Feline Leishmaniasis: Evidence-based Treatments and Challenges to be Solved.

Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by protozoa parasites from the Leishmania genus. Vertebrate hosts acquire the infection through the bite of a female sandfly, initiating a complex parasite development cycle. Contrary to previous beliefs regarding cats' resistance, these animals have recently been identified as potential reservoirs for leishmaniasis. Clinical symptoms in cats can manifest in diverse forms, including cutaneous, mucocutaneous, and visceral manifestations. The diagnosis of feline leishmaniasis is complicated by nonspecific symptoms and the relatively lower specificity of serological tests. The recommended treatment for feline leishmaniasis involves the administration of medications; however, success varies in each cat. This review aims to present cases of feline leishmaniasis, highlighting clinical symptoms, diagnostic methods, therapy schedules, and outcomes. Among the 24 cases documented in the available literature, 12 achieved successful treatment without relapses, resulting in a reduced parasite load and improved symptoms. Three cases responded well but presented persistent sequelae. Two feline leishmaniasis cases initially had treatment success but later experienced recurrences. Finally, no response was observed in seven cases, leading to the euthanasia of cats due to ineffectiveness or irregularities along the therapy. Conventional treatments, despite potential hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity, exhibit a high efficacy in reducing parasitic load, thereby improving clinical symptoms and increasing the life expectancy of affected cats. Nevertheless, consistent adherence is crucial, as interruptions may render the therapy ineffective and contribute to parasite resistance. Therefore, addressing the challenges associated with feline leishmaniasis treatment necessitates the development of new strategies to ensure a more effective and sustained approach.

Clinical and Parasitological Profiles of Gestational, Placental and Congenital Malaria in Northwestern Colombia.

This study compared the clinical-parasitological profiles of gestational (GM), placental (PM), and congenital (CM) malaria in northwestern Colombia. A cross-sectional study with 829 pregnant women, 549 placentas, and 547 newborns was conducted. The frequency of GM was 35.8%, PM 20.9%, and CM 8.5%. P. vivax predominated in GM; in PM, the proportion of P. vivax and P. falciparum was similar; in CM, P. falciparum predominated. The main clinical findings were headache (49%), anemia (32%), fever (24%), and musculoskeletal pain (13%). The clinical manifestations were statistically higher in P. vivax infections. In submicroscopic GM (positive with qPCR and negative with thick blood smear), the frequency of anemia, sore throat, and a headache was statistically higher compared with pregnant women without malaria. GM, PM, and CM reduce birth weight and head circumference. In Colombia, this is the first research on the clinical characteristics of GM, PM, and CM; contrary to evidence from other countries, P. vivax and submicroscopic infections are associated with clinical outcomes.

Capacidad de un ensayo rápido para diagnosticar la COVID-19 y relación con síntomas clínicos / Effectiveness of a rapid test for the diagnosis of COVID-19 and its relationship with clinical symptoms

Introducción: La detección del virus SARS-CoV-2, agente causal de la COVID-19, es determinante para disminuir la propagación de la actual pandemia. Si bien el procedimiento de elección es la determinación del ácido nucleico del virus mediante la reacción en cadena de la polimerasa, también es necesario disponer de pruebas rápidas, con alta sensibilidad y precisión. Objetivo: Analizar la validez diagnóstica de un ensayo rápido de antígeno SARS-CoV-2, utilizado para la detección de la COVID-19 en el policlínico "5 de Septiembre" del municipio Playa. Material y Métodos: Se realizó un estudio analítico de corte transversal con 590 pacientes atendidos en la consulta de infecciones respiratorias agudas, en el período de enero a agosto de 2021. La determinación de antígeno SARS-CoV-2 se realizó con un ensayo rápido y la confirmación se hizo mediante la reacción en cadena de la polimerasa. Resultados: La prueba rápida de antígeno tuvo una elevada sensibilidad (98,19 %) y especificidad (92,39 %). La concordancia de los resultados obtenidos entre ambas pruebas fue elevada (0,868). Las sintomatologías más frecuentes reportadas, fueron, cefalea (51,69 %), fiebre (39,15 %), tos (37,16 %), pérdida del gusto/olfato (34,06 %) y rinorrea (30,16 %). Conclusiones: El ensayo rápido de antígeno del SARS-CoV-2 usado para la detección de la COVID-19 demostró validez y puede ser utilizado para el diagnóstico de la enfermedad. Las sintomatologías cefalea, fiebre, tos, pérdida del gusto/olfato y rinorrea fueron las más frecuentes, reportadas en más de 30 de los casos.

Introduction: The detection of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the causal agent of COVID-19, is decisive to reduce the spread of the current pandemic. Although the procedure of choice is the determination of the nucleic acid of the virus using the polymerase chain reaction, the availability of rapid, highly sensitive, and accurate tests is also necessary. Objective: To analyze the diagnostic validity of a SARS-CoV-2 antigen rapid diagnostic test for the detection of COVID-19 in the "5 de Septiembre" Polyclinic in Playa municipality. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was carried out on 590 patients seen in the acute respiratory infections consulting room in the period from January to August 2021. The detection of the SARS-CoV-2 antigen was performed using a rapid test and it was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction. Results: The rapid antigen test had a high sensitivity (98.19%) and specificity (92.39%). The concordance of the results obtained from both tests was high (0.868). The most frequent reported symptoms were headache (51.69%), fever (39.15%), cough (37.16%), loss of taste/smell (34.06%), and runny nose (30.16%). Conclusions: The SARS-CoV-2 antigen rapid diagnostic test used for the detection of COVID-19 is valid and can be used in the diagnosis of the disease. Symptoms such as headache, fever, cough, loss of taste/smell, and runny nose were the most frequently reported in more than 30% of cases.

