Anterior lamellar corneoscleral keratoplasty for the management of corneal thinning following treatment with mitomycin-C and interferon to treat highly suspected ocular surface squamous neoplasia: a case report

ABSTRACT A patient presented with corneoscleral thinning five months after the treatment of suspected ocular squamous surface neoplasia with mitomycin-C and interferon. For tectonic and aesthetic purposes, we decided to perform lamellar corneoscleral transplantation. The approach used established new tectonic support and corneal homeostasis. This technique might be an option in similar cases.

Evaluation of perioperative pachymetry of thin corneas during corneal crosslinking using hypo-osmolar riboflavin and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study aimed to analyze variations in intraoperative corneal thickness during corneal cross-linking in patients with keratoconus and to investigate its possible correlation with presurgical maximal keratometry (Kmax) and pachymetry. Methods: This was a prospective case series. We used a method similar to the Dresden protocol, with the application of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose 0.1% hypo-osmolar riboflavin in corneas between 330 and 400 µm after epithelium removal. Corneal thickness was measured using portable calipers before and immediately after epithelium removal, and 30 and 60 min after the procedure. Results: The 30 patients in this study were followed up for one year. A statistically significant difference was observed in pachymetry values during the intraoperative period (p<0.0001) and an increase of 3.05 µm (95%C1: 0.56-5.54) for each diopter was seen after epithelium removal (p0.019). We found an average Kmax difference of —2.12 D between men and women (p0.013). One year after treatment, there was a statistically significant reduction in pachymetry (p<0.0001) and Kmax (p0.0170) values. Conclusions: A significant increase in pachymetry measurements was seen during the procedure, and most patients showed a regression in Kmax and pachymetry values one year after surgery.

Real-world data on adjuvant capecitabine after standard neoadjuvant chemotherapy for triple negative breast cancer.

Objective: Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) has become the standard of care for patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) with tumors > 1 cm or positive axillary nodes. Pathologic complete response (pCR) has been used as an endpoint to select patients for treatment scaling. This study aimed to examine the benefit of adding adjuvant capecitabine for TNBC patients who did not achieve pCR after standard NACT in a real-world scenario. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included all patients with TNBC who underwent NACT between 2010 and 2020. Clinicopathological data were obtained from the patient records. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted at the 5 years follow-up period. Results: We included 153 patients, more than half of whom had stage III (58.2%) and high-grade tumors (60.8%). The overall pCR rate was 34.6%, and 41% of the patients with residual disease received adjuvant capecitabine. Disease-specific survival (DSS) among the patients who achieved pCR was significantly higher (p<0.0001). Residual disease after NACT was associated with detrimental effects on DSS. In this cohort, we did not observe any survival benefit of adding adjuvant capecitabine for patients with TNBC subjected to NACT who did not achieve pCR (p=0.52). Conclusion: Our study failed to demonstrate a survival benefit of extended capecitabine therapy in patients with TNBC with residual disease after NACT. More studies are warranted to better understand the indication of systemic treatment escalation in this scenario.

Efectos de la marihuana en la salud bucal / Effects of marijuana on oral health

Aun cuando las autoridades del Sector Salud en México no se han declarado respecto al uso medicinal de la marihuana, con el objetivo de conocer el estado actual internacional sobre sus riesgos y usos terapéuticos, investigamos los avances reportados en la actualidad, así como las comunidades que han despenalizado su uso. Se presenta su origen como elemento terapéutico, pueblos involucrados, diversas denominaciones, historicidad, las diversas preparaciones, farmacodinamia, sus efectos nocivos a la salud en general y particularmente en boca, sus posibles usos en odontología tomando en cuenta sus propiedades terapéuticas. ampliamente reseñadas en relación a otros lugares del organismo. Finalmente, la propuesta de investigación en odontología con especial énfasis en aquellas especialidades donde la inflamación y el dolor agudo estén presentes de manera significativa (AU)

Although health authorities in Mexico have not officially declared their stance on the medicinal use of marijuana, our research aims to explore the current international status regarding its risks and therapeutic uses. We have investigated the latest reported advancements and examined communities that have decriminalized its usage. This presentation encompasses its therapeutic origin, involved communities, various designations, historical context, diverse preparations, pharmacodynamics, its adverse effects on overall health and particularly oral health, as well as its potential applications in dentistry, considering its widely documented therapeutic properties in comparison to other areas of the body. Finally, our research proposal in dentistry places special emphasis on specialties where inflammation and acute pain are significantly present (AU)

