Un caso de hipocolesterolemia a estudio / A case of hypocholesterolemia under study

Las hipocolesterolemias primarias (o hipobetalipoproteinemias) constituyen un trastorno infrecuente del metabolismo de las lipoproteínas que pueden obedecer a una predisposición poligénica o a una enfermedad monogénica. Entre estas, es posible diferenciar entre formas sintomáticas y asintomáticas, en las que, en ausencia de causas secundarias, la sospecha clínica inicial son concentraciones plasmáticas de ApoB por debajo del percentil 5 de la distribución por edad y sexo. En esta nota clínica describimos del diagnóstico diferencial de un caso de hipocolesterolemia asintomática. Estudiamos los datos clínicos de la paciente índice, así como su perfil lipídico y el de los familiares junto con los datos clínicos de estos que son relevantes para realizar el diagnóstico diferencial. Se realizó un estudio genético como prueba diagnóstica. El diagnóstico diferencial realizado sugirió una hipobetalipoproteinemia heterocigota por variantes de pérdida de función en PCSK9. La prueba diagnóstica puso de manifiesto, en la paciente índice, la presencia de una variante de cambio de pauta de lectura en PCSK9, en heterocigosis, de origen materno. Las concentraciones plasmáticas de colesterol de LDL y PCSK9 de la paciente y los familiares, fueron compatibles con la segregación de dicha variante. En conclusión, la prueba diagnóstica realizada permitió confirmar el diagnóstico de sospecha en el caso estudiado de hipobetalipoproteinemia familiar asintomática a causa de una variante de pérdida de función en el gen PCSK9. (AU)

Primary hypocholesterolemia (or hypobetalipoproteinemia) is a rare disorder of lipoprotein metabolism that may be due to a polygenic predisposition or a monogenic disease. Among these, it is possible to differentiate between symptomatic and asymptomatic forms, in which, in the absence of secondary causes, the initial clinical suspicion is plasma ApoB levels below the 5th percentile of the distribution by age and sex. Here we describe the differential diagnosis of a case of asymptomatic hypocholesterolemia. We studied proband's clinical data, the lipid profile of the proband and her relatives and the clinical data of the family relevant to carry out the differential diagnosis. We performed a genetic study as the diagnostic test. The information obtained from the differential diagnosis suggested a heterozygous hypobetalipoproteinemia due to PCSK9 loss-of-function variants. The diagnostic test revealed, in the proband, the presence of a heterozygous PCSK9 frame-shift variant of a maternal origin. Plasma levels of LDL cholesterol and PCSK9 of the patient and her relatives were compatible with the segregation of the variant revealed. In conclusion, the diagnostic test performed confirmed the suspected diagnosis of the proband as asymptomatic familial hypobetalipoproteinemia due to a loss-of-function variant in the PCSK9 gene. (AU)

A case of hypocholesterolemia under study. / Un caso de hipocolesterolemia a estudio.

Primary hypocholesterolemia (or hypobetalipoproteinemia) is a rare disorder of lipoprotein metabolism that may be due to a polygenic predisposition or a monogenic disease. Among these, it is possible to differentiate between symptomatic and asymptomatic forms, in which, in the absence of secondary causes, the initial clinical suspicion is plasma ApoB levels below the 5th percentile of the distribution by age and sex. Here we describe the differential diagnosis of a case of asymptomatic hypocholesterolemia. We studied proband's clinical data, the lipid profile of the proband and her relatives and the clinical data of the family relevant to carry out the differential diagnosis. We performed a genetic study as the diagnostic test. The information obtained from the differential diagnosis suggested a heterozygous hypobetalipoproteinemia due to PCSK9 loss-of-function variants. The diagnostic test revealed, in the proband, the presence of a heterozygous PCSK9 frame-shift variant of a maternal origin. Plasma levels of LDL cholesterol and PCSK9 of the patient and her relatives were compatible with the segregation of the variant revealed. In conclusion, the diagnostic test performed confirmed the suspected diagnosis of the proband as asymptomatic familial hypobetalipoproteinemia due to a loss-of-function variant in the PCSK9 gene.

Troponina I de alta sensibilidad para el descarte temprano del infarto agudo de miocardio / High sensitivity troponin I to early rule out for acute myocardial infarction

Resumen Introducción: La mayor utilidad de las troponinas de alta sensibilidad (Tn-hs) es descartar tempranamente el infarto agudo de miocardio (IAM). El algoritmo recomendado por la guía de práctica clínica (GPC) del Ministerio de Salud de Colombia para descartar el IAM es respaldado por evidencia de baja calidad y no ha sido validado en población colombiana. Objetivo: evaluar la capacidad de este algoritmo empleando troponina I de alta sensibilidad (TnI-hs) para descartar el IAM sin elevación del segmento ST (IAMSEST). Métodos: se analizaron pacientes con sospecha de síndrome coronario agudo (SCA) atendidos en un servicio de urgencias de un centro de alta complejidad. El desenlace primario fue el diagnóstico de IAMSEST tipo 1 y tipo 4b. Se determinaron las características operativas para los puntos de corte del algoritmo para el desenlace primario, reingreso hospitalario y muerte a 30 días. Resultados: se incluyeron 2.282 pacientes en los que el desenlace primario ocurrió en 389. El algoritmo de la GPC colombiana tuvo S del 90,9% (IC 95%: 74-100) y VPN del 99% (IC 95%: 99-100) utilizando el percentil 99 (p99) no discriminado por sexo, pero tanto la S como el VPN mejoraron al 100% cuando se utilizó el p99 por sexo. Conclusión: el algoritmo recomendado por la GPC colombiana utilizando TnI-hs y con el p99 ajustado por sexo tiene excelente capacidad para descartar de manera temprana y segura el diagnóstico de IAMSEST.

Abstract Introduction: The greatest utility of high-sensitivity troponins (Tn-hs) is to rule out acute myocardial infarction (AMI) early. The algorithm recommended by the Colombian practice guideline clinical (CPG) of Health’s Ministry to rule out AMI is supported by low-quality evidence and has not been validated in the Colombian population. This research aims to evaluate the ability of this algorithm using high sensitivity troponin I (TnI-hs) to rule out AMI without ST segment elevation (STEMI). Methods: Patients with suspected acute coronary syndrome (ACS) treated in an emergency department of a highly complex center were analyzed. The primary outcome was the diagnosis of STEMI type 1 and type 4b. The operativing characteristics for the algorithm cut-off points were determined for the primary outcome, hospital readmission death at and 30 days. Results: 2282 patients were included in whom the primary outcome occurred in 389. The Colombian CPG algorithm had S of 90.9% (95% CI 74-100) and NPV of 99% (95% CI 99-100) using the 99th percentile (p99) not discriminated by sex, but both S and NPV improved 100% when p99 was used by sex. Conclusion: The algorithm recommended by the Colombian CPG using TnI-hs and with the p99 adjusted for sex has an excellent capacity to rule out early and safely the diagnosis of STEMI.

Cardiovascular evaluation using exercise testing performed with face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic.