Seroprevalencia, características clínicas SARS-COV-2 y sistema ABO en 85 voluntarios residentes de gran altura. La Paz Bolivia / Seroprevalence, SARS-COV-2 clinical characteristics and ABO system in 85 high-altitude resident volunteers. La Paz, Bolivia

OBJETIVO: determinar la seroprevalencia, características clínicas de SARS-COV-2 y su relación con sistema ABO en 85 voluntarios residentes de gran altura. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: estudio observacional, trasversal analítico. Se realizó pruebas de flujo lateral con plasma de sangre venosa, saturación de oxígeno, frecuencia cardíaca, frecuencia respiratoria y se aplicó una encuesta sobre características demográficas y clínicas. RESULTADOS: se obtuvo la información de 85 voluntarios, 64.71% mujeres y 35.29% varones. La edad fue de 37.42±14.7 años. El 15.3% tuvo IgM e IgG positivos, el 58.8% negativos, el 21.2% IgM negativo e IgG positivo y el 4.7% IgM positivo e IgG negativo. En los 4 grupos la mayoría fueron asintomáticos, siendo presintomáticos el 15.38% en los IgM IgG positivos y sintomáticos en proporciones similares en los 4 grupos. El 27% declaró alguna comorbilidad, 8% del grupo IgM e IgG positivos con obesidad; 39% del grupo IgM- IgG+ con obesidad y una embarazada; 50% del grupo IgM+ IgG- con asma y lumbago y en 26% del grupo IgM e IgG negativos con 2 embarazos, 2 gastritis y 1 eritrocitosis. En relación al tipo sanguíneo, el más frecuente fue 0 positivo con 92.8%, seguido de A positivo con 4.8%, A negativo con 1.2% y B positivo también 1.2% (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONES: las características clínicas de COVID­19 y seroprevalencia de IgM e IgG de habitantes de gran altura son similares a los habitantes del llano.

OBJECTIVE: to determine the seroprevalence, clinical characteristics of SARS-COV-2 and its relationship with the ABO system in 85 high-altitude resident volunteers. MATERIAL AND METHODS: observational, cross-sectional analytical study. Lateral flow tests with venous blood plasma, oxygen saturation, heart rate, respiratory rate were performed, and a survey on demographic and clinical characteristics was applied. RESULTS: information was obtained from 85 volunteers, 64.71% women and 35.29% men. The age was 37.42±14.7 years. 15.3% had positive IgM and IgG, 58.8% negative, 21.2% negative IgM and positive IgG, and 4.7% positive IgM and negative IgG. In the 4 groups, most were asymptomatic, with 15.38% being presymptomatic in positive IgM IgG and symptomatic in similar proportions in the 4 groups. 27% declared some comorbidity, 8% of the positive IgM and IgG group with obesity; 39% of the IgM-IgG+ group with obesity and one pregnant; 50% of the IgM+ IgG- group with asthma and lumbago and 26% of the IgM and IgG negative group with 2 pregnancies, 2 gastritis and 1 erythrocytosis. In relation to blood type, the most frequent was 0 positive with 92.8%, followed by A positive with 4.8%, A negative with 1.2% and B positive also 1.2% (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The clinical characteristics of COVID-19 and the seroprevalence of IgM and IgG in inhabitants of high altitudes are similar to those in the plains.

Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation Improves Inflammation but Does Not Interfere with Cardiac Modulation and Clinical Symptoms of Individuals with COVID-19: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Transcranial auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) has shown effectiveness in reducing inflammation and depression. Thus, this study evaluated its effect on inflammation, cardiac autonomic modulation, and clinical symptoms in individuals affected by COVID-19. Methods: There were 52 randomized participants hospitalized with COVID-19 diagnosis who were to receive active (a-taVNS) or sham taVNS (s-taVNS) for 90 min twice a day for seven consecutive days. Interleukin 6 (IL-6), 10 (IL-10), cortisol, C-reactive protein (CRP), heart rate variability (HRV), and clinical symptoms were assessed before and after seven days of treatment. There were also seven- and fourteen-day follow-ups for clinical symptoms, including anxiety and depression levels, as well as a six-month follow-up for memory and attention levels. Results: There was significant reduction in CRP −23.9%, (95% CI −46.3 to −1.4) and IL-6 −37.7%, (95% CI −57.6 to −17.7) for the a-taVNS group. There were no changes in IL-10, cortisol levels, or in HRV results (p > 0.05) in both groups. There were no changes regarding clinical symptoms, except for a significant decrease in depression level (−2.85, 95% CI −5.44 to −0.27) in the a-taVNS group. Conclusion: taVNS showed effects on CRP, IL-6, and depression levels; however, it did not affect other clinical symptoms.