Real-world data on adjuvant capecitabine after standard neoadjuvant chemotherapy for triple negative breast cancer

Abstract Objective Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) has become the standard of care for patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) with tumors > 1 cm or positive axillary nodes. Pathologic complete response (pCR) has been used as an endpoint to select patients for treatment scaling. This study aimed to examine the benefit of adding adjuvant capecitabine for TNBC patients who did not achieve pCR after standard NACT in a real-world scenario. Methods This retrospective cohort study included all patients with TNBC who underwent NACT between 2010 and 2020. Clinicopathological data were obtained from the patient records. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted at the 5 years follow-up period. Results We included 153 patients, more than half of whom had stage III (58.2%) and high-grade tumors (60.8%). The overall pCR rate was 34.6%, and 41% of the patients with residual disease received adjuvant capecitabine. Disease-specific survival (DSS) among the patients who achieved pCR was significantly higher (p<0.0001). Residual disease after NACT was associated with detrimental effects on DSS. In this cohort, we did not observe any survival benefit of adding adjuvant capecitabine for patients with TNBC subjected to NACT who did not achieve pCR (p=0.52). Conclusion Our study failed to demonstrate a survival benefit of extended capecitabine therapy in patients with TNBC with residual disease after NACT. More studies are warranted to better understand the indication of systemic treatment escalation in this scenario.

20% Autologous serum vs. 0.05% cyclosporine and preservative-free artificial tears in the treatment of Sjögren related dry eye / Soro autólogo a 20% versus ciclosporina a 0,05 e lubrificantes oculares sem conservantes no tratamento da síndrome do olho seco relacionada à Sjögren

ABSTRACT Purpose: To compare the 3-month results of treatment with 20% autologous serum or combination treatment with preservative-free artificial tears and 0.05% cyclosporine in patients with dry eye disease due to primary Sjögren's syndrome. Methods: A total of 130 eyes of 65 patients with newly diagnosed dry eye disease due to primary Sjögren's syndrome were included in the study. The patients were divided into two treatment groups: 66 eyes of 33 patients were assigned to the autologous serum treatment group, and 64 eyes of 32 patients were assigned to the combination treatment group. Schirmer test, tear break-up time and Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) scores were recorded at pretreatment and at 3 months of treatment. Results: At 3 months of treatment, the mean Schirmer value and the mean tear break-up time were significantly higher in the combination treatment group (p<0.0001 and p=0.034, respectively). The OSDI score at 3 months was significantly lower in the autologous serum Group (p=0.004). When the two groups were evaluated separately, the improvements in Schirmer, tear break-up time test, and OSDI scores from before to after treatment were statistically significant: p<0.0001, p<0.001, and p<0.0001, respectively, for the authologus serum Group, and p<0.0001, p<0.001, and p<0.0001, respectively, for the combination treatment group. Conclusions: In short-term treatment of dry eye disease due to primary Sjögren's syndrome, treatment with autologous serum was significantly superior to -combination treatment with preservative-free artificial tears and 0.05% cyclosporine in terms of improvement in OSDI scores. Improvements in Schirmer test and tear break-up time scores were significantly superior in the group treated with preservative-free artificial tears and 0.05% cyclosporine.

