cough flow and spirometry. Motor function was analyzed using specific scales: 1) Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Infant Test of Neuromuscular Disorders (CHOP INTEND) for children up to 2 years old; 2) Measurement of Motor Function (MFM-32) over 6 years; 3) reduced version (MFM-20) for 2 to 6 years. The statistical analysis included the Shapiro-Wilk test and ANOVA with Bonferroni or Friedman's Post Hoc was used, and the Spearman or Pearson coefficients were applied. Results: 16 patients with a median age of 6.5 years, 12 with SMA and 4 DMD participated. There was a difference between anthropometric data, the frequency of children who did not undergo physical therapy decreased (12.5%X6.3%) and there was an increase in adherence to the air stacking technique (37.5%X43.8%). Use of non-invasive ventilation remained the same, as did respiratory parameters and motor scales. There was a strong correlation between the predicted value of forced vital capacity and scores MFM-20 and MFM-32. Conclusion: Outpatient follow-up of children with SMA and DMD showed a relative maintenance of respiratory and motor function parameters, which can be attributed to the improvement in adherence to therapeutic routines and care in a reference center.

Acceso a medicamentos huérfanos para el tratamiento de la atrofia muscular espinal en España / Access to orphan drugs for the treatment of spinal muscular atrophy in Spain

Introducción: La atrofia muscular espinal (AME) es una enfermedad rara cuyo diagnóstico y tratamiento es complejo. En España hay dos medicamentos huérfanos financiados por el Sistema Nacional de Salud, nusinersén y onasemnogén abeparvovec, y un tercero, risdiplam, pendiente. El objetivo fue analizar el acceso a los fármacos modificadores de la AME y detectar posibles causas de inequidad. Materiales y método: Estudio descriptivo realizado en dos fases: revisión bibliográfica y entrevistas semiestructuradas a expertos clínicos en AME de las comunidades autónomas (CC. AA.) de Andalucía, Castilla-La Mancha, Cataluña y Murcia. Resultados: El número de centros, servicios o unidades de referencia, la disponibilidad de planes autonómicos para enfermedades raras y los programas piloto de cribado neonatal pueden modular el acceso a los nuevos tratamientos farmacológicos. El número de nuevos pacientes diagnosticados al año se estimó entre uno y seis en cada una de las CC. AA. estudiadas. Dos de las cuatro CC. AA. estaban participando en ensayos clínicos. El tiempo desde la prescripción a la administración de nusinersén estaba entre siete y 60 días. Sólo Cataluña comunicó experiencia con onasemnogén abeparvovec a 30 de junio de 2022. Dos CC. AA. de las cuatro estudiadas disponen de plan autonómico para enfermedades raras; no obstante, se identificó como relevante para el tratamiento de la AME sólo en una de ellas. Conclusiones: No se identificaron diferencias importantes en el acceso al nusinersén en las CC. AA. estudiadas. El diagnóstico de la AME requiere personal clínico experto y centros especializados para iniciar precozmente los tratamientos modificadores de la enfermedad.(AU)

Introduction: Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a rare disease whose diagnosis and treatment are complex. In Spain, there are two orphan medicines that are currently financed by the state, nusinersen and onasemnogene abeparvovec and, a third in process, risdiplam. The objective was to detect possible causes of inequity in the diagnosis and treatment of SMA in Spain. Materials and method: Descriptive study realized in two phases: a first phase of bibliographic revision and a second phase of semi-structured interviews with clinical experts in SMA in Andalusia, Castilla-La Mancha, Catalonia and Murcia. Results: The number of centers, services or units of reference, the availability of regional autonomous plans for rare diseases and pilot programs of neonatal screenings can regulate access to treatments. The number of new patients diagnosed per year is estimated between one and six in the four autonomous communities (ACs) of Spain studied. Differences were not found in logistical resources. Two of the four ACs studied have regional autonomous plans for rare diseases, however, their utility has only had relevance in one of two of the ACs. Conclusions: Important differences in access to nusinersen were not identified in the studied ACs The diagnosis of SMA requires clinical specialized experts and specialized centers for early intervention of disease-modifying therapies.(AU)

[Late diagnosis of spinal muscular atrophy in a patient with Down syndrome]. / Diagnóstico tardío de atrofia muscular espinal en paciente con síndrome de Down.