Contrasting SARS-CoV-2 RNA copies and clinical symptoms in a large cohort of Colombian patients during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.

BACKGROUND: There is limited and controverting evidence looking at possible associations of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) RNA copies and patient variables in large cohorts of symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. METHODS: We studied 2275 symptomatic and asymptomatic patients from Colombia with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and analyzed the associations between RT-PCR cycle threshold (Ct) value with gender, age, comorbidities, symptomatology, and disease severity. RESULTS: 15.4 % of the samples (n = 428) reported at least one comorbidity. There were 2011 symptomatic cases (72.4 %), being the most common reported symptom cough (57.2 %, n = 1586). Respiratory distress was present in 21.4 % of patients (n = 595), and 435 patients (15.6 %) required hospital admission. We observed that patients with no prior medical history harbored higher RNA copies than patients with comorbidities (p = 0.02). No significant differences in RNA copies were observed between symptomatic and asymptomatic patients (p = 0.82). Strong correlations were detected between Ct values and the presence of odynophagia (p = 0.03), diarrhea (p = 0.04), and headache (p = 0.0008). An inverse association was found between RNA copy number and markers of disease severity, namely, respiratory distress (P < 0.0001) and hospitalization requirement (P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR cycle thresholds reveal strong associations with a prior medical history, specific symptomatology, and disease severity markers. Further research controlling potential confounding variables needs to be conducted to evaluate the nature and usefulness of these associations in managing COVID-19 patients.

Nursing interventions in autologous stem cell transplantation for autoimmune diseases.

AIMS: To identify clinical symptoms and nursing interventions for stem cell therapy in autoimmune diseases. DESIGN: This is a retrospective, cross-sectional study. METHODS: This study was undertaken with patients diagnosed with type 1 diabetes or multiple sclerosis, undergoing autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation from January 2004 - December 2018. Data were registered in a questionnaire, taken during the conditioning regimen comprising cyclophosphamide and rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin. Descriptive statistics and Fisher's exact test were used for data analysis. RESULTS: There were 68 and 23 patients in the multiple sclerosis and type 1 diabetes groups respectively. Skin rash, nausea, vomiting and fever were more frequent and diverse in the type 1 diabetes group. Steroids were used as prophylaxis for anti-thymocyte globulin-associated allergic reactions in 97% of multiple sclerosis patients. Most of the identified symptoms and nursing interventions were more associated with one or other disease group (p < .05) and were more frequent in the type 1 diabetes group. CONCLUSION: Patients with autoimmune diseases who underwent stem cell therapy present differences in their repertoire of adverse events and require disease-specific nursing actions. IMPACT: Our results may enable nurses to establish transplant and disease-specific guidelines to improve prevention and management of adverse events and therefore optimize patient care and therapeutic success.

A unique immune signature of serum cytokine and chemokine dynamics in patients with Zika virus infection from a tropical region in Southern Mexico.

OBJECTIVES: To describe the kinetics of circulating cytokines and chemokines in humans with ZIKAV infection. METHODS: Serum levels of different immune mediators in patients with ZIKAV infection were measured at distinct stages of the disease, as well as in culture supernatants from human monocytes infected with a clinical ZIKAV isolate. We also looked for clinical features associated with specific immune signatures among symptomatic patients. RESULTS: We evaluated 23 ZIKAV-infected patients. Their mean age was 32 ± 8.3 years and 65% were female. ZIKAV patients showed elevated IL-9, IL-17A, and CXCL10 levels at acute stages of the disease. At day 28, levels of CCL4 and CCL5 were increased, whereas IL-1RA, CXCL8 and CCL2 were decreased. At baseline, IL-7 was increased among patients with headache, whereas CCL2, and CCL3 were decreased in patients with bleeding and rash, respectively. Our clinical ZIKAV isolate induced a broad immune response in monocytes that did not resemble the signature observed in ZIKAV patients. CONCLUSIONS: We showed a unique immune signature in our cohort of ZIKAV-infected patients. Our study may provide valuable evidence helpful to identify immune correlates of protection against ZIKAV.

Prevalencia de síntomas clínicos en pacientes y su relación con variables vinculadas al contexto psicoterapéutico / Clinical Symptoms Prevalence in Patients and its Relation to Variables Associated with Psychotherapeutic Context

Resumen Objetivo. Indagar la prevalencia de síntomas clínicos en pacientes y verificar posibles relaciones con algunas variables vinculadas al contexto psicoterapéutico. Método. Se diseñó una investigación de carácter cuantitativa, a nivel exploratorio, con un diseño descriptivo y correlacional. El Cuestionario de Evaluación de Síntomas (Sandín, Valiente, Chorot, Santed, & Lostao, 2008) y un cuestionarioad hocfueron aplicados a una muestra no probabilística de 90 sujetos (M= 33.80 años,DT= 12.88). Resultados. Existe una marcada prevalencia de síntomas depresivos, ansiedad y conductas obsesivas-compulsivas; los pacientes con mayores niveles de Hostilidad tienden a vincularse con terapeutas más jóvenes y permanecen menor tiempo en tratamiento; los pacientes de menor edad tienden a manifestar menores niveles de Somatización y mayores niveles de Depresión, Sensibilidad interpersonal e Ideación paranoide. Las mujeres obtuvieron puntajes más elevados en Somatización, Depresión y Ansiedad Fóbica, en tanto se encontró que las terapeutas mujeres tienden a asistir a personas con mayores niveles de Depresión, Ansiedad e Ideación paranoide.