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar os resultados de 3 meses de soro autólogo a 20% com um tratamento combinado, ou seja, lubrificantes oculares sem conservantes e ciclosporina a 0,05% em pacientes com síndrome do olho seco devida à síndrome de Sjögren primária. Métodos: Foram incluídos no estudo 130 olhos de 65 pacientes recentemente diagnosticados com síndrome do olho seco devida à síndrome de Sjögren primária. Os pacientes foram divididos em dois grupos de tratamento, 66 olhos de 33 pacientes foram incluídos no grupo de tratamento com soro autólogo e 64 olhos de 32 pacientes foram incluídos no grupo de tratamento combinado com lubrificantes oculares sem conservantes e ciclosporina. Os resultados do teste de Schirmer e do tempo de ruptura do filme lacrimal e os índices de doença da superfície ocular (OSDI) foram registrados antes e depois de três meses de tratamento. Resultados: Três meses após o tratamento, o valor médio do teste de Schirmer foi mais alto com significância estatística no grupo do tratamento combinado com lubrificantes oculares sem conservantes e ciclosporina (p<0,0001) e o tempo de ruptura do filme lacrimal também foi significativamente maior nesse grupo (p=0,034). Também aos três meses, a doença da superfície ocular foi menor com significância estatística no grupo de tratamento com soro autólogo (p=0,004). Quando os dois grupos foram avaliados separadamente, a melhora no teste de Schirmer, o tempo de ruptura e a doença da superfície ocular antes e depois do tratamento tiveram diferenças estatisticamente significativas tanto no grupo de soro autólogo (p<0,0001, p<0,001 e p<0,0001, respectivamente) quanto no grupo de tratamento combinado (p<0,0001, p<0,001 e p<0,0001, respectivamente). Conclusões: No tratamento de curto prazo da síndrome do olho seco devida à síndrome de Sjögren primária, o tratamento com soro autólogo foi significativamente superior ao tratamento com lubrificantes oculares sem conservantes combinados com ciclosporina, em termos de melhora no doença da superfície ocular. As melhoras no teste de Schirmer e no tempo de ruptura do filme lacrimal foram significativamente maiores no grupo de tratamento combinado com lubrificantes oculares sem conservantes e ciclosporina.

Mycobacterium abscessus keratitis after LASIK surgery / Ceratite por Mycobacterium abscessus após cirurgia LASIK

ABSTRACT A 33-year-old male presented with unilateral subacute infectious keratitis 4 weeks after surgery. Corneal inflammation was resistant to standard topical antibiotic regimens. During diagnostic flap lifting and sampling, the corneal flap melted and separated. Through flap lifting, corneal scraping, microbiological diagnosis of atypical mycobacteria, and treatment with topical fortified amikacin, clarithromycin, and systemic clarithromycin, clinical improvement was achieved.

RESUMO Paciente do sexo masculino, 33 anos, apresentou ceratite infecciosa subaguda unilateral 4 semanas após a cirurgia. A inflamação da córnea foi resistente aos regimes de antibióticos tópicos padrão. A aba da córnea foi derretida e seccionada durante o levantamento e amostragem para diagnóstico. A melhora clínica só foi alcançada após levantamento do retalho, raspagem e diagnóstico microbiológico de micobactérias atípicas e tratamento com amicacina fortificada tópica, claritromicina e claritromicina sistêmica.

Evaluation of unilateral corneal collagen cross-linking on fellow untreated eyes of patients with keratoconus / A avaliação da reticulação unilateral do colágeno corneano em olhos não tratados de pacientes com ceratocone

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study aimed to examine the effects of unilateral corneal collagen cross-linking treatment on visual acuity and the topographic findings of the fellow untreated eye of patients who had bilateral progressive keratoconus. Methods: Patients with progressive keratoconus who underwent cross-linking treatment were screened retrospectively. A total of 188 untreated eyes of 188 patients whose eyes were treated unilaterally with either standard or accelerated cross-linking and refused cross-linking procedure for the fellow eye were included. Visual acuity and topographic findings of the fellow untreated eyes were obtained preoperatively and postoperatively at the 1st, 3rd, 6th, 12th, 24th, 30th, and 36th months. Results: The change over time of variables examined was similar in the untreated eyes of patients who received standard and accelerated cross-linking methods (p>0.05). At the 12th month, 136 (95.8%) untreated eyes were stable according to progression criteria. Only 4 (8%) eyes were progressive at the 24th month. No progression was observed in any of the 16 patients with a 36-month follow up. Conclusions: The results showed that the fellow untreated eyes of patients with bilateral progressive keratoconus did not have significant progression rates after unilateral cross-linking treatment.