A case of a 6-year-old girl with Down's syndrome is presented. She was referred to our center due to a history of generalized muscle weakness of chronic evolution, associated to her inability to walk. Her mother claimed that the girl's muscle weakness always called her attention as well as the difficulties to the development of motor skills shown by her daughter compared to other children, whether they were healthy or with Down's syndrome. There was information in her medical record and physical exam that strongly suggested the possibility of suffering a neuromuscular disorder. We asked for a molecular study that confirmed the spinal muscular atrophy diagnosis. We carried out a bibliographical revision focusing on the expected neurological impairment in Down's syndrome, the retardation of the gross motor skills development determined for this kind of patients and on the findings that must suggest a neuromuscular disorder.

El síndrome de Down (SD) es la anomalía cromosómica más frecuente entre los recién nacidos vivos. La atrofia muscular espinal (AME), por su parte, es una enfermedad neuromuscular caracterizada por la degeneración progresiva de las motoneuronas del asta anterior de la médula espinal que produce atrofia muscular, debilidad y parálisis. Presentamos el caso de una niña de 6 años con síndrome de Down derivada a nuestro centro para estudio por cuadro de debilidad muscular generalizada de evolución crónica con falta de adquisición de la marcha. Realizamos una revisión bibliográfica enfocándonos en el compromiso neurológico esperable en el síndrome de Down, la evolución de los hitos del desarrollo motor grueso estipulado para este grupo de pacientes y en los hallazgos que deben sugerir la presencia de una enfermedad neuromuscular.

Hirayama Disease: Case Report / Doença de Hirayama: Relato de caso

Abstract A 26-year-old previously healthy patient who, at the age of 18 years, began progressive loss of distal strength, rest tremor, and muscle atrophy in the left upper limb. Upon examination, the patient presented moderate distal atrophy, degree 4 in muscular strength, and minipolymioclonus. Electromyoneurography revealed (EMNG) chronic preganglionic bilateral involvement of bilateral C7/C8/T1, worse on the left, with signs of active C8/T1 denervation. A cervical spine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan showed spondylodiscal degenerative changes with central protrusions in C4-C5, C6-C7, and right central in C5-C6, which touched the dural sac. The anteroposterior diameter of the medulla in neutral position, in the C5-C6 plane, was of 5.1 mm. There was a reduction of the spinal cord caliber to 4.0 mm after the dynamic maneuver of forced flexion of the spine, as well as signal increase in the anterior horns. The clinical findings and those of the complementary tests were compatible with Hirayama disease (HD), a rare benign motor neuron disease that affects cervical spinal segments and is most prevalent in men, with onset in the early 20s. Unilateral and slowly progressive weakness is typical, but self-limited. Sensory disturbances, and autonomic and upper motor neuron signals are rare. Management is usually conservative, with the use of a soft cervical collar. Although rare, HD should be considered in young patients with focal asymmetric atrophy in the upper limbs. The early diagnosis of HD depends on the degree of suspicion, as well as on the cooperation and communication among the various specialties involved in the investigation.