Abstract Objective. Inquire the prevalence of clinical symptoms in patients and verify possible relationships with some variables linked to the psychotherapeutic context. Method. A quantitative research was designed, at an exploratory level, with a descriptive and correlational design. The Symptom Evaluation Questionnaire (Sandín, Valiente, Chorot, Santed, & Lostao, 2008) and anad hocquestionnaire were applied to a non-probabilistic sample of 90 subjects (M= 33.80 years,DT= 12.88). Results. There is a marked prevalence of depressive symptoms, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive behaviors; Patients with higher levels of Hostility tend to be linked to younger therapists and remain shorter in treatment; Younger patients tend to show lower levels of Somatization and higher levels of Depression, Interpersonal Sensitivity and Paranoid Ideation. The women obtained higher scores in Somatization, Depression and Phobic Anxiety, while it was found that female therapists tend to assist people with higher levels of Depression, Anxiety and Paranoid Ideation.

Eficacia en el diagnóstico y tratamiento del síndrome de Brown / Efficacy of the diagnosis and treatment of Brown syndrome

RESUMEN Objetivo: Identificar las características clínicas y los criterios quirúrgicos en el síndrome de Brown. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo retrospectivo a 15 pacientes con el diagnóstico de síndrome de Brown, quienes acudieron a la Consulta de Visión Binocular del Hospital Infantil Sur "Dr. Antonio María Béguez César". Se incluyeron los niños con edades entre 2 a 7 años, con el diagnóstico definido de síndrome de Brown; se realizó exploración motora y sensorial completa y se evaluó el ojo afectado, el tipo de síndrome de Brown que tenía el paciente, las características clínicas y los criterios quirúrgicos tenidos en cuenta para resolver una conducta adecuada. Resultados: En la muestra estudiada el 66,5 por ciento de los pacientes tuvo afectado el ojo derecho con un síndrome de Brown leve; el 73 por ciento estuvo en ortotropía y el 73,3 por ciento no fue quirúrgico. Conclusión: Los pacientes con síndrome de Brown leve que permanecen en ortotropía, sin tortícolis y sin depresión en aducción, no requieren intervención quirúrgica(AU)

ABSTRACT Objective: Identify the clinical characteristics of and surgical criteria for Brown syndrome. Methods: A retrospective descriptive study was conducted of 15 patients diagnosed with Brown syndrome attending the binocular vision service at Dr. Antonio María Béguez César South University Children's Hospital. The sample included children aged 2-7 years with a definite diagnosis of Brown syndrome. Complete motor and sensory exploration was done, and evaluation was performed of the affected eye, Brown syndrome type, clinical characteristics and surgical criteria considered to select the appropriate management. Results: 66.5 percent of the study sample had their right eye affected by mild Brown syndrome, 73 percent were orthotropic, and 73.3 percent were not surgical cases. Conclusion: Patients with mild Brown syndrome who remained orthotropic, without torticollis or adduction depression, did not require surgical intervention(AU)

Bilateral magnetic resonance imaging findings in individuals with unilateral shoulder pain.

BACKGROUND: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is commonly used to diagnose structural abnormalities in the shoulder. However, subsequent findings may not be the source of symptoms. The aim of this study was to determine comparative MRI findings across both shoulders of individuals with unilateral shoulder symptoms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We prospectively evaluated 123 individuals from the community who had self-reported unilateral shoulder pain with no signs of adhesive capsulitis, no substantial range-of-motion deficit, no history of upper-limb fractures, no repeated shoulder dislocations, and no neck-related pain. Images in the coronal, sagittal, and axial planes with T1, T2, and proton density sequences were generated and independently and randomly interpreted by 2 examiners: a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic shoulder surgeon and a musculoskeletal radiologist. Absolute and relative frequencies for each MRI finding were calculated and compared between symptomatic and asymptomatic shoulders. Agreement between the shoulder surgeon and the radiologist was also determined. RESULTS: Abnormal MRI findings were highly prevalent in both shoulders. Only the frequencies of full-thickness tears in the supraspinatus tendon and glenohumeral osteoarthritis were higher (approximately 10%) in the symptomatic shoulder according to the surgeon's findings. Agreement between the musculoskeletal radiologist and shoulder surgeon ranged from slight to moderate (0.00-0.51). CONCLUSION: Most abnormal MRI findings were not different in frequency between symptomatic and asymptomatic shoulders. Clinicians should be aware of the common anatomic findings on MRI when considering diagnostic and treatment planning.

IFNG +874A/T Polymorphism Among Asymptomatic HTLV-1-Infected Individuals Is Potentially Related to a Worse Prognosis.