RESUMO Objetivo: Examinar os efeitos do tratamento de reticulação unilateral do colágeno corneano na acuidade visual e os achados topográficos em olhos não tratados de pacientes com ceratocone progressivo bilateral. Métodos: Foram rastreados retrospectivamente pacientes com ceratocone progressivo submetidos a tratamento de reticulação. Foram incluídos no estudo 188 olhos não tratados de 188 pacientes tratado unilateralmente com reticulação padrão ou acelerada e que recusaram o procedimento de reticulação no outro olho. A acuidade visual e os achados topográficos dos olhos não tratados foram obtidos no pré- e pós-operatório no 1º, 3º, 6º, 12º, 24º, 30º e 36º mês. Resultados: As alterações ao longo do tempo foram semelhantes para as variáveis examinadas nos olhos não tratados de pacientes tratados com métodos de reticulação padrão e acelerado (p>0,05). No 12º mês, 136 olhos não tratados (95,8%) estavam estáveis, de acordo com os critérios de progressão. Apenas quatro olhos (8%) mostraram progressão no 24º mês. Nenhuma progressão foi observada nos 16 pacientes que tiveram um acompanhamento de 36 meses. Conclusões: O estudo mostrou que os olhos não tratados de pacientes com ceratocone progressivo bilateral não apresentaram taxas de progressão significativas após o tratamento unilateral com reticulação.

Treatment of orbital lymphatic malformation with oral sirolimus: a case report / Malformação linfática orbital tratada com sirolimo oral: relato de caso

ABSTRACT It is estimated that lymphatic malformations in children account for 6% of all benign vascular malformations. New medical therapies have been developed for the management of lymphatic orbital disease. The purpose of this article was to describe a clinical case of orbital venolymphatic malformation in a 10-year-old boy, causing proptosis and palpebral edema. The lesion was initially treated with local sclerotherapy. However, the lesion relapsed, and was successfully treated with oral sirolimus. Prospective studies are warranted to determine the appropriate dose and extend the indications of sirolimus in these patients.

RESUMO A incidência de malformações linfáticas em crianças é estimada em 6% de todas as malformações vasculares benignas. Têm sido desenvolvidos novos tratamento para doenças linfáticas orbitárias. Nosso objetivo é descrever um caso clínico de malformação venolinfática orbitária em um menino de 10 anos de idade, causando proptose e edema palpebral. A lesão foi tratada inicialmente com escleroterapia local. No entanto, a lesão teve recidiva e foi tratada com sucesso com sirolimo oral. Ainda são necessários estudos prospectivos para estabelecer a dose apropriada e a duração do tratamento com sirolimo nesses pacientes.

Bilateral acute depigmentation of the iris (BADI) and bilateral acute iris transillumination (BAIT): A case series from a center in Brazil

ABSTRACT Bilateral acute depigmentation of the iris and bilateral acute iris transillumination (BAIT) are similar clinical entities. The former causes acute-onset depigmentation of the iris stroma without transillumination, whereas the latter causes depigmentation of the iris pigment epithelium with transillumination. The etiopathogenesis of these conditions is not yet fully understood, but the proposed causes include the use of systemic antibiotics (especially moxifloxacin) and viral triggers. We present a case series of five female patients with a mean age of 41 (32-45) years, all of whom suffered acute onset of bilateral pain and redness of the eyes after moxifloxacin use (oral or topical). It is important for ophthalmologists to be aware of the two forms of iris depigmentation since this case series suggests that SARS-CoV-2 or its empirical treatment with moxifloxacin may trigger iris depigmentation. If this is the case, clinicians will likely see increased incidences of bilateral acute depigmentation of the iris and bilateral acute iris transillumination during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Endogenous endophthalmitis due to Escherichia coli: a case report

ABSTRACT Endophthalmitis is a severe form of purulent inflammation caused by the infection of the intraocular tissues or fluids. This infection infrequently occurs through endogenous routes, which are often correlated with major risk factors. Escherichia coli, a gram-negative rod, can cause endophthalmitis through hematogenous spread. We here report a 59-year-old man who presented to our service with acute visual impairment in his left eye, preceded by floaters. He was taking sirolimus and azathioprine for a transplanted kidney, had undergone catheterization for bladder atresia, and had a history of recurrent E. coli urinary tract infections. On evaluation, the left eye exhibited visual acuity of hand motion, anterior chamber reaction (3+/4+), and intense vitritis (4+/4+) with white flake clusters, which prevented appropriate retinal evaluation. Pars plana vitrectomy was performed, and the culture yielded E. coli. The present case highlights the importance of identifying the signs and symptoms of infection early so that diagnosis and treatment of endophthalmitis can be promptly initiated.