OBJECTIVE: COVID-19 pandemic is associated with high incidence and fatality, however, non-communicable diseases remain a global public health problem with even greater morbidity and mortality. At present, there is a lag in diagnosis and treatment of patients with heart disease, particularly the performance of exercise testing (ET), due to the fear of aerosol generation and viral dissemination. Although some centers carry out the tests with the use of masks, the information is still superficial and preliminary. The objective of the study was to describe the ergometric performance observed when performing exercise tests during the COVID-19 (PANDEMIC-G) pandemic and to highlight the differences with those results carried out in another time, when there was no COVID-19 (NO PANDEMIC). METHOD: A cross-sectional study was carried out. PANDEMIC-G patients underwent ET between March 2020 and December 2020, once a biological triage was done and all of them wore N95 masks. They were compared to NO PANDEMIC patients that performed an ET between March 2019 and December 2019. Demographic and ergometric variables were presented and analyzed according to their type. All p < 0.05 were considered stochastically significant. RESULTS: A total of 361 ET were studied: 209 (58%) belonged to NO PANDEMIC and 152 (42%) to PANDEMIC-G. The number of ET stopped by dyspnea was greater in PANDEMIC-G (117) than in NO PANDEMIC (8). Exercise tolerance did not show significant changes. Systolic blood pressure, double product, and myocardial oxygen utilization were higher in PANDEMIC-G ET (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: In the COVID-era, fewer stress tests were performed, which were suspended more frequently due to dyspnea. Higher values of systolic blood pressure and myocardial oxygen utilization were observed in PANDEMIC-G as well.

OBJETIVO: La pandemia de COVID-19 se asocia con una alta incidencia y letalidad; sin embargo, las enfermedades no transmisibles siguen siendo un problema de salud pública mundial con una morbilidad y mortalidad aún mayores. Actualmente, existe un retraso en el diagnóstico y tratamiento de los pacientes con enfermedades cardíacas, particularmente en la realización de la prueba de esfuerzo (PE), debido al temor a la generación de aerosoles y la diseminación viral. Aunque algunos centros realizan las pruebas con el uso de tapabocas, la información aún es superficial y preliminar. El objetivo del estudio fue describir el desempeño ergométrico observado al realizar pruebas de ejercicio durante la pandemia COVID-19 (PANDEMIC-G) y remarcar las diferencias con las pruebas realizadas antes de ella (NO PANDEMIC). MÉTODO: Se realizó un estudio transversal. Los pacientes con PANDEMIC-G se sometieron a PE entre marzo y diciembre de 2020, una vez que se realizó un triaje biológico y todos usaron tapabocas N95. Fueron comparados con pacientes NO PANDEMIC, que realizaron una PE entre marzo y diciembre de 2019. Las variables se presentaron y analizaron según su tipo. Todos los valores de p inferiores a 0.05 se consideraron estocásticamente significativos. RESULTADOS: Se estudiaron un total de 361 PE, donde 209 (58%) pertenecían a NO PANDEMIC y 152 (42%) a PANDEMIC-G. El número de PE detenidas por disnea fue mayor en PANDEMIC-G (n = 117) que en NO PANDEMIC (n = 8). La tolerancia al ejercicio no mostró cambios significativos. La presión arterial sistólica, el producto doble y la utilización de oxígeno del miocardio fueron mayores en las PE en el PANDEMIC-G (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONES: En la era COVID se realizaron menos pruebas de esfuerzo, que se suspendieron con mayor frecuencia por disnea. También se observaron valores más altos de presión arterial sistólica y utilización de oxígeno del miocardio en PANDEMIC-G.

De lo complejo a lo simple… deshidrogenasa láctica como marcador de severidad en pacientes con infección por SARS-CoV-2 / From complex to simple... lactic dehydrogenase as a severity marker in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infections / Do complexo ao simples… Desidrogenase láctica como marcador de gravidade em pacientes com infecção por SARS-CoV-2

resumen está disponible en el texto completo

Abstract: Introduction: The reference standard for the diagnosis of COVID-19 remains reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)-positive, while plain chest computed tomography (CT) has been more sensitive and specific in severity classification. In defining the severity of SARS-CoV-2, clinical, imaging and laboratory criteria have been specified, mentioning several markers, including lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Historically, LHD has been of interest as a biomarker associated with lung damage, with a greater peak during the influenza A H1N1 pandemic, and taken as a marker in the definition of severity. Objective: To determine the diagnostic performance of serum LHD levels on admission to the ICU as a marker of severity in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Material and methods: Observational, analytical, longitudinal and prospective study, carried out in two stages, the first (April 1, 2020 to September 30, 2020) consisted of a correlation study between serum LHD levels at Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission and simple chest CT, a moderate correlation was obtained between serum LHD levels and severity score by pulmonary tomography, with an r = 0.5 and p < 0.0001; a severity-associated serum LHD cut-off point of 396 U/dL was obtained (p < 0.001, sensitivity 86.02%, specificity 75%). The second stage was extended until December 31, 2020, in which analysis is performed for diagnostic test performance, in inferential statistics correlation tests are performed, a multiple linear regression model is built, analysis was performed for diagnostic tests by building two-by-two contingency Tables, determining sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, likelihood ratios and Bayesian analysis. Results: 155 patients were included in the study to determine the diagnostic performance of serum LHD levels in patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 infection; by multiple linear regression analysis, it was determined that LHD levels on admission to the ICU is a predictor of severity in patients with SARS-CoV-2. A sensitivity of 0.92, specificity 0.41, with PPV 0.854, NPV 0.57 and an accuracy of 0.83, an LR + 1.57 and LR- 0.63 were obtained. In the post-test probability results, patients with DHL > 396 U/dL have a 86.3% probability of developing severe COVID-19. DHL levels have a direct correlation with ICU days of stay and days of invasive mechanical ventilation with statistical significance (p = 0.001, p = 0.033 respectively). Conclusion: Serum LHD levels have a high sensitivity to diagnose COVID-19 severity; and in the absence of simple chest CT, it can predict severe lung damage. It constitutes a test with high screening power in severe cases of COVID-19; with a probability of almost double (LR + 1.6) that of predicting a severe case.