HTLV-1 infections are persistent and frequently latent; however, productive infections trigger different types of immunological responses that utilize cytokines to control infection. The present study investigated the role of IFNG +874A/T polymorphisms among 153 HTLV-1-infected individuals (33 clinically diagnosed with TSP/HAM, 22 with rheumatologic manifestations, 2 with dermatitis, 1 with uveitis, and 95 asymptomatic patients) and 300 healthy control individuals. Genotyping and proviral HTLV-1 load assessment were performed using real-time PCR assays, and the plasma levels of IFN-γ were measured using an enzyme immunoassay (ELISA). Genotype frequencies were not significantly different, but the presence of the T allele was higher (p < 0.0142) among the asymptomatic patients. Plasma levels of IFN-γ were significantly higher (p < 0.0137) among those with the TT genotype. Their proviral load was also higher, although this elevation did not reach statistical significance. There was no difference in the IFN-γ plasma levels among the symptomatic patients, even when ranked according to disease severity (TSP/HAM or rheumatologic manifestations). However, the difference among asymptomatic patients with the T allele was significantly higher (p < 0.0016) and similar to the plasma levels observed among symptomatic individuals. These results suggest that the IFNG +874A/T polymorphism may modulate the plasma levels of IFN-γ during HTLV-1 infection. Asymptomatic carriers of the polymorphic genotypes appear to develop an inflammatory response in a shorter timeframe, triggering progression to HTLV-1-related symptoms and disorders. These results further suggest that HTLV-1-infected asymptomatic individuals expressing the IFNG +874A/T polymorphism should be monitored more closely in order to readily detect the increase in clinical symptoms, as these patients are potentially at risk of a poor prognosis and should therefore start available treatment procedures earlier.

Apresentação clínica inicial dos casos de erros inatos do metabolismo de um hospital pediátrico de referência: ainda um desafio diagnóstico / Initial clinical presentation in cases of inborn errors of metabolism in a reference children's hospital: still a diagnostic challenge

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a apresentação clínica inicial dos casos com diagnóstico confirmado de erros inatos do metabolismo (EIM) em um serviço de referência em atendimento pediátrico. Métodos: Estudo clínico, observacional, com delineamento transversal e de coleta retrospectiva em consulta ambulatorial de 2009 a 2013. Critério de inclusão: paciente encaminhado para investigação de EIM. Critério de exclusão: diagnóstico prévio de EIM. Variáveis analisadas: dados de identificação; situação atual da investigação diagnóstica; história familiar; apresentação clínica inicial; alterações laboratoriais. Os dados foram analisados por meio de estatística descritiva Resultados: Incluídos 144 pacientes, sendo 62,5% do sexo masculino. A mediana de idade foi de 2,6 anos e a média de 4,3 ± 4,7 anos. Doze pacientes (8,3%) tiveram o diagnóstico confirmado (três com aminoacidopatias, três com acidemias orgânicas, dois com distúrbios do ciclo da ureia e quatro com doenças de depósito lisossômico). Déficit cognitivo e convulsões foram os sinais e sintomas iniciais; seguidos de retardo de crescimento, atraso do desenvolvimento neuropsicomotor, convulsões e hepatomegalia. As principais alterações laboratoriais encontradas foram hiperamonemia e acidose metabólica. Conclusões: O diagnóstico dos EIM ainda traz desafios à prática pediátrica. Neste estudo foram identificados os seguintes fatores: dificuldade de acesso aos exames laboratoriais específicos, reduzido número de especialistas e pouca difusão do conhecimento nas faculdades da área da saúde. O diagnóstico precoce dos EIM tem impacto fundamental no tratamento e prevenção das sequelas, devendo ser considerado já nas hipóteses diagnósticas iniciais.

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the initial clinical presentation of confirmed cases of inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) at a reference facility for pediatric care. Methods: Cross-sectional, observational and descriptive study with data collection of outpatients, from January 2009 to December 2013. Inclusion criterion: referral to IEM investigation. Exclusion criterion: prior diagnosis of IEM. Analyzed variables: identification data; status of diagnostic investigation; family history of IEM; initial clinical presentation, laboratory abnormalities related to the hypothesis of IEM. Descriptive statistical methods were used in the data analysis. Results: We included 144 patients in the study, of which 62.5% were male. The mean and median ages were, respectively, 4.3 ± 4.7 years and 2.6 years. Twelve patients (8.3%) had a confirmed diagnosis of IEM (three with aminoacidopathies, three with organic acidemias, two with urea cycle disorders and four with lysosomal storage diseases). Cognitive impairment and seizures were the initial signs and symptoms, followed by growth retardation, neuropsychomotor developmental delay, seizures and hepatomegaly. The main laboratory abnormalities in the diagnosis were hyperammonemia and metabolic acidosis. Conclusions: The diagnosis of IEM still creates challenges to the pediatric practice. In this study, we identified the following factors: difficulty to access specific laboratory tests, reduced number of experts and poor dissemination of knowledge among healthcare schools. The early diagnosis of IEM majorly impacts the treatment and prevention of sequelae and should be considered in the initial diagnostic hypotheses.