Resumo Paciente de 26 anos, previamente hígido, que, aos 18 anos, iniciou perda progressiva de força distal, tremor de repouso, e atrofia muscular no membro superior esquerdo. Ao exame, apresentou atrofia moderada, distal, força muscular de grau 4, e minipolimioclonus. A eletroneuromiografia (ENMG) revelou comprometimento pré-ganglionar crônico de C7/C8/T1 bilateral pior à esquerda, com sinais de desnervação ativa em C8/T1. A ressonância magnética (RM) de coluna cervical mostrou alterações degenerativas espondilodiscais com protrusões centrais em C4-C5, C6-C7, e central direita em C5-C6, que tocavam o saco dural. O diâmetro anteroposterior da medula na posição neutra, no plano de C5-C6, era de 5,1 mm. Houve redução do calibre da medula para 4,0 mm após a manobra dinâmica de flexão forçada da coluna, e aumento de sinal nos cornos anteriores. Os achados clínicos e os dos exames complementares eram compatíveis com doença de Hirayama (DH), uma doença benigna rara dos neurônios motores, que afeta os segmentos espinhais cervicais e é mais prevalente em homens e de início próximo aos 20 anos. É típica a fraqueza unilateral e lentamente progressiva, porém autolimitada. Perturbações sensoriais, sinais autonômicos e do neurônio motor superior são raras. O manejo geralmente é conservador, com uso de colar cervical macio. Apesar de rara, a DH deve ser considerada em pacientes jovens que apresentam atrofias assimétricas focais de membros superiores. O diagnóstico precoce de DH depende do grau de suspeição, e da cooperação e comunicação entre as diversas especialidades envolvidas na investigação.

Gene therapy in neuromuscular disorders / Terapia gênica nas doenças neuromusculares

Abstract Monogenic neuromuscular disorders are potentially treatable through gene therapy. Using viral vectors, a therapeutic transgene aims to restore normal levels of a protein not produced by the defective gene, or to silence a gene whose expression leads to toxic effects. Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is a good example of a monogenic disease that currently has an AAV9-based vector gene therapy as a therapeutic option. In this review, we intend to discuss the viral vectors and their mechanisms of action, in addition to reviewing the clinical trials that supported the approval of gene therapy (AVXS-101) for SMA as well as neuromuscular diseases that are potentially treatable with gene replacement therapy.

Resumo Doenças neuromusculares monogênicas são potencialmente tratáveis através de terapia gênica. Utilizando-se de vetores virais, um transgene terapêutico objetiva repor os níveis normais de uma proteina não produzida pelo gene defeituoso ou silenciar um gene cuja expressão leva a efeitos tóxicos. A Atrofia Muscular Espinhal (AME) é um bom exemplo de doença monogenica que atualmente tem uma terapia gênica com vetor viral AAV9 como opção terapêutica. Nesta revisão, pretendemos discutir os vetores virais e macanismos de ação utilizados, além de revisar os ensaios clínicos que embasaram a aprovação da terapia gênica (AVXS-101) para AME, assim como doenças neuromusculares potencialmente tratáveis com terapia de reposição gênica.

Caracterización clínica y funcional de pacientes con atrofia muscular espinal en el centro-occidente colombiano / Clinical-functional characterization of patients with spinal muscular atrophy in Central-Western Colombia

Introducción. La atrofia muscular espinal es una enfermedad neurodegenerativa huérfana de origen genético que afecta las neuronas motoras del asta anterior de la médula espinal, y produce atrofia y debilidad muscular. En Colombia, son pocos los estudios publicados sobre la enfermedad y no hay ninguno con análisis funcional. Objetivo. Caracterizar clínica y funcionalmente una serie de casos de atrofia muscular espinal del centro-occidente colombiano. Materiales y métodos. Se hizo un estudio descriptivo transversal, entre el 2007 y el 2020, de pacientes con diagnóstico clínico y molecular de atrofia muscular espinal que consultaron en el centro de atención. La evaluación funcional se realizó con las escalas Hammersmith y Chop Intend. En la sistematización de los datos, se empleó el programa Epi-Info, versión 7.0. Resultados. Se analizaron 14 pacientes: 8 mujeres y 6 hombres. La atrofia muscular espinal más prevalente fue la de tipo II, la cual se presentó en 10 casos. Se encontró variabilidad fenotípica en términos de funcionalidad en algunos pacientes con atrofia muscular espinal de tipo II, cinco de los cuales lograron alcanzar la marcha. La estimación de la supervivencia fue de 28,6 años. Conclusiones. Los hallazgos en el grupo de pacientes analizados evidenciaron que los puntajes de la escala de Hammersmith revisada y expandida, concordaron con la gravedad de la enfermedad.