Resumo: Introdução: O padrão de referência para o diagnóstico de COVID-19 continua sendo a reação em cadeia da polimerase com transcriptase reversa positiva (RT-PCR), enquanto a tomografia computadorizada (TC) de tórax simples tem se mostrado mais sensível e específica na classificação de gravidade. Na definição da gravidade do SARS-CoV-2, foram especificados critérios clínicos, de imagem e laboratoriais, mencionando vários marcadores, incluindo a desidrogenase láctica (DHL). A DHL ao longo da história tem sido de interesse como biomarcador associado a danos pulmonares, com maior boom durante a pandemia de influenza A H1N1, e tomado como marcador na definição de gravidade. Objetivo: Determinar o desempenho diagnóstico de dois níveis séricos de DHL na admissão à UTI como marcador de gravidade em pacientes com infecção por SARS-CoV-2. Métodos: Estudo observacional, analítico, longitudinal e prospectivo, realizado em duas etapas, a primeira (01 de abril de 2020 a 30 de setembro de 2020) consistiu em um estudo de correlação entre os níveis séricos de DHL na admissão na UTI e TC simples de tórax, um foi obtida correlação entre os níveis séricos de DHL e o escore de gravidade pela tomografia pulmonar, com r 0.5 ep < 0.0001; um ponto de corte para DHL sérico associado à gravidade de 396 U/dL foi obtido (p < 0.001, sensibilidade 86.02%, especificidade 75%). A segunda etapa foi estendida até 31 de dezembro de 2020, na qual são realizadas análises para realização de testes diagnósticos, testes de correlação em estatística inferencial, construção de um modelo de regressão linear múltipla, análise para testes diagnósticos, construção tabelas de contingência dois a dois, determinando sensibilidade, especificidade, valor preditivo positivo, valor preditivo negativo, razões de verossimilhança e análise Bayesiana. Resultados: 155 pacientes foram incluídos no estudo para determinar o desempenho diagnóstico dos níveis séricos de DHL em pacientes com infecção grave por SARS-CoV-2; pela análise de regressão linear múltipla, determina-se que os níveis de DHL na admissão à UTI é um preditor de gravidade em pacientes com SARS-CoV-2. Obteve-se sensibilidade de 0.92, especificidade de 0.41, com VPP 0.854, VPN 0.57 e exatidão de 0.83, LR+ 1.57 e LR- 0.63. Nos resultados de probabilidade pós-teste, pacientes com DHL > 396 U/Dl têm probabilidade de 86.3% de desenvolver doença grave por COVID-19. Os níveis de DHL têm correlação direta com os dias de permanência na UTI e os dias de tratamento invasivo ventilação mecânica com significância estatística (p = 0.001, p = 0.33 respectivamente). Conclusão: Os níveis séricos de DHL têm alta sensibilidade para diagnosticar gravidade por COVID-19; e na ausência de TC simples de tórax, pode predizer danos pulmonares graves. Constitui um teste com alto poder de escrutínio em casos graves de COVID-19; com quase o dobro da probabilidade (LR + 1.6) de predizer uma condição grave.

Capacidad predictiva de las escalas de alerta temprana en los servicios de urgencias hospitalarios: revisión sistemática y metanálisis / Predictive power of early-warning scores used in hospital emergency departments: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objetivos: Evaluar, en términos de ingreso hospitalario o en unidad de cuidados intensivos (UCI) y muerte, la capacidad predictiva de las escalas de alerta temprana en los servicios de urgencias hospitalariOs (SUH). Método: Revisión sistemática y metanálisis. Se consultaron las bases de datos Medline, Embase, Web of Science y Cochrane Library. Se incluyeron estudios observacionales y ensayos clínicos publicados entre e 1 de enero de 1950 y 12 de junio de 2020 en los que se empleara una escala de alerta temprana en los SUH. Las variables de resultadosprincipales fueron mortalidad (24 horas, 48 horas y más de 72 horas) e ingreso hospitalario y en UCI. Resultados: Se seleccionaron 9 estudios en la revisión sistemática, 4 se incluyeron en el metanálisis (165.580 pacientes). Hubo heterogeneidad en las escalas empleadas, siendo la escala NEWS la más utilizada. El uso de la escala NEWS mostró una buena capacidad predictiva para la mortalidad a las 24 horas [AUROC 0,88 (IC 95% 0,87-0,89);p < 0,001; I2 = 0%], a las 48 horas [AUROC 0,86 (IC 95% 0,84-0,88); p < 0,001; I2 = 49,3%] e intrahospitalaria [AUROC: 0,77 (IC 95% 0,74-0,80); p < 0,001; I2 = 96,2%]. Para el ingreso hospitalario y en UCI, NEWS mostró una capacidad predictiva adecuada. Conclusiones: El uso de las escalas de alerta temprana en los SUH muestra una capacidad predictiva buena en términos de mortalidad temprana e intrahospitalaria. (AU)

Objectives: To assess the predictive power of scores used in hospital emergency departments (EDs) to give early warning of risk for mortality and hospital ward or intensive care unit (ICU) admission. Material and methods: Systematic review and meta-analysis. We searched MEDLINE, Embase, the Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library. Observational studies and clinical trials published between January 1, 1950, and June 12, 2020 that used early-warning scores in hospital EDs were included. The main outcomes were mortality (at 24, 48, and more than 72 hours), hospital admission, and ICU admission. Results: Nine studies entered into the systematic review; 4 of them, with 165 580 patients, were included in the meta-analysis. The studies were heterogeneous with respect to the scores used. The one used most often was the National Early Warning Score (NEWS). The meta-analysis of studies using the NEWS scale showed that it had good predictive power for mortality: the area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic was 0.88 (95%, CI, 0.87-0.89; P .001, I2 = 0%) at 24 hours and 0.86 (0.84-0.88; P .001; I2 = 49.3%) at 48 hours. The AUC for inhospital mortality was 0.77 (95% CI, 0.74-0.80; P .001; I2 = 96.2%). The NEWS score had adequate power for predicting risk of hospital ward and ICU admission. Conclusion: Early warning scores used in hospital EDs are able to predict risk of early and in-hospital mortality. (AU)

Predictive power of early-warning scores used in hospital emergency departments: a systematic review and meta-analysis. / Capacidad predictiva de las escalas de alerta temprana en los servicios de urgencias hospitalarios: revisión sistemática y metanálisis.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the predictive power of scores used in hospital emergency departments (EDs) to give early warning of risk for mortality and hospital ward or intensive care unit (ICU) admission. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Systematic review and meta-analysis. We searched MEDLINE, Embase, the Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library. Observational studies and clinical trials published between January 1, 1950, and June 12, 2020 that used early-warning scores in hospital EDs were included. The main outcomes were mortality (at 24, 48, and more than 72 hours), hospital admission, and ICU admission. RESULTS: Nine studies entered into the systematic review; 4 of them, with 165 580 patients, were included in the meta-analysis. The studies were heterogeneous with respect to the scores used. The one used most often was the National Early Warning Score (NEWS). The meta-analysis of studies using the NEWS scale showed that it had good predictive power for mortality: the area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic was 0.88 (95%, CI, 0.87-0.89; P .001, I2 = 0%) at 24 hours and 0.86 (0.84-0.88; P .001; I2 = 49.3%) at 48 hours. The AUC for inhospital mortality was 0.77 (95% CI, 0.74-0.80; P .001; I2 = 96.2%). The NEWS score had adequate power for predicting risk of hospital ward and ICU admission. CONCLUSION: Early warning scores used in hospital EDs are able to predict risk of early and in-hospital mortality.

