Association between serum neurofilament light chains (sNfL) and neurologic disorders in a representative sample of US adults: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: While increased neurofilament light chain (NfL) in serum concentrations are linked to the progression of several neurological conditions, their distribution and implications within the general adult population remain largely unexplored. The current research aims to clarify the relationship among serum NfL levels and neurological disorders in a broad and representative population sample. METHODS: We utilized information gathered from 1751 adults involved in the 2013-2014 cycle of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Our analytical approach encompassed logistic regression, smoothed curve fitting, and subgroup analyses to identify potential correlations between serum NfL levels and neurological conditions, including depression, severe hearing and visual impairments, stroke, subjective memory deficits, and sleep problems. RESULTS: After adjusting for confounders, we found that higher serum NfL concentrations were significantly associated with increased risks of depression, stroke, subjective memory deficits, and longer sleep duration (p < 0.05). Subgroup analyses supported these findings. Additionally, BMI significantly influenced the relationship between serum NfL levels and subjective memory deficits. CONCLUSION: Our research shows that higher serum NfL levels are strongly related to an elevated risk for several neurological disorders. These findings highlight the role of serum NfL serving as a critical marker for early detection and monitoring of neurological conditions, emphasizing its importance in both clinical and public health settings.

Pharmacotherapeutic potential of Vitis vinifera(grape) in age-related neurological diseases / Potencial farmacoterapéutico de Vitis vinifera(uva) en enfermedades neurológicas asociadas a la edad

Age-related neurological disorders (ANDs), including neurodegenerative diseases, are complex illnesses with an increasing risk with advancing years. The central nervous system's neuropathological conditions, including oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and protein misfolding, are what define ANDs. Due to the rise in age-dependent prevalence, efforts have been made to combat ANDs. Vitis viniferahas a long history of usageto treat a variety of illness symptoms. Because multiple ligand sites may be targeted, Vitis viniferacomponents can be employed to treat ANDs. This is demonstrated by the link between the structure and action of these compounds. This review demonstrates that Vitis viniferaand its constituents, including flavonoids, phenolic compounds, stilbenoidsandaromatic acids, are effective at reducing the neurological symptoms and pathological conditions of ANDs. This is done by acting as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. The active Vitis vinifera ingredients have therapeutic effects on ANDs, as this review explains.

Las enfermedades neurológicas asociadas a la edad (AND, por su sigla en inglés) incluyendo las enfermedades neurodegenerativas, son enfermedades complejas con un riesgo creciente con la edad. Las condiciones neuropatológicas del sistema nervioso central, que incluyen el estrés oxidativo, la neuro inflamación, y el plegado erróneo de proteínas, son lo que define las AND. Debido al aumento en la prevalencia dependiente de la edad, se han hecho esfuerzos para combatir las AND. Vitis vinifera tiene una larga historia de uso para el tratamiento de síntomas. Puesto que puede hacer objetivo a muchos sitios ligando, los componentes de Vitis viniferase pueden utilizar para tratar AND. Esto se demuestra por el vínculo entre la estructura y la acción de estos compuestos. Esta revisión demuestra que la Vitis viniferay sus constituyentes, incluídos los flavonoides, componentes fenólicos, estilbenoides, y ácidos aromáticos, son efectivos para reducir los síntomas neurológicos y las condiciones patológicas de AND. Esto se produce por su acción como antioxidante y antiinflamatorio. Los ingredientes activos de Vitis vinifera tienen efectos terapéuticos en AND, y esta revisión lo explica.

Eutanasia y suicidio asistido en enfermedades neurológicas: una revisión sistemática / Euthanasia and assisted suicide in neurological diseases: a systematic review

Objetivo Identificar las enfermedades neurológicas por las que con mayor frecuencia se solicita la eutanasia y el suicidio asistido en los países donde están legalizados, las particularidades de la eutanasia en algunas de ellas y mostrar la evolución de sus cifras. Métodos Revisión bibliográfica sistemática. Resultados Las demencias, enfermedad de motoneurona, esclerosis múltiple y enfermedad de Parkinson son las enfermedades neurológicas que más frecuentemente motivan la petición de eutanasia o suicidio asistido. Las solicitudes por demencia son las más numerosas, están creciendo y plantean problemas éticos y legales adicionales al disminuir la capacidad de decisión. En algunos países la proporción de solicitudes respecto al total de casos de esclerosis múltiple, enfermedad de motoneurona o enfermedad de Huntington es mayor que en cualquier otra enfermedad. Conclusiones Después del cáncer las enfermedades neurológicas son el motivo más frecuente de pedir la eutanasia y el suicidio asistido. (AU)

Objective To identify the neurological diseases for which euthanasia and assisted suicide are most frequently requested in the countries where these medical procedures are legal and the specific characteristics of euthanasia in some of these diseases, and to show the evolution of euthanasia figures. Methods We conducted a systematic literature review. Results Dementia, motor neuron disease, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease are the neurological diseases that most frequently motivate requests for euthanasia or assisted suicide. Claims related to dementia constitute the largest group, are growing, and raise additional ethical and legal issues due to these patients’ diminished decision-making capacity. In some countries, the ratios of euthanasia requests to all cases of multiple sclerosis, motor neuron disease, or Huntington disease are higher than for any other disease. Conclusions After cancer, neurological diseases are the most frequent reason for requesting euthanasia or assisted suicide. (AU)

Euthanasia and assisted suicide in neurological diseases: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: To identify the neurological diseases for which euthanasia and assisted suicide are most frequently requested in the countries where these medical procedures are legal and the specific characteristics of euthanasia in some of these diseases, and to show the evolution of euthanasia figures. METHODS: We conducted a systematic literature review. RESULTS: Dementia, motor neuron disease, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease are the neurological diseases that most frequently motivate requests for euthanasia or assisted suicide. Requests related to dementia constitute the largest group, are growing, and raise additional ethical and legal issues due to these patients' diminished decision-making capacity. In some countries, the ratios of euthanasia requests to all cases of multiple sclerosis, motor neuron disease, or Huntington disease are higher than for any other disease. CONCLUSIONS: After cancer, neurological diseases are the most frequent reason for requesting euthanasia or assisted suicide.

