Nuevo índice aterogénico para la predicción de aterosclerosis carotídea basado en la ratio proteína C reactiva no ultrasensible/HDL / New atherogenic index for the prediction of carotid atherosclerosis based on the non-ultrasensitive c-reactive protein/HDL ratio

Introducción La valoración del riesgo cardiovascular aparece en las guías clínicas como medida de prevención de enfermedades cardiovasculares, cuya etiología fundamental es la arteriosclerosis. Una de las herramientas que se utiliza para estimar el riesgo en práctica clínica son los índices aterogénicos (IA), cocientes entre fracciones lipídicas con rangos de referencia bien establecidos. A pesar de su uso extendido, existe todavía información limitada sobre su utilidad clínica. En los últimos años, algunas investigaciones han reforzado el papel de la inflamación en la etiología y cronicidad del proceso aterosclerótico. La inclusión de parámetros inflamatorios en el cálculo de IA podría mejorar su rendimiento diagnóstico en la detección de arteriosclerosis. Nos propusimos evaluar un nuevo IA en forma de ratio entre los valores de proteína C reactiva (PCR) no ultrasensible y las cifras de colesterol unido a lipoproteínas de alta densidad (HDL). Métodos Se incluyeron en el estudio 282 pacientes, asintomáticos, y sin historia de enfermedad cardiovascular. Se realizó en todos ellos analítica con perfil lipídico y PCR, y en el plazo inferior a un mes, ecografía carotídea para evaluar la presencia de ateromatosis. El nuevo IA se estableció como el cociente entre el valor de PCR no ultrasensible en mg/dL (multiplicado por 100) y el valor de HDL en mg/dL. Se comparó con los índices de Castelli I y II, y el índice aterogénico del plasma. La curva ROC determinó que el punto de corte óptimo del nuevo IA fue valor=1, con un área bajo la curva de 0,678 (IC 95% 0,60-0,75; p<0,001). ResultadosLa edad media de la muestra fue 60,4±14,5 años. Un total de 118 pacientes (41,8% del total) tenían arteriosclerosis carotídea. Al evaluar el rendimiento diagnóstico de los IA, encontramos que la ratio PCR·100/HDL mostró los valores más elevados de sensibilidad y valor predictivo positivo (0,73 y 0,68, respectivamente) ... Conclusiones... (AU)

Introduction Current guidelines recommend cardiovascular risk assessment as a preventive measure for cardiovascular diseases, whose fundamental etiology is arteriosclerosis. One of the tools used to estimate risk in clinical practice are atherogenic indices (AI), ratios between lipid fractions with well-established reference ranges. Despite its widespread use, there is still limited information on its clinical utility. In recent years, some research has reinforced the role of inflammation in the etiology and chronicity of the atherosclerotic process. The inclusion of inflammatory parameters in the AI calculation could improve its diagnostic performance in the detection of arteriosclerosis. We sought to evaluate a new AI as a ratio between C-reactive protein (CRP) values and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) values. Methods A total of 282 asymptomatic patients with no history of cardiovascular disease were included in the study. Laboratory tests with lipid profile and CRP, and carotid ultrasound to assess the presence of atheromatosis were performed in all of them. The new AI is established as the ratio between non-ultrasensitive CRP value in mg/dL (multiplied by 100) and HDL value in mg/dL. It was compared with the Castelli I and II indices, and the plasma atherogenic index. The optimal cut-off point of the new AI was value=1 as determined by ROC curve, with an area under the curve of 0.678 (95% CI 0.60-0.75; p<0.001).Results Mean age of patients was 60.4±14.5 years. A total of 118 patients (41.8% of total) had carotid arteriosclerosis. When evaluating the diagnostic performance of different AIs, we found that CRP·100/HDL ratio showed the highest values of sensitivity and positive predictive value (0.73 and 0.68, respectively) compared to the Castelli I and II indices, and the plasma atherogenic index. ... Conclusions ... (AU)

New atherogenic index for the prediction of carotid atherosclerosis based on the non-ultrasensitive c-reactive protein/HDL ratio. / Nuevo índice aterogénico para la predicción de aterosclerosis carotídea basado en la ratio proteína C reactiva no ultrasensible/HDL.

INTRODUCTION: Current guidelines recommend cardiovascular risk assessment as a preventive measure for cardiovascular diseases, whose fundamental etiology is arteriosclerosis. One of the tools used to estimate risk in clinical practice are atherogenic indices (AI), ratios between lipid fractions with well-established reference ranges. Despite its widespread use, there is still limited information on its clinical utility. In recent years, some research has reinforced the role of inflammation in the etiology and chronicity of the atherosclerotic process. The inclusion of inflammatory parameters in the AI calculation could improve its diagnostic performance in the detection of arteriosclerosis. We sought to evaluate a new AI as a ratio between C-reactive protein (CRP) values and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) values. METHODS: A total of 282 asymptomatic patients with no history of cardiovascular disease were included in the study. Laboratory tests with lipid profile and CRP, and carotid ultrasound to assess the presence of atheromatosis were performed in all of them. The new AI is established as the ratio between non-ultrasensitive CRP value in mg/dL (multiplied by 100) and HDL value in mg/dL. It was compared with the Castelli I and II indices, and the plasma atherogenic index. The optimal cut-off point of the new AI was value=1 as determined by ROC curve, with an area under the curve of 0.678 (95% CI 0.60-0.75; p<0.001). RESULTS: Mean age of patients was 60.4±14.5 years. A total of 118 patients (41.8% of total) had carotid arteriosclerosis. When evaluating the diagnostic performance of different AIs, we found that CRP·100/HDL ratio showed the highest values of sensitivity and positive predictive value (0.73 and 0.68, respectively) compared to the Castelli I and II indices, and the plasma atherogenic index. It was also the only predictor of carotid atheromatosis both when considering its values quantitatively (with OR 1.4 [95% CI 1.1-1.7]; p=0.005), and qualitatively (with OR 2.9 [95% CI 1.5-5.5]; p<0.001) in patients with a CRP·100/HDL ratio>1. CONCLUSIONS: The new PCR·100/HDL index showed the best diagnostic performance in the detection of carotid atheromatosis compared to other classic AIs in this Spanish population of asymptomatic patients.