OBJETIVO: Evaluar, en términos de ingreso hospitalario o en unidad de cuidados intensivos (UCI) y muerte, la capacidad predictiva de las escalas de alerta temprana en los servicios de urgencias hospitalarios (SUH). METODO: Revisión sistemática y metanálisis. Se consultaron las bases de datos Medline, Embase, Web of Science y Cochrane Library. Se incluyeron estudios observacionales y ensayos clínicos publicados entre e 1 de enero de 1950 y 12 de junio de 2020 en los que se empleara una escala de alerta temprana en los SUH. Las variables de resultados principales fueron mortalidad (24 horas, 48 horas y más de 72 horas) e ingreso hospitalario y en UCI. RESULTADOS: Se seleccionaron 9 estudios en la revisión sistemática, 4 se incluyeron en el metanálisis (165.580 pacientes). Hubo heterogeneidad en las escalas empleadas, siendo la escala NEWS la más utilizada. El uso de la escala NEWS mostró una buena capacidad predictiva para la mortalidad a las 24 horas [AUROC 0,88 (IC 95% 0,87-0,89); p 0,001; I2 = 0%], a las 48 horas [AUROC 0,86 (IC 95% 0,84-0,88); p 0,001; I2 = 49,3%] e intrahospitalaria [AUROC: 0,77 (IC 95% 0,74-0,80); p 0,001; I2 = 96,2%]. Para el ingreso hospitalario y en UCI, NEWS mostró una capacidad predictiva adecuada. CONCLUSIONES: El uso de las escalas de alerta temprana en los SUH muestra una capacidad predictiva buena en términos de mortalidad temprana e intrahospitalaria.

Análisis de la percepción del dolor asociado al estudio urodinámico en niños mayores de tres años / Analysis of pain perception associated with urodynamic testing in children over 3 years old

Objetivo: Medir la tolerancia del estudio urodinámico (EUD) en el paciente pediátrico, mediante una escala visual analógica. Analizar qué variables clínicas y relacionadas con el EUD influyen en la percepción del dolor.Material y métodosEstudio transversal de 139 pacientes pediátricos tras un EUD (entre diciembre del 2013 a mayo del 2018). Criterio de inclusión: entender y expresar su experiencia tras el EUD (edad preescolar y escolar). No se incluyeron adolescentes.La herramienta de evaluación: escala visual analógica del dolor (EVA 0-10). Se obtuvieron otras variables clínicas y asociadas al EUD. Análisis estadístico: U de Mann-Whitney, Kruskal-Wallis. Análisis de correlación de Spearman (rs). Análisis multivariante mediante regresión logística ordinal. Significación p < 0,05.ResultadosMedia de edad 7,7 años (DE 2,4), mediana puntuación EVA, 2 (2-6). En un 41% (n = 57), la puntuación fue ≥ 4 (dolor moderado). Análisis multivariante. Variables explicativas de obtener una puntuación EVA alta: puntuación APEUD alta (identificar en el paciente nerviosismo previo al EUD), alteración sensitivo-motora de MMII, una dificultad en el sondaje vesical y que aparezca dolor durante el llenado. La edad y el tiempo de duración del EUD no han influido en dicha puntuación EVA.ConclusionesAunque el EUD ha generado que un 40% de los pacientes pediátricos de nuestro estudio expresaran molestias o dolor, es una prueba bien tolerada.Las variables que han influido en la percepción del dolor han sido: el nerviosismo del paciente previo al EUD, una alteración sensitivo-motora localizada en metámeras lumbosacras, una dificultad en el sondaje vesical y que aparezca dolor durante el llenado vesical. (AU)

Objective: To measure the tolerance of urodynamic testing (UDT) in the pediatric patient by means of the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). To analyze which clinical and UDT-related variables influence pain perception. Material and methods. Cross-sectional study of 139 pediatric patients undergoing UDT (December 2013 - May 2018). Inclusion criteria: understanding and expressing their experience after UDT (preschool and school age). No adolescents were included.Measurement instrument Visual Analog Scale (0-10). Other clinical and UDT-associated variables were obtained. Statistical analysis: Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal Wallis test. Spearman's rank correlation analysis (rs). Multivariate analysis through ordinal logistic regression. Significance p < 0.05.ResultsMean age 7.7 years (SD 2.4), median VAS score, 2 (2-6). In 41% (n = 57), the score was ≥ 4 (moderate pain). Multivariate analysis. Explanatory variables for obtaining a high VAS score: high APUDT score (identifying patient anxiety prior to UDT), sensory-motor alteration in the lower limbs, difficult bladder catheterization and the appearance of pain during the filling phase. Age and duration of the UDT have not influenced the VAS score.ConclusionsAlthough the UDT has resulted in 40% of the pediatric patients in our study expressing discomfort or pain, it is a well-tolerated test.The variables that have influenced on pain perception were patient's anxiety prior to UDT, a sensory-motor alteration located in the lumbosacral metameres, difficult bladder catheterization and the appearance of pain during bladder filling. (AU)

Analysis of pain perception associated with urodynamic testing in children over 3 years old. / Análisis de la percepción del dolor asociado al estudio urodinámico en niños mayores de tres años.

OBJECTIVE: To measure the tolerance of urodynamic testing (UDT) in the pediatric patient by means of the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). To analyze which clinical and UDT-related variables influence pain perception. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study of 139 pediatric patients undergoing UDT (December 2013 - May 2018). INCLUSION CRITERIA: understanding and expressing their experience after UDT (preschool and school age). No adolescents were included. Measurement instrument Visual Analog Scale (0-10). Other clinical and UDT-associated variables were obtained. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal Wallis test. Spearman's rank correlation analysis (rs). Multivariate analysis through ordinal logistic regression. Significance p < 0.05. RESULTS: Mean age 7.7 years (SD 2.4), median VAS score, 2 (2-6). In 41% (n = 57), the score was ≥ 4 (moderate pain). Multivariate analysis. Explanatory variables for obtaining a high VAS score: high APUDT score (identifying patient anxiety prior to UDT), sensory-motor alteration in the lower limbs, difficult bladder catheterization and the appearance of pain during the filling phase. Age and duration of the UDT have not influenced the VAS score. CONCLUSIONS: Although the UDT has resulted in 40% of the pediatric patients in our study expressing discomfort or pain, it is a well-tolerated test. The variables that have influenced on pain perception were patient's anxiety prior to UDT, a sensory-motor alteration located in the lumbosacral metameres, difficult bladder catheterization and the appearance of pain during bladder filling.

Sensitivity and specificity of increased pulse pressure as a diagnostic test for K/DOQI stage III-b CKD.

BACKGROUND: Increased pulse pressure (IPP) is associated with an estimated glomerular filtration ≤ 60/mL/min/1.73 m2; thus, it can be useful as a diagnostic test to identify people with K/DOQI stage III-b chronic kidney disease (CKD). OBJECTIVE: To determine the usefulness of IPP as a diagnostic test for K/DOQI stage III-b CKD. METHOD: Diagnostic test study that included adult patients without comorbidities, registered in the Health Workers Cohort. The CKD-EPI formula was used to calculate glomerular filtration. Pulse pressure was determined by subtracting diastolic from systolic blood pressure. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and prevalence were calculated using standard formulas. A ROC curve was generated to determine the area under the curve. RESULTS: A total of 6,215 patients were included. An IPP ≥ 50 mmHg was observed to have a sensitivity of 74 %, specificity of 70 %, positive predictive value of 1 %, negative predictive value of 100 % and a prevalence of 1 %. The inflection point in the ROC curve to identify K/DOQI III-b CKD was 0.71. CONCLUSION: An IPP ≥ 50 mmHg is useful as a diagnostic test to identify people with K/DOQI stage III-b CKD.