¿Existe mayor riesgo de suicidio en pacientes diagnosticados de una enfermedad neurológica? / Do patients diagnosed with a neurological disease present increased risk of suicide?

Introducción: Las enfermedades neurológicas representan la principal causa de discapacidad y la segunda causa de muerte a nivel mundial. El dolor físico y psicológico, la desesperanza y la desconexión con el medio están presentes tras el diagnóstico de numerosos procesos neurológicos y especialmente de las enfermedades neurodegenerativas.DesarrolloExiste un mayor riesgo de suicidio en pacientes con enfermedades neurológicas comunes como la epilepsia, la migraña y la esclerosis múltiple, así como en quienes padecen trastornos degenerativos como la enfermedad de Alzheimer, la enfermedad de Huntington, la esclerosis lateral amiotrófica o la enfermedad de Parkinson. En la mayoría de los casos, la ideación suicida aparece en la etapa próxima al diagnóstico, ante sintomatología invalidante, y/o en pacientes que presentan comorbilidad psiquiátrica (a menudo asociada con dichas dolencias neurológicas).ConclusionesPara una prevención efectiva del suicidio en este grupo de la población debe evaluarse el riesgo principalmente en pacientes recién diagnosticados, ante la expresión de marcada desesperanza, ante sintomatología invalidante y en pacientes que presentan comorbilidad psiquiátrica (especialmente síntomas depresivos). La formación de los especialistas para detectar signos de alerta es fundamental tanto para que puedan hacer un correcto abordaje como para que sean capaces de determinar cuándo es necesaria la valoración de un especialista en psiquiatría. (AU)

Introduction: Neurological diseases are the leading cause of disability and the second leading cause of death worldwide. Physical and psychological pain, despair, and disconnection with the environment are observed after the diagnosis of numerous neurological processes, particularly neurodegenerative diseases.DevelopmentA higher risk of suicide is observed in patients with such common neurological diseases as epilepsy, migraine, and multiple sclerosis, as well as in those with such degenerative disorders as Alzheimer disease, Huntington disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease. In most cases, suicidal ideation appears in the early stages after diagnosis, in the presence of disabling symptoms, and/or in patients with psychiatric comorbidities (often associated with these neurological diseases).ConclusionsEffective suicide prevention in this population group requires assessment of the risk of suicide mainly in newly diagnosed patients, in patients showing unmistakable despair or disabling symptoms, and in patients presenting psychiatric comorbidities (especially depressive symptoms). It is essential to train specialists to detect warning signs in order that they may adopt a suitable approach and determine when psychiatric assessment is required. (AU)

Do patients diagnosed with a neurological disease present increased risk of suicide?

INTRODUCTION: Neurological diseases are the leading cause of disability and the second leading cause of death worldwide. Physical and psychological pain, despair, and disconnection with the environment are observed after the diagnosis of numerous neurological processes, particularly neurodegenerative diseases. DEVELOPMENT: A higher risk of suicide is observed in patients with such common neurological diseases as epilepsy, migraine, and multiple sclerosis, as well as in those with such degenerative disorders as Alzheimer disease, Huntington disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease. In most cases, suicidal ideation appears in the early stages after diagnosis, in the presence of disabling symptoms, and/or in patients with psychiatric comorbidities (often associated with these neurological diseases). CONCLUSIONS: Effective suicide prevention in this population group requires assessment of the risk of suicide mainly in newly diagnosed patients, in patients showing unmistakable despair or disabling symptoms, and in patients presenting psychiatric comorbidities (especially depressive symptoms). It is essential to train specialists to detect warning signs in order that they may adopt a suitable approach and determine when psychiatric assessment is required.

Actividad asistencial neurológica en Manzanillo / Neurological care activity in Manzanillo / Atividade de cuidados neurológicos em Manzanillo

RESUMEN Las enfermedades neurológicas se han convertido en una preocupación creciente, considerándose causa importante de morbimortalidad tanto en países desarrollados como en aquellos en desarrollo. Se realizó esta investigación con el objetivo de caracterizar la actividad asistencial del servicio de Neurología del Hospital Clínico-Quirúrgico Celia Sánchez Manduley. Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo en el servicio de Neurología del Hospital Clínico-Quirúrgico Celia Sánchez Manduley, en el periodo de enero a diciembre de 2019. El universo estuvo constituido por 3968 pacientes, atendidos en consulta externa y hospitalización. Los resultados obtenidos se distribuyeron en frecuencias absolutas y por cientos. Se tomaron en cuenta las siguientes variables: edad, sexo, municipio, grupo diagnóstico y origen de la interconsulta. Predominó el sexo femenino (57,7 %) y el grupo de edad de 60 años y más (37,2 %). La mayoría de los pacientes fueron manzanilleros (36,4 %). La cefalea fue el grupo diagnóstico más representativo (23,9 %), y la epilepsia fue el principal diagnóstico con que ingresaron los pacientes (32,8 %). El servicio que aportó mayores solicitudes de interconsultas para un 66,8 % fue Medicina Interna. Los motivos de consulta y las características de los pacientes hospitalizados no difieren en gran medida de los presentados por otros autores. Los motivos de consulta más frecuentes fueron la cefalea y la epilepsia. El grupo de edad con mayor demanda de asistencia neurológica fueron pacientes mayores de 60 años, con predominio del sexo femenino. El mayor número de hospitalizaciones correspondió a la epilepsia y la enfermedad de Parkinson.