Empleo de prótesis vasculares en el trasplante renal: serie de 9 casos / Use of vascular prostheses in kidney transplantation: series of 9 cases

Objetivo: La calcificación y arterioesclerosis de las arterias ilíacas es muy común en pacientes endiálisis llegando a poder imposibilitar la anastomosis de uninjerto renal. El objetivo de este trabajo es presentar nuestraserie de trasplantes renales con uso de prótesis vascularespara reconstrucción arterial ilíaca y valorar los resultadosobtenidos en comparación a otras series publicadas.Material y métodos: En un único centro donde se realizaron 1090 trasplantes renales entre enero 2013 y diciembre 2019, se identifica a los pacientes que precisaronreconstrucción vascular para su análisis descriptivo.REsultados: En 9 receptores (0,83%) se realizó la anastomosis arterial a una prótesis de Gore-tex (8) o medianteun parche de pericardio bovino (1). Solo en 1 caso, el bypass vascular era previo al trasplante, en los 8 restantesla cirugía fue simultánea. En 2 casos se realizó trasplantectomía urgente por rechazo agudo y trombosis de la prótesis. 6 pacientes tuvieron una función inmediata del injerto.5 pacientes precisaron un nuevo procedimiento quirúrgicoo endovascular para solucionar complicaciones. A los 35meses de seguimiento medio, 7 pacientes mantuvieron uninjerto renal funcionante.Conclusión: El trasplante renal con anastomosis arterial a una prótesis vascular es muy infrecuente. Debenseleccionarse cuidadosamente los candidatos por el altoriesgo de complicaciones. Se prefiere la reconstrucciónvascular simultánea al trasplante. Los resultados funcionalesson satisfactorios.(AU)

Objetive Calcification and atherosclerosis of the iliac arteries is very common in dialysis patients,making sometimes impossible the anastomosis of a kidneygraft. The objective of this study is to present our kidneytransplantation series using vascular prostheses for iliacartery reconstruction and to assess the results obtained incomparison to other published series.Material and methods: In a single centre where 1090kidney transplants were performed between January 2013and December 2019, patients who required vascular reconstruction were identified for their descriptive analysis.Results: In 9 patients (0.83%) arterial anastomosis wasperformed to a Gore-tex prosthesis (8) or using a bovinepericardium patch (1). Only in 1 case, the vascular bypasswas prior to transplantation; in the other 8 the surgery wassimultaneous. In 2 cases, an urgent transplantectomy wasdone because of acute rejection and prosthetic thrombosis. 6 patients had immediate graft function. 5 patients required a new surgical or endovascular procedure to resolvecomplications. At 35 months of mean follow-up, 7 patientsmaintained renal graft function.Conclusion: Kidney transplantation with arterial anastomosis to a vascular prosthesis is very rare. Candidatesshould be carefully selected because of the high risk ofcomplications. Simultaneous vascular reconstruction is preferred. The functional results are satisfactory.(AU)

[Use of vascular prostheses in renal transplantation: series of 9 cases.] / Empleo de prótesis vasculares en el trasplante renal: serie de 9 casos.

OBJECTIVE: Calcification and atherosclerosis of the iliac arteries is very common in dialysis patients, making sometimes impossible the anastomosis of a kidney graft. The objective of this study is to present our kidney transplantation series using vascular prostheses for iliacartery reconstruction and to assess the results obtained in comparison to other published series. MATERIAL AND METHOD: In a single centre where 1090 kidney transplants were performed between January 2013 and December 2019, patients who required vascular reconstruction were identified for their descriptive analysis. RESULTS: In 9 patients (0.83%) arterial anastomosis was performed to a Gore-tex prosthesis (8) or using a bovine pericardium patch (1). Only in 1 case, the vascular bypass was prior to transplantation; in the other 8 the surgery was simultaneous. In 2 cases, an urgent transplantectomy was done because of acute rejection and prosthetic thrombosis. 6 patients had immediate graft function. 5 patients requireda new surgical or endovascular procedure to resolve complications. At 35 months of mean follow-up, 7 patients maintained renal graft function. CONCLUSION: Kidney transplantation with arterial anastomosis to a vascular prosthesis is very rare. Candidates should be carefully selected because of the high risk ofcomplications. Simultaneous vascular reconstruction is preferred.  The functional results are satisfactory.