INTRODUCCIÓN: La presión de pulso ampliada (PPA) se asocia a un filtrado glomerular calculado ≤ 60/mL/minuto/1.73 m2, por lo que puede ser útil como prueba diagnóstica para identificar a personas con insuficiencia renal crónica (IRC) estadio K/DOQI III-b. OBJETIVO: Determinar la utilidad de la PPA como prueba diagnóstica de IRC estadio K/DOQI III-b. MÉTODO: Estudio de prueba diagnóstica que incluyó a pacientes adultos sin comorbilidades, registrados en la Cohorte de Trabajadores de la Salud. Se utilizó la fórmula CKD-EPI para calcular la filtración glomerular. Se determinó la presión de pulso restando la presión arterial diastólica a la presión arterial sistólica. Se calculó sensibilidad, especificidad, valor predictivo positivo, valor predictivo negativo y prevalencia. Se elaboró una curva ROC para determinar el área bajo la curva. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 6215 pacientes. Se observó que una PPA ≥ 50 mm Hg tuvo sensibilidad de 74 %, especificidad de 70 %, valor predictivo positivo de 1 %, valor predictivo negativo de 100 % y prevalencia de 1 %. El punto de inflexión en la curva ROC para identificar IRC K/DOQI III-b fue de 0.71. CONCLUSIÓN: La PPA ≥ 50 mm Hg es útil como prueba diagnóstica para identificar a personas con IRC estadio K/DOQI III-b.

Sensibilidad y especificidad de la presión de pulso ampliada como prueba diagnóstica de IRC estadio K/DOQI III-b / Sensitivity and specificity of increased pulse pressure as a diagnostic test for K/DOQI III-b

Resumen Introducción: La presión de pulso ampliada (PPA) se asocia a un filtrado glomerular calculado ≤ 60/mL/minuto/1.73 m2, por lo que puede ser útil como prueba diagnóstica para identificar a personas con insuficiencia renal crónica (IRC) estadio K/DOQI III-b. Objetivo: Determinar la utilidad de la PPA como prueba diagnóstica de IRC estadio K/DOQI III-b. Método: Estudio de prueba diagnóstica que incluyó a pacientes adultos sin comorbilidades, registrados en la Cohorte de Trabajadores de la Salud. Se utilizó la fórmula CKD-EPI para calcular la filtración glomerular. Se determinó la presión de pulso restando la presión arterial diastólica a la presión arterial sistólica. Se calculó sensibilidad, especificidad, valor predictivo positivo, valor predictivo negativo y prevalencia. Se elaboró una curva ROC para determinar el área bajo la curva. Resultados: Se incluyeron 6215 pacientes. Se observó que una PPA ≥ 50 mm Hg tuvo sensibilidad de 74 %, especificidad de 70 %, valor predictivo positivo de 1 %, valor predictivo negativo de 100 % y prevalencia de 1 %. El punto de inflexión en la curva ROC para identificar IRC K/DOQI III-b fue de 0.71. Conclusión: La PPA ≥ 50 mm Hg es útil como prueba diagnóstica para identificar a personas con IRC estadio K/DOQI III-b.

Abstract Introduction: Increased pulse pressure (IPP) is associated an estimated glomerular filtration ≤ 60/mL/min/1.73 m2; thus, it can be useful as a diagnostic test to identify people with K/DOQI stage III-b chronic kidney disease (CKD). Objective: To determine the usefulness of IPP as a diagnostic test for K/DOQI stage III-b CKD. Method: Diagnostic test study that included adult patients without comorbidities, registered in the Health Workers Cohort. The CKD-EPI formula was used to calculate glomerular filtration. Pulse pressure was determined by subtracting diastolic from systolic blood pressure. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and prevalence were calculated using standard formulas. A ROC curve was generated to determine the area under the curve. Results: A total of 6,215 patients were included. An IPP ≥ 50 mmHg was observed to have a sensitivity of 74 %, specificity of 70 %, positive predictive value of 1 %, negative predictive value of 100 % and a prevalence of 1 %. The inflection point in the ROC curve to identify K/DOQI III-b CKD was 0.71. Conclusion: An IPP ≥ 50 mmHg is useful as a diagnostic test to identify people with K/DOQI stage III-b CKD.

SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic testing alternatives for Latin America / Alternativas diagnósticas para SARS-CoV-2 para América Latina

Abstract In the past four months SARS-CoV-2 has reached most countries in the world. Public health strategies based on widespread testing and proper isolation of positive cases have shown to be helpful to reduce local transmission of SARS-CoV-2. Confirmatory tests, that identify viral RNA, and screening serological tests that identify viral antigens or host antibodies against viral proteins are part of the tools that nations can use to fight infectious disease epidemics. Understanding how each test works can provide insights about their test characteristics and how they can be used for different clinical and public health goals. Testing is a key strategy to reduce viral transmission, not only for this epidemic, but also for others to come.

Resumen En los últimos cuatro meses, el virus SARS-CoV-2 ha llegado a la mayoría de países en el mundo. Las estrategias de salud pública basadas en la realización masiva de pruebas diagnósticas y el aislamiento focalizado de casos positivos han demostrado ser útiles para la reducción de la transmisión de SARS-CoV-2. Las pruebas confirmatorias, que identifican el ARN viral, y las pruebas serológicas que identifican antígenos virales o anticuerpos contra las proteínas virales del huésped son herramientas que las naciones pueden usar para combatir las epidemias producidas por agentes infecciosos. El comprender cómo funcionan estas pruebas puede ayudar a entender sus características y cómo pueden ser usadas para diferentes objetivos clínicos y de salud pública. Las pruebas diagnósticas son herramientas clave para reducir la transmisión viral, no solo en esta epidemia, sino para otras por venir.

Evaluación Objetiva de las Radiografías de Tobillo como Patrón de Oro en el Diagnóstico y Tratamiento de las Fracturas Webber B. Experimento autocontrolado multicéntrico / Evaluation of ankle conventional x-ray as a gold standard on diagnosis and treatment decisions for ankle weber B fractures. Self-controlled multicentric experiment