Long-term outcomes of modified transcanalicular diode laser dacryocystorhinostomy

ABSTRACT Purpose: The purpose of this study is to assess the long-term outcomes of modified transcanalicular diode laser dacryocystorhinostomy in a large cohort of patients affected by primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Methods: This study, conducted from January 17 to June 2022, encompassed 141 patients (159 procedures) who underwent modified transcanalicular diode laser dacryocystorhinostomy (MT-DCR). The procedure employed an 810-nm diode laser. Patients were monitored for at least a year after the intervention. Anatomical success was determined by ostium patency upon irrigation, while functional success referred to epiphora resolution. Parameters studied included patient demographics, procedure duration, complications, and both anatomical and functional success. Statistical analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software, with results considered significant at a 95% confidence interval (p≤0.05). Results: A total of 159 lacrimal drainage systems (141 patients: 112 women and 29 men) were included in this study. Among them, 18 underwent bilateral procedures. The average patient age was 58 years (range: 34-91 years), and the average surgical duration was 24 minutes (range: 18-35 minutes). One year after the surgery, MT-DCR exhibited anatomical and functional success rates of 84.9% (135/159) and 83% (132/159), respectively. Conclusion: MT-DCR achieved an anatomical success rate of 84.9%, reflecting an excellent outcome. However, further extensive studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods are necessary to substantiate these findings.

Cutting-edge issues in sympathetic ophthalmia approach and six case reports: a T cell-mediated autoimmune response / As questões de ponta na abordagem da oftalmia simpática e 6 relatos de caso: uma resposta autoimune mediada por células T

ABSTRACT Sympathetic ophthalmia is a rare and potentially devastating bilateral diffuse granulomatous panuveitis. It is caused by surgical or non-surgical eye injuries and is an uncommon and serious complication of trauma. It is diagnosed clinically and supported by imaging examinations such as ocular ultrasonography and optical coherence tomography. Its treatment consists of immunosuppressive therapy with steroids and sometimes steroid-sparing drugs, such as cyclosporine, azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, and mycophenolate mofetil. Fast and effective management with systemic immunosuppressive agents allows for disease control and achievement of good visual acuity in the sympathizing eye. By contrast, enucleation should be considered only in situations where the injured eye has no light perception or in the presence of severe trauma. In addition to a bibliographic review of this topic, we report six cases involving different immunosuppressive and surgical treatment modalities.

RESUMO A oftalmia simpática consiste em uma panuveíte granulomatosa bilateral rara e potencialmente devastadora, ocorrendo geralmente após trauma ocular cirúrgico ou não cirúrgico. O diagnóstico é baseado em aspectos clínicos e apoiado por exames de imagem, como ultrassonografia ocular e tomografia de coerência óptica. O tratamento consiste em terapia imunossupressora com esteróides e, eventualmente, drogas poupadoras de esteróides, como ciclosporina, azatioprina, ciclofosfamida e micofonato de mofetila. O manejo rápido e eficaz com agentes imunossupressores sistêmicos permite o controle da doença e a obtenção de boa acuidade visual no olho simpatizante. A enucleação, por outro lado, poderia ser considerada apenas em situações em que o olho lesado não tem percepção luminosa ou há trauma grave. Além de uma revisão bibliográfica sobre o tema, foi relatada uma série de 6 casos com diferentes modalidades de tratamento imunossupressor e cirúrgico.

Behavior of total alkaline phosphatase after radium-233 therapy in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer: a single-center, real-world retrospective study.

Objective: To describe the behavior of total alkaline phosphatase (tALP) in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer receiving radium-223 therapy, in a real-world scenario, and to describe overall survival (OS) among such patients. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study involving 97 patients treated between February 2017 and September 2020. Patients were stratified by the baseline tALP (normal/elevated). A tALP response was defined as a ≥ 30% reduction from baseline at week 12. For patients with elevated baseline tALP, we also evaluated treatment response as a ≥ 10% reduction in tALP after the first cycle of treatment. We defined OS as the time from the first treatment cycle to the date of death. Results: There was a significant reduction in the median tALP after each cycle of treatment (p < 0.05 for all). Data for tALP at week 12 were available for 71 of the 97 patients. Of those 71 patients, 26 (36.6%) responded. Elevated baseline tALP was observed in 47 patients, of whom 19 (40.4%) showed a response. Longer OS was observed in the patients with normal baseline tALP, in those with elevated baseline tALP that showed a response to treatment (≥ 10% reduction), and in those who received 5-6 cycles of therapy. Conclusion: The tALP may be used to predict which patients will benefit from treatment with a greater number of cycles of radium-223 therapy and will have longer OS.