OBJETIVO: La calcificación y arterioesclerosis de las arterias ilíacas es muy común en pacientes en diálisis llegando a poder imposibilitar la anastomosis de un injerto renal. El objetivo de este trabajo es presentar nuestra serie de trasplantes renales con uso de prótesis vasculares para reconstrucción arterial ilíaca y valorar los resultados obtenidos en comparación a otras series publicadas.MATERIAL Y MÉTODO: En un único centro donde se realizaron 1090 trasplantes renales entre enero 2013 y diciembre 2019, se identifica a los pacientes que precisaron reconstrucción vascular para su análisis descriptivo. RESULTADOS: En 9 receptores (0,83%) se realizó la anastomosis arterial a una prótesis de Gore-tex (8) o mediante un parche de pericardio bovino (1). Solo en 1 caso, el bypass vascular era previo al trasplante, en los 8 restantes la cirugía fue simultánea. En 2 casos se realizó trasplantectomía urgente por rechazo agudo y trombosis de la prótesis. 6 pacientes tuvieron una función inmediata del injerto. 5 pacientes precisaron un nuevo procedimiento quirúrgicoo endovascular para solucionar complicaciones. A los 35 meses de seguimiento medio, 7 pacientes mantuvieron un injerto renal funcionante.CONCLUSIÓN: El trasplante renal con anastomosis arterial a una prótesis vascular es muy infrecuente. Deben seleccionarse cuidadosamente los candidatos por el alto riesgo de complicaciones. Se prefiere la reconstrucción vascular simultánea al trasplante. Los resultados funcionales son satisfactorios.

La enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal y los riesgos de enfermedad cardiovascular / Inflammatory bowel disease and the risk of cardiovascular diseases

La enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal (EII), comprende tanto a la colitis ulcerosa como a la enfermedad de Crohn, entidades consideradas enfermedades inmunomediadas, sistémicas y de curso crónico que conllevan a menudo el desarrollo de manifestaciones extraintestinales. A pesar de que el estudio de las comorbilidades haya sido desarrollado tradicionalmente en contexto de otras enfermedades inflamatorias sistémicas, este concepto está emergiendo también en la EII. Multitud de patologías han sido vinculadas a la EII, entre las que destaca la enfermedad cardiovascular, la primera causa de muerte en los países desarrollados. Los pacientes con EII están expuestos a un mayor riesgo de entidades tales como arterosclerosis precoz e infarto de miocardio, o trombosis venosas y tromboembolismo pulmonar. El objetivo de esta revisión es hacer una aproximación a la fisiopatología de las diferentes manifestaciones de la enfermedad cardiovascular en los pacientes con EII y de cómo prevenirlas.(AU)

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) includes both ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, which are well recognised as chronic systemic and immune-mediated conditions that frequently involve extraintestinal manifestations. Although comorbidities have long been the subject of research in other chronic inflammatory diseases, this concept is also emerging in IBD. Many pathologies have been linked to IBD, including cardiovascular disease, which is the main cause of death in developed countries. IBD patients are at increased risk of conditions such as early atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction or venous thrombosis and pulmonary thromboembolism. The aim of this review is to make an approximation of the physiopathology of the different manifestations of cardiovascular disease in patients with IBD and how to prevent them.(AU)

Inflammatory bowel disease and the risk of cardiovascular diseases. / La enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal y los riesgos de enfermedad cardiovascular.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) includes both ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, which are well recognised as chronic systemic and immune-mediated conditions that frequently involve extraintestinal manifestations. Although comorbidities have long been the subject of research in other chronic inflammatory diseases, this concept is also emerging in IBD. Many pathologies have been linked to IBD, including cardiovascular disease, which is the main cause of death in developed countries. IBD patients are at increased risk of conditions such as early atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction or venous thrombosis and pulmonary thromboembolism. The aim of this review is to make an approximation of the physiopathology of the different manifestations of cardiovascular disease in patients with IBD and how to prevent them.

Ambulatory arterial stiffness index in diabetic patients / Índice de rigidez arterial ambulatorio en pacientes diabéticos

ABSTRACT Background The ambulatory arterial stiffness index (AASI), derived from 24 h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) can be a good indicator of arterial stiffness. Aim To assess the correlation between AASI and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV), ankle-brachial index (ABI) and cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus without hypertension. Material and Methods Cross sectional study in 28 diabetic patients aged 49 ± 7 years (40% women). AASI was calculated as 1 minus the regression slope of diastolic on systolic blood pressure, using ABPM data. ABPM was measured in the arm using an oscillometric device. ABI was calculated as the ratio between ankle and brachial systolic blood pressure. CAVI was derived from pulse wave velocity using the Vasera VS-1000 device. Correlations were calculated using a bivariate Spearman correlation. Results The mean values for AASI, ABI, baPWV and CAVI were 0.39 ± 0.14, 1.14 ± 0.09, 15.15 ± 2.71 m/s and 7.60 ± 1.90, respectively. There was a significant negative correlation between AASI and ABI (r = -0.491, p < 0.01). Conclusions In these diabetic patients, there was an association between AASI, an arterial stiffness marker and ABI, an indicator for the presence of atherosclerosis.