Introducción Las fracturas de tobillo constituyen una de las principales causas de consulta a los servicios de urgencias alrededor del mundo, con una incidencia de 187/100.000 habitantes año. La más frecuente es la tipo B en la clasificación de Weber, con una evolución hacia la artrosis a largo plazo del 14%. Aunque el diagnostico de la fractura del peroné distal en una radiografía de tobillo es muy sencillo, probablemente se ha sobrestimado su utilidad para proporcionar elementos de juicio necesarios para decidir el método de tratamiento adecuado para la fractura. El objetivo del estudio es evaluar la utilidad diagnóstica de las radiografías de tobillo y su concordancia interobservador para la toma de decisiones de tratamiento en fracturas de tobillo Weber B. Materiales y Métodos Se realizó un experimento, prospectivo, aleatorizado, doble ciego, multicéntrico, mediante la aplicación de encuestas en tres países a Ortopedistas, residentes de ortopedia y Cirujanos de pie y Tobillo, en las cuales se les presentaban cuatro casos de fracturas de tobillo Webber B de características quirúrgicas en proyecciones unilaterales y comparativas, midiendo la variabilidad de las decisiones quirúrgicas. Resultados Se recolectaron 152 encuestas que respondieron 110 ortopedistas (72.37%), 24 cirujanos de pie y tobillo (15.79%), 4 cirujanos de otras subespecialidades ortopédicas (2.63%) y 14 residentes de ortopedia (9.21%). Se encontró una concordancia interobservador en las proyecciones comparativas del 70.83% (p<0.05) y en las unilaterales del 55.31%, (p<0.05), al realizar regresión lineal entre la respuesta el grado de entrenamiento, los años de experiencia y el país de procedencia no se encontró causalidad (poder de ?? <95%). El 100% de los encuestados diagnosticó la fractura del peroné distal. Discusión La serie radiográfica unilateral y comparativa no se recomiendan para la toma de una adecuada decisión quirúrgica en las fracturas de tobillo Weber B, dada su muy baja concordancia inter-observador. Para la toma de decisiones en fracturas de tobillo Weber B es necesaria la toma de otros exámenes complementarios como la Tomografía axial Computarizada.

Background Ankle fractures are one of the main causes of consultation with emergency services around the world, with an incidence of 187 / 100,000 inhabitants per year. The most common is type B in the Weber classification, with a long-term evolution towards osteoarthritis of 14%. Although the diagnosis of distal fibular fracture on an ankle radiograph is very simple, its usefulness has probably been overestimated to provide the necessary insights to decide the appropriate treatment method for the fracture. The objective of the study is to evaluate the diagnostic utility of ankle radiographs and their inter-observer agreement for the treatment decision making in Weber B fractures. Methods A prospective, randomized, double-blind, multicenter trial using three-country surveys of orthopedic surgeons was conducted; orthopedic surgeons and foot and ankle surgeons, were exposed to four Weber B ankle fractures x-ray series where surgery was actually required as the only treatment option. Unilateral and comparative projections, where presented in different time and order to each surgeon, measuring the variability of surgical decisions. Results Fifty-one orthopedic surgeons (72.37%), 24 foot and ankle surgeons (15.79%), 4 surgeons of other orthopedic subspecialties (2.63%) and 14 orthopedic surgery residents (9.21%) were surveyed. An inter-observer agreement of 70.83% (p <0.05) was found in the comparative projections series and 55.31% (p <0.05) in the unilateral ones. When performing linear regression between the training degree, years of experience and the provenance country of the surgeons, no causality was found (power of ß <95%). Nevertheless, 100% of the respondents diagnosed the fracture of the distal fibula as a Weber B fracture. Discussion The unilateral and comparative radiographic series are not recommended for making an adequate surgical decision in Weber B ankle fractures, given their very low inter-observer agreement. For decision making in Weber B ankle fractures it is necessary to take other complementary examinations such as Computed Axial Tomography.

Descripción de la prueba semiológica de Compresión y flexión del pulgar, para el diagnóstico de Rizartrosis. Estudio de Cohorte Transversal / Description of thumb compression and flexion test for the diagnosis of rhizarthrosis. Cross sectional Cohort Study

Introducción El dolor del pulgar secundario a la artrosis de la articulación trapecio-metacarpiana es una condición común, especialmente en mujeres llegando a causar niveles altos de incapacidad en algunos pacientes. El diagnóstico de rizartrosis se basa en el dolor localizado, la inflamación e inestabilidad en la exploración física además de la valoración radiológica. Existen en la actualidad varias pruebas semiológicas que podemos utilizar en el diagnóstico de la rizartrosis sintomática, una de ellas es la prueba de Grind o molienda, que es considerada el patrón de oro. El presente estudio tiene como objetivo describir y evaluar la prueba de Compresión y flexión del pulgar ideada para el diagnóstico de rizartrosis. Materiales y Métodos Se realizó un estudio de corte transversal en el periodo de enero del 2007 a mayo del 2013, Se evaluaron 230 pacientes que acudieron a consulta con síntomas sugestivos de rizartrosis a quienes se les practico simultáneamente la prueba de Grind y la prueba de compresión y flexión para la confirmación del diagnóstico. Resultados De los 230 pacientes que acudieron a consulta, el 87.8% (202) eran mujeres con una edad promedio de 60 años (32 a 86 años). El 14.8% de los pacientes presentaron una afectación bilateral. El 47.8% tenían comorbilidades presentes entre las que se encuentran síndrome de túnel carpiano en el 67.3%, dedo en gatillo 11.8%, entre otras. El índice de concordancia PABAK entre los dos signos semiológicos fue de 0.948, indicando un nivel de acuerdo excelente entre ambos. El 100% de los pacientes fueron diagnosticados por la prueba de flexión y compresión. Discusión producto de obtener una prueba positiva en la totalidad de los pacientes evaluados con la prueba de compresión y flexión, consideramos puede ser una opción que complemente la pesquisa clínica en el paciente con rizartrosis, es necesario entonces estudios posteriores para validar dicha prueba y poder obtener su sensibilidad y especificidad.

Background Thumb pain secondary to osteoarthritis of the trapezium-metacarpal joint is a common condition, especially in women, and causing high levels of disability in some patients. The diagnosis of rhizarthrosis is based on localised pain, inflammation, and instability on physical examination, in addition to radiographic evaluation. There are currently several semiological tests that can be used in the diagnosis of symptomatic rhizarthrosis, one of which is the Grind or grinding test, which is considered the gold standard. The present study aims to describe and evaluate the thumb compression and flexion test designed for the diagnosis of rhizarthrosis. Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out during the period from January 2007 to May 2013. The study included a total of 230 patients that came to the clinic with symptoms suggestive of rhizarthrosis, and on whom the Grind test, the compression test, and flexion were simultaneously performed to confirm the diagnosis. Results Of the 230 patients who attended the clinic, 87.8% (202) were women with a mean age of 60 years (32 to 86 years). A bilateral involvement was observed in 14.8% of the patients. Just under half (47.8%) currently had co-morbidities that included, among others, carpal tunnel syndrome (67.3%) and trigger finger (11.8%). The prevalence-adjusted and bias-adjusted kappa (PABAK) concordance index between the two semiological signs was 0.948, indicating an excellent level of agreement between both. All (100%) of the patients were diagnosed by the flexion and compression test. Discussion Due to obtaining a positive test in all the patients evaluated with the compression and flexion test, it should be considered as a complementary test in the clinical evaluation of patients with rhizarthrosis. Further studies are necessary to validate this test in order to establish its sensitivity and specificity.