Efecto de las enfermedades en posparto temprano sobre el intervalo parto concepción: estudio de cohorte en vacas lecheras de Pasto, Colombia / Effect of early postpartum diseases on calving - conception interval: a cohort study in dairy cows from Pasto, Colombia / Efeito da doença no intervalo parto concepção pós-parto: estudo de coorte em vacas leiteiras Pasto, Colômbia

Resumen La mayor predisposición de las vacas lecheras a enfermar y presentar un bajo desempeño reproductivo se da durante las primeras semanas de lactancia. Con el objetivo de determinar la incidencia de enfermedades en posparto temprano y su efecto en el incremento del intervalo parto - concepción se realizó un estudio longitudinal de cohorte en vacas (n=706) de sistemas de producción lechera especializada del municipio de Pasto, Colombia. El seguimiento se realizó durante los primeros 45 días post-parto en 47 hatos para determinar la presencia de enfermedad en el posparto, posteriormente se realizaron seguimientos mensuales para diagnóstico de gestación. Mediante regresión logística se estableció el efecto de la exposición a enfermedad en el posparto temprano sobre el incremento de días abiertos (IPC (120 días). En el estudio se determinó que las enfermedades que aportan significativamente al incremento del Intervalo parto - concepción a un número mayor a 120 días fueron: neumonía (p=0,001; OR=4,2); mastitis clínica (p=0,001; OR=7,3); metritis (p=0,014; OR=48,1); retención de placenta (p=0,001; OR=17,07); alteración cardiaca (p=0,0001; OR=2,9) y cojeras / claudicaciones (p=0,014; OR=2,9). El estudio permitió concluir que la ocurrencia de signos clínicos relacionados con enfermedad en el posparto temprano tiene efecto sobre el incremento de días abiertos con intervalos parto - concepción mayores a 120 días. La ocurrencia de enfermedad durante el posparto temprano, puede predecir la probabilidad de ocurrencia de bajo desempeño reproductivo.

Abstract Major predisposition of dairy cattle to disease and shown low reproductive performance occurs during the first weeks of lactation. With the objective of determine the incidence of early postpartum diseases and their effect on the increase of the conception interval, a longitudinal cohort study was carried out in cows (n = 706) of dairy production systems in the municipality of Pasto, Colombia. Follow-up was performed during the first 45 days postpartum in 47 herds to determine the presence of postpartum disease, and monthly follow-ups were performed for gestation diagnosis. The effect of exposure to disease in the early postpartum period on the increase of open days was established through logistic regression. In the study, the diseases that contribute significantly to the increase of calving - conception interval to a number greater than 120 days were: pneumonia (p-value=0.001; OR=4.2); Clinical mastitis (p-value=0.001; OR=7.3); Metritis (p-value=0.014, OR=48.1); Placenta retention (p-value=0.001; OR=17.07); Cardiac alteration (p-value=0.0001, OR=2.9) and lameness (p-value=0.014; OR=2,9). The study allowed to conclude that occurrence of early postpartum disease has an effect on the increase of open days with calving - conception intervals greater than 120 days. Occurrence of disease during early postpartum can predict the probability of occurrence of low reproductive performance.

Resumo A maioria predisposição vaca ficar doente e apresentar problemas de reprodução ocorre durante as primeiras semanas de lactação. A fim de determinar a incidência da doença no pós-parto precoce e seu efeito sobre o aumento do intervalo parto - concepção foi realizado um estudo longitudinal de coorte em vacas (n = 706) dos sistemas de produção de leite especializados no município de Pasto, Colômbia. O monitoramento foi realizado durante os primeiros 45 dias pós-parto em 47 rebanhos para determinar a presença da doença no pós-parto, em seguida, foram feitas mensalmente follow-ups para diagnóstico de gestação. A regressão logística estabeleceu-se o efeito da exposição a doença no início da pós-parto em aumentar dias abertos (IPC (120 dias). No estudo, foi determinado que as doenças que contribuem significativamente para o aumento do intervalo parto - concepção até a um número superior a 120 dias foram: pneumonia (p = 0,001; OR = 4.2); mastite clínica (p = 0,001; OR = 7,3); metrite (p = 0,014; OR = 48,1); retenção de placenta (p = 0,001; OR = 17,07); disfunção cardíaca (p = 0,0001, OR = 2,9) e claudicação / claudicação (p = 0,014; OR =). Em conclusão, a ocorrência de sinais clínicos relacionados com a doença no início da pós-parto tem um efeito sobre o aumento dos dias abertos com intervalos de nascimento - concepção maior até 120 dias. A ocorrência da doença durante o início do pós-parto, pode prever a probabilidade de ocorrência de baixo desempenho reprodutivo.

Avaliação da influência dos sintomas clínicos na qualidade de vida de indivíduos com Síndrome de Williams-Beuren / Evaluation of the influence of clinical symptoms on the quality of life in individuals with Williams-Beuren Syndrome

Introdução: A Síndrome de Williams-Beuren (SWB) é resultado da deleção do cromossomo 7q11.23. A presença de transtornos psiquiátricos, tais como Transtorno de Ansiedade Generalizada, Déficit de Atenção e Hiperatividade, entre outros, já foram descritos nesta síndrome. Objetivo: Este estudo teve como objetivo identificar possíveis sintomas clínicos nos indivíduos com SWB e as possíveis consequências na qualidade de vida. Método: O grupo amostral com SWB constituiu-se por 20 indivíduos com idade entre 11 e 16 anos e 22 indivíduos com desenvolvimento típico (DT). Os instrumentos utilizados foram: Critério de Classificação Econômica Brasil para estimar o poder de compra das famílias urbanas; o Questionário de Capacidades e Dificuldades (SDQ), que possibilita uma medida útil em psicopatologia aplicada a crianças e jovens com 4 a 17 anos de idade; e o Questionário de Avaliação de Qualidade de Vida em Crianças e Adolescentes (AUQEI), que tem como objetivo avaliar a sensação de bem-estar mediante a opinião da própria criança e adolescente. Resultados: Os resultados sugerem que os adolescentes com SWB possuem uma boa qualidade de vida, apesar de apresentarem maiores possibilidades de sintomas psiquiátricos. Estes resultados são válidos, já que a qualidade de vida é mensurada a partir da subjetividade do indivíduo avaliado. Conclusão: Chega-se à hipótese de que os adolescentes com SWB podem apresentar uma distorção da realidade para o fator positivo/otimista, possivelmente baseada em algumas características da própria síndrome, tais como: são sempre alegres e sorridentes, fatores associados à deficiência intelectual.