ABSTRACT Neurological diseases have become a growing concern, being considered a major cause of morbidity and mortality in both developed and developing countries. This research was carried out with the aim of characterizing the care activity of the Neurology service of the Celia Sánchez Manduley Clinical-Surgical Hospital. An observational, descriptive study was conducted in the Neurology service of the Celia Sánchez Manduley Clinical-Surgical Hospital, in the period from January to December 2019. The universe consisted of 3968 patients, treated in outpatient consultation and hospitalization. The results obtained were distributed in absolute frequencies and by hundreds. The following variables were taken into account: age, sex, municipality, diagnostic group and origin of the interconsultation. Female sex (57.7%) and the age group of 60 years and over (37.2%) predominated. The majority of patients were manzanilleros (36.4 %). Headache was the most representative diagnostic group (23.9%), and epilepsy was the main diagnosis with which patients were admitted (32.8%). The service that provided the highest requests for interconsultations for 66.8% was Internal Medicine. The reasons for consultation and the characteristics of hospitalized patients do not differ greatly from those presented by other authors. The most frequent reasons for consultation were headache and epilepsy. The age group with the highest demand for neurological assistance were patients over 60 years of age, with a predominance of the female sex. The highest number of hospitalizations corresponded to epilepsy and Parkinson's disease.

RESUMO As doenças neurológicas tornaram-se uma preocupação crescente, sendo consideradas uma das principais causas de morbidade e mortalidade nos países desenvolvidos e em desenvolvimento. Esta pesquisa foi realizada como objetivo de caracterizar a atividade assistencial do serviço de Neurologia do Hospital Clínico-Cirúrgico Célia Sánchez Manduley. Um estudo observacional e descritivo foi realizado no serviço de Neurologia do Hospital Clínico-CirúrgicoCélia Sánchez Manduley, no período de janeiro a dezembro de 2019. O universo era composto por 3.968 pacientes, tratados em consulta ambulatorial e internação. Os resultados obtidos foram distribuídos em frequências absolutas e por centenas. Foram levadas em consideração as seguintes variáveis: idade, sexo, município, grupo diagnóstico e origem da interconsulção. Predominaram o sexo feminino (57,7%) e a faixa etária de 60 anos ou mais (37,2%) predominaram. A maioria dos pacientes foi manzanilleros (36,4 %). A dor de cabeça foi o grupo diagnóstico mais representativo (23,9%), e a epilepsia foi o principal diagnóstico com o qual os pacientes foram internados (32,8%). O serviço que atendeu mais pedidos de interconsultações para 66,8% foi a Medicina Interna. As razões para a consulta e as características dos pacientes internados não diferem muito das apresentadas por outros autores. Os motivos mais frequentes para a consulta foramdor de cabeça e epilepsia. A faixa etária com maior demanda por assistência neurológica foram pacientes com mais de 60 anos de idade, com predominância do sexo feminino. O maior número de internações correspondeu à epilepsia e doença de Parkinson.

Exploratory study on gastrostomy in patients with neurological diseases: usefulness and impact.

INTRODUCTION: Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is a useful intervention for patients with impaired swallowing and a functional gastrointestinal system. Neurological diseases that cause neuromotor dysphagia, brain tumors, and cerebrovascular disease are the most frequent indications; complications are rare, and morbidity and mortality rates are low. OBJECTIVE: To describe the usefulness of PEG in patients with neurological diseases, and its impact on care, survival, and costs and benefits. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We performed a retrospective observational study, reviewing clinical files of patients hospitalised at the National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery (years 2015-2017) who underwent PEG placement. RESULTS: The sample included 51 patients: 62.7% were women and the mean (SD) age was 54.4 (18.6) years (range, 18-86). Diagnosis was tumor in 37.3% of cases and cerebrovascular disease in 33.3%. Sixteen patients (33.3%) died and 11 presented minor complications. The PEG tube remained in place for a mean of 9.14 months; in 52.9% of patients it was removed due to lack of improvement and/or tolerated oral intake, with removal occurring after a mean of 5.1 (4.4) months. Among patients' family members, 78.4% reported a great benefit, 43.1% reported difficulty caring for the PEG, and 45.1% reported complicated care in general. The monthly cost of maintaining the PEG was €175.78 on average (range, 38.38-293.45). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: This preliminary study reveals that PEG was well indicated in patients with neurological diseases, with survival rates similar to those reported in other studies with long follow-up periods. In patients with cerebrovascular disease, the PEG tube remained in place a mean of 9.14 months, during recovery of swallowing function; however, the cost is high for our population.