Objetivo: Descrever o comportamento da fosfatase alcalina total (tALP) em pacientes com carcinoma de próstata metastático resistente a castração, submetidos a terapia com rádio-223 em um cenário do mundo real, e a sobrevida global (SG) desses pacientes. Materiais e Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo envolvento 97 pacientes, no período de fevereiro/2017 a setembro/2020. Os pacientes foram estratificados de acordo com a tALP basal (normal/elevada). A resposta à tALP foi definida como uma redução em relação à linha de base de ≥ 30% na semana-12. Para pacientes com tALP basal elevada, também foi avaliada a resposta ao tratamento como uma redução de ≥ 10% de tALP após o primeiro ciclo. A SG foi definida como o tempo entre o primeiro ciclo e a data do óbito. Resultados: A redução da tALP média após cada ciclo foi significativa (p < 0,05). A tALP na semana 12 estava disponível para 71 dos 97 pacientes. Desses 71 pacientes, 26 (36,6%) responderam. Dezenove (40,4%) dos 47 pacientes com tALP elevada apresentaram resposta. Foi observada uma SG mais longa nos pacientes com tALP basal normal, nos pacientes com tALP basal elevada que apresentaram resposta ao tratamento (redução de ≥ 10%) e nos pacientes que receberam 5-6 ciclos. Conclusão: A tALP pode ser usada para prever parte dos pacientes que se beneficiarão do tratamento com um maior número de ciclos e uma SG mais longa.

Uso de labetalol frente a nifedipino en la preeclampsia / Use of labetalol vs nifedipine in preeclampsia

Fundamento: La preeclampsia es un estado de vasoconstricción generalizado asociado a la disfunción del epitelio vascular en vez de vasodilatación propia del embarazo, caracterizada por la hipertensión proteinuria a partir de la semana 20, acompañada a veces de edemas; asimismo constituye un peligro de salud para la madre y el feto. El tratamiento clínico tradicional utiliza fármacos antihipertensivos por vía oral, entre los que se mencionan el labetalol y nifedipino de liberación prolongada. Objetivo: Analizar la efectividad del labetalol y del nifedipino como tratamiento antihipertensivo relacionado con preeclampsia. Metodología: Se recurrió a fuentes de consulta encontradas en Google Scholar, Science Direct, SciELO, Pubmed, Medes y Elsevier. De 211 fuentes se seleccionaron 31 de acuerdo con criterios de inclusión y exclusión. Conclusiones: Por consenso se ha determinado que en la mayor parte de fuentes de consulta el nifedipino por vía oral es más efectivo que el labetalol en el tratamiento de la preeclampsia.

Background: Pre-eclampsia is a generalized vasoconstriction state associated with vascular epithelial dysfunction rather than the vasodilation characteristic of pregnancy, characterized by proteinuric hypertension from the 20th week of pregnancy, sometimes associated with edema; it also causes health risks to the mother and fetus. Traditional clinical treatment uses oral antihypertensive drugs, among these labetalol and extended-release nifedipine are included. Objective: To analyze the efficacy of labetalol and nifedipine as an antihypertensive treatment in pre-eclampsia. Methodology: Reference sources found in Google Scholar, Science Direct, SciELO, Pubmed, Medes and Elsevier were used. Out of 211 sources, 31 were selected according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Conclusions: It has been determined by majority consensus that oral nifedipine is more effective than labetalol in pre-eclampsia treatment.

Cholesterol-Lowering Drugs as Potential Antivirals: A Repurposing Approach against Flavivirus Infections.

Flaviviruses, including Dengue (DENV), Zika (ZIKV), and Yellow Fever (YFV) viruses, represent a significant global health burden. The development of effective antiviral therapies against these viruses is crucial to mitigate their impact. This study investigated the antiviral potential of the cholesterol-lowering drugs atorvastatin and ezetimibe in monotherapy and combination against DENV, ZIKV, and YFV. In vitro results demonstrated a dose-dependent reduction in the percentage of infected cells for both drugs. The combination of atorvastatin and ezetimibe showed a synergistic effect against DENV 2, an additive effect against DENV 4 and ZIKV, and an antagonistic effect against YFV. In AG129 mice infected with DENV 2, monotherapy with atorvastatin or ezetimibe significantly reduced clinical signs and increased survival. However, the combination of both drugs did not significantly affect survival. This study provides valuable insights into the potential of atorvastatin and ezetimibe as antiviral agents against flaviviruses and highlights the need for further investigations into their combined therapeutic effects.