Introduction: Williams-Beuren Syndrome (WBS) results from a deletion in the chromosome 7q11.23. Psychiatric symptoms, such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and others, have been described in this syndrome. Objective: The main purpose of this study was to identify related clinical symptoms in individuals with WBS and the impact of this disorder in their quality of life. Method: The study sample included 42 individuals aged 11 to 16 years divided into two groups: a study group composed of 20 individuals with WBS and a control group comprising 22 individuals with typical development. The following instruments were used in this evaluation: Brazilian Criterion of Economic Classification (CCEB), to estimate the purchasing power of urban households; Strengths & Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), to provide a useful measure of psychopathology applied to children and youth aged 4-17 years; and Quality of Life Evaluation Scale (AUQEI), to assess the feeling of well-being according to the opinion of the child and adolescent. Results: The results suggest that adolescents with WBS have a good quality of life despite presenting greater possibilities of psychiatric symptoms. These results are valid considering that quality of life is measured from the opinion of the assessed individual. Conclusion: We hypothesized that adolescents with WBS can present a distortion of reality regarding the positive/optimistic factor, possibly based on some characteristics of the syndrome such as being always cheerful and smiling, which are factors associated with intellectual disability.

Clinical characteristics and spatial distribution of Visceral leishmaniasis in children in São Paulo state: an emerging focus of Visceral leishmaniasis in Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is an emerging zoonosis, and Brazil harbors about 90% of those infected in Latin America. Since 1998, the disease has been spreading quickly in São Paulo state, and the western region is considered an emerging focus of VL in Brazil. Our aim was to evaluate the clinical characteristics and spatial distribution of VL in children referred to a public tertiary hospital located in the western region of São Paulo state, Brazil. METHODS: Medical records of children up to 18 years of age who were diagnosed with VL between January 2006 and December 2010 were reviewed. Geospatial analysis was performed using the ArcGIS 10.2 platform. RESULTS: Sixty-three patients were enrolled in the study; the median age was 3.3 ± 3.3 years. The median time interval between the onset of clinical symptoms and diagnosis was 16.1 ± 11.1 days, and the median time in the pediatric ward was 18.0 ± 9.4 days. Liposomal amphotericin B was the first-line treatment in 90.5% of the patients and 9.6% relapsed. One patient died (1.6%), and 19% were submitted to the pediatric intensive care unit. CONCLUSION: The short interval between the onset of symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment and the reduced number of days of hospitalization certainly influenced the small number of deaths, relapses, and severity among the children infected with VL. However, the disease is spreading fast in the western region of São Paulo state. Thus, integrated actions and effective monitoring of the disease are needed to complement curative practices.

Aplicação do Índice Menopausal de kupperman: um estudo transversal com mulheres climatéricas / Application of menopausal kupperman index: a cross-sectional study of menopausal women

Objetivo: Avaliar os sintomas climatéricos em mulheres atendidas em Unidades Básicas da Estratégia Saúde da Família. Metodologia: Estudo descritivo, prospectivo, transversal com abordagem quantitativa, cujos dados foram coletados utilizando questionário estruturado com questões contendo variáveis sociodemográficas, reprodutivas e sexuais e o Índice Menopausal de Kupperman. Os resultados foram analisados pelo Teste de Associação pelo Qui-Quadrado. Resultados: Das 80 mulheres entrevistadas, 50% tinham mais de 50 anos de idade; maioria parda; dez anos ou mais de estudo; ocupação remunerada; renda familiar entre um e dois salários mínimos e companheiro fixo. Dentre as variáveis estudadas, verificou-se que a variável ciclo menstrual (p=0,010) foi significativa, apresentando associação com a presença de sintomas do climatério. Não houve associação significativa entre a presença dos sintomas do climatério e as variáveis de tabagismo, número de gestações, presença de relação sexual, exercícios físicos, IMC, idade na menopausa e idade na menarca. Conclusão: as manifestações sintomáticas do climatério estavam presentes, de forma leve, para a maioria das mulheres entrevistadas. Dada a relevância da sintomatologia, é importante que os profissionais da Atenção Primária conheçam os sintomas e repercussões na qualidade de vida das mulheres climatéricas. Além dos aspectos terapêuticos, a assistência deve contemplar a educação em saúde, com o intuito de propiciar conhecimento às mulheres sobre o funcionamento do seu corpo e as implicações dos processos fisiológicos em sua qualidade de vida. Dessa forma, conhecendo seu corpo e as interferências do meio ambiente sobre ele, essas mulheres terão melhores possibilidades de tomar decisões a respeito de sua saúde (AU).