Estudio exploratorio sobre gastrostomía en pacientes con enfermedades neurológicas: utilidad e impacto / Exploratory study on gastrostomy in patients with neurological diseases: usefulness and impact

Introducción: La gastrostomía endoscópica percutánea (GEP) es útil para personas con problemas de la vía oral con viabilidad de la vía gástrica. Las enfermedades neurológicas que producen disfagia neuromotora, tumores cerebrales y enfermedad vascular cerebral son las que tienen mayor indicación; las complicaciones son escasas y baja la morbimortalidad. Objetivo: Describir la utilidad de la GEP en pacientes con enfermedades neurológicas y el impacto en el cuidado, sobrevida y coste-beneficio. Material y métodos: Estudio observacional retrospectivo, mediante revisión de expedientes clínicos de pacientes hospitalizados en el Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía (años 2015-2017) que se realizó GEP. Resultados: Se incluyeron 51 pacientes: 62,7% mujeres, edad promedio 54,4 ± 18,6 años (rango; 18 a 86). Diagnósticos: tumor del SNC 37,3% y EVC 33,3%. Mortalidad 33,3% (16 pacientes): 11 presentaron complicaciones menores. Permanencia de la GEP: promedio 9,14 meses. Al 52,9% se le retiró por mejoría y/o toleró la VO, con tiempo promedio 5,1 ± 4,4 meses. El 78,4% de los familiares reportó gran beneficio, el 43,1% percibió difícil el cuidado de la GEP y el 45,1% refirió complicado el cuidado en general. El coste de mantener la GEP mensual fue de 175,78 € en promedio (rango de 38,38 a 293,45 €). Discusión y conclusiones: Este primer estudio revela que la GEP fue bien indicada en pacientes con enfermedades neurológicas, con sobrevida similar a la reportada en otras investigaciones con seguimiento prolongado. En pacientes con EVC la permanencia de la GEP fue de 9,14 meses en promedio, por recuperación de la vía oral; sin embargo, el coste es elevado para nuestra población. (AU)

Introduction: Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is a useful intervention for patients with impaired swallowing and a functional gastrointestinal system. Neurological diseases that cause neuromotor dysphagia, brain tumors, and cerebrovascular disease are the most frequent indications; complications are rare, and morbidity and mortality rates are low. Objective: To describe the usefulness of PEG in patients with neurological diseases, and its impact on care, survival, and costs and benefits. Material and methods: We performed a retrospective observational study, reviewing clinical files of patients hospitalised at the National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery (years 2015-2017) who underwent PEG placement. Results: The sample included 51 patients: 62.7% were women and the mean (SD) age was 54.4 (18.6) years (range, 18-86). Diagnosis was tumor in 37.3% of cases and cerebrovascular disease in 33.3%. Sixteen patients (33.3%) died and 11 presented minor complications. The PEG tube remained in place for a mean of 9.14 months; in 52.9% of patients it was removed due to lack of improvement and/or tolerated oral intake, with removal occurring after a mean of 5.1 (4.4) months. Among patients’ family members, 78.4% reported a great benefit, 43.1% reported difficulty caring for the PEG, and 45.1% reported complicated care in general. The monthly cost of maintaining the PEG was €175.78 on average (range, 38.38-293.45). Discussion and conclusions: This preliminary study reveals that PEG was well indicated in patients with neurological diseases, with survival rates similar to those reported in other studies with long follow-up periods. In patients with cerebrovascular disease, the PEG tube remained in place a mean of 9.14 months, during recovery of swallowing function; however, the cost is high for our population. (AU)

Efectividad de la fisioterapia respiratoria combinada con higienepostural en niños con afectación neurológica crónica / Effectiveness of respiratory physiotherapy combined with postural education in children with chronic neurological diseases

Fundamento:Los niños con afectación neurológica crónica presentan discapacidad motora y aumento de morbilidad y mortalidad por causa respiratoria. El objetivo fue evaluar si se benefician de fisioterapia respiratoria e higiene postural a corto y medio plazo.Pacientes y métodos:Estudio cuasi-experimental con realización de seis sesiones quincenales de fisioterapia y talleres de higiene postural a niños de 0 a 6 años con afectación neurológica crónica y respiratoria. Se evaluaron variables clínicas respiratorias, secreciones expectoradas, reagudizaciones respiratorias y calidad de vida mediante cuestionario PedsQL. Las evaluaciones fueron realizadas al inicio, al final de la intervención y a los tres meses de la misma.Resultados:Tras la intervención, en los 30 niños se observó una mejora significativa (p<0,001) respecto al inicio en la media de saturación de oxígeno (98,3 vs 94,37%), frecuencia cardiaca (103,6 vs 126,03 latidos/minuto), frecuencia respiratoria (34,27 vs 42,13 respiraciones/minuto) y volumen de secreciones (28,17 vs 45,33 mL). Esta mejoría se mantuvo a los tres meses de finalizada la intervención. La media de reagudizaciones respiratorias disminuyó (p<0,001) respecto a los seis meses previos: hospitalizaciones (0,5 vs 1,6), visitas a urgencias (1,53 vs 2,59) y a pediatría de atención primaria (5,03 vs 7). La puntuación media del cuestionario PedsQL incrementó significativamente (p<0,001) tras la intervención, tanto para salud física (un 27%, hasta 73,43) como mental (un 12% hasta 70,09).Conclusiones:La fisioterapia respiratoria combinada con higiene postural mejora el estado clínico y la calidad de vida en niños con afectación neurológica crónica, por lo que podría recomendarse en la práctica clínica habitual.(AU)