Early propranolol treatment of infantile hemangiomas improves outcome

Abstract Background Infantile hemangiomas (IH) are the most common soft tissue tumors of childhood. Although most of these tumors are not worrisome, some IH may be life or function-threatening, can lead to permanent disfigurement, or have associated structural congenital anomalies, requiring early recognition and referral to specialists for treatment consideration. Since 2008, oral propranolol has been widely considered to be the first-line treatment for IH. Objectives To evaluate aesthetic and functional outcome in propranolol-treated infantile hemangiomas according to the age of treatment onset. Methods Retrospective, observational study of infantile hemangioma patients under 4 years of age at the time of diagnosis, treated with oral propranolol. Evaluated parameters included: pre and post-treatment morphologic/aesthetic aspects of the hemangioma, total resolution rate, degree of functional compromise of affected areas and its evolution. Two independent pediatric dermatologists evaluated all cases reviewing clinical data from medical records and comparing clinical photographs taken at initiation and at the end of treatment of each patient. Data were analyzed with STATA 13.0 program. Results The cohort included 138 patients, with a female predominance. The median age at therapy onset was 3 months. The morphological/aesthetic improvement rate was 99% (95% CI 96‒99), the total resolution rate was 48% (95% CI 44‒60) and the functional improvement rate reached 100%. When comparing total resolution outcome versus age when treatment started, the improvement was larger in younger patients (3.5 vs. 4.9 months, p = 0.01). When comparing the total resolution rate in those younger or older than 3 months at treatment initiation, the percentage of total resolution in the younger group was 57% vs. 40% in the older one (p = 0.05). Study limitations Retrospective design; patients photographs were the sole indicators used to measure regression rates. Visual assessment is subjective. Conclusion The present results strongly suggest that early (before 3 months of age) initiation of treatment of infantile hemangiomas with propranolol results in significantly higher aesthetic and functional improvement rates and a higher percentage of total resolution.

Behavior of total alkaline phosphatase after radium-233 therapy in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer: a single-center, real-world retrospective study / Estudo retrospectivo de vida-real, em centro único, para avaliação do comportamento da fosfatase alcalina total após terapia com rádio-223 no câncer de próstata resistente a castração

Abstract Objective: To describe the behavior of total alkaline phosphatase (tALP) in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer receiving radium-223 therapy, in a real-world scenario, and to describe overall survival (OS) among such patients. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study involving 97 patients treated between February 2017 and September 2020. Patients were stratified by the baseline tALP (normal/elevated). A tALP response was defined as a ≥ 30% reduction from baseline at week 12. For patients with elevated baseline tALP, we also evaluated treatment response as a ≥ 10% reduction in tALP after the first cycle of treatment. We defined OS as the time from the first treatment cycle to the date of death. Results: There was a significant reduction in the median tALP after each cycle of treatment (p < 0.05 for all). Data for tALP at week 12 were available for 71 of the 97 patients. Of those 71 patients, 26 (36.6%) responded. Elevated baseline tALP was observed in 47 patients, of whom 19 (40.4%) showed a response. Longer OS was observed in the patients with normal baseline tALP, in those with elevated baseline tALP that showed a response to treatment (≥ 10% reduction), and in those who received 5-6 cycles of therapy. Conclusion: The tALP may be used to predict which patients will benefit from treatment with a greater number of cycles of radium-223 therapy and will have longer OS.