Introduction: Spinal muscular atrophy is a rare genetic neurodegenerative disorder affecting the motor neurons of the anterior horn of the spinal cord, which results in muscle atrophy and weakness. In Colombia, few studies have been published on the pathology and none with functional analysis. Objective: To characterize clinically and functionally some cases of spinal muscular atrophy patients from Central-Western Colombia. Materials and methods: We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study between 2007 and 2020 with patients clinically and molecularly diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy who attended a care center. For the functional assessment we used the Hammersmith and Chop-Intend scales and the data were systematized with the Epi-Info, version 7.0 software. Results: We analyzed 14 patients (42.8 % men). The most prevalent spinal muscular atrophy was type II with 71.4 %. We found phenotypic variability in terms of functionality in some patients with type II spinal muscular atrophy, 37.5 % of whom reached gait. Survival was estimated at 28.6 years. Conclusions: The findings in the group of patients analyzed revealed that the scores of the revised and expanded Hammersmith scales correlated with the severity of SMA.

Delphi consensus on recommendations for the treatment of spinal muscular atrophy in Spain (RET-AME consensus).

INTRODUCTION: Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a neurodegenerative disease caused by a biallelic mutation of the SMN1 gene, located on the long arm of chromosome 5, and predominantly affects the motor neurons of the anterior horn of the spinal cord, causing progressive muscle weakness and atrophy. The development of disease-modifying treatments is significantly changing the natural history of SMA, but uncertainty remains about which patients can benefit from these treatments and how that benefit should be measured. METHODOLOGY: A group of experts specialised in neurology, neuropediatrics, and rehabilitation and representatives of the Spanish association of patients with SMA followed the Delphi method to reach a consensus on 5 issues related to the use of these new treatments: general aspects, treatment objectives, outcome assessment tools, requirements of the treating centres, and regulation of their use. Consensus was considered to be achieved when a response received at least 80% of votes. RESULTS: Treatment protocols are useful for regulating the use of high-impact medications and should guide treatment, but should be updated regularly to take into account the most recent evidence available, and their implementation should be assessed on an individual basis. Age, baseline functional status, and, in the case of children, the type of SMA and the number of copies of SMN2 are characteristics that should be considered when establishing therapeutic objectives, assessment tools, and the use of such treatments. The cost-effectiveness of these treatments in paediatric patients is mainly influenced by early treatment onset; therefore, the implementation of neonatal screening is recommended. CONCLUSIONS: The RET-AME consensus recommendations provide a frame of reference for the appropriate use of disease-modifying treatments in patients with SMA.

COVID-19 en paciente con atrofia muscular espinal: a propósito de un caso / COVID-19 in a patient with spinal muscular atrophy: a case report

La atrofia muscular espinal (AME) es una enfermedad autosómica recesiva poco común con una incidencia global de 4 a 10 casos por cada 100.000 recién nacidos. Se produce por la degeneración de las motoneuronas del asta anterior medular que ocasionan debilidad y atrofia muscular progresivas, pudiendo llevar a la dependencia y muerte prematura1,2. Actualmente no existe ningún tratamiento curativo para la AME y las intervenciones terapéuticas disponibles se basan en medidas de rehabilitación motora y tratamiento sintomático3,4. Nusinersen ha sido el primer fármaco autorizado para esta enfermedad, permitiendo la adquisición y desarrollo de funciones motoras y aumentando la supervivencia global de estos pacientes4. Presentamos el caso de un paciente que desde los cinco días tras el nacimiento presenta síntomas clínicos de AME, confirmándose su diagnóstico a los seis meses de edad. A los quince días del diagnóstico, inicia tratamiento con nusinersen recibiendo un total de siete dosis, hasta que en el test de control que se realiza por protocolo previa a la administración de la octava dosis, se detecta PCR positiva para SARS-CoV-2 y se decide su aislamiento. Sin embargo, a los dos días acude a Urgencias por insuficiencia respiratoria aguda requiriendo ingreso hospitalario, en el que se decide continuar la administración del fármaco que ha demostrado ser beneficioso en el curso de la patología de base. (AU)