Background: Children with chronic neurological diseases present motor disability and increased respiratory morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to assess whether children with chronic neurological impairment benefit from respiratory physiotherapy and postural hygiene. Methods: Quasi-experimental study in which six fortnightly respiratory physiotherapy sessions and workshops on postural hygiene were carried out on children aged 0 to 6 years with chronic neurological disease and respiratory impairment. A PedsQL questionnaire assessed respiratory clinical variables, expectorated secretions, respiratory exacerbations and quality of life. Assessments were performed at baseline, post-intervention, and at a 3-month follow-up. Results: After physiotherapy sessions, all participants (n=30) experienced a significant (p<0.001) improvement in average oxygen saturation (94.37 to 98.3%), heart rate (126.03 to 103.6 beats/minute) and respiratory rate (42.13 to 34.27 breaths/minute), as well as a decrease in secretions (from 45.33 to 28.17 mL). This improvement was maintained after a 3-month follow-up. The average respiratory exacerbations decreased (p<0.001) compared to the previous six months: hospitalizations (from 1.6 to 0.5), visits to the emergency department (from 2.59 to 1.53) and to primary care Pediatric consultations (from 7 to 5.03). The mean score on the PedsQL questionnaire demonstrated a significant increase(p<0.001) in the quality of life after the intervention for physical (27%, to 73.4) and mental health (12%, to 70.09%). Conclusion: Respiratory physiotherapy combined withpostural hygiene is effective for the clinical status andquality of life in children with chronic neurological diseases, and therefore could be introduced in habitual clinicalpractice.(AU)

Automedicación en pacientes mayores de 60 con enfermedades neurológicas / Self-Medication in Patients Older than Sixty Years and with Neurologic Diseases

Introducción: La automedicación es un fenómeno creciente y ha sido considerado un problema de salud pública en la actualidad. Objetivo: Estimar el nivel de automedicación relacionado con el retraso diagnóstico de pacientes con enfermedades neurológicas y los factores asociados a esta táctica de autocuidado. Métodos: Se proyectó un estudio observacional de corte transversal, en el que se incluyeron 102 pacientes y 100 familiares pertenecientes al municipio Plaza de la Revolución, atendidos en consulta de Neurología del Instituto de Neurología y Neurocirugía, con diagnóstico de enfermedades neurológicas, durante el período de un año (junio 2018-junio2019). Resultados: Del total de pacientes, 45,1 por ciento manifestó automedicarse, fue más frecuente en mujeres (63,1 por ciento), con predominio en pacientes no universitarios (90 por ciento) y amas de casa (54,3 por ciento). El síntoma principal que motivó la automedicación fue la cefalea (30,4 por ciento), y los analgésicos no opioides fue el grupo de mayor consumo (23,9 por ciento). La latencia al diagnóstico de enfermedades neurológicas en el grupo de automedicados fue entre 10 a 19 meses mayor que en los no automedicados. Conclusiones: La automedicación constituye una práctica muy frecuente, lo cual produjo el retraso diagnóstico y terapéutico de diversas enfermedades neurológicas de baja incidencia, dando al traste con una evolución adecuada de ellas(AU)

Introduction: Self-medication is a growing phenomenon and, today, has been considered a public health concern. Objective: To estimate the level of self-medication related to the diagnostic delay of patients with neurological diseases and the factors associated with this self-care tactic. Methods: An observational and cross-sectional study was designed, in including 102 patients and one hundred relatives from Plaza de la Revolución Municipality, who received attention, during a one-year period (June 2018-June 2019), in the neurology consultation of the Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery, and had a diagnosis of neurological diseases. Results: Of the total number of patients, 45.1 percent manifested to medicate themselves; it was more frequent in women (63.1 percent), with a predominance in non-university patients (90 percent) and housewives (54.3 percent). The main symptom that motivated self-medication was headache (30.4 percent), while nonopioid analgesics made up the group with the highest consumption (23.9 percent). Latency regarding the diagnosis of neurological diseases in the self-medicated group was between ten and nineteen months higher than in the non-self-medicated group. Conclusions: Self-medication is a very frequent practice, which caused the diagnostic and therapeutic delay of various neurological diseases of low incidence, ruining their adequate evolution(AU)

Euthanasia and assisted suicide in neurological diseases: a systematic review. / Eutanasia y suicidio asistido en enfermedades neurológicas: una revisión sistemática.

OBJECTIVE: To identify the neurological diseases for which euthanasia and assisted suicide are most frequently requested in the countries where these medical procedures are legal and the specific characteristics of euthanasia in some of these diseases, and to show the evolution of euthanasia figures. METHODS: We conducted a systematic literature review. RESULTS: Dementia, motor neuron disease, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease are the neurological diseases that most frequently motivate requests for euthanasia or assisted suicide. Claims related to dementia constitute the largest group, are growing, and raise additional ethical and legal issues due to these patients' diminished decision-making capacity. In some countries, the ratios of euthanasia requests to all cases of multiple sclerosis, motor neuron disease, or Huntington disease are higher than for any other disease. CONCLUSIONS: After cancer, neurological diseases are the most frequent reason for requesting euthanasia or assisted suicide.