Antecedentes El índice de rigidez arterial ambulatorio (AASI), derivado del monitoreo ambulatorio de presión arterial de 24 h (MAPA), puede ser un buen indicador de rigidez arterial. Objetivo Evaluar la correlación entre el AASI y la velocidad de onda de pulso braquial (VOP), el índice tobillo-brazo (ITB) y el índice vascular cardio-tobillo (CAVI) en pacientes con diabetes mellitus tipo 2 sin hipertensión arterial. Material y Métodos Estudio transversal en 28 pacientes con diabetes de 49 ± 7 años (40% mujeres). El AASI se calculó como 1 menos la pendiente de regresión de la presión arterial diastólica sobre la sistólica, usando datos del MAPA de 24 h, el cual se midió en el brazo, usando un dispositivo oscilométrico. El ITB se calculó como la razón entre la presión arterial sistólica del tobillo sobre la del brazo. El CAVI se derivó de la velocidad de onda de pulso medida con el dispositivo Vasera VS-1000. Para el análisis estadístico se utilizó el coeficiente de correlación bivariada de Spearman. Resultados Los valores de AASI, VOP, ITB y CAVI fueron 0.39 ± 0.14, 1.14 ± 0.09, 15.15 ± 2.71 m/s y 7.60 ± 1.90, respectivamente. Hubo una correlación negativa significativa entre AASI e ITB (r = -0.491, p < 0.01). Conclusiones Hay una asociación entre AASI, un marcador de rigidez arterial e ITB, un indicador de aterosclerosis, en estos pacientes con diabetes mellitus tipo 2.

Proteína C reactiva como indicador de engrosamiento de intima media carotídea en obesos / C reactive protein as indicator of intimate thickening carotid mean in obese

La obesidad constituye un esta- do subclínico de inflamación, que promueve complicaciones cardiovasculares. Objetivo: Establecer la relación entre la concentración de proteína C reactiva ultrasensible (PCRus) y el engrosamiento de la íntima media carotídea en obesos. Método: estudio transversal, descriptivo y comparativo. Se determinaron variables antropométricas, parámetros bioquímicos, concentración de PCRus, y gro- sor de íntima media carotídea (GIMC) en obesos normolipémicos y dislipidémicos. Resultados: se evaluaron 45 pacientes obesos normolipémicos y dislipidémicos, con una edad media de 36±9,23 años y 38,33±8,30 años respectivamente, sin diferencias significativas en peso, talla, circunferencia abdominal y presión arterial. La PCRus se encontró en 0,967±0,73mg/dl en el grupo normolipémi- co, y 1,328±0,75mg/dl, en el grupo dislipidémico, con significancia estadística (p=0,022) y una media de grosor de íntima media de 0,87±0,23mm y 0,95±0,20mm. Los pacientes con valores de PCRus ≥1mg/dl, presentaron un mayor peso, índice de masa corporal (IMC) y circunferencia abdo- minal. Se encontró una correlación de 0,361 entre el GIMC y PCRus, y en el grupo normolipémico, una correlación de 0,423 (p=0,004). Igualmente, se encontró una correlación de 0,336 entre el GIMC y la circunferencia abdominal en los normolipémicos. Conclusión: La PCRus ≥1mg/dl en pacientes obesos, se correlacionó con un mayor peso, el IMC y la circunferencia abdominal, así como aumento del GIMC y presencia de placas de ateroma. En pacientes obesos normolipémicos, se encontró correlación moderada entre el grosor de íntima media carotídea, con la PCRus y circunfe- rencia abdominal(AU)

Obesity is a condition of subclini- cal inflammation, which promotes cardiovascular complications. Objective: To establish the rela- tionship between the concentration of high sensitive C reactive protein (CPRhs) and carotid media- intima thickness in obese normolipidemic patients. Methods: crosssectional, descriptive and comparative study. Anthropometric variables, biochemi- cal parameters, CPRhs concentration, and carotid media-intima thickness (IMT) were determined in normolypemic and dyslipidemic obese patients. Results: 45 normolipidemic and dyslipidemic patients were evaluated, with an average age of 36±9,23 years and 38,33±8,30 years respectively, without significant differences in weight, height, abdominal circumference and blood pressure. The CPRhs was found in 0,967±0,73mg/dl in the normolipidemic group, and 1,328±0,75mg/dl in the dyslipidemic group, with statistical significance (p=0.022) and an average IMT of 0,87±0,23mm and 0,95±0,20mm respectively. Patients with CPRhs ≥1mg/dl values had higher weight, body mass index (BMI) and abdominal circumference. A correlation of 0,361 was found between the IMT and CPRhs, and in the normolipidemic group, a correlation of 0,423 (p=0.004). The correlation of 0,336 was found between IMT and abdominal circumference in normolipidemic patients. Conclusion: CPRhs ≥1mg/dl in obese patients, was correlated with increased weight, BMI and abdominal circumference, as well as increased IMT and presence of atherosclerosis plaques. In obese normolipidemic patients, a moderate correlation was found between carotid media-intima thickness with IMT and abdo- minal circumference, may suggest the use of these markers in primary atherosclerotic disease preven- tion in obese patients(AU)