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a rare autosomal recessive disease with an overall incidence of 4 to 10 cases per 100,000 newborns. It is caused by progressive degeneration of the anterior horn cells in the spinal cord, which cause weakness and muscle atrophy, potentially leading to dependence and early death1,2. There is currently no curative treatment for SMA and the therapeutic interventions available are based on motor rehabilitation measures and symptomatic treatment3,4. Nusinersen has been the first drug approved for this disease, allowing the acquisition and development of motor functions increasing the overall survival of these patients4. We present the case of a patient who, five days after birth, has shown SMA clinical symptoms, confirming the diagnosis at six months of age. Fifteen days later, he start treatment with nusinersen, receiving a total of seven doses, until the control test performed by protocol prior to administration of the eighth dose, positive PCR for SARS-CoV-2 was detected and isolation was decided. However, two days later, he went to the emergency room for acute respiratory failure, requiring hospital admission where it was decided to continue administering nusinersen, which has proven to be beneficial in the underlying pathology. (AU)

Frontal and sagittal patterns of neuromuscular spinal deformities based on nosological profile / Padrões frontais e sagitais das deformidades neuromusculares da coluna vertebral, segundo o perfil nosológico / Patrones frontal y sagital de las deformidades neuromusculares de la columna vertebral según el perfil nosológico

ABSTRACT Objective: Reveal frontal and sagittal patterns of spinal deformity depending on neuromuscular nosology for surgery and outcome planning. The characteristics of spinal deformity vary according to the pathology. In cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophies, and spinal muscular atrophy, specific features of deformities are poorly written, especially in the sagittal profile. Methods: The evaluation criteria were age, gender of the patients, the volume of blood loss, duration of hospitalization, measurement of the deformity curve, thoracic and lumbar kyphosis (Cobb angle), pelvic obliquity concerning the horizontal line, the percentage of curve correction. Cobb angle was measured preoperatively before hospital discharge (up to 21 days postoperatively) and one year after surgery. Results: The cohort of 71 patients with spinal deformities due to neuromuscular diseases included four groups: muscular dystrophy (MD), spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), and cerebral palsy (CP). The most characteristic deformity in the frontal plane was C-shaped thoracolumbar scoliosis with rotation of the pelvis; rotation of the vertebrae increased according to the magnitude of scoliosis. Lumbar hyperlordosis was common in patients with PD, whereas decreased thoracic kyphosis or even thoracic lordosis occurs more frequently in patients with DMD. Moderate correction of scoliosis was observed in all groups. There was no significant improvement in functional status, according to the FIM. Conclusion: The findings showed that rigid hyperlordosis is the main problem of spinal deformities in neuromuscular patients. Scoliosis and pelvic obliquity can be well corrected in NMS by pedicle screw construction with standard maneuvers and pelvic screw fixation. Level of Evidence IV; Lesser quality prospective study.

RESUMO Objetivo: Revelar padrões frontais e sagitais de deformidade espinhal depende da nosologia neuromuscular para cirurgia e planejamento de resultados. As características da deformidade espinhal variam de acordo com a patologia. Na paralisia cerebral, nas distrofias musculares e na atrofia muscular espinhal, as características específicas das deformidades estão mal escritas, especialmente no perfil sagital. Métodos: Os critérios de avaliação foram: idade, sexo dos pacientes, volume de perda de sangue, duração da internação hospitalar, medida da curva de deformidade, cifose torácica e lombar (ângulo Cobb), obliquidade pélvica em relação à linha horizontal, a porcentagem da correção da curva. O ângulo Cobb foi medido no pré-operatório antes da alta hospitalar (até 21 dias de pós-operatório) e um ano após a cirurgia. Resultados: A coorte de 71 pacientes com deformidades espinhais devido a doenças neuromusculares incluiu quatro grupos: distrofia muscular (DM), atrofia muscular espinhal (AME), distrofia muscular de Duchenne (DMD) e paralisia cerebral (PC). A deformidade mais característica no plano frontal era a escoliose toracolombar em forma de C com a rotação da pélvis; a rotação das vértebras aumentou de acordo com a magnitude da escoliose. A hiperlordose lombar era comum em pacientes com DP, enquanto que a diminuição da cifose torácica ou mesmo a lordose torácica ocorre com maior frequência em pacientes com DMD. A correção moderada da escoliose foi observada em todos os grupos. Não houve melhora significativa no status funcional, de acordo com a FIM. Conclusão: Os achados mostraram que a hiperlordose rígida é o principal problema das deformidades espinhais em pacientes neuromusculares. A escoliose e a obliquidade pélvica podem ser bem corrigidas no NMS através da construção de parafusos pediculares com manobras padrão e fixação de parafusos pélvicos. Nível de Evidência IV; Estudo prospectivo de menor qualidade.