Potencial terapéutico de la vitamina D / Therapeutic potential of vitamin D

Objetivo: Revisar la evidencia reciente sobre las aplicaciones potenciales de los suplementos farmacológicos de la vitamina D (VD) que pudieran justificar el incremento de su gasto farmacéutico, así como las dificultades que presenta estimar su utilidad terapéutica en la práctica clínica. Metodología: Se ha realizado una búsqueda bibliográfica de la literatura publicada en los últimos 5 años. Las bases de datos consultadas fueron Medline y Scopus. También se consultaron fichas técnicas de la Agencia Española de Medicamentos y Productos Sanitarios, la Sociedad Española de Reumatología, la Sociedad Española de Endocrinología y Nutrición, el Colegio Americano de Reumatología y el Grupo de Trabajo de Servicios Preventivos de Estados Unidos. Resultados: Se han detectado nuevas localizaciones de receptores específicos de VD como en enterocitos, islotes pancreáticos o túbulos distales renales, que parecen tener un papel central en funciones no relacionadas con el metabolismo del calcio. Estudios recientes relacionanel estado en VD con beneficios en procesos inmunitarios, inflamatorios de carácter crónico, infecciosos o sobre la salud cardiovascular o neurológica. Las peculiaridades metabólicas de la VD actualmente son una limitación para establecer un consenso sobrequé rango analítico en suero es más adecuado y representan una debilidad en los ensayos clínicos que valoran nuevas terapias basadas en la VD. Conclusión: No se ha alcanzado una relación causal consistente entre la suplementación con VD y sus beneficios recientemente atribuidos. Es necesario superar las barreras analíticas para conferir mayor confianza a las recomendaciones sobre su valores óptimos y mayor evidencia a sus ensayos clínicos.(AU)

Aim: To review recent evidence in relation to the potential applications of vitamin D (VD) pharmacological supplements, that could justify the increase in their pharmaceutical spending, as well as the difficulties in estimating their therapeutic utility in clinical practice. Methods: A bibliographic search of clinical trials, observational studies, reviews and meta-analysis published inthe last 5 years, in Medline and Scopus has been carried out. Data sheets from the Spanish Agency of Medicines and Health Products, Spanish Society of Rheumatology, Spanish Society of Endocrinology and Nutrition, the American College of Rheumatology and the U.S. Preventive Task Force, were also consulted. Results: New locations of specific VD receptors have been detected in enterocytes, pancreatic islets, and distal renal tubules, which appear to play a central role in functions unrelated to calcium metabolism. Recent studies, associate VD status with benefits in immune, chronic inflammatory or infectious processes, and in cardiovascular or neurological health.Metabolic peculiarities of VD currently represent a limitation for the establishment of a therapeutic serum analytical range consensus, and also appears to be a weakness in clinical trials that evaluate potential new VD-based therapies. Conclusion: A consistent causal relationship between VD supplementation and its newly attributed therapeutic benefits has not been achieved. Analytical barriers need to be overcome in order to give greater confidence to recommendations of VD optimal values and to ensure a higher level of evidence for future clinical trials.(AU)

Propuesta de asignatura Generalidades de la Estimulación Magnética Transcraneal para técnicos superiores de Neurofisiología Clínica / Course proposal Generalities of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for senior technicians of Clinical Neurophysiology

Introducción: Recientemente se inició la formación de profesionales en una nueva modalidad de Programas Técnico Superior de Ciclo Corto, en la especialidad de Neurofisiología Clínica. Esto responde a la necesidad de la formación de profesionales de la salud en el estudio de las enfermedades neurológicas. La estimulación magnética transcraneal constituye una herramienta importante en el diagnóstico y tratamiento de estas enfermedades. Sin embargo, se carece de un programa para la formación de los estudiantes en el estudio y aplicación de esta técnica. Objetivo: Diseñar un programa de curso propio sobre generalidades de la estimulación magnética transcraneal, para estudiantes de primer año de Neurofisiología Clínica. Métodos: Se realizó una investigación didáctica metodológica utilizando los métodos empíricos y teóricos observación, histórico lógico, estudio documental y bibliográfico, dialéctico, análisis y síntesis, inducción y deducción. Resultados: Se propuso un programa para curso propio que se estructuró en siete temas, con carácter presencial y duración de 32 horas. Se presentaron los contenidos por temas, objetivos, conocimientos esenciales a adquirir, habilidades principales a dominar y sistema de evaluación. Conclusiones: La aplicación de este programa contribuye al desarrollo de habilidades y el desempeño exitoso de los profesionales en formación, en el campo del conocimiento de la técnica de estimulación magnética transcraneal para el diagnóstico y tratamiento de las enfermedades neurológicas(AU)

Introduction: Recently began the training of professionals in a new modality of short-cycle Higher Technical Programs, in the specialty of Clinical Neurophysiology. This responds to the need of training health professionals in the study of neurological diseases, whose incidence rates have increased in recent years. Transcranial magnetic stimulation is an important tool in the diagnosis and treatment of these diseases. However, there is a lack of a program for the training of students in the study and application of this technique. Objective: Tto design an own course program on the generalities of transcranial magnetic stimulation, for first-year students of Clinical Neurophysiology. Method: A methodological didactic research was carried out using the empirical and theoretical methods, observation, logical historical, documentary and bibliographic study, dialectic, analysis and synthesis, induction and deduction. Results: A program for the course was proposed, structured in seven topics, with a face-to-face character and a duration of 32 hours. The contents were presented by topics, objectives, essential knowledge to acquire, main skills to master and an evaluation system. Conclusions: The application of this program contributes to the development of skills and the successful performance of professionals in training, in the field of knowledge of the transcranial magnetic stimulation technique for the diagnosis and treatment of neurological diseases(AU)