Resumo Objetivo: Descrever o comportamento da fosfatase alcalina total (tALP) em pacientes com carcinoma de próstata metastático resistente a castração, submetidos a terapia com rádio-223 em um cenário do mundo real, e a sobrevida global (SG) desses pacientes. Materiais e Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo envolvento 97 pacientes, no período de fevereiro/2017 a setembro/2020. Os pacientes foram estratificados de acordo com a tALP basal (normal/elevada). A resposta à tALP foi definida como uma redução em relação à linha de base de ≥ 30% na semana-12. Para pacientes com tALP basal elevada, também foi avaliada a resposta ao tratamento como uma redução de ≥ 10% de tALP após o primeiro ciclo. A SG foi definida como o tempo entre o primeiro ciclo e a data do óbito. Resultados: A redução da tALP média após cada ciclo foi significativa (p < 0,05). A tALP na semana 12 estava disponível para 71 dos 97 pacientes. Desses 71 pacientes, 26 (36,6%) responderam. Dezenove (40,4%) dos 47 pacientes com tALP elevada apresentaram resposta. Foi observada uma SG mais longa nos pacientes com tALP basal normal, nos pacientes com tALP basal elevada que apresentaram resposta ao tratamento (redução de ≥ 10%) e nos pacientes que receberam 5-6 ciclos. Conclusão: A tALP pode ser usada para prever parte dos pacientes que se beneficiarão do tratamento com um maior número de ciclos e uma SG mais longa.

Prospective evaluation of the effectiveness of combined treatment of macular edema secondary to retinal vein occlusion with intravitreal bevacizumab and dexamethasone implants / Estudo intervencionista prospectivo para avaliar a eficácia da associação do bevacizumabe intravítreo ao implante de dexametasona para edema macular secundário à oclusão da veia retiniana

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of in­­­travitreal bevacizumab injections following a single dexamethasone implant in the treatment of macular edema secondary to branch and central retinal vein occlusion. Methods: This was a prospective interventional non-comparative study, 44 eyes of patients with naïve macular edema related to branch and central retinal vein occlusion were treated with a dexamethasone implant. Patients were followed-up at four-week intervals from the second to the sixth month. If persistent or recurrent macular edema occurred during this period, the patient was treated with intravitreal bevacizumab injections on an as-needed basis. The outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity and central macular thickness changes. Results: The mean best-corrected visual acuity changed from 0.97 ± 0.33 LogMAR at baseline to 0.54 ± 0.40 at the six-month post-implant examination (p<0.00001). Improvement ≥3 Snellen lines were seen in 20 eyes (45.54%). The mean central macular thickness at baseline was 670.25 ± 209.9 microns. This had decreased to 317.43 ± 112.68 microns at the six-month follow-up (p<0.00001). The mean number of intravitreal bevacizumab injections received in the six months post-implant was 2.32. The mean time from dexamethasone implant to first anti-VEGF injection was 3.45 months. Conclusions: Intravitreal bevacizumab injections following a single dexamethasone implant were found to improve best-corrected visual acuity and central macular thickness in patients with macular edema due to branch and central retinal vein occlusion at six months, with few intravitreal injections required.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a eficácia da combinação de in­jeções intravítreas de bevacizumabe em olhos com edema macular secundário à oclusão de ramo e da veia central da retina após um único implante de dexametasona. Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo prospectivo intervencionista não comparativo com 44 olhos de pacientes com edema macular relacionado à oclusão de ramo e veia central da retina, sem tratamento prévio e tratados com um único implante de dexametasona, que foram acompanhados em intervalos de quatro semanas do segundo ao sexto mês. Se fosse constatado edema macular persistente ou recorrente durante esse período, os pacientes eram tratados com injeções intravítreas de bevacizumabe em um regime ajustado conforme a necessidade. Foram estudadas a melhor acuidade visual corrigida e alterações da espessura macular central. Resultados: A média da melhor acuidade visual corrigida mudou de 0,97 ± 0,33 LogMAR iniciais para 0,54 ± 0,40 no exame de 6 meses (p<0,00001). Vinte olhos (45,54%) melhoraram 3 linhas de Snellen ou mais. A média da espessura macular central inicial foi de 670,25 ± 209,9 μm e diminuiu para 317,43 ± 112,68 μm na visita de 6 meses (p<0,00001). O número médio de injeções intravítreas de bevacizumabe em 6 meses foi de 2,32 e o tempo médio entre o implante de dexametasona e a primeira injeção de anti-VEGF foi de 3,45 meses. Conclusão: Injeções intravítreas de bevacizumabe após um único implante de dexametasona podem proporcionar um aumento da melhor acuidade visual corrigida e diminuição da espessura macular central aos 6 meses em pacientes com edema macular devido à oclusão de ramo e da veia central da retina, com poucas injeções intravítreas.