Objective To assess the climacteric symptoms in women attended at Basic Units of the Family Health Strategy. Methodology descriptive, prospective, cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach, the data of which were collected using a structured questionnaire with questions containing sociodemographic, reproductive and sexual variables, and Kupperman Menopausal Index. The results were analyzed by chi-square test Association. Results Of the 80 women interviewed, 50% were over 50 years of age; most were of brown race; had ten years or more of study; had a paid activity; family income was between one and two minimum wages, and had a steady partner. Among the variables studied, it was found that the variable menstrual cycle (p = 0.010) was significant, with association with the presence of climacteric symptoms. There was no significant association between the presence of symptoms of the climacteric period and the variables smoking, number of pregnancies, presence of sexual intercourse, physical exercise, BMI, age of menopause, and age at menarche. Conclusion symptomatic manifestations of the climateric period were slightly present for most of the women interviewed. Given the importance of the symptoms, it is important that professionals of Primary Health know the symptoms and impact on quality of life of menopausal women. In addition to the therapeutic aspects, assistance should include health education, to provide knowledge to women about their bodies functioning, and the implications of physiological processes in their quality of life. Consequently, knowing their body and the interference of the environment on it, these women will have better possibilities to make decisions about their health (AU)

Rosacea fulminans: unusual clinical presentation of rosacea

Abstract Rosacea fulminans or pyoderma faciale is a rare cutaneous disorder that usually affects women usually between the ages of 15-46. The disease is characterized by sudden onset of papules, pustules, cysts, and painful coalescing nodules with red-cyanotic centrofacial erythema. Although its etiology remains unknown, hormonal, immunological, and vascular factors have been reported. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment should minimize unsightly scars. We report a case of a 33-year-old female patient treated with traditional doses of doxycycline, with improvement of the lesions and regression of the condition in two months.

Duration of Dengue Viremia in Blood Donors and Relationships Between Donor Viremia, Infection Incidence and Clinical Case Reports During a Large Epidemic.

BACKGROUND: Dengue viruses (DENV-1-4) pose a transfusion-transmission risk. This study estimated the dengue RNA detection period in asymptomatic blood donors and relationships between donor viremia and dengue incidence during a large epidemic. METHODS: Donor samples from the 2012 dengue transmission season in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, were tested for DENV RNA by a transcription-mediated amplification (TMA) assay, with DENV types and viral loads determined by polymerase chain reaction. Samples collected during the first and last weeks of enrollment were tested for DENV immunoglobulin (Ig) G and IgM to estimate incidence during the study period, which was analyzed relative to nucleic acid amplification technology (NAT) yield to estimate the duration of NAT-detectable viremia and compared with reported clinical dengue cases in Rio. RESULTS: Samples from 16 241 donations were tested; 87 (0.54%) were confirmed as DENV-4 RNA positive. Dengue IgM-positive/IgG-positive reactivity increased from 2.8% to 8.8%, indicating a 6.2% incidence (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.2%-9.1%) during the study period. Based on these data, we estimated a 9.1-day period (95% CI, 4.4-13.9 days) of RNA detectable with TMA. With 100 475 reported cases of clinical dengue, 1 RNA-positive donation was identified per 800 DENV cases. CONCLUSIONS: These parameters allow projections of dengue incidence from donor NAT yield data and vice versa, and suggest that viremic donations will be rare relative to clinical disease cases.

Zika - another threat on the epidemiological map of the world.

Zika fever is an acute infectious disease caused by the Zika virus (ZIKV) of the Flaviviridae family and Flavivirus genus. It is transmitted by day-time active Aedes mosquitoes, and potentially by sexual contacts, blood transfusion, and from mother to foetus (resulting in microcephaly in a child). ZIKV was first isolated from a macaque monkey in the Zika forest in Uganda in 1947. The first case of the Zika fever in a human was recorded in Nigeria in 1954. Until 2007 only 14 cases of the disease were confirmed worldwide. In 2007, there was an outbreak of the Zika fever in Micronesia (Yap Island) with an estimated 5,000 cases. Between 2013 and 2015 a further outbreak of the disease occurred in the Pacific islands: in French Polynesia, New Caledonia, Cook Islands, Easter Island, and Solomon Islands. In 2015, the Zika fever spread to Brazil and more than 20 other countries in the South and Central America. Until March 2016, an estimated 1.6 million autochthonous cases of Zika have been reported globally, with approximately 1.5 million cases recorded in Brazil. Typically, 80% of Zika infections are asymptomatic. The most common symptoms of the disease include fever, maculopapular rash, muscle and joint pain, conjunctivitis. Zika fever can be diagnosed on the basis of clinical signs (it must be differentiated from dengue, chikungunya), ZIKV identification is also possible by the application of polymerase chain reaction in acutely ill patients and the detection of specific IgM and IgG antibodies to ZIKV. Until today, there is no effective antiviral treatment or an effective vaccine against Zika fever (in case of an infection only symptomatic treatment is applied). In August 2016 in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) Summer Olympic Games will take place, attracting thousands of athletes and spectators. The fight against the Zika fever and the race against time have gained momentum.