Introdução: Iniciou recentemente a formação de profissionais numa nova modalidade de Cursos Técnicos Superiores de Ciclo Curto, na especialidade de Neurofisiologia Clínica. Isso responde à necessidade de formação de profissionais de saúde no estudo das doenças neurológicas. A estimulação magnética transcraniana é uma ferramenta importante no diagnóstico e tratamento dessas doenças. No entanto, falta um programa de treinamento dos alunos no estudo e aplicação desta técnica. Objetivo: Desenhar um programa próprio sobre as generalidades da estimulação magnética transcraniana, para alunos do primeiro ano de Neurofisiologia Clínica. Método: Realizou-se uma investigação metodológica didática utilizando os métodos empírico e teórico de observação, histórico lógico, estudo documental e bibliográfico, dialética, análise e síntese, indução e dedução. Resultados: Foi proposto um programa de curso próprio, estruturado em sete temas, com caráter presencial e duração de 32 horas. Os conteúdos foram apresentados por tópicos, objetivos, conhecimentos essenciais a adquirir, competências principais a dominar e um sistema de avaliação. Conclusões: A aplicação deste programa contribui para o desenvolvimento de competências e o desempenho bem sucedido de profissionais em formação, no domínio do conhecimento da técnica de estimulação magnética transcraniana para o diagnóstico e tratamento de doenças neurológicas(AU)

Do patients diagnosed with a neurological disease present increased risk of suicide? / ¿Existe mayor riesgo de suicidio en pacientes diagnosticados de una enfermedad neurológica?

INTRODUCTION: Neurological diseases are the leading cause of disability and the second leading cause of death worldwide. Physical and psychological pain, despair, and disconnection with the environment are observed after the diagnosis of numerous neurological processes, particularly neurodegenerative diseases. DEVELOPMENT: A higher risk of suicide is observed in patients with such common neurological diseases as epilepsy, migraine, and multiple sclerosis, as well as in those with such degenerative disorders as Alzheimer disease, Huntington disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease. In most cases, suicidal ideation appears in the early stages after diagnosis, in the presence of disabling symptoms, and/or in patients with psychiatric comorbidities (often associated with these neurological diseases). CONCLUSIONS: Effective suicide prevention in this population group requires assessment of the risk of suicide mainly in newly diagnosed patients, in patients showing unmistakable despair or disabling symptoms, and in patients presenting psychiatric comorbidities (especially depressive symptoms). It is essential to train specialists to detect warning signs in order that they may adopt a suitable approach and determine when psychiatric assessment is required.

Terapia Eléctrica Funcional en el Manejo de la Disfagia / Functional Electrical therapy in the management of Dysphagia

La participación del Fonoaudiólogo en la rehabilitación neuromuscular orofacial y musculatura implicada en la mecánica deglutoria, se ha complementado con el uso de la terapia eléctrica funcional; esta carece de evidencia científica que respalde su efectividad en los procesos de recuperación funcional. Objetivo: Realizar una revisión documental sobre el uso de la terapia eléctrica funcional en el manejo de la disfagia, con el fin de crear un soporte teórico que respalde los procesos de intervención en fonoaudiología. Metodología: La revisión de la literatura se realizó en las bases de datos de Proquest, EBSCO, Scielo, Redalyc y Medic Latina. Fueron revisados artículos entre el 2008 y 2018. Para la selección de los artículos se utilizó el diagrama de flujo PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Hems for Systematic Reviews and Meta analyses). Resultados: Se revisaron 2980 artículos para exclusión por título, quedando 66 artículos en la primera depuración, de los cuales 21 fueron descartados por no cumplir con ningún criterio propuesto, 10 por repetición y 12 por no permitir el acceso al documento. Finalmente fueron considerados 23 artículos y 5 fuentes de consulta física para realizar el respectivo análisis. Conclusiones: Existe escasa evidencia científica que respalde la intervención fonoaudiológica en la disfagia con electroterapia.

The participation of the speech therapist within the orofacial neuromuscular rehabilitation and the musculature involved in swallowing mechanics, has been complemented with the use of functional electrical therapy, which has lacked scientific evidence that supports its effectiveness in faster recovery processes in terms of functionality. Objective: To carry out a documentary review of information related to the use of functional electric therapy on the management of dysphagia, to create a theoretical support that supports the processes of speech therapy intervention. Methodology: The review of the literature was carried out in the databases of Proquest, EBSCO, Scielo, Redalyc and Medic Latina. Articles were reviewed between 2008 and 2018. For the selection of the articles the PRISMA flow chart (Preferred Reporting Hems for Systematic Reviews and Meta analyzes) was used. Results: 2980 articles were reviewed for exclusion by title, leaving 66 articles in the first debugging, of which 21 were discarded for not complying with any proposed criteria, 10 for repetition and 12 for not allowing access to the document. Finally, 23 articles and 5 sources of physical consultation were considered to perform the respective analysis. Conclusions: There is little scientific evidence to support the speech therapy intervention in dysphagia with electrotherapy.

Exploratory study on gastrostomy in patients with neurological diseases: usefulness and impact. / Estudio exploratorio sobre gastrostomía en pacientes con enfermedades neurológicas: utilidad e impacto.