Eosinofilia en sangre y cáncer de ovario: estudio fase I de pruebas diagnósticas / Blood eosinophilia and ovarian cancer: Phase I study of diagnostic tests

Resumen: OBJETIVO: Identificar la posible asociación entre la eosinofilia en sangre y el diagnóstico de cáncer de ovario. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal, retrospectivo, fase 1 de desarrollo de una prueba diagnóstica. Los datos se recolectaron de las historias clínicas de pacientes atendidas en el Hospital San Vicente Fundación con diagnóstico de tumor de ovario entre el 1 de enero de 2011 y el 1 de enero de 2016. Se incluyeron todas las pacientes con impresión diagnóstica de tumor de ovario con, al menos, un hemoleucograma al ingreso. Se excluyeron las historias clínicas de pacientes con antecedente de atopia que estuvieran cursando en el momento con parasitosis o tuvieran diagnóstico de linfoma de Hodgkin, cáncer colorrectal, mama y cuello del útero. Variables de estudio: edad, cantidad absoluta de eosinófilos, subtipo histológico y estadio de la enfermedad. Las variables cuantitativas se evaluaron con las pruebas de Kolmogorow-Smirnov y se aplicó la prueba de Mann Whitney y χ2 para evaluar las variables cualitativas. RESULTADOS: Se encontraron 99 expedientes de pacientes con cáncer de ovario: 11.1% con eosinofilia vs 6% en las controles (p < 0.197). Los subtipos histológicos de células germinales y epiteliales fueron los de mayor eosinofilia y el estadio III fue el de mayor asociación (n = 19). CONCLUSIÓN: Se abre la posibilidad de diseñar un estudio fase I con el fin de identificar la asociación entre la eosinofilia y el diagnóstico de cáncer de ovario, subtipo epitelial y células germinales.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To identify the possible association between blood eosinophilia and diagnosis of ovarian cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective cross-sectional phase 1 study of diagnostic test development was performed. Data were collected on the medical records of patients who consulted at San Vicente Foundation Hospital with a diagnosis of ovarian tumor from 01/01/2011 to 01/01/2016. All patients with a diagnostic impression of ovarian tumor with at least one hemoleukogram at admission were included and those medical records of patients with a history of atopy, who were currently studying with parasitosis or with diagnosis of Hodgkin Lymphoma, colorectal cancer, breast and cervix were excluded. Age, absolute number of eosinophils, histological subtype and stage of the disease were the variables studied. The quantitative variables were evaluated with the Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests and the Mann Whitney and χ2 test was applied to evaluate the qualitative variables. RESULTS: We found 99 files of patients with ovarian cancer: 11.1% with eosinophilia vs 6% in controls (p < 0.197). The histological subtypes of germinal and epithelial cells were the most eosinophilic and stage III was the most associated (n = 19). CONCLUSION: To design a phase I study in order to identify the association between eosinophilia and diagnosis of ovarian cancer epithelial subtype and germ cells is possible.

Rendimiento Diagnóstico De Minimental Frente Al Dsm-5 En Trastorno Cognitivo: Experiencia De Una Cohorte En Colombia / Diagnostic Performance Of Minimental Against Dsm-5 In Cognitive Disorder. Experience Of A Cohort In Colombia

Resumen Antecedentes: Las herramientas de cribado cognitivo son útiles en el escenario clínico e investigación. MiniMental (MMSE) es uno de los instrumentos más utilizados en Colombia. El objetivo de este trabajo es determinar el rendimiento operativo del MMSE, frente a los nuevos criterios del DSM-5 para el diagnóstico de trastorno cognitivo. Materiales y métodos: Estudio de prueba diagnóstica ensamblado en una cohorte colombiana, se evaluó una muestra consecutiva de 200 participantes mayores de 50 años (66.5,+/-8.86) que representaron todo el espectro de la condición de interés, la prueba índice (MMSE) fue comparada con el estándar clínico de referencia (consenso diagnóstico y clasificación por criterios DSM-5). Resultados: Para trastorno cognitivo leve (TCL), el rendimiento diagnóstico de MMSE fue: Sensibilidad 45.3%(IC95% 33.7 a 57.4), especificidad 96.9% (IC95% 91.4 a 99.0) y exactitud del 76.9% (IC 95% 69.5 a 82.4) a un punto de corte de 26 y para trastorno cognitivo mayor (TCM) fue: Sensibilidad 76.32% (IC 95% 60.8-87.0) y especificidad 97.53% (IC 95% 93.8-99.0) en el punto de corte de 24. Conclusiones: MMSE continúa siendo una alternativa válida para diagnóstico de TCM, sin embargo, tiene limitada validez para la detección de TCL, por lo que nuevas herramientas con objetivo de cribado de TCL deben ser consideradas.

Abstract Background: Cognitive screening tools are useful in the clinical and research setting. MiniMental (MMSE) is one of the most used instruments in Colombia, the objective of this work is to determine its performance against the new criteria for the diagnosis of cognitive disorder (DSM-5). Materials and methods: Diagnostic test study, assembled in a Colombian cohort, we evaluated a consecutive sample of 200 participants older than 50 years (66.5,+/-8.86) that represented the whole spectrum of the condition of interest, the index test (MMSE) was compared with the clinical reference standard (consensus diagnosis and classification by criteria DSM-5). Results: For mild cognitive impairment (MCI), the diagnostic performance of MMSE was: Sensitivity 45.3% (95% CI 33.7 to 57.4), specificity 96.9% (95% CI 91.4 to 99.0) and 76.9% accuracy (95% CI 69.5 to 82.4) at a cut-off point of 26 and, for major cognitive disorder (MCD) was: Sensitivity 76.32% (95% CI 60.8-87.0) and specificity 97.53% (95% CI 93.8-99.0) at the cut-off point of 24. Conclusions: MMSE is a valid alternative for the diagnosis of MCD, however it has limited validity for the detection of MCI, so new tools for the purpose of screening of MCI should be considered.

Real-time PCR assay for the diagnosis of pleural tuberculosis / Reacción en cadena de la polimerasa en tiempo real para el diagnóstico de tuberculosis pleural

Abstract Introduction: The diagnosis of pleural tuberculosis requires an invasive and time-consuming reference method. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is rapid, but validation in pleural tuberculosis is still weak. Objective: To establish the operating characteristics of real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) hybridization probes for the diagnosis of pleural tuberculosis. Methods: The validity of the RT-PCR hybridization probes was evaluated compared to a composite reference method by a cross-sectional study at the Hospital Universitario de la Samaritana. 40 adults with lymphocytic pleural effusion were included. Pleural tuberculosis was confirmed (in 9 patients) if the patient had at least one of three tests using the positive reference method: Ziehl-Neelsen or Mycobacterium tuberculosis culture in fluid or pleural tissue, or pleural biopsy with granulomas. Pleural tuberculosis was ruled out (in 31 patients) if all three tests were negative. The operating characteristics of the RT-PCR, using the Mid-P Exact Test, were determined using the OpenEpi 2.3 Software (2009). Results: The RT-PCR hybridization probes showed a sensitivity of 66.7% (95% CI: 33.2%-90.7%) and a specificity of 93.5% (95% CI: 80.3%-98.9%). The PPV was 75.0% (95% CI: 38.8%-95.6%) and a NPV of 90.6% (95% CI: 76.6%-97.6%). Two false positives were found for the test, one with pleural mesothelioma and the other with chronic pleuritis with mesothelial hyperplasia. Conclusions: The RT-PCR hybridization probes had good specificity and acceptable sensitivity, but a negative value cannot rule out pleural tuberculosis.