RESUMEN Objetivo: La revelación de los patrones frontal y sagital de la deformidad de la columna vertebral depende de la nosología neuromuscular para la planificación de la cirugía y los resultados. Las características de la deformación de la columna vertebral varían según la patología. En la parálisis cerebral, las distrofias musculares y la atrofia muscular espinal, las características específicas de las deformidades están mal escritas, especialmente en el perfil sagital. Métodos: Los criterios de evaluación fueron la edad, el sexo de los pacientes, el volumen de pérdida de sangre, la duración de la hospitalización, la medición de la curva de deformación, la cifosis torácica y lumbar (ángulo de Cobb), la oblicuidad pélvica en relación con la línea horizontal, el porcentaje de corrección de la curva. El ángulo de Cobb se midió antes del alta hospitalaria (hasta 21 días después de la operación) y un año después de la misma. Resultados: La cohorte de 71 pacientes con deformidades espinales debidas a enfermedades neuromusculares incluía cuatro grupos: distrofia muscular (DM), atrofia muscular espinal (AME), distrofia muscular de Duchenne (DMD) y parálisis cerebral (PC). La deformación más característica en el plano frontal era la escoliosis toracolumbar en forma de C con rotación de la pelvis; la rotación de las vértebras aumentaba según la magnitud de la escoliosis. La hiperlordosis lumbar fue común en los pacientes con EP, mientras que la disminución de la cifosis torácica o incluso la lordosis torácica ocurre más frecuentemente en los pacientes con DMD. Se observó una corrección moderada de la escoliosis en todos los grupos. No hubo una mejora significativa del estado funcional según el FIM. Conclusión: Los resultados mostraron que la hiperlordosis rígida es el principal problema de las deformidades de la columna vertebral en los pacientes neuromusculares. La escoliosis y la oblicuidad pélvica pueden corregirse bien en el SMN mediante la construcción de tornillos pediculares con maniobras estándar y la fijación de tornillos pélvicos. Nivel de evidencia IV; Estudio prospectivo de menor calidad.

Cribado neonatal de la atrofia muscular espinal: el momento es ahora / Neonatal screening for spinal muscular atrophy: the time is now

La atrofia muscular espinal (AME) es la enfermedad neurodegenerativa más común en la infancia. La aprobación reciente de nuevas terapias efectivas ha justificado la implementación desde hace dos años de un programa piloto de cribado neonatal en la Federación Valonia Bruselas (FWB).Se describe el procedimiento de cribado neonatal utilizado actualmente para detección para la AME en recién nacidos en el sur de Bélgica. El coste del cribado es de 3,10 € por niño. Si se mantiene esta configuración, representa un coste anual de 181 000 € (por aproximadamente 60 000 nacimientos anuales en FWB).En el contexto de contar con un método de cribado neonatal fiable, con un coste económico moderado y la posibilidad de un tratamiento inmediato viable, los autores recomiendan la inclusión y financiación del despistaje de la atrofia muscular espinal en la lista de enfermedades incluidas oficialmente en el marco del cribado neonatal. (AU)

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is the most common neurodegenerative disease in childhood. The recent approval of new effective therapies has justified the implementation of a pilot neonatal screening program in the Federation Wallonia Brussels (FWB).The neonatal screening procedure currently used for screening for SMA in newborns in southern Belgium is described. The cost of screening is € 3.10 per child. If this configuration is maintained, it represents an annual cost of € 181,000 (for approximately 60,000 annual births in FWB).In the context of having a reliable neonatal screening method, with a moderate economic cost and the possibility of a viable immediate treatment, the authors recommend the inclusion and financing of the screening for the spinal muscular atrophy in the list of diseases officially included in the framework of the neonatal screening program. (AU)