INTRODUCTION: Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is a useful intervention for patients with impaired swallowing and a functional gastrointestinal system. Neurological diseases that cause neuromotor dysphagia, brain tumors, and cerebrovascular disease are the most frequent indications; complications are rare, and morbidity and mortality rates are low. OBJECTIVE: To describe the usefulness of PEG in patients with neurological diseases, and its impact on care, survival, and costs and benefits. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We performed a retrospective observational study, reviewing clinical files of patients hospitalised at the National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery (years 2015-2017) who underwent PEG placement. RESULTS: The sample included 51 patients: 62.7% were women and the mean (SD) age was 54.4 (18.6) years (range, 18-86). Diagnosis was tumor in 37.3% of cases and cerebrovascular disease in 33.3%. Sixteen patients (33.3%) died and 11 presented minor complications. The PEG tube remained in place for a mean of 9.14 months; in 52.9% of patients it was removed due to lack of improvement and/or tolerated oral intake, with removal occurring after a mean of 5.1 (4.4) months. Among patients' family members, 78.4% reported a great benefit, 43.1% reported difficulty caring for the PEG, and 45.1% reported complicated care in general. The monthly cost of maintaining the PEG was €175.78 on average (range, 38.38-293.45). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: This preliminary study reveals that PEG was well indicated in patients with neurological diseases, with survival rates similar to those reported in other studies with long follow-up periods. In patients with cerebrovascular disease, the PEG tube remained in place a mean of 9.14 months, during recovery of swallowing function; however, the cost is high for our population.

Carga en cuidadores informales primarios de personas adultas con enfermedades neurológicas crónicas / Burden in primary informal caregivers of adults with chronic neurological diseases

RESUMEN Introducción: Aunque el envejecimiento de las poblaciones humanas es un fenómeno universal, en Cuba los cambios demográficos son significativos. El incremento de la esperanza de vida y el desarrollo de enfermedades neurológicas crónicas aumentan el número de cuidadores informales primarios. Objetivos: Caracterizar la carga en cuidadores informales primarios de personas con enfermedades neurológicas crónicas de expresión clínica en el adulto. Método: Se trata de un estudio descriptivo, correlacional, transversal y no experimental, concebido desde una metodología mixta. La muestra quedó conformada por 19 cuidadores informales primarios con una edad aproximada de 46 años, se le aplicaron técnicas como la entrevista inicial de caracterización del cuidador y de la persona a quien cuida, la entrevista semiestructurada y la Escala de carga del cuidador de Zarit. Para el análisis de los resultados se utilizó el análisis de contenido, la triangulación metodológica y la estadística descriptiva e inferencial. Resultados: Se identificó una tendencia a percibir carga en el proceso de cuidado debido a la presencia de estresores como: el validismo disminuido del enfermo; la modificación de la actividad laboral; los años de duración de la enfermedad; las horas diarias dedicadas al cuidado; la multiplicidad de roles paralelos al de cuidador y las múltiples tareas de cuidado. Conclusiones: Se concluye, que los resultados del proceso de cuidado asociados a la carga se expresan como tendencia en: la disminución del tiempo libre de los cuidadores, el deterioro de su salud psíquica, estados emocionales negativos y un aumento de sus responsabilidades, siendo el impacto del cuidado la dimensión más significativa.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Although human population's aging is a global phenomenon, in Cuba the demographic changes are significant. The increase of the life expectancy and the development of chronic neurological diseases rise the number of primary informal caregivers. Objective: The aim of this paper was to characterize the burden in primary informal caregivers of people with chronic neurological diseases that have clinical expression in adults. Methods: Descriptive, correlational, transversal and non-experimental study that was conceived from a mixed methodology. The sample was formed of 19 primary informal caregivers with an average age of 46 years, and some techniques were used with them such as the Initial interview for characterizing the caregiver and the person they care, the semi-structured interview and the Zarit´s Burden Scale. For the analysis of the results, content analysis, methodological triangulation and descriptive and inferential statistics were used. Results: It was possible to identify a trend to perceive burden in the care process due to the presence of stressors such as: the decreased validity of the patient; the modification of work activity; the years of duration of the disease; the daily hours dedicated to care; the multiplicity of roles parallel to that of the caregiver and the multiple tasks of care. Conclusions: The results of the care process linked with the burden are expressed as a trend in: a decrease in the free time of the caregivers; a deterioration of their psychic health; negative mood and an increase of their responsibilities, being the impact of the care the most significant dimension.

General anesthesia considerations in CADASIL disease. / Consideraciones para anestesia general en la enfermedad de CADASIL.

CADASIL (cerebral arteriopathy, autosomal dominant, with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy) disease is an inherited systemic arterial disease that affects the small and medium calibre cerebral vessels. Around 500 families are affected in the world, most of them in Europe. It is characterised by migraine attacks, subcortical dementia, neuropsychiatric disorders, and recurrent ischaemic strokes. The objective of this article is to describe, for the first time in the literature, the management by general anaesthesia of an intracranial neurosurgical procedure in a patient with CADASIL disease. Continuous monitoring of blood pressure is considered essential, as well as the maintenance of normocapnia and normothermia to avoid the development of new cerebrovascular accidents. This disease is relevant due to its anaesthetic implications and the few publications to date.

Functional magnetic resonance imaging: basic principles and application in the neurosciences. / Resonancia magnética funcional: principios básicos y aplicaciones en neurociencias.

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is an advanced tool for the study of brain functions in healthy subjects and in neuropsychiatric patients. This tool makes it possible to identify and locate specific phenomena related to neuronal metabolism and activity. Starting with the detection of changes in the blood supply to a region that participates in a function, more complex approaches have been developed to study the dynamics of neuronal networks. Studies examining the brain at rest or involved in different tasks have provided evidence related to the onset, development, and/or response to treatment in various diseases. The diversity of the possible artifacts associated with image registration as well as the complexity of the analytical experimental designs has generated abundant debate about the technique behind fMRI. This article aims to introduce readers to the fundamentals underlying fMRI, to explain how fMRI studies are interpreted, and to discuss fMRI's contributions to the study of the mechanisms underlying diverse diseases of the nervous system.