Resumen Introducción: El diagnóstico de tuberculosis pleural requiere un método de referencia invasivo y demorado. La reacción en cadena de la polimerasa es rápida, pero su validación en tuberculosis pleural aún es débil. Objetivo: Establecer las características operativas de la reacción en cadena de la polimerasa en tiempo real (RT-PCR) sondas de hibridación para el diagnóstico de tuberculosis pleural. Métodos: Se evaluó la validez de la RT-PCR sondas de hibridación comparada con un método de referencia compuesto mediante un estudio transversal en el Hospital Universitario de la Samaritana. Se incluyeron 40 adultos con derrame pleural linfocitario. Tuberculosis pleural fue confirmada (en 9 pacientes) si el paciente tenía mínimo una de tres pruebas del método de referencia positiva: Ziehl-Neelsen o cultivo para Mycobacterium tuberculosis en líquido o tejido pleural, o biopsia pleural con granulomas; se descartó tuberculosis pleural (en 31 pacientes) si las tres pruebas eran negativas. Se determinaron las características operativas de la RT-PCR, mediante la Prueba Mid-P Exact, con el Software OpenEpi 2.3 (2009). Resultados: La RT-PCR sondas de hibridación mostró una sensibilidad del 66.7% (IC 95%: 33.2%-90.7%) y una especificidad del 93.5% (IC 95%: 80.3%-98.9%). El VPP fue de 75.0% (IC 95%: 38.8%-95.6%) y un VPN de 90.6% (IC 95%: 76.6%-97.6%). Se encontraron dos falsos positivos para la prueba, uno con mesotelioma pleural y otro con pleuritis crónica con hiperplasia mesotelial. Conclusiones: La RT-PCR sondas de hibridación tuvo una buena especificidad y una aceptable sensibilidad, pero un valor negativo no puede descartar tuberculosis pleural.

Level of impact on the public health of universal human immunodeficiency virus screening in an Emergency Department. / Estudio del impacto a nivel de salud pública del cribado universal del virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana en un servicio de Urgencias.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of HIV and the acceptability of rapid testing in an emergency department (ED), Barcelona (6/07/2011 to 8/03/2013). METHOD: A convenience sample was used, depending on nurse availability in the ED. Participants signed an informed consent. Results were confirmed by conventional methods. RESULT: A total of 2,140 individuals were offered testing, and 5% rejected taking part (107/2,140). Three subjects (3/2,033 [0.15%]) had confirmed reactive test. Individuals with a higher education were more likely to perform a rapid HIV test in ED (P<.005). CONCLUSION: A low prevalence of new HIV diagnoses was found among participants, although there was a high acceptability rate to perform rapid testing in the ED.

Appropriate targeting of artemisinin-based combination therapy by community health workers using malaria rapid diagnostic tests: findings from randomized trials in two contrasting areas of high and low malaria transmission in south-western Uganda.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the impact of malaria rapid diagnostic tests (mRDTs), used by community health workers (CHWs), on the proportion of children <5 years of age receiving appropriately targeted treatment with artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT), vs. presumptive treatment. METHODS: Cluster-randomized trials were conducted in two contrasting areas of moderate-to-high and low malaria transmission in rural Uganda. Each trial examined the effectiveness of mRDTs in the management of malaria and targeting of ACTs by CHWs comparing two diagnostic approaches: (i) presumptive clinical diagnosis of malaria [control arm] and (ii) confirmatory diagnosis with mRDTs followed by ACT treatment for positive patients [intervention arm], with village as the unit of randomisation. Treatment decisions by CHWs were validated by microscopy on a reference blood slide collected at the time of consultation, to compare the proportion of children <5 years receiving appropriately targeted ACT treatment, defined as patients with microscopically-confirmed presence of parasites in a peripheral blood smear receiving artemether-lumefantrine or rectal artesunate, and patients with no malaria parasites not given ACT. RESULTS: In the moderate-to-high transmission area, ACT treatment was appropriately targeted in 79.3% (520/656) of children seen by CHWs using mRDTs to diagnose malaria, vs. 30.8% (215/699) of children seen by CHWs using presumptive diagnosis (P < 0.001). In the low transmission area, 90.1% (363/403) children seen by CHWs using mRDTs received appropriately targeted ACT treatment vs. 7.8% (64/817) seen by CHWs using presumptive diagnosis (P < 0.001). Low mRDT sensitivity in children with low-density parasitaemia (<200 parasites/µl) was identified as a potential concern. CONCLUSION: When equipped with mRDTs, ACT treatments delivered by CHWs are more accurately targeted to children with malaria parasites. mRDT use could play an important role in reducing overdiagnosis of malaria and improving fever case management within iCCM, in both moderate-to-high and low transmission areas. Nonetheless, missed treatments due to the low sensitivity of current mRDTs in patients with low parasite density are a concern. For community-based treatment in areas of low transmission and/or non-immune populations, presumptive treatment of all fevers as malaria may be advisable, until more sensitive diagnostic assays, suitable for routine use by CHWs in remote settings, become available.

Evaluation of two rapid screening assays for detecting hepatitis C antibodies in resource-constrained settings.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the OraQuick HCV rapid antibody test from OraSure and the Multisure HCV antibody assay from MP Biomedicals. METHODS: Five seropanels from patients, intravenous drug users and blood donors with and without HCV infection were used on the two rapid immunochromatographic tests. Sensitivity, specificity and predictive values were calculated. In addition, seropanels from 10 seroconverters were used to assess early identification of HCV infection. The study was undertaken in a laboratory at Paul Ehrlich Institute in Germany. RESULTS: Panel 1 contained of 55 positive and 25 negative samples. The OraQuick HCV test had a sensitivity of 100% (95% CI: 93.5-100) and a specificity of 100% (95% CI: 86.3-100). The Multisure HCV test had a sensitivity of 100% (95% CI: 93.5-100) and a specificity of 96% (95% CI: 79.6-99.9). Panel 2 consisted of 193 pre-characterised anti-HCV-positive patient samples. The OraQuick HCV test identified 191 samples correctly and the Multisure HCV 192. The sensitivity was 99.0% (95% CI: 96.3-99.9) for the OraQuick HCV test and 99.5% (95% CI: 97.1-100) for the Multisure HCV test. Panel 3 was composed of seroconversion samples of 10 patients. The OraQuick HCV test detected all of these 10 infections while the Multisure HCV test detected six and was indeterminate on 2. Panel 4 included 53 anti-HCV negative blood samples from blood donors. Both tests correctly identified all 53. Panel 5 consisted of 26 samples of HCV/HIV co-infected patients. The sensitivity of the OraQuick HCV test was 65.2% (95% CI: 42.8-82.8) after 20 min and 73.9% (95% CI: 51.3-88.9) after 40 min of incubation. The Multisure HCV test had a sensitivity of 96.2% (95% CI: 80.4-99.9). CONCLUSION: This evaluation revealed good sensitivity for both rapid screening assays. The detection of seroconverters, however, was lower in the MutiSure HCV test. Therefore the MultiSure test should be used with hesitation in high incidence settings. The OraQuick gave HCV false-negative results in almost 25% of the HIV-positive sera. Therefore may the OraQuick be less suited in HIV prevalent areas.