Hipotonía en un lactante por atrofia muscular espinal / Hypotonia in an infant due to spinal muscular atrophy

La hipotonía en el lactante es un signo inespecífico de la exploración física que puede aparecer en el contexto de múltiples enfermedades. La detección precoz desde Atención Primaria a través de las revisiones de salud es fundamental. Una adecuada historia clínica, junto con una exploración neurológica adaptada a la edad que permita distinguir entre hipotonía central y periférica, van a ser claves en la aproximación diagnóstica inicial. Presentamos el caso de un lactante de un mes de vida con hipotonía. Se confirma el diagnóstico de atrofia muscular espinal, una entidad poco frecuente cuyo pronóstico ha mejorado debido al descubrimiento de nuevas estrategias terapéuticas (AU)

Infant hypotonia is a nonspecific sign on physical examination that may appear in multiple diseases. Early detection from primary care through health reviews is necessary. An adequate clinical history with an age-adapted neurological examination to distinguish between central and peripheral hypotonia, will be key in the initial diagnostic approach. We present the case of a one-month-old infant with hypotonia. The diagnosis of spinal muscular atrophy is confirmed, a rare entity whose prognosis has improved due to (AU)the discovery of new therapeutic strategies.

Recomendaciones para el manejo respiratorio de los pacientes con atrofia muscular espinal / Recommendations for respiratory management of patients with spinal muscular atrophia / Recomendações para a manipulação respiratória de pacientes com atrofia muscular espinhal

Resumen: La atrofia muscular espinal (AME) es una enfermedad del asta anterior de la médula espinal, genéticamente determinada y causada por síntesis insuficiente de la proteína de supervivencia de la motoneurona. La debilidad muscular lleva a una disminución progresiva de la capacidad vital y de flujos medibles durante la tos. La intensidad y precocidad de la expresión motora se vincula con los grados de afectación de los grupos musculares respiratorios, determinando la meseta en la capacidad vital y progresión a la insuficiencia ventilatoria, como también el compromiso de los músculos inervados bulbares. Las formas clínicas más severas de AME, en especial aquellas con presentaciones más tempranas y respiración paradojal, tienen capacidades vitales y flujos pico tosidos menores. La evaluación secuencial de estos parámetros es esencial para el pronóstico funcional y vital de estos pacientes. La subclasificación de AME tipo 1 y 2 se relaciona con momentos deseables para la realización de cuidados respiratorios no invasivos en la infancia temprana y en la edad escolar, que mejoran la sobrevida y calidad de vida. Este documento sintetiza dichas recomendaciones con especial referencia a intervenciones guiadas por etapas que incluyan apilamiento de aire (air stacking), protocolos de tos asistida y soporte ventilatorio no invasivo con alta intensidad de presiones de soporte, incluso en aquellos pacientes con pérdida de la autonomía respiratoria, minimizando el riesgo de traqueotomía. La no consideración de estas recomendaciones en la valoración regular de los pacientes resta la oferta de tratamientos oportunos.

Summary: Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is a disease of the anterior horn of the spinal cord, genetically determined, and caused by deficiency of survival motor neuron (SMN) protein. Muscle weakness leads to a progressive decrease in vital capacity and to diminished cough flows. Respiratory morbidity and mortality are a function of respiratory and bulbar-innervated muscle impairment. It can be measured by the sequential evaluation of vital capacity to determine the life time maximum (plateau) and its subsequent rate of decline, progressing to ventilatory failure. Bulbar-innervated muscle impairment can also be monitored and measured by spirometry. The more severe clinical forms of SMA, especially those with earlier onsets and paradoxical breathing, have lower vital capacities and cough peak flows. The sequential assessment of these parameters is key for the vital and functional prognosis of these patients. SMA sub-classification types 1 and 2 of SMA involve appropriate times for non-invasive respiratory interventions in early childhood and school age and improve afterlife and quality of life. This document summarizes these recommendations, as a function of SMA type, with special reference to interventions that include air stacking, manually and mechanically assisted coughing protocols and noninvasive ventilatory support techniques, even for patients who have no ventilator-free breathing ability to minimize or eliminate the need to resort to tracheotomy. Failure to properly evaluate these patients regularly reduces their survival and chances to avoid invasive airway tubes.