Arterioesclerosis de Monckeberg en vasos uterinos: un interesante hallazgo incidental / Arteriosclerose de Monckeberg nos vasos uterinos: um achado incidental interessante / Monckeberg arteriosclerosis in uterine vessels: an interesting incidental finding

Se realizó la comunicación de un caso clínico-patológico, diagnosticado en el Hospital Docente Clínico Quirúrgico "Joaquín Albarrán" de La Habana. En dicha entidad se presentó en una paciente femenina de 85 años de edad con antecedentes de diabetes mellitus tipo 2, ingresada por cuadro de insuficiencia arterial de miembro inferior izquierdo por lo cual se le realizan amputación supracondilia y al tercer día de su estadía hospitalaria, fallece. En la autopsia se arribó al diagnóstico anatomopatológico de arterioesclerosis de Mönckeberg de vasos del útero. Esta es una forma de arterioesclerosis muy relacionada con la senectud, pero factores de riesgo como diabetes mellitus y la enfermedad renal crónica pueden contribuir de forma directa en su desarrollo y progresión. Su diagnóstico es un hallazgo incidental en muestras histopatológicas(AU)

A clinical-pathological case was reported, diagnosed at the Joaquín Albarrán Clinical Surgical Teaching Hospital in Havana. In this entity, an 85-year-old female patient with a history of type 2 diabetes mellitus was presented, admitted due to arterial insufficiency of the lower left limb, for which she underwent supracondylar amputation and died on the third day of her hospital stay. At the autopsy, the pathological diagnosis of Mönckeberg arteriosclerosis of vessels of the uterus was reached. This is a form of arteriosclerosis closely related to old age, but risk factors such as diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease can directly contribute to its development and progression. Its diagnosis is an incidental finding in histopathological samples(AU)

Um caso clínico-patológico foi relatado, diagnosticado no Hospital de Clínica Cirúrgica "Joaquín Albarrán" em Havana. Nessa entidade, apresentou-se uma paciente de 85 anos, com história de diabetes mellitus tipo 2, internada por insuficiência arterial do membro inferior esquerdo, para a qual sofreu amputação aupracondiliana e faleceu no terceiro dia de internação. Na autopsia, o diagnóstico patológico da arteriosclerose de Mönckeberg de navios do útero foi conseguido. Essa é uma forma de arteriosclerose intimamente relacionada à velhice, mas fatores de risco como diabetes mellitus e doença renal crônica podem contribuir diretamente para seu desenvolvimento e progressão. Seu diagnóstico é um achado incidental em amostras histopatológicas(AU)

Infarto isquémico mesencefálico: síndrome de Weber / Ischemic mesencephalic infarction: Weber's syndrome

La enfermedad cerebrovascular constituye la tercera causa de muerte en la población adulta, la primera causa de discapacidad a escala mundial y la segunda causa de demencia, problema de salud actual relacionado con otras enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles. Se presenta un caso de un infarto isquémico mesencefálico aterotrombótico en una anciana de 77 años con la expresión clínica de un síndrome de Weber. El síndrome de Weber es uno de los síndromes cruzados o alternos de la clínica y la neurología por lesión peduncular. Es poco frecuente y a la vez, el más frecuente de los alternos de tronco encefálico(AU)

Cerebrovascular disease is the third leading cause of death in the adult population, the leading cause of disability worldwide and the second cause of dementia. It is a current health problem related to other chronic noncommunicable diseases. We present a case of atherothrombotic mesencephalic ischemic infarction in a 77-year-old woman with the clinical expression of Weber syndrome, which is a crossed or alternating clinical syndrome and neurology by pedicle injury. It is rare and, at the same time, the most frequent alternating brainstem(AU)

Association of Classic Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Lifestyles With the Cardio-ankle Vascular Index in a General Mediterranean Population.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: The cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI) assesses arterial stiffness. We aimed to describe the distribution of CAVI in a Mediterranean population, to determine the proportion of CAVI ≥ 9 by sex and coronary risk level, and to assess the association of CAVI with classic cardiovascular risk factors and lifestyle patterns. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was based on the population of Girona province. The CAVI was measured using the VaSera VS-1500. RESULTS: Of 2613 individuals included in this study, the prevalence of CAVI ≥ 9 was 46.8% in men and 36.0% in women and significantly increased with coronary risk: from 21.1% and 24.8%, respectively to 76.7%, in the low-risk group, and 61.9% in the high-risk group. The CAVI increased with age in both sexes, being higher in men across all age groups. In men, CAVI ≥ 9 was associated with hypertension (OR, 2.70; 95%CI, 1.90-3.87) and diabetes (OR, 2.38; 95%CI, 1.52-3.78), body mass index (BMI) ≤ 25 to < 30 (OR, 0.44; 95%CI, 0.27-0.72) and BMI ≥ 30 (OR, 0.28; 95%CI, 0.14-0.58), and physical activity (OR, 0.66; 95%CI, 0.47-0.92). In women, CAVI ≥ 9 was associated with hypertension (OR, 2.22; 95%CI, 1.59-3.09), hypercholesterolemia (OR, 1.40; 95%CI, 1.01-1.94), and BMI ≥ 30 (OR, 0.38; 95%CI, 0.20-0.71). CONCLUSIONS: The CAVI increases with age and is higher in men than in women. This index is associated with classic risk factors and coronary risk. It could be a good predictive biomarker, but further follow-up studies are required to assess its added value to cardiovascular risk stratification.

Síndrome de Kounis o angina alérgica / Kounis syndrome or allergic angina

Resumen El síndrome de Kounis es la asociación de síndrome coronario agudo secundario a una reacción de anafilaxis, la cual es producida por mediadores inflamatorios y vasoactivos liberados principalmente por activación y degranulación de mastocitos que actúan en el sistema cardiovascular. Es una patología subdiagnosticada por cuanto no es considerada en los servicios de urgencias y cuidado coronario pues son pocos los registros en la literatura médica. El síndrome de Kounis es producido por diferentes mediadores como medicamentos, medios de contraste, enfermedades alérgicas, mastocitosis, venenos de insectos, etc.; en sí todo lo que conlleve a la activación de mastocitos puede producir el síndrome. Se puede presentar en cualquier grupo etáreo dado que ha sido descrito en niños y adultos. Debido a la falta de estudios clínicos, hasta el momento no hay un consenso acerca del tratamiento de esta patología.

Abstract Kounis syndrome is the concurrence of acute coronary syndromes with conditions associated to an anaphylaxis reaction, which is produced by vasoactive and inflammatory mediators, released mostly by activation and degranulation of mast cells that act in the cardiovascular system. It is an underdiagnosed condition, not included in the emergency room services or coronary care, as there are only few registers in medical literature. Kounis syndrome is produced by different mediators, such as drugs, contrast agents, allergic diseases, mastocytosis, insect stings, etc.; anything that could activate mast cells may trigger the syndrome. It can appear in any age group, in fact it has been described in children and adults. Due to the lack of clinical studies, until today there is no consensus on the treatment for this condition.

Diagnóstico histopatológico de arterioesclerosis en perros (Canis lupusfamiliaris) / Histopathological diagnosis of arteriosclerosis in dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) / Diagnóstico histopatológico de arteriosclerose em cachorros (Canis lupus familiaris)

La arterioesclerosis es el endurecimiento de las arterias debido a cambios en las estructuras histológicas de la pared vascular, como hipertrofia muscular, tejido conectivo, depósito de calcio, lípidos, etc. La ateroesclerosis se caracteriza por la formación de placas fibrosas en la íntima, que a menudo tiene un núcleo central rico en lípidos; esta patología es el tipo más común de arterioesclerosis en la especie humana y, por lo tanto, de gran importancia para su estudio. Algunos autores reportan que la arterioesclerosis es común, pero de poca importancia en animales domésticos; además encasillan al perro (Canis lupus familiaris) como aterorresistente. Sin embargo, en la actualidad son varios los reportes de lesiones vasculares similares a las observadas en humanos, que están relacionadas con la estrecha convivencia en su papel de mascota. Por tanto, la presente investigación se enfoca en la búsqueda y descripción de lesiones histopatológicas concernientes a arterioesclerosis en perros, mediante un estudio retrospectivo de la casuística del Laboratorio de Patología Veterinaria de la Universidad Nacional de Colombia. Después de revisar los informes de necropsia e histopatología, se seleccionaron 52 casos de perros que reportaban uno o varios factores predisponentes para el desarrollo de arterioesclerosis; las láminas histopatológicas fueron inicialmente evaluadas con la tinción de hematoxilina y eosina y se capturaron fotomicrografías de utilidad para futuras investigaciones. En 23 de los 52 casos seleccionados se observaron diferentes características de lesiones relacionadas con esta entidad, como vacuolas translúcidas, paredes de aspecto hialino, proliferación de tejido muscular o conectivo y deposiciones de mineral y pigmentos. Adicionalmente, en algunos casos se utilizó la coloración tricrómica de Masson para confirmar la presencia de tejido conectivo y muscular. Por último, se plantearon hipótesis sobre la posible asociación de diferentes factores (condición corporal, edad, sexo, raza y enfermedad concurrente) con la presentación de lesiones.

Arteriosclerosis means the hardening of the arteries due to changes in the histological structure of the vascular wall, such as muscle hypertrophy, connective tissue, calcium deposit, lipids, etc. Atherosclerosis is characterized by the formation of fibrous intimal plaques which often have a rich lipid core; this disease is the most common type ofArteriosclerosis in humans and, therefore, of great importance for study. Some authors report that Arteriosclerosis is common, but of little importance, in domestic animals; they also describe the dog (Canis lupus familiaris) as athero-resistant; however, at present there are several reports presenting vascular lesions similar to those observed in humans, related to close cohabitation in their role as pets. Therefore, this study focuses on the research and description ofhistopathological lesions related to Arteriosclerosis in dogs, based on a retrospective study of casuistry at the Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology of the Universidad Nacional de Colombia. After reviewing necropsy and histopathology reports, 52 cases of dogs were selected where one or more predisposing factors for the development of Arteriosclerosis were reported; the histopathology slides were initially evaluated through hematoxylin and eosin staining, and photomicrographs were captured for future research. In 23 of the 52 cases different characteristics of injuries related to this disease were observed, such as translucent vacuoles, walls of hyaline appearance, muscle or connective tissue proliferation, and deposition of mineral and pigments. Additionally, in some cases, Masson's trichrome staining was used to confirm the presence of connective and muscle tissue. Finally, hypotheses were formulated about the possible association of different factors (body condition, age, sex, race, and concurrent disease) with the presentation of these injuries.

Arteriosclerose significa endurecimento das artérias devido às mudanças nas estruturas histológicas da parede vascular como: hipertrofia muscular, tecido conectivo, depósito de cálcio, lipídeos, etc. A aterosclerose se caracteriza pela formação de placas fibrosas na íntima que normalmente têm um núcleo central rico em lipídeos; esta patologia é o tipo mais comum de arteriosclerose na espécie humana e, portanto, de grande importância para seu estudo. Alguns autores reportam que a arteriosclerose é comum, porém de pouca importância em animais domésticos e que é rara; além do mais situa o cachorro (Canis lupus familiaris) como resistente a esta; contudo, atualmente são vários os relatórios da apresentação de lesões vasculares similares às observadas em humanos, sendo relacionadas com a estreita convivência em seu papel de mascote. Portanto, a presente pesquisa se enfoca na busca e descrição de lesões histopatológicas concernentes a arteriosclerose em cachorros, mediante um estudo retrospectivo da casuística do Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária da Universidade Nacional da Colômbia. Depois de revisar os relatórios de necropsia e histopatologia se selecionaram 52 casos de cachorros que reportavam um ou vários fatores predisponentes para o desenvolvimento de arteriosclerose; as lâminas histopatológicas foram inicialmente avaliadas com a coloração de hematoxilina e eosina e se capturaram foto micrografias de utilidade para futuras pesquisas. Em 23 dos 52 casos selecionados se observaram diferentes características de lesões relacionadas com esta entidade como: vacúolos translúcidos, paredes de aspecto hialino, proliferação de tecido muscular ou conectivo e deposições de mineral e pigmentos. Adicionalmente, em alguns casos se utilizou a coloração tricrômica de Masson para confirmar a presença de tecido conectivo e muscular. Por último, se abordaram hipóteses sobre a possível associação de diferentes fatores (condição corporal, idade, sexo, raça e doença concomitante) com a apresentação de lesões.

[Low-grade systemic inflammation and the development of metabolic diseases: from the molecular evidence to the clinical practice]. / Inflamación sistémica de grado bajo y su relación con el desarrollo de enfermedades metabólicas: de la evidencia molecular a la aplicación clínica.

BACKGROUND: Systemic inflammation is characterised by high circulating levels of inflammatory cytokines and increased macrophage infiltration in peripheral tissues. Most importantly, this inflammatory state does not involve damage or loss of function of the infiltrated tissue, which is a distinctive feature of the low-grade systemic inflammation. The term "meta-inflammation" has also been used to refer to the low-grade systemic inflammation due to its strong relationship with the development of cardio-metabolic diseases in obesity. OBJECTIVE: A review is presented on the recent clinical and experimental evidence concerning the role of adipose tissue inflammation as a key mediator of low-grade systemic inflammation. Furthermore, the main molecular mechanisms involved in the inflammatory polarization of macrophages with the ability to infiltrate both the adipose tissue and the vascular endothelium via activation of toll-like receptors by metabolic damage-associated molecular patterns, such as advanced glycation-end products and oxidized lipoproteins, is discussed. Finally, a review is made of the pathogenic mechanisms through which the low-grade systemic inflammation contributes to develop insulin resistance, dyslipidaemia, atherogenesis, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension in obese individuals. CONCLUSIONS: A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of low-grade systemic inflammation in promoting cardio-metabolic diseases is necessary, in order to further design novel anti-inflammatory therapies that take into consideration clinical data, as well as the circulating levels of cytokines, immune cells, and metabolic damage-associated molecular patterns in each patient.

Psoriasis and ischemic coronary artery disease.

INTRODUCTION: Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease associated with an increased risk of ischemic coronary artery disease (CAD) in some populations. We aimed to determine the association between these 2 diseases in our geographic area. MATERIAL AND METHOD: We performed a cross-sectional study of patient records between 2005 and 2012 in the database (Abucacis, Datamart) that contains all medical case histories in the province of Castellón, Spain. Patients diagnosed with psoriasis were compared with a control group of patients diagnosed with melanocytic nevus. The prevalence of CAD and the presence or absence of the main cardiovascular risk factors were analyzed in each group. RESULTS: A total of 9181 patients with psoriasis and 21925 with melanocytic nevus were studied. Univariate logistic regression analysis showed that CAD was significantly associated with psoriasis, age (in years), sex, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and obesity (P<.05). On adjustment for age, sex, and the other cardiovascular risk factors, multivariate regression analysis established that psoriasis was independently associated with CAD (P<.029). CONCLUSION: Our findings in a large sample of patients in a Mediterranean area support the hypothesis that patients in this population have an increased risk of ischemic CAD.

El aceite canola y sus efectos en la salud / Canola oil and health effects

El término canola (Canadian Oil Low Acid), designa a una variedad de semillas desarrolladas durante la década de los setenta por métodos tradicionales de fitomejoramiento de la colza. La canola se ubica en el segundo lugar como planta oleaginosa cultivada en el mundo, y no sólo se utiliza en la fabricación de aceite para ensaladas y frituras, sino también en la elaboración de margarinas, mantecas y otros productos alimenticios. El presente trabajo tiene como objetivo realizar una revisión de la información científica disponible sobre los antecedentes que motivaron el surgimiento de las semillas variedad canola, así como la seguridad y efectividad del consumo de su aceite sobre algunos de los factores de riesgo de enfermedad cardiovascular (ECV). La búsqueda y localización de la información, incluyó una revisión de artículos científicos, para lo cual se utilizaron los descriptores: Canola, enfermedad cardiovascular, aterosclerosis, y antioxidantes, fundamentalmente. La mayoría de los artículos seleccionados estaban relacionados con el efecto de la composición de ácidos grasos de aceites comestibles en la ECV, así como estudios de análisis de antioxidantes en este aceite. Además, se localizaron artículos de organismos reguladores sobre la seguridad del consumo del aceite de canola(AU)

The term canola (Canadian Oil Low Acid) refers to a variety of seeds developed in the seventies by traditional breeding methods of rapeseed. Canola is located in the second most cultivated oilseed plant in the world, and not only used in the manufacture of salad oil and frying, but also in the development of margarines, shortenings and other food products. This paper aims to conduct a review of the available scientific information on the background that led to the emergence of canola seed variety and the safety and effectiveness of its oil consumption on some of the risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Finding and locating information, including a review of scientific articles. The descriptors were used: Canola, cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis, and antioxidants, mainly. Most selected articles were related to the effect of fatty acid composition of edible oils in VCE and analysis studies of antioxidants in this oil. In addition, articles were located regulators about the safety of canola oil consumption(AU)

Aneurisma del tronco principal de la arteria coronaria izquierda. Descripción de un caso clínico y revisión de tema / Aneurysm of the main trunk of the left coronary artery. Description of a clinical case and literature review

El aneurisma arterial coronario constituye una entidad rara en la población; su incidencia varía entre 1,5% y 5%, siendo más frecuente en hombres. Existe escasa bibliografía acerca de esta patología a pesar de que su estudio se remonta a finales del siglo XVIII. La arteria que se afecta con mayor frecuencia es la coronaria derecha, aproximadamente en 40% de los casos. La dificultad al momento del diagnóstico clínico radica en que inicialmente el enfoque está dirigido a confirmar y tratar de manera oportuna el síndrome coronario agudo que con insistencia constituye la manifestación inicial con que cursan este tipo de pacientes; por ello el diagnóstico necesariamente requiere ayudas imaginológicas e intervencionistas, o ambas. Hay muchas causas que puedan producir aneurismas en la circulación coronaria, la más común de ellas es la aterosclerosisseguida por trastornos congénitos, enfermedades del tejido conectivo, vasculitis y consumo de cocaína entre otros. Recientemente se han publicado innovadores estudios respecto a la fisiopatología y los avances en terapéutica farmacológica e intervencionista, aunque el tratamiento debe enfocarse en los factores de riesgo, las patologías y las manifestaciones clínicas que presente el paciente.

Coronary artery aneurysm is a rare entity in the population. Its incidence rates vary between 1.5% - 5%, and is more frequent in males. There is limited literature on this disease, although its study goes back to the late eighteenth century. The most frequently affected artery is the right coronary artery, in approximately 40% of cases. The initial diagnostic difficulty lies in the fact that the initial approach is focused in confirming and treating properly the coronary acute syndrome, which is the most frequent initial presentation in these patients. Therefore, its diagnosis requires necessarily imaging or interventionist aid, or both. Many causes account for coronary aneurysms, being the most common atherosclerosis followed by congenital abnormalities, connective tissue diseases, vasculitis and cocaine consumption. Novel studies regarding the physiopathology and advances in pharmacological and interventionist therapy have been published, although treatment must focus on risk factors, associated pathologies and clinical manifestations.

Papel de las especies reactivas del oxígeno en la arterioesclerosis / Role of oxygen reactive species in atherosclerosis

Las especies reactivas del oxígeno (ERO) atacan los ácidos grasos poliinsaturados (AGPI) y producen una reacción de peroxidación en cadena que altera la membrana de las células del endotelio vascular y oxida las lipoproteínas de baja densidad (LDL). Ambos procesos están implicados en el desarrollo y progresión de la arterioesclerosis por sus efectos sobre la adhesión y agregación plaquetarias, trombogenicidad y proliferación celular. El estrés oxidativo, entendido como el desequilibrio entre la producción de ERO y la defensa antioxidante contribuye a desencadenar el proceso arterioesclerótico. Este artículo revisa el proceso por medio del cual las ERO producen peroxidación lipídica y el papel de los lípidos oxidados en la etiología de la arterioesclerosis.

Oxygen reactive species (ORS) attack polyunsaturated fatty acids and produce a peroxidative chain reaction that alters cell membranes of vascular endothelium and oxidize low density lipoproteins. Both processes are involved in the development and progression of atherosclerosis due to their effects on platelet adhesion and aggregation, thrombogenicity and cell proliferation. Oxidative stress, understood as an imbalance between ORS production and antioxidative defense, contributes to unleash the atherosclerotic process. This paper reviews the process by which ORS produce lipidic peroxidation and the role of oxidized lipids in the etiology of atherosclerosis.