Resumo: A Atrofia Muscular Espinhal (SMA) é uma doença do corno anterior da medula espinhal, geneticamente determinada e causada pela síntese insuficiente da proteína de sobrevivência dos neurônios motores. A fraqueza muscular leva a uma diminuição progressiva da capacidade vital e fluxos mensuráveis durante a tosse. A intensidade e a precocidade da expressão motora estão relacionadas aos graus de envolvimento dos grupos musculares respiratórios, determinando o platô da capacidade vital e a progressão para insuficiência ventilatória, bem como o envolvimento dos músculos inervados do bulbar. As formas clínicas mais graves de SMA, especialmente aquelas com apresentações anteriores e respiração paradoxal, têm capacidades vitais mais baixas e fluxos de tosse mais baixos. A avaliação sequencial desses parâmetros é essencial para o prognóstico funcional e vital desses pacientes. A subclassificação de SMA tipo 1 e 2 está relacionada aos momentos desejáveis para cuidados respiratórios não invasivos na primeira infância e idade escolar, que melhoram a sobrevida e a qualidade de vida. Este documento resume essas recomendações com referência especial às intervenções guiadas por etapas que incluem empilhamento de ar, protocolos de tosse assistida e suporte ventilatório não invasivo com suporte pressórico de alta intensidade, mesmo em pacientes com perda de autonomia respiratória, minimizando o risco de traqueostomia. A não consideração dessas recomendações na avaliação regular dos pacientes reduz a oferta de tratamentos oportunos.

Cribado neonatal en atrofia muscular espinal: un desafío para cambiar la historia natural / Neonatal screening in spinal muscular atrophy: a challenge to change the natural history

Introducción: la atrofia muscular espinal (AME) es la primera causa de origen genético de muerte en la infancia. En los últimos 20 años han sido excepcionales los avances en el conocimiento de su base genética, de su historia natural y se han desarrollado estándares de cuidado y nuevas terapias. Este veloz aumento del conocimiento ha llevado al desarrollo de terapias eficaces para esta devastadora enfermedad, pero el tiempo son neuronas, y esa frase nos lleva a pensar la importancia del diagnóstico precoz y, por qué no, del diagnóstico presintomático mediante pesquisa neonatal. Métodos: revisión de la bibliografía disponible, a través de búsqueda en PubMed y Google para trabajos no indexados o publicaciones de organismos de Salud. Resultados: varios estudios clínicos han mostrado la mayor eficacia del tratamiento en pacientes presintomáticos, por lo que lograrlo en estos pacientes llevaría a cambiar radicalmente la historia de esta enfermedad. Conclusión: es importante analizar y promover el desarrollo de pilotos para pesquisa neonatal en vistas a lograr experiencia para, a partir de ello, pensar en la posibilidad de incorporarlo a programas nacionales. (AU)

Introduction: spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is the first cause of genetic origin of death in childhood. Throughout the last 20 years, we have witnessed exceptional advances in the knowledge of its genetic base, the history of its nature and several standards of care and new therapies have been developed. This rapid increase in knowledge has led to the development of effective therapies for this devastating disease. However, time is neurons, and that phrase reminds us of the importance of early diagnosis, and, why not, of pre-symptomatic diagnosis by means of neonatal screening. Methods: review of scientific papers searching in Pubmed or Google for non-indexed articles or publications of Health organisms. Results: several clinical studies have shown the greatest effectiveness of treatment in pre-symptomatic patients, so achieving the same in these patients would result in radically changing the history of this disease. Discussion: it is important to analyze and promote the development of pilots for neonatal screening in order to gain experience, so from there on to be able to think about the possibility of incorporating it into national programs